Color Education Series

LED Metrology
Energy efficient solid state lighting is advancing and a good understanding of lighting
principles and measurement ensures accurate and internationally comparable metrology.
Three useful resources to help you measure the performance of your LED design.

LED photometry and colorimetry

3. LED Metrology Handbook

terminology
2. Instrument Systems and LEDs:
Total Measurement Solutions
From perception to instrumentation.
An introduction to lighting terms.
1. Language of Light
 T h e
L a n g u a g e
o f L i g h t

The essentials of imaging

From perception

to instrumentation
 Contents
1 Introduction
1.1 What is light? 2
1.2 What can be measured? 2

2 Concepts
2.1 Radiometry 3
2.1.1 Radiant Flux 3
2.1.2 Radiant Intensity 3
2.1.3 Irradiance 4
2.1.4 Radiance 4
2.2 Spectroradiometry 4
2.2.1 Spectral Radiance 4
2.2.2 Spectral Irradiance 4
3 Instrumentation 2.3 Photometry 5
3.1 Radiometer 15 2.3.1 Luminous Flux 6
3.1.1 Applications of Radiometers 15 2.3.2 Luminous Intensity 6
3.2 Photometer 16 2.3.3 Illuminance 6
3.2.1 Sensors 16 2.3.4 Luminance 7
3.2.2 Calibration Methods 17 2.4 Colorimetry 7
3.2.2.1 Colour Correction Factor 17 2.4.1 Colour 7
3.2.3 Applications of Photometers 18 2.4.2 Colour Perception 7
3.2.3.1 Luminance Meter 18 2.4.3 Mixing of Colours 8
3.2.3.2 Illuminance Meter 19 2.4.4 Light Source Colour Specification 9
3.2.3.3 Luminous Flux Meter 20 2.4.4.1 Tristimulus Colorimetry 9
3.2.3.4 Luminous Intensity Meter 20 2.4.4.1.1 CIE 1931 Yxy Chromaticity Chart 9
3.3 Three-filter Colorimeter 21 2.4.4.1.2 CIE 1976 UCS Chromaticity Chart 10
2.4.4.1.3 Helmholtz Coordinates 11
3.4 Spectroradiometer 23 2.4.4.2 Colour Temperature 13
3.5 Summary 24 2.4.4.2.1 Correlated Colour Temperature 14
2.4.4.3 Spectroradiometry 14

4 Conclusion
24

5 References
25

1
1 I n t ro d uc ti on

Light is necessary for vision. To most of us, it provides a world of visual information. The forms and colours
around us are visible only when light from objects around us reaches our eye and triggers the sensation of
sight.

Human beings can perceive specific

1.1 WHAT IS LIGHT? wavelengths as colours.
Light is a form of energy and is part of a
broader range of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Electrical, radio waves and microwaves to
gamma rays form this electromagnetic
spectrum. The visible light spectrum is a
relatively small portion of this spectrum,
between 380 nm and 760 nm. In general,
light is often defined as including the infrared
and ultraviolet regions too.

The detection of light is a fundamental process

and to measure it requires great understanding.
A least understood subject in the field of
optics, a probable reason is the introduction
of new terminology and concepts.

The measurement of light can be a challenge

especially in deciding what to measure and
how to measure. • The Electromagnetic Spectram.

Sources of Light

1.2 WHAT CAN BE MEASURED?

Generally, the total light energy emitted from a source or falling on a
surface can be measured. This total energy can cover a portion of the
visible spectrum including ultraviolet and infrared energy. Energy at
individual wavelength or over a range of wavelength can be measured.

Another area of interest is colour. Colour is a property of light and

can be measured and quantified.

The science of light measurement is known as photometry and is a

subset of the broader field of radiometry - the measurement of radiation
outside the visible spectrum.

2
 2 Concepts

2.1 RADIOMETRY
Radiometry is the science of the measurement of electromagnetic (EM) radiation. The broader spectrum
covered by the science of radiometry is based on physical constants.

The properties of concern to us here are radiated power and its spatial and angular distributions.
The four basic concepts are:

• Radiant Flux

• Radiant Intensity

• Radiance

• Irradiance

2.1.1 RADIANT FLUX

This is the total radiant power emitted from a source or received by a
surface. It can also be defined as the rate of flow of radiant energy through
a certain area or out of a certain solid angle.

The SI unit of radiant flux is the Watt.

Radiant Flux
Total Power (Watts)

2.1.2 RADIANT INTENSITY

It is defined as the directed angular density of radiation from a source.
The radiant intensity in a given direction is the sum of the power contained
in all the rays (cones) emitted in that direction by the entire source (i.e.,
power per solid angle).

The SI unit for radiant intensity is Watt/Steradian (Watt/sr). Radiant Intensity

Power/Solid Angle

3
 2.1.3 IRRADIANCE
This is a measure of radiant flux incident on an object’s surface
(radiant flux per unit area).

The SI units for irradiance is Watt/square meter (Watt/m2)

Irraddiance
Power/Unit Area

2.1.4 RADIANCE
This is a measure of the total radiant intensity per unit projected area.

The SI units for radiance is Watt/square meter Steradian (Watt/m2 sr)

Plane normal to rays

Radiance
Power/Solid Angle/Projected Area

2.2 SPECTRORADIOMETRY
Spectroradiometry is the measurement of light energy at individual wavelengths within the electromagnetic
spectrum. It can be measured over the entire spectrum or within a specific band of wavelengths.

2.2.1 SPECTRAL RADIANCE

The radiance of a light source is a single value which is the sum of all energy measured over a spectrum.
The individual energy values at a particular wavelength in nanometer (nm) can be determined by a spectral
radiance measurement.

The SI units for spectral radiance is Watt/square meter Steradian nanometer (Watt/m2 sr nm).

