What Is This Tool?
This tool converts luminance measurements from the imperial unit foot-lambert [fL] to the radiometric spectral radiance unit watt/sq. cm/steradian at the wavelength of 555 nm. It helps translate photometric luminance into spectral radiometric units aligned with peak human visual sensitivity.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the luminance value in foot-lamberts [fL].
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Select the output unit watt/sq. cm/steradian (at 555 nm).
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Click convert to obtain the spectral radiance measurement.
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Review and use the converted value for calibration or comparison.
Key Features
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Converts foot-lambert values to watt per square centimeter per steradian at 555 nm.
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Supports luminance measurements used in cinema, home theater, and optical metrology.
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Browser-based and easy to use without requiring additional software.
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Provides precise conversion relevant for vision science and photometric testing.
Examples
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10 foot-lamberts [fL] equals approximately 5.01648477e-6 watt/sq. cm/steradian (at 555 nm).
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0.5 foot-lambert [fL] equals about 2.50824239e-7 watt/sq. cm/steradian (at 555 nm).
Common Use Cases
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Calibrating screen brightness for cinemas and home theaters in foot-lamberts and converting to radiometric units.
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Measuring reflected luminance in projection system design and testing.
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Performing spectral radiance characterization of small-area light sources at 555 nm for vision research.
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Comparing LED or lamp output using photometric and radiometric standards.
Tips & Best Practices
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Ensure input values are accurately measured in foot-lamberts for reliable conversion.
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Use the conversion at the 555 nm wavelength for alignment with human visual sensitivity.
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Handle very small conversion factors carefully to avoid rounding errors.
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Verify calibration conditions match the assumptions of this conversion.
Limitations
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Conversion applies only at the 555 nm wavelength; different wavelengths reduce accuracy.
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Foot-lambert is primarily used in imperial unit contexts and may not suit all international standards.
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Small magnitude of the conversion factor may require careful numerical precision handling.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What does foot-lambert measure?
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Foot-lambert is an imperial luminance unit quantifying luminous intensity emitted or reflected from a surface per unit projected area in a specific direction.
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Why is 555 nm used in this conversion?
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555 nm corresponds to the peak of human photopic vision sensitivity, making it a standard wavelength for relating radiometric and photometric quantities.
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Can I use this conversion for any wavelength?
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No, this conversion specifically assumes measurement at 555 nm; using other wavelengths may reduce accuracy.
Key Terminology
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Foot-lambert [fL]
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An imperial unit of luminance measuring luminous intensity per unit projected area emitted or reflected from a surface.
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Watt/sq. cm/steradian (at 555 nm)
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A radiometric spectral radiance unit expressing radiant power per unit area and solid angle at 555 nm wavelength.
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Luminance
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The measure of luminous intensity emitted or reflected from a surface per unit area in a given direction.