What Is This Tool?
This converter transforms luminance values expressed in watt per square centimeter per steradian at 555 nm, a radiometric spectral radiance unit, into lumen per square foot per steradian, a photometric luminance unit commonly used in U.S. customary measurements. It helps bridge radiometric data with photometric units relevant for visual perception and lighting applications.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the luminance value in watt/sq. cm/steradian (at 555 nm).
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Select the output unit as lumen/square foot/steradian.
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Submit the conversion request to get the equivalent luminance value.
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Use the result for lighting design, photometric reporting, or calibration purposes.
Key Features
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Converts spectral radiance at the photopic peak wavelength of 555 nm to customary photometric units.
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Supports conversion from watt/sq. cm/steradian (at 555 nm) to lumen/square foot/steradian.
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Useful for vision research, optical metrology, and lighting design.
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Browser-based and easy to use for quick luminance conversions.
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Includes example conversions for practical reference.
Examples
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0.5 watt/sq. cm/steradian (at 555 nm) converts to 317263.8816 lumen/square foot/steradian.
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2 watt/sq. cm/steradian (at 555 nm) equals 1,269,055.5264 lumen/square foot/steradian.
Common Use Cases
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Characterizing spectral radiance of small-area light sources for vision research.
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Converting radiometric spectral radiance to photometric luminance reflecting human vision.
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Specifying LED and lamp output at 555 nm in optical metrology.
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Measuring the brightness of signs and outdoor displays using customary units.
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Architectural lighting design assessments involving glare and visual comfort.
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Calibrating photometers or luminance meters reporting in non-SI units.
Tips & Best Practices
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Always ensure the input value is measured at or converted to the wavelength 555 nm for accuracy.
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Use the tool for applications where customary units are required or preferred.
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Cross-check conversions when integrating with SI-based systems due to unit differences.
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Refer to example values to validate expected results.
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Consider the context of human photopic sensitivity when interpreting results.
Limitations
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Conversion is valid only at the specific wavelength 555 nm and does not apply to other wavelengths.
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Lumen/square foot/steradian is a non-SI unit, which may complicate use with SI-based systems.
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Variations in spectral power distributions and luminous efficiency may impact exact equivalence.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why is the conversion wavelength-specific to 555 nm?
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Because 555 nm corresponds to the peak sensitivity of human photopic vision, making it the standard wavelength for relating radiometric and photometric units.
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Can I use this conversion for wavelengths other than 555 nm?
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No, the tool is specifically designed for 555 nm and should not be applied directly to other wavelengths without adjustments.
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What is the practical use of converting to lumen per square foot per steradian?
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This unit is commonly used in the U.S. for specifying brightness in lighting design, billboard measurements, and photometric instrument reports.
Key Terminology
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Watt/sq. cm/steradian (at 555 nm)
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A radiometric spectral radiance measure representing radiant power per projected area per solid angle at 555 nm wavelength.
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Lumen/square foot/steradian
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A photometric luminance unit that shows luminous flux emitted or reflected per square foot per steradian, equivalent to candela per square foot.
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Photopic Peak
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The wavelength near 555 nm where human eye sensitivity to light is highest under well-lit conditions.