Just bought this light meter

[BGater]

My first meter, hope this one works ok as I know less than nothing about them. Looked at the meterman 631 but its max range is 20k lux. Some of the new lights in the near future may be pushing that.

http://www.ruby-electronics.com/store_item/Digital_LCD_Luxmeter_Light_Meter

 

[N162E]

My first meter, hope this one works ok as I know less than nothing about them. Looked at the meterman 631 but its max range is 20k lux. Some of the new lights in the near future may be pushing that.

http://www.ruby-electronics.com/store_item/Digital_LCD_Luxmeter_Light_Meter

This meter does look interesting. I notice they also have one capable of logging for about a hundred bucks. We did a meter test awhile back, you can see it at http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?t=94232 . The lights may be available for you to test. I notice Tom recently tested a meter for a new purchaser, you may be able to send your meter to him for testing. While this is not exactly "Calibration" type testing, it will give you an idea how your meter compares.

I personally would like to see this meter included in the database. It looks like a useable, quality meter at a reasonable price.

 

[mattchase]

I bought one of their meters that does the logging, it works ok but I am having one problem with it. It will often shut off during runtime tests, even though I have the "battery save" feature turned off. I have tried it with brand new 9v batteries as well as a 9v wall adapter with the same results. Not sure what is up with it, I need to email tech support to see if they know anything.

Other than that it seems to work well, and the data logging is nice. The program itself is a bit basic and who knows if there will ever be an update for it, but it works.

 

[Bullzeyebill]

Use the fc scale on the Meterman 631 (LM631), and convert to lux. Foot candles at one foot = lux at one meter. Use fc scale at one meter, then use inverse square law to convert one meter reading to one foot reading, then you will know what lux is at one meter. This will allow you to increase lux readings beyond the 20,000 max lux scale. Some one correct me if I am wrong.

Bill

 

[BGater]

Thanks Bill, maybe I should have asked a few questions here before I bought one. I know the Meterman is time proven quality. I think this place offers a refund if not satisfied, I figured if it gets here and im getting some really odd readings I can return it.

Whats the figure method to get Lumens from fc or lux ?

 

[N162E]

Thanks Bill, maybe I should have asked a few questions here before I bought one. I know the Meterman is time proven quality. I think this place offers a refund if not satisfied, I figured if it gets here and im getting some really odd readings I can return it.

Whats the figure method to get Lumens from fc or lux ?

Don't start being unhappy with this meter before you get it and try it. It does FC and LUX, you are not going to be doing any conversions. The meterman is a few year old technology, let's see how this new bit of tech works. Plus the Meterman most used does not have a remote probe. When you are taking readings at a meter that remote sensor is really handy.

As far as measuring Lumens, Lumens is a measure of the VOLUME (Amount) of light and requires an integrating sphere $$$$$, beyond most of us. Search the forum for "Integrating Sphere" to see what Lux measurement is about. I think Arc Flashlight was a pioneer in this type of measurement applied to flashlights.

 

[BGater]

Just checked the mailbox and its here ! That was the fastest shipping I have ever seen. Ordered it on Saturday I think, and it was delivered by USPS on Monday. Bought it through Ruby's eBay store via/paypal.

Unit looks good, nice build, LCD is crisp and clear, took a few shots set on fc and it seems to read really fast and is very sensitive. I will setup my tripod and get distance set for lux readings. Going to velcro the sensor to the wall in my basement office, I can make it totally dark in there. When the works all done and the suns settin low today....ole Gater is gonna play with the new toy. :twothumbsCant wait to see what some of my lights are really doing. I bet some of them will supprise me.....or dissapoint maybe.