2.2.2 SPECTRAL IRRADIANCE

This is a measure of radiant flux at particular wavelength incident on per unit area.

The SI units for spectral radiance is Watt/square meter nanometer (Watt/m2 nm).

4
 2.3 PHOTOMETRY
Photometry involves measurement of the psychophysical attributes of electromagnetic energy that
is visible to the human eye. The use of the term 'luminous', which refers to visible light, defines
photometry in terms of human perception.

Scotopic Curve Photopic Curve

1.0
Relative sensitivity of the eye

0.9

0.8
0.7

0.6

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0
350 400 450 500 550 600 650 700 750

Wavelength (nm)

Violet Indigo Blue Green Yellow Orange Red

Fig. 2.3a Approximate relative sensitivity of the average human eye to different wavelength

Photometry becomes a modern science in 1942, when Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage (CIE) met
to define the response of the average human eye. CIE measured the light-adapted eyes of a sizeable sample
group, and compile the data into the CIE Standard Luminosity Function (widely known as photopic curve -
chromatic perception at normal state, and scotopic curve - achromatic perception at low level of illuminance.
– see Fig.2.3a).

The photometric quantities are related to the corresponding radiometric quantities by the CIE Standard Luminosity
Function. We can think of the luminosity function as the transfer function of a filter which approximates the
behaviours of the average human eye (Fig. 2.3b).

Radiometric CIE Standard Luminosity Photometric

Quantity Function (V∞)Filter Quantity

Fig. 2.3b - Relationship between radiometric units and photometric units

Photometry consists of four basic concepts, namely the luminous flux, luminous intensity, illuminance, and
luminance.

5
 2.3.1 LUMINOUS FLUX
A source of light radiates energy in the form of electromagnetic waves.
We speak of light energy as ‘flux’ and luminous flux is a measure of the
flow of light energy emitted by a source, or received by a surface. The
quantity is derived from the radiant flux, W (in Watts), by evaluating the
radiation in accordance with the relative luminous efficiency of the ‘standard
eye’ (CIE Standard Luminosity Function, Vλ).
Luminous Flux
Total Power (lumen)
The unit is lumen (lm). "Light Power"
lm = 683 x W (Watt) x Vλ

2.3.2 LUMINOUS INTENSITY

This expresses the power of a light source. It is defined as the quantity of
luminous flux emitted in a given direction per solid angle (in steradian).

The unit is candela (cd).

1 cd = 1 lumen per steradian. (For practical purposes, one candela Luminous Intensity
Total Power/Solid Angle
power.) "Candle Power"

2.3.3 ILLUMINANCE
This is a measure of the concentration of luminous flux falling upon a surface.
It is expressed in lumens per unit area.

The unit is lux (lx).

1 lx = 1 lumen per square meter (lm/m2)
The original non-metric British unit is the foot-candle. Illuminance
1 foot-candle = 1 lumen per square foot (lm/ft2) Total Power/Unit Area
"Illumination"

6
2.3.4 LUMINANCE
Also known as photometric brightness, luminance is a measure of the flux emitted from, or reflected by, a relatively
flat and uniform surface. Luminance may be thought of as luminous intensity per unit area. Plane normal to rays

The unit is candelas per square meter (cd/m2), or nit.

The original non-metric British unit is the footlambert (fL)
1 fL = 1 candela/π ft2

Luminance
Total Power/Solid Angle/Projected Area
"Brightness"

2.4 COLORIMETRY
2.4.1 COLOUR
Colour is a characteristic of light determined by the light’s spectral composition and the interaction with the
human eye. Hence, colour is a psychophysical phenomenon, and perception of colour is subjective.

2.4.2 COLOUR PERCEPTION

The eye acts much like a camera, with the lens forming the image of the scene on the light-sensitive retina.
There are several kinds of light detectors, called rods and cones. The cones are grouped into three types, each
responds to a portion of the spectrum, with peak responses corresponding to blue, green, and red light. The
interaction of these groups is then responsible for the stimulus which is interpreted by the brain as colour. This
widely accepted theory on colour vision is known as Trichromatic Theory.

Vitreous
Retina Lens

Cornea

Pupil

Iris

Anterior Chamber

Fig. 2.4.2 - Human Eye

7
 2.4.3 MIXING OF COLOURS
Issac Newton first demonstrated and explained the composition of white light, by refracting it through a glass
prism into its constituent spectral colours. If coloured lights are added, this implies that different lights with
different spectral colours composition are added. The resultant effect on the brain can be any of the spectral
colours located in the visible spectrum, for example, yellow, or a non-spectral colour which does not appear
in the spectrum as monochromatic light, for example, purple. Creation of colours by addition of coloured
lights is known as additive mixing. It is found that the eye behaves as though the ‘outputs’ of the three types
of cones are additive.

Figure 2.4.3a illustrates the resultant colour effect of mixing three coloured lights, red, green, and blue. The
red, green, and blue can be called the primaries and the resulting yellow, cyan, and magenta the secondaries.

RED
RED MAGENTA BLUE CYAN
CYAN BLUE
MAGENTA
WHITE BLACK

YELLOW CYAN GREEN RED

GREEN YELLOW

Fig. 2.4.3a - Additive Mixing Fig. 2.4.3b - Simple Subtractive Mixing

The colour of an object is determined by pigments. These are chemicals which create a given colour by
subtracting parts of the spectrum of the incident light. The remaining light is reflected and this gives the object
its colour characteristic.

