What Is This Tool?
This unit converter transforms illumination values from the historical unit centimeter-candle [cm*c] to the radiometric unit watt per square centimeter (at 555 nm). It helps translate older lighting data into modern measurement standards used in calibration, photometry, and vision science.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the illumination value in centimeter-candle units.
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Select the target unit: watt per square centimeter at 555 nm.
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Click convert to get the corresponding value in the new unit.
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Review the output, which applies the fixed conversion factor.
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Use the result for calibration, comparison, or further analysis.
Key Features
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Converts obsolete centimeter-candle illuminance values into radiometric units at 555 nm.
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Applies a precise conversion rate for accurate unit translation.
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Supports use cases in lighting calibration, photobiological safety, and vision research.
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Provides example conversions for quick reference.
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Browser-based and easy to use without additional setup.
Examples
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10 centimeter-candle [cm*c] equals 0.014641288 watt/sq. cm (at 555 nm) using the conversion factor.
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100 centimeter-candle [cm*c] converts to 0.14641288 watt/sq. cm (at 555 nm).
Common Use Cases
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Translating historical photometric data into current radiometric standards.
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Calibrating light sources and photometric instruments in industry labs.
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Analyzing monochromatic green light exposure in vision science experiments.
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Ensuring safety limits for optical devices operating at 555 nm.
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Reconciling older lighting specifications with modern measurements.
Tips & Best Practices
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Always verify the definition of 'candle' used in original data for consistent conversion.
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Use the tool specifically for measurements related to the 555 nm wavelength.
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Consider instrument calibration and luminous efficacy assumptions when interpreting results.
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Apply the conversion when working with legacy datasets or historical lighting reports.
Limitations
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The centimeter-candle is an outdated unit and definitions may vary historically.
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The watt/sq. cm unit applies strictly at the 555 nm wavelength only.
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Conversion accuracy depends on spectral conformity and assumptions about luminous efficacy.
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Precision conversions may require additional calibration beyond this basic formula.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the centimeter-candle unit?
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The centimeter-candle is an old illuminance unit indicating light at one centimeter from a point source of one candle, roughly equal to 10,000 lux assuming one candela.
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Why convert to watt/sq. cm at 555 nm?
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This radiometric unit measures monochromatic irradiance at the 555 nm wavelength, which corresponds to peak photopic sensitivity, important for precise lighting calibration and vision science.
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Can I use this conversion for other wavelengths?
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No, this conversion specifically applies to the 555 nm wavelength, and accuracy may decrease for other spectral regions.
Key Terminology
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Centimeter-candle [cm*c]
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An obsolete unit of illuminance representing the light on a surface one centimetre from a point source of one candle, formerly used before SI lux units.
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Watt/sq. cm (at 555 nm)
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A radiometric unit measuring radiant power per square centimeter at the 555 nm wavelength, corresponding to peak photopic sensitivity.
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Photopic luminous-efficiency function
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A function describing the eye's sensitivity to light at different wavelengths during day vision, peaking at 555 nm.