The 5 Best Light Meters to measure LED Light
Light meters are used across a wide variety of industries and have many applications. They’re commonly used to measure light intensity in working environments, public spaces and for photography. Whether you wish to measure light indoors and outdoors – the applications are endless
However, did you know that not all light meters are capable of measuring LED lights and, if you are measuring LED light with a meter not designed for it, you may be collecting data with significant errors?
In this article, we will explain why you need specific light meters to measure LED lights as well as give examples of the five best light meters that can measure LED.
About LED Light Meters
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IC Tip: Light meters and Lux meters are the same devices, the term used interchangeably. |
Light meters or lux meters are the simplest way to measure light intensity. They are easy to use devices, and all operate in relatively the same manner being- remove the cap, press a button and take a measurement. Yet all light meters have different measuring ranges and measuring capabilities. A perfect example of this lies with LED lights. Not all light meters are capable of accurately measuring light emitted from LED lights and if misused can give erroneous results.
Why?
Errors can occur because many light meters are made to measure fluorescent, incandescent and halogen incandescent light sources. These emit light from the ‘warmer’ spectra such as yellows, oranges and reds, they do not produce very much blue light. Whereas most LED lights a narrow band of blue light, so if you are using a device that is not made to measure LED, significant errors in results can occur.
In response to the increased use of LED lighting across many homes and businesses in more recent times, light meters that are designed specially or have a built-in mechanism that can accurately correct and measure light intensity from LED lights have become commonplace.
5 Best LED Light Meter Examples
To help you get measuring LED light intensity correctly, the Instrument Choice scientists have put together five of the best light meters built for measuring LED light sources.
1.Amprobe LED Light Meter
Product Code: IC-LM-200
The IC-LM-200 is a professional light meter that has been specifically designed to measure the light output from LED sources. The device is built specifically for indoor operation with all measured results instantly displayed on the large LCD screen.
At a glance:
Lux Range: 0 to 400,000
Accuracy: ±3%
Other Features: 1.5-meter sensor cable length, data hold to freeze results on the digital display as well as MAX recording to capture the highest level of light measurement.
2.Testboy TV 335 Digital LED/Lux Meter
Product Code: IC-TTV-335
The IC-TTV-335 is a digital light meter in a practical and robust plastic housing with a broad measurement range of up to 400,000 Lux. The device is built with photodiodes sensitive to artificial light and is perfect for measuring light emitted from LEDs.
At a glance:
Lux Range: 0 to 400,000
Accuracy:±3%
Other Features: Adjustable colour temperature, data hold function and a sampling rate of 2 measurements per second.
3. Professional Digital Light Meter
Product Code: IC1584LM
This professional light meter is brimming with features that should be part of every lighting technician's arsenal. It uses photopic spectral sensitivity which closely mimics the response of the human eye to changes in light. It is suitably accurate with a rapid response and can store min and max values for easy comparisons.
At a glance:
Lux Range: 0 to 400,000 lux
Accuracy: ±5% accuracy
Other Features: Able to hold and retrieve data, backlit LCD screen, 1.5-second sampling rate
4. Colour LED Light Meter
Product Code: LT45
The LT45 is the perfect LED Light meter for monitoring and optimising environmental light levels in buildings, schools, and offices. The device can measure both white and colour LED lights, as well as measure standard lighting.
At a glance:
Lux Range:Up to 400,000
Accuracy: ±3%
Other Features: Sensor cable is extendable up to 1.5 meters, the user man manually store and recall up to 99 data readings and view min/max readings at the touch of a button.
5.MAVOLUX Compact 5032-7
Product Code:IC-M502C
The IC-M502C is designed to measure both daylight and all sources of artificial light, including LED. Perfect for professional use, this device has a broad measuring range and is highly accurate. This meter is ideal for consultants, OH&S audits, councils and town planning.
At a glance:
Lux Range: 0.1 to 199,900 lux
Accuracy:3 % of reading + 1 digit
Other Features: Can store and recall 100 measured values, Swivel measuring head and can take two measurements per second.
Conclusion
Not all light meters are created equal, make sure the light meter you either already have or are looking to buy is suited to your intended application. Each has defined measurement specifications and intended use and if you want to measure LED lights in particular – ensure the device you have or are looking to buy is capable of measuring this to reduce errors in your results.
You can view the full range of LED light meters here.
Need more information on LED light meters? Want more information on any of the products listed above? Contact one of the Instrument Choice Scientists. We’re here to help! Call 1300 737 871 or email [email protected].
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