Making colours by mixing paint pigments may therefore be described as a process of subtractive mixing (refer
to fig. 2.4.3b), since each added pigment subtracts more from the incident light and leaves less to be reflected
into the eye. Following are some examples (the incident light in this example is white):

YELLOW = WHITE – BLUE

MAGENTA = WHITE – GREEN

CYAN = WHITE – RED

8
2.4.4 LIGHT SOURCE COLOUR SPECIFICATION
In the past, various people have devised methods to quantify colour so that communication of colour becomes
easier and more accurate. These methods attempt to provide a way of expressing colour numerically, in much
the same way we express length and weight.

Light source colour specification and measurement can be categorised into three major colorimetric methods.
They are:
• Tristimulus colorimetry
• Colour temperature
• Spectroradiometry

2.4.4.1 TRISTIMULUS COLORIMETRY

Tristimulus colorimetry is based on the three component theory of colour vision, which states that the eye
possesses receptors for three primary colours (red, green, blue) and that all colours are seen as mixtures of
these three primary colours. The most important system is the 1931 Commission Internationale I’Eclairage (CIE)
system, which defined the Standard Observer to have colour-matching functions x(λ), y(λ), and z(λ) as shown
in Fig. 2.4.4.1. The XYZ tristimulus values are calculated using these three standard observer colour matching
functions. XYZ tristimulus values and the associated Yxy colour space form the foundation of the present CIE
colour space.

Color-matching functions

2.0

1.5
Tristimulus values

1.0

0.5

0
400 500 600 700
Wavelength (nm)
Fig. 2.4.4.1 - Colour Matching Functions
9
 2.4.4.1.1 CIE 1931 Yxy CHROMATICITY CHART y
The tristimulus values XYZ are useful for defining a colour, but 0.8

the results are not easily visualised. Because of this, CIE defined 0.7

a colour space in 1931 for graphing colour into two dimensions

independent of lightness; this is the Yxy colour space, in which 0.6

Y is the lightness and x and y are the chromaticity coordinates 0.5

calculated from the tristimulus value XYZ.The x and y chromaticity

0.4
coordinates are calculated from the XYZ tristimulus values
according to the following formulae: 0.3

0.2

X Y
0.1
x = —————– y = ————––
X+Y+Z X+Y+Z 0
0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 x
Fig. 2.4.4.1.1 - 1931 x,y Chromaticity Diagram
The principal drawback of the 1931 system is that equal
distances on the chart do not represent equal perceived colour
differences because of non-linearities in the human eye.

2.4.4.1.2 CIE 1976 UCS CHROMATICITY CHART

The Uniform Chromaticity Scale (UCS) was developed to
V'
minimise the limitations of the 1931 system. It was intended
0.6
to provide a perceptually more uniform colour spacing for
colours at approximately the same luminance. The 1976 CIE- 0.5

UCS chart uses u’ and v’ coordinates. The symbols u’ and v’

0.4
were chosen to differentiate from the u and v coordinates of
the similar but short lived 1960 CIE-UCS system. The u’ and 0.3

v’ chromaticity coordinates are also calculated from the XYZ

tristimulus values according to the following formulae: 0.2

0.1

4X 9Y
u’ = ——————–– v’ = —————–––– 0
0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6
u'
X + 15Y + 3Z X + 15Y + 3Z
Fig. 2.4.4.1.2 - 1976 UCS Diagram

10
2.4.4.1.3 HELMHOLTZ COORDINATES
An alternative set of coordinates in the CIE system, 1.00

Dominant Wavelength and Purity (also known as Helmholtz

0.90
coordinates), correlate more closely with the visual aspects
of hue and chroma. The dominant wavelength (DW) of 0.80

a colour is the wavelength of the spectrum colour whose

0.70
chromaticity is on the same straight line as the sample
point (S) and the illuminant point (N) (for light source 0.60

measurement, the illuminant point is x=0.333 and 0.50

y=0.333). Purity, also known as excitation purity, is the

0.40
distance from the illuminant point (N) to the sample point
(S), divided by that from the illuminant point (N) to the 0.30

spectrum locus (DW).

0.20

0.10

0.00

Purity = (N—S) / (N—DW)

0.10 0.20 0.30 0.40 0.50 0.60 0.70 0.80

Fig. 2.4.4.1.3 - Helmholtz Coordinates

The above method is only applicable to spectral colour, that is colour which appears in visible spectrum.
When measurement of non-spectral colour, that is colour which does not appear in visible spectrum and is
located within the triangle area encompassed by the 3 points N, R and B, is concerned, Complementary
Dominant Wavelength (CDW) is used. This is because the interception point P, which is supposed to be
the Dominant Wavelength has no corresponding wavelength. The line from N to P is extended backward
in order to determine the Complementary Dominant Wavelength (CDW). Purity for non-spectral colour is
calculated from:

Purity = (N—S’) / (N—P)

Dominant wavelength and purity are commonly used in LEDs’ colour specification.

11
 2.4.4.2 COLOUR TEMPERATURE
The concept of colour temperature arises from the apparent colour changes of an object when it is heated to
various temperatures. When the temperature of an object increases, the emitted radiation changes which result
in the change of colour. A special class of incandescent (glow when hot) object emits radiation with 100
percent efficiency when heated; scientists call this ideal full radiator as blackbody radiator.

In particular, an ideal blackbody glows with a colour which depends on its temperature. The range of hues
may be shown on the CIE diagram by a line which is referred to as a blackbody locus (or, Planckian locus).
The colour progresses from a very deep red through orange, yellow, white and finally bluish-white as the
temperature increases. Most of the natural light sources, such as the sun, star, and fire fall very close to the
Planckian locus.

Some light sources have colour which corresponds to that of a full radiator when the latter is held at a particular
temperature. For some purposes, it is convenient to classify such a light source by quoting its colour temperature
(measured in Kelvins). Colour Temperature curves from 1,500K to 10,000K can be supplied. As long as the
light being measured closely approximates a blackbody source, the results are quite accurate. Hence, the
locus is particularly useful in the classification of ‘whites’. Colour temperature is widely used among lamp and
display manufacturers.

