Digital Lux Meters: Types, Specifications, and Common Uses

Measuring the intensity of light is important in a range of industries. For instance, art museums seek to find an optimal range of lighting to illuminate a painting without damaging the artwork. Emergency exit signs also need to be clearly visible with the right light intensity.

Digital lux meters are specialized tools that measure light intensity. These meters closely match the amount of light that is perceived by the eye and account for the color sensitives of the eye. For example, the eye perceives a range of light colors, and some are more intense. The lux meter gauges intensity based on what the eye sees, and can determine the optimal lighting in a classroom, office, outdoors, in photography, and anywhere light is cast.

Light intensity is measured in luminous flux (lx), and there are a broad range of lux ratings. In a darkened environment, the intensity might be .01 lx, while direct sunlight achieves an intensity of 100,000 lx or more. Digital lux meters enable users to quickly and accurately gauge this intensity, accounting for the type of light and the color of light.

Digital Lux Meter Parts and Configuration

Lux meters are available in digital and analog versions, and they both contain similar elements. Each lux meter has a built-in photodetector, which is attached to a handheld readout screen. The biggest difference is that the readout screen for a digital lux meter is an LCD display, compared to an analog dial.

The photodetector can be fixed or articulated from the readout screen, or it can be tethered to the screen, and this is what gauges the brightness of a light source. These sensors are generally made of two types of materials, including silicone and selenium. Silicone is best for measuring a broad range of intensities, while selenium-based sensors don’t provide accurate measurements for low-intensity light. For a proper read-out the photodetector is placed perpendicular to a light source, and the intensity is measured quickly and displayed on the screen. These light meters feature a few common specifications:

• Range: This is the range of intensity the meter measures. For instance, many are capable of measuring broad ranges of intensity, from 0-200,000 lux, like the BENETECH GM1010. The readout box also usually has a few different range settings, which you can select based on the intensity of the light.
• Accuracy: Lux meters have an accuracy range, with the most precise at about 3%. In addition, the ranges may change based on light intensity. For instance, the accuracy may drop for high-intensity light.
• Common Features: Automatic On/Off, Cosine correction, auto calibration

Common Applications for Digital Lux Meters

Digital light meters are used by a wide range of professionals, including electricians and photographers, for accurate lighting measurements. For instance, an electrician uses a lux meter to determine light output, enabling output to be tailored to an environment’s needs. They are used in a variety of settings:

• Interior Lighting: Electricians and building code professionals measure the lighting in interior spaces with lux meters. Each environment requires a specific intensity. For instance, in an office or school, light intensity should enable students or employees to work effectively without straining their eyes. Other facilities like production plans and hospitals require specialized lighting, and the digital lux meter makes it possible to ensure that.

  

• Outdoor Lighting: Parking lots and roadways are two common examples of outdoor environments that require certain intensities. For instance, in both of these situations, the area should be well-lit but not over-intense, as that would distract drivers.
• Lighted Signage: Emergency exit signs must be illuminated so that they can be seen in a variety of conditions. Digital lux meters are often used to measure and ensure the intensity is up to code.
• Lighting Displays: Art galleries and museums require optimized lighting – not too intense as to damage the artifacts, yet illuminated enough for easy viewing.
• Photography: Photographers commonly use light sensors in the studio and on location to gauge light intensity, enabling them to adjust camera settings for proper exposure.

Shop for digital lux meters on Deelat.com. We offer a high-quality Benetech G1010 digital lux meter, which features quality construction and an affordable price point.