Measuring Light Intensity Using a Lux Meter
Accurate and quantifiable measurement of light is essential in creating desired outcomes in practical day to day applications as well as unique applications. From measuring the amount of light in a work space surface to ensuring emergency exits have proper illumination, light measurement and analysis is an important step in ensuring efficiency and safety. To perform these measurements, technicians often make use of lux meters which are specialized devices that measure the intensity of light falling on a surface, or “lux.”
Examples of practical uses of lux meters include:
Checking for lighting system adequacy in office spaces. Natural lighting alone is inadequate to properly illuminate most work and office spaces. Not everyone has a corner office which affords them a sea of natural light. Most offices and buildings supplement daylight with synthetic lighting during working hours. Increasing the level of illumination enable people to work safely and efficiently. Light meters are used to ensure that the light levels fall within a certain level where it is bright enough but not too bright to cause glare. In fact, lux meters can be used to help enhance productivity, because having the correct level of lighting means that workers experience less fatigue and consequently, higher efficiency.
Enhancing the visibility and utility in outdoor spaces. Streets and parking lots, must be well lit at night. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to ensure that lighting systems perform adequately during nighttime conditions without producing too much light, which can be distracting to motorists and can waste money on energy bills. Using lux meters, though, street lighting and parking lot designers can test the performance of their lighting systems and adjust them to produce the best amount of light, and not hamper the night vision of motorists and pedestrians.
Optimizing light levels in museums and art galleries. Artwork and paintings are often exhibited to a large number of people and lighting can make or break the exhibit. If the light levels are too low then details can be missed by viewers. On the other hand, having too much light will wash out the colors and the artwork may not have the same impact intended by the artist. Museum lighting designers rely on light meters to help them set the correct levels of lighting in order to properly exhibit precious works of art.
Regardless of the application, lighting is not always easy to create effectively. Because there are many factors that influence lighting, such as the type of lighting used and any atmospheric conditions that may be happening, lighting is a complex and difficult aspect of many light-sensitive jobs. Luckily, light meters are small and can be used at multiple points throughout a process or area, which means that lighting systems can be set up so that they best utilize natural light, but also so that lighting conditions are optimal for the specific job or application. For more information about lux meters, and to see how one can be useful for you, give us a call today at: (888) 473-2656.