1.00

0.90

0.80

0.70

0.60

0.50

0.40

0.30

0.20

0.10

0.00
0.10 0.20 0.30 0.40 0.50 0.60 0.70 0.80

Fig. 2.4.4.2 - Planckian locus plotted on the CIE x,y Chromaticity Diagram.

12
2.4.4.2.1 CORRELATED COLOUR TEMPERATURE
Colour temperature is strictly applicable to light sources which may be precisely matched by a full radiator.
The concept is extended to include sources which give light that can be closely - but not exactly - matched
by a full radiator. The expression Correlated Colour Temperature (CCT) is used to describe the light from such
sources. This is the temperature at which a full radiator produces a light that most nearly matches the light
from the given source. CCT is calculated by determining the isotemperature line on which the colour of the
light source is positioned. Isotemperature lines are straight lines for which all colours on the line appear visually
equal. ∆uv is used to specify the deviation from the blackbody locus. The maximum deviation for ∆uv is set
at ±0.02.

CCT is not suitable for measuring light sources which have narrow-band spectral emittance curves that do
not approximate any blackbody curve (for example, LED).

y 0.50

0.45

0.40

0.35

0.30

0.25

0.20
0.25 0.30 0.35 0.40 0.45 0.50 0.55
Fig. 2.4.4.2.1 - xy chromaticity chart indicating the blackbody locus, the isotemperature x
lines and equal ∆uv lines.

13
 2.4.4.3 SPECTRORADIOMETRY
Many different spectral power distribution curves can yield the same visual effect which we call colour. It
means that the colour of a light source does not tell us the nature of its spectral power distribution. In other
words, two different light sources which have the same colour in x,y or colour temperature might not exhibit
the same spectral power distribution. The reverse, however, is true: knowledge of spectral power distribution
of light will enable us to describe the colour (refer to Fig. 2.4.4.3 for the types of spectral power distribution
curve of some common CIE illuminants).

Hence, the spectroradiometric method is the most accurate and complete method of specifying colour. The
spectral data can be analysed visually and/or compared to data from another light source. However, the
best use of spectral data is to calculate the CIE tristimulus values by mathematically integrating the data with
the CIE colour-matching function. The tristimulus values are then used to compute CIE chromaticity coordinates
and luminosity, which provide complete description of the colour.

Standard Illuminant D65: Average

daylight (including ultraviolet
wavelength region) with a correlated
colour temperature of 6504K. 200 – 22a: Standard Illuminants

Standard Illuminant C: Average

daylight (not including ultraviolet
150 –
wavelength region) with a correlated
colour temperature of 6774K.

100 –
Standard Illuminant A:
Incandescent light with a correlated
colour temperature of 2856K.
50 –

0 –| | | | |
300 400 500 600 700

Wavelength (nm)

Fig. 2.4.4.3 - Spectral Distribution of CIE illuminants

14
 3 Instr um entati on

3.1 RADIOMETER
Radiometer is a device used to measure the intensity of radiant energy. A majority of radiometers use
only single photocell sensors. In order to measure radiation emitted from a specific spectrum or to
incorporate the radiometer within a certain spectral response, an optical filter is normally used. Such
optical filtering offers a simpler and more cost effective solution.

The industrial applications of radiometer mainly involve irradiance and radiance measurement. In order
to quantify the radiation emission from source, radiance measurement is normally used. On the other
hand, when the level of exposure is of concern, the irradiance or the integrated irradiance measurement
is then carried out.

3.1.1 APPLICATIONS OF RADIOMETER

Radiometer is commonly used in industry to quantify light which is outside the visible spectrum, i.e., ultraviolet
and infrared. Ultraviolet (UV) light is widely used in the industry for various applications, for example,

• Curing of photoresists in semiconductor manufacturing

• Curing of emulsions for printing or plate-making

• Colour-fastness testing

• Biological application

To conduct UV measurement by radiometer, either radiance or irradiance measurement, the spectral response
(wavelength range and peak wavelength) should be specified to match the specific application.

Beside UV, infrared energy is also a common parameter in the field of radiometric measurement. Infrared
measurement is useful as all material emits infrared radiation according to their thermal energies. Infrared
thermometer utilises the principle of infrared radiance measurement to determine the temperature of object by
non-contact means. Hence, such infrared radiometer is also commonly known as “Radiation Thermometer”.
Different filters with specific spectral responses are used for different applications and temperature ranges. For
more details about temperature measurement by infrared detection, please refer to our publication on ‘The
Wonders of Temperature’.

15
 3.2 PHOTOMETER
A photometer can be defined as an instrument for measurement of visible light. Luminance and
illuminance meters are the most common photometers and are easily available as turnkey systems.
Luminous flux meters and luminous intensity meters are not widely available and usually have to be
customised to the specific light measurement application due to the geometry of measurement involved.

The basic difference between radiometer and photometer, is that the latter must respond to light as the
CIE standard observer. In other words, the spectral response of the photometer must follow the CIE
Standard Luminosity Function Vλ curve.

3.2.1 SENSORS The spectral

luminous efficiency V(λ)
The sensor of the photometer, which decides Minolta Illuminance
Meters T-10
the conformity to the CIE Vλ curve, is critical
100
to the accurate performance of the photometer.
90
Non-filtered and filtered sensors have been 80
Relative sensitivity (%)

used in photometers. 70

60

50
Non-filtered sensors, such as the selenium and 40

cadmium sulfide, inherit a natural spectral 30

20
response which approximate the Vλ curve.
10
However, its deviation from the Vλ curve makes 0
400 450 500 550 600 650 700 750
it impractical for accurate photometry Wavelength (nm)
measurement and it is more commonly used
Fig. 3.2.1 - Relative spectral response
in automatic light switches applications. Most
modern filtered photometers use silicon
photodiodes which incorporate optical filters in front of the sensor so that the transmission of the filter and the
spectral response of the sensor can be combined to closely match the CIE Vλ curve.

CIE recognised the need for a meaningful and internationally applicable method of specifying the quality of
a photometric sensor. Hence, f1 value is developed for this purpose. The f1 value, specified in percentage
error, represents the degree to which the relative spectral responsivity matches CIE Vλ curve.

16
3.2.2 CALIBRATION METHOD
Beside f1 value, the calibration method of the photometer is also an important factor when deciding its suitability
to a specific application. For example, a photometer with a relative large f1 value can still achieve good
accuracy when the measured light source and the standard lamp used during the calibration process is similar.

There are two basic methods of calibrating photometers. The first and the most common method is using a
standard lamp (usually tungsten lamp). These lamps are certified and traceable to national standard
laboratories/institutions. The photometers will be adjusted until the measurement reading matches the certified
output of the standard lamp. The second calibration method is to use standard detectors. Such detectors have
built-in sensors where the spectral responses perfectly match the CIE Vλ curve. In such calibrations, a lamp is
still required but output can be varied but must be stable. The standard detector first measures the output of
the lamp, and is substituted by the photometer and will be adjusted until the measurement give similar readings
as the standard detector. Such detectors can also be certified and traceable to national standards.

3.2.2.1 COLOUR CORRECTION FACTOR

The correction of the detector-filter combination to the CIE Vλ curve is generally poor at the end of the visible
spectral range. Hence, the colour temperature of the lamp used during calibration is critical. As most of the
photometers are calibrated by a tungsten lamp, measurement of incandescent, halogen searchlights and sunlight
generally give good accuracy. However, these photometers are not suitable for measurement of monochromatic
light or narrowband emitters, e.g., blue and white LEDs. Measurement error will also be significant in discharge
lamps, e.g., luminescent tubes, which show clear peaks (i.e. spectral lines) in the visible spectrum.

For this reason, modern photometers have incorporated a Colour Correction Factor feature to compensate the
error caused by this spectral response difference between the sensor and the CIE Vλ curve. The CCF value
can be calculated when both the spectral response of the sensor and the spectral power distribution of the
light source is known. An alternate and easier method is to transfer the measurement data of a primary standard
(for example, data taken from a spectroradiometer) to the photometer is by varying the CCF value. CCF can
also be used as a user-calibration feature, which is particularly useful if in-house standards' traceability is
necessary.

17
 3.2.3 APPLICATIONS OF PHOTOMETERS
There are a multitude of light measurements to be made. Not surprisingly, misapplication of photometric
instrument by user can become a common source of error. For many users, the main obstacle to effective light
measurement is the lack of understanding of the characteristics of the type of measurement required. Attempts
to convert between units will lead to gross errors. For example, the most common mistake encountered is
attempting to use illuminance meter (lumen/m2) to determine luminuos flux (lumen), or, to use luminance meter
(candela/m2) to determine the luminous intensity (candela).

There are four main photometric instruments, namely the luminance meter, illuminance meter, luminous flux meter,
and luminous intensity meter.

3.2.3.1 LUMINANCE METER

The visible energy output of a light source can be determined with a luminance measurement. Luminance is
a directional quantity and, hence, we have to specify the acceptance angle of the instrument, measured area,
and measurement geometry with respect to the source, in order to communicate the luminance measurements
effectively. These factors are important as most light sources are not perfect lambertian sources (luminance is
the same in all direction) and might not be uniform in luminance throughout the sources.

Since measurement is targeted at the source, such measurement can be achieved by using a optical lens
system. Both the angular field of view and the angle subtended by the objective lens should be limited to
avoid collecting light from parts of the display at slightly different angles.

Luminance Meter
Measuring Area Measurement Geometry

Lens

Sensor

Acceptance Angle

Fig. 3.2.3.1 - Luminance measurement technique involving the use of lens.

Luminance measurement are important for products, such as traffic lights, televisions, and tail lights of automobiles.

18
3.2.3.2 ILLUMINANCE METER
Illuminance is a measure of visible energy falling upon an object’s surface. Illuminance measurements are
particularly susceptible to errors caused by off-axis light. By definition, light at the measurement plane should
be proportional to the cosine of the angle at which the light is incident. However, due to total integration of
the sensor into the detector head or the illuminance meter itself, many illuminance meters do not naturally collect
light correctly according to the cosine law.

Cosine correction feature is included in the illuminance meter by means of a cosine diffuser which is placed
over the sensor and filter. It is important to note that different systems will generate different cosine responses
which result in different cosine errors at different incident angles due to the nature of the system geometry.
Therefore, it is important to understand the system cosine response when comparing illuminance measurements
from different illuminance meters, especially when off-axis light measurement is concerned.

Ideal Curve
0º
100%
20º 20º
Illuminance Meter
40º 80% 40º

60%
60º 60º
40%
Fig. 3.2.3.2 - An example of the cosine response
of an illuminance
80º 20% 80º

Illuminance measurement is widely used in ambient lighting measurement to determine how well the room
is lighted up for ease of reading or working. For example, a comfortably lit desk should be illuminated at
300 lx.

Illuminance meter is sometime used to compute measurement in term of ANSI lumen (especially in projection
system measurement), by simply averaging the nine points illuminance measurement in lux and multiply by the
measurement area in square meter encompassed by the nine points measurement.

19
 3.2.3.3 LUMINOUS FLUX METER
Luminous flux measurement is to determine the total visible energy emitted by a light source. An integrating
sphere is often used to converge all the power emitted by the source to the detector head.

Integrating Sphere

Detector

Light source under measurement

Fig. 3.2.3.3 - Total luminous flux measurement using

an integrating sphere

The integrating sphere has to be large enough to encompass the light source being measured, and as a general
rule, the larger the sphere, the smaller the errors in measuring luminous flux for different light sources. As a
rough example, calibrating a 1.5m tubular lamp in a 2.5m diameter sphere against a small incandescent
standard will produce half the error that would result from calibration the same lamp in a 2m sphere. Calibration
of such integrating sphere can be carried out by means of transfer lamp standards which are traceable to
recognised national standards. A good quality integrating sphere which postulates the performance of an
ideally spherical, evenly coated interior requires a huge investment and usually have to be customised to the
light measurement application. Hence, the existence of a general purpose luminous flux meter is very limited.

3.2.3.4 LUMINOUS INTENSITY METER

Luminous intensity represents the flux flowing out of a source in a given direction per solid angle and it is
used to quantify the power of a light source. As the definition implies, luminous intensity measurement involves
several geometrical intricacies, such as measurement direction and amount of solid angle. Light sources are
rarely spatially homogeneous, leading to the questions on which direction and how much solid angle should
be used to carry out the measurement.

20
Hence, to measure the luminous intensity of a light source meaningfully, an agreed-upon fixture that defines
the solid angle encompassed by the measurement and that orients the light source repeatably in an specified
direction must be used. In other words, such meters have to be configured for the geometry of the source under
test.

Basically, there are no off-the-shelf luminous intensity meters and comparison of measured data from two different
luminous intensity meters serve no purpose, unless their measurement geometries are identical.

Measurement Distance (D)

Light Source

Solid Angle (∞) Detector

Fixture

Fig. 3.2.3.4 - An example of luminous intensity meter set-up

Note: Solid angle can be calculated from the known detector’s area and measurement distance. Detector is used to measure the
flux reading in lumen.

3.3 THREE-FILTER COLORIMETER

Instruments designed for measuring coloured light, which make use of three filters whose spectral sensitivity
are matched to the CIE tri-stimulus colour matching functions, are known as three-filter colorimeters. Besides
chromaticity measurement, these meters usually include one of the four basic photometric measurements, i.e.,
luminance, illuminance, luminous intensity, or luminous flux measurement.

These instruments use detectors which comprise high quality photodiodes with series-connected filters. The
incident light is converted by the detector into signals which directly yield the standard XYZ tristimulus values.

Nevertheless, matching to the standard CIE tristimulus curves can be achieved only with finite accuracy.
Deviations will occur in the defined CIE curves and in the sensitivity curves of the measuring instrument. These
differences are negligible as long as the light to be measured exhibits a continuous energy output over the
entire visible spectrum. However, the error may be significant if steep edges or spectral lines occur in the
spectrum. Hence, three-filter colorimeters are not usually suited to measure light sources with spectral lines, e.g.,
discharge lamps (refer to Fig.3.2.3.5a), or with narrow spectral energy distributions, e.g., LEDS (refer to
Fig.3.2.3.5b).

21
 Relative Spectral Distribution
Peak: 1.675E -02 : 545nm
100 –

80 –

60 –

40 –

20 –

0– | | | |
400 500 600 700

Fig. 3.2.3.5a - Spectral energy distribution with spectral lines

Relative Spectral Distribution

Peak: 1.189E +01 : 568nm
100 –

80 –

60 –

40 –

20 –

0– | | | |
400 500 600 700

Fig. 3.2.3.5b - Spectral energy distribution of a narrow-band emitter

Deviation be-
tween CIE stan-
dard curve and
filter spectral
repsonse curve.

Narrow spectral energy distribution

Fig. 3.2.3.5c - Error in measurement caused by deviation between CIE tristimulus curve and instrument’s

22 spectral response.
Tristimulus Method
Receptor section
Microprocessor
Numerical Values
x(λ)sensor X = 21.21 The tristimulus values X, Y,
y(λ)sensor Y = 13.37 Z are calculated by the
microprocessor and can be
z(λ)sensor Z = 9.32 converted to other colour
space

Light source
under test Three sensors
corresponding to
three types of cones
in human eye

Spectroradiometric Method
Receptor section Numerical Values
Microprocessor The tristimulus values X, Y,
Z are calculated by the
microprocessor and can be
converted to other colour
space
Spectral Graph

Light source Multiple spec-

under test tral sensors, each
sensitive to a par-
ticular wavelength

Fig. 3.2.3.6 - Comparison between tristimulus colorimetric method and spectroradiometric methods

3.4 SPECTRORADIOMETER
Spectroradiometers are most ideal for measuring spectral energy distribution of the light source,
which determine not only the radiometric and photometric quantities, but also the colorimetric
quantities of light. These instruments record the radiation spectrum of the light source and calculate
the desired parameters, such as chromaticity and luminance. Dispersion of light is usually
accomplished in spectroradiometer by means of prisms or diffraction gratings.

The exact CIE Vλ curve and CIE colour matching curves are stored in the software and are used
to process the data from the measured spectral energy distribution of the light source under test.
Hence, the measurement error associated with photometers and filter colorimeters is avoided
in spectroradiometers. However, adequate sensitivity, high linearity, low stray light, low polarisation
error, and a spectral bandpass resolution of 5 nm or less are essential for obtaining good
accuracy.

23
 Non-thermal radiators, such as discharge lamps (which can be characterised by their non-continuous spectral
energy distribution), and narrow-band emitters can only be measured with precision by means of the spectral
procedure.

When compared to three-filter colorimeters, spectroradiometers do have their limitations, in terms of speed of
measurement, price and portability.

3.5 SUMMARY
If precise measurement of light is required, the spectroradiometric method is the most ideal and
comprehensive method as it records the spectral characteristics of light and further processes them
mathematically to obtain radiometric, spectroradiometric, photometric, and colorimetric data.

When portability, speed of measurement, and cost of investment, is of priority, filter photometers are
still preferred. However, one should have a good understanding of the f1’ value of the photometer and
its calibration method. This information is important to ascertain whether the photometer is appropriate
to measure the light source under test, considering its spectral energy distribution.

Finally, one should choose an instrument which make direct measurements of light characteristics, such
as luminance, illuminance, luminous intensity, luminous flux and should not attempt any form of conversions
across measurement geometries.

4 C onc lusi on
A good understanding of the measurable characteristics of light, and exactly which of those characteristics
of light need to be quantified for a particular situation, will ensure that the radiometric and/or photometric
characteristics of an application are described correctly.

This publication makes no claim to completeness but simply describes what the user needs to know
about measurement of light. The pointers described are based on problems which are frequently
mentioned in discussion between suppliers and customers.

24
 5 Refere nce s

Billmeyer, Fred W (1981). Principles of color technology—2nd Edition. Wiley & Sons, New York.

Hutson, Geoffrey, H. (1990). Colour Television — 2nd Edition. McGraw-Hill Book Company Europe, England.

The Photonics Dictionary — A Four-Book Set (1993). United States of America.

Joseph B. Murdoch. Illumination Engineering — From Edison’s lamp to the laser.

Macmillian Publishing Company, England.

D. Allan Roberts. Radiometry/Photometry Terms. The Photonics Design and Applications Handbook 1993,
United States of America.

Daniel C. McCarthy. Integrating Sphere Aids Absolute Calibration of Lamps.

Photonics Spectra—December 1998, United States of America.

Richard Distl. Measure What You See. Photonics Spectra—May 2000, United States of America.

Ian K. Edwards. Counting Coup — Photometry: Origin of the science to applying handheld equipment.
LD&A — December 1993.

Clarence E. Rash and Everette McGowin III. Measuring Light. Information Display 9/96. SID 1996.

Kenneth A. Miller. Colorimetry: Methods and Tools. The Photonics Design and Applications Handbook 1993,
United States of America.

25
3-91, Dais ennis himac hi, S akai-ku, Sakai-shi.Os aka 590-8551, J apan
 WE BRING QUALITY TO L I G H T.

Instrument Systems and LEDs:

Total Measurement Solutions
 2

Instrument Systems
promotes LED measurement
standards

Photo courtesy of Hewlett Packard (Agilent)

In the fast-moving world of technology Systems employs temperature-stabilized

reliable standards are critical. This is LED standards provided by the German
particularly important for today’s evolv- National Metrology Institute PTB. Because
ing LED technology. Only accurate and of this, our clients have the benefit of ob-
internationally comparable metrology taining exact measurement results that
supports innovation. The CIE International correlate with manufacturers and nation-
Commission on Illumination (Commission al standards bodies around the world.
Internationale De L’Eclairage) has publis- The flexible fiber guide concept of our
hed a recommendation for LED metrology measuring adapters confers an addi-
in Document TC-127. Instrument Systems tional advantage: spectrometers from
is a member of the CIE Committee and Instrument Systems can be quickly and
has played a part in defining this interna- easily reconfigured for different meas-
tionally recognized standard. urement applications such as luminous
This standard is our commitment: Our intensity, luminous flux, or luminance
measuring adapters and spectrometers without the need for recalibration. This
are optimized to perform LED character- saves valuable time and money and
ization in conformance to the CIE re- helps to ensure a high level of measure-
commendations. This is why LED test ment accuracy. Furthermore, spectrome-
equipment from Instrument Systems is ters from Instrument Systems are more
superior to filter photometers especially precise and more sensitive than compa-
when it comes to measure blue, red and rable systems, putting you ahead of the
white LEDs. For calibration, Instrument competition.
 3

Lighting of the Future: LEDs

automotive and aircraft lighting, and traf-

Instrument Systems is
fic signals. LEDs will also soon play a
the market leader in
much larger role in the future of archi-
LED metrology and is
tectural lighting and general illumination.
working closely with
There’s no doubt about it: LEDs have a
international commis-
brilliant future. Brighter and more energy
sions to define LED
efficient than a conventional filament
standards.
lamp, LEDs can have a service life of
more than 100,000 hours.
Companies such as Siemens/Osram,
Hewlett Packard (Agilent), Philips, Nichia,
and General Electric are working hard to
advance LED technology. Instrument
Systems is already cooperating with
these manufacturers and others on
metrology issues. This work is an invest-
ment in your future as well as ours since
it gives us the necessary insight into
industry requirements. That is why
Instrument Systems has market and
technology leadership in LED metrology.
Our customers’ satisfaction is based on
our expertise and we strive to expand our
Photo courtesy of Sarah Taylor, Heriot-Watt University knowledge base further. Instrument
Systems will continue to work on stand-
The LED market has grown significantly ardizing LED metrology – including the
since the development of high-intensity introduction of future ISO standards.
blue and white LEDs. Today, LEDs play an
important role in many applications
including displays, signs, back-lights,

White LEDs revolutionized

the technology of illumi-
nation. When white LEDs
were first developed,
Instrument Systems focus-
ed on metrology for ana-
lyzing them and has devel-
oped substantial expertise
in this domain (Photo cour-
tesy of Liane Marek,
Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft).
 4

The journey of an LED

From the idea to the end product – an Instrument Systems understands the
LED’s performance must be evaluated at many complexities of an LED and has the
each step through development, produc- right measuring instruments for both
tion and integration to ensure quality. The prototyping and production. The produc-
point of departure is process design for tion process starts off with a chip (wafer)
the semiconductor chip at the develop- test, continues with the packaged LED,
ment stage. This is where LEDs are born then with the LED in a sub-assembly
and the package configuration will deter- (e.g. a display module), and finally with
mine the function of an LED in the intended the end product (e.g. a large-area LED
design application. The LED goniospec- display). Our professional measuring
troradiometer from Instrument Systems instruments allow you to carry out strin-
evaluates the emission from an LED as a gent tests to ensure that each LED meets
function of angle, providing the necessary the requirements on its way to the end
information for the LED package design. product.

A special test for every manu- are integrated with these die sorters to
facturing stage The first test in automatically determine the desired opti-
Wire bond
Epoxy lens manufacturing starts with the semicon- cal parameters.
LED-Chip
ductor wafer where a large number of Finally, the complete packaged LED will
LED chips are manufactured at the same need to be tested and sorted again. The
Reflector time. LED chips are sequentially tested binning of packaged devices is typically
with a wafer prober before they are done to very tight tolerances. This is be-
Cathode
Anode separated (diced). This data is then used cause the human eye is able to perceive
to grade the wafer before the next step even minute color and brightness non-
and to provide valuable feedback to pro- uniformity in the end product.
cess engineers. Instrument Systems’ spectrometers are
The next stage involves testing of individ- used with both manual and automated
ual LED chips after the wafer has been handling systems, offering the most pre-
diced. A die sorter performs the first cise measurements at high speed. You
classification of the LEDs into different can then be certain that your customers
bins of brightness and color. Fast array will accept the LED when it reaches the
spectrometers from Instrument Systems final stage in the production cycle.

Osram/Siemens/Infineon: Osram/Siemens/Infineon:
Wafer and chip testing in pro- Packaged LEDs are end tested
duction. The semiconductor chip and sorted into different classes.
is measured before being installed Instrument Systems provides
in a package. This procedure may high-speed spectrometers and
be performed on a complete CIE compatible optical probes
wafer or on individual chips using that are integrated in automated
a die sorter. handling machines. An accurate
measurement of dominant wave-
length, luminous intensity or lumi-
nous flux can be accomplished in
less than 20 msec per LED.
 5

Precise measurements
in final applications
An LED reaches the final stage of its jour- It is also important to have uniform lumi-
From the development
ney when it has passed the production nance and color in the interior illumina-
laboratory to end-use:
test. This is where the end-user will see tion of automobile cockpits. This is why
Instrument Systems
it – in lamps, large-scale LED displays, or color matching of different sub-assem-
accompanies LEDs
as backlighting for pushbuttons, symbols blies and modules requires very narrow
throughout their jour-
and LCD displays. And soon, white LEDs tolerancing. It is especially critical if LEDs
ney.
will provide sophisticated architectural from different manufacturers are used in
lighting in stylish luminaires. These end- the same end product. Full-color LED
use products also need to be tested in displays, which contain many thousands
both development and quality control. of LEDs, must also be matched for their
Instrument Systems is supporting you to spatial radiation characteristics in order
make measurements in the final applica- to ensure good color uniformity from all
tion of LEDs by providing a range of fiber- viewing angles.
based measurement accessories such as Other applications include measuring
telescope probes, integrating spheres, instruments that use LEDs as a light
and illuminance probes. source, e.g. a blood analyzer that deter-
For example, the production process mines blood-sugar concentration. In such
means that the whiteness is not always applications, the radiometric properties
uniform amongst white LEDs. They may are the most important parameters, rather
have a blue or yellow hue, depending on than the effect on the human eye. Precise
the viewing angle. This effect is visually characterization of LEDs in these appli-
disturbing if several LEDs are used in a cations is critical since it directly affects
single application. the accuracy of the chemical analyzer.

BMW/ Mannesmann VDO:

Testing LEDs in an assembly, e.g.
control elements in a navigation
system. Motorized positioners
from Instrument Systems enable
automated measurements of
luminance and chromaticity.
 6

LEDs:
how they work
LED stands for Light-Emitting Diode. exert an influence on spatial radiation
The light emitted by an LED is produced characteristics. For example, the mecha-
by a semiconductor chip. The physical nical and optical axes may not be coin-
characteristics of the materials used to cident. A reproducible test setup is there-
manufacture the chip determine the fore an important prerequisite for precise
spectrum of the emitted light (and hence measurement of luminous intensity.
the dominant wavelength, color, etc.). Because of this, the CIE recommends
Lenses, reflectors, and diffusers can be that the mechanical axis of the LED, rath-
integrated into the package to achieve er than the optical axis, should be taken
desired spatial radiation characteristics. as a reference axis for measurements.
Full-color displays first became possible
with the advent of intense blue GaN Luminous intensity and radiant
LEDs. The combination of these blue intensity for precise CIE meas-
LEDs with phosphors led to the subse- urements Luminous intensity and radi-
quent development of the white LED. ant intensity of LEDs are historically the
most frequently measured parameters.
Spatial radiation character- The underlying concept for measuring
istics and package design luminous intensity in a strictly physical
A wide variety of package and sense assumes a point source of light.
LED types produce very different However, most LEDs have a relatively
spatial radiation characteristics. large emitting area in relation to the
Precise knowledge of the angle- short distance at which a measurement
dependent distribution of radia- is taken. This means that the assumption
tion is necessary for a range of of a point light source no longer holds
applications. For example, a full- true.
Three typical LED radiation pat-
terns: a diffuse LED with virtually
color display may appear as a dif- The CIE has developed the concept of
Lambertian distribution, a narrow- ferent color depending on the “averaged LED intensity” to solve
angled specular LED, and an LED
with intensity peaks at 30° and angle of observation if all the LED this problem under near-field conditions.
150°.
color types used do not have the This concept no longer corresponds to