PAR meter

[snowmansnow]

So, I can't put my finger on it, but I recall something about certain PAR meters not reading LED correctly.... Is there anything to this?

I'd like to get some readings under my new lights, but I would hate to buy / borrow the wrong type of meter.

Any help is appreciated.

B


So long, and thanks for all the fish.

 

[circlek]

I'm interested in the answer to this as well. Tagging along.....

 

[chris s]

Most led fixtures have a large amount of blue/violet light spectrum. Par sensors are less sensitive to this kind of light and read low. I have read from 5-15% low. It is most accurate to measure the blues/violets separately from the other colors if your setup allows it. Then add the readings up. Our eyes are less sensitive to blue/violet light as well so it doesn't seem as bright as it is. I have seen setups with large amounts of blue led's that were burning up corals.

But to answer your question. Your readings will be a little low but it will give you an idea of where you're at. I usually use 10% for most full spectrum readings as a rough idea. It's not exact but it's pretty close.