RADIOMETRIC APPLICATIONS
Radiometry is a broad discipline, involving the measurement of electro-magnetic radiation in terms of its physical power. Different applications require different types of measurements, and therefore, different types of radiometric instruments (radiometers). The fundamental types of radiometric measurements, the corresponding instruments, and their typical applications, may be summarized as follows:
Radiant Flux Measurements (in units of watts) are performed with an instrument known as a flux meter or optical power meter. This type of testing is typically used for characterizing the total output of sources such as:
- Lasers
- LEDs
- Lamps
- Fiber-Optic Systems
Irradiance Measurements (in units of W/m2) are performed with an irradiance meter. This involves the measurement of the radiant flux incident upon a surface, per unit area. Such measurements are important in the following fields:
- Medical
- Biological
- Remote Sensing
Radiant Intensity Measurements (in units of W/sr) are performed with an instrument that may be described as an optical intensity meter. This type of testing is typically used for characterizing the output of a relatively small source in a particular direction. Typical devices under test include:
Radiance Measurements (in units of W/m2sr) are performed with a radiance meter. This involves measuring the light emitted in a particular direction by a given spot on the surface of an extended source. Such measurements are important in fields such as:
- Remote Sensing
- Avionics
- Night Vision
UDT Instruments offers a range of complete, pre-configured solutions to meet the most common radiometric requirements. Specialized configurations, and custom designs are also available.
