Solarmeter

[GotTort]

I just got a new Solartech solar meter. What should the UVB readings be for a new powersun MVB bulb? I'm getting 30.


Sent from my iPhone using Tortoise Forum

 

[mikeh]

At what distance is your reading?

Ideal reading at tortoise level should be in a range of 80-120microwatts.

 

[Tom]

Which model number did you get?

In addition to the distance from the bulb, are you going through screen or something?

 

[GotTort]

The model is 6.2. About a foot from bulb with nothing between bulb and meter.



Sent from my iPhone using Tortoise Forum

 

[Tom]

Something is not right somewhere. At 12" from a new bulb the readings should be 10 times that high. What does your meter read outdoors at noon with the sensor pointed right at the sun?

 

[GotTort]

Haven't been able to check yet. At 730 am in Phoenix outside reading was 150.



Sent from my iPhone using Tortoise Forum

 

[mikeh]

Haven't been able to check yet. At 730 am in Phoenix outside reading was 150.



Sent from my iPhone using Tortoise Forum

Your solar meter is right on.

Did you let the bulb warm up for at least 15 minutes before taking the reading and did you measure with sensor pointing directly at the bulb from below?

 

[GotTort]

Yes, bulb definitely warmed up and meter pointed right at bulb.
I have checked 2 different bulbs with similar readings.


Sent from my iPhone using Tortoise Forum

 

[bouaboua]

It is odd. What bulb we are talking about here? Is possible to share a photo??

 

[jaizei]

It's not unheard of for Powersuns to read that low. They can be very hit or miss. They also have been known to decay very quickly. This is exactly why owning a UV meter is a good idea.

 

[mikeh]

Then its a dud, yet another example of just how unreliable Powersun MVBs are. They should not be recommended to people who do not own a solar meters, which is most.

Give MegaRay MVB a shot. They test their bulbs individually before shipping out.

 

[Levi the Leopard]

Wow... I hope this is an eye opener to others. I've yet to deal with artificial UV (living in SoCal) but will be starting my UV adventure soon since I'm moving to Oregon. A solar meter is DEFINITELY on my shopping list!