What Is This Tool?
This tool converts luminance values from millilambert (mL), a non-SI photometric unit, to radiometric spectral radiance units of watt per square centimeter per steradian at the wavelength 555 nm, aligning photometric data with radiometric measures referencing human visual sensitivity.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the luminance value in millilambert (mL) you wish to convert.
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Select the target unit: watt per square centimeter per steradian at 555 nm.
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Submit the input to receive the converted result instantly.
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Use the converted data for analysis, calibration, or further research.
Key Features
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Converts millilambert to watt/sq. cm/steradian (at 555 nm) using precise conversion factors.
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Suitable for relating legacy photometric data to radiometric spectral radiance at the photopic peak.
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Supports applications in imaging labs, broadcast engineering, vision research, and optical metrology.
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Browser-based and easy to use without need for manual calculations.
Examples
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Converting 10 mL results in 4.6604668548139e-6 watt/sq. cm/steradian at 555 nm.
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A value of 0.5 mL converts to 2.33023342740695e-7 watt/sq. cm/steradian at 555 nm.
Common Use Cases
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Specifying display and projector screen luminance in cinematography and broadcast engineering.
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Characterizing luminance of photographic prints, films, and lightboxes in imaging labs.
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Calibrating instruments and comparing light source emissions at 555 nm in photometric testing.
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Relating legacy photometric measures to radiometric data for vision research.
Tips & Best Practices
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Always verify the units before conversion to ensure accuracy in data analysis.
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Use this converter when working with legacy luminance data needing translation to modern radiometric units.
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Consider the monochromatic assumption at 555 nm when interpreting radiometric results.
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Calibrate instruments regularly to ensure reliable measurement correspondence.
Limitations
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Millilambert is a non-SI, legacy unit and may lack precise standardization.
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The radiometric measure focuses on monochromatic light at 555 nm, excluding spectral variations.
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Conversion accuracy depends on proper spectral response and instrument calibration.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is millilambert used for?
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Millilambert is a unit of luminance traditionally used to specify light intensity emitted or reflected per area and solid angle, especially in imaging and cinematography.
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Why convert millilambert to watt/sq. cm/steradian at 555 nm?
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Converting to watt/sq. cm/steradian at 555 nm aligns photometric data with radiometric spectral radiance measurements that correspond to the peak sensitivity of human vision.
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Can this conversion be applied to wavelengths other than 555 nm?
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No, this conversion specifically applies to monochromatic spectral radiance at 555 nm and does not account for wavelengths outside this reference.
Key Terminology
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Millilambert [mL]
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A non-SI unit of luminance equal to one thousandth of a lambert, measuring luminous intensity emitted or reflected per unit area into a solid angle.
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Watt/sq. cm/steradian (at 555 nm)
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A radiometric spectral radiance unit representing radiant power per projected area per solid angle at the 555 nm wavelength, relevant to human visual sensitivity.
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Photopic Peak
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The wavelength near 555 nm at which human visual sensitivity to light is highest under well-lit conditions.