Light Meter for Photometric Survey

[Golestan]

Hi,
I need advise on purchasing a light meter so we can do photometric site survey after we design the site lighting. The cities in our part of the country now are requiring that a third party verify the light intensity (foot candle) in the parking lots etc.. to make sure the lighting level is per code limits.
thanks,

 

[Senselessticker]

I've been involved in many lighting designs and have been involved in a number of fc verifications. The light meter you purchase probably doesn't matter that much. What matters is having documentation of having the meter calibrated and certified.

Doing good lighting design for fc requirements is much more art than science. Make sure whoever does the lighting calcs knows what he/she is doing... Be skeptical of lighting vendors who want to "do your calcs" for you. Many of these folks do not have good engineering skills.

Good lighting is accomplished by practicing "good" engineering. Never allow an architect or a lighting vendor or an interior designer to spec your lighting if you will be responsible for meeting code requirements.

Sorry...I'm ranting...I've just been through the ringer a couple of times as result of relying on anyone other than good EE's for lighting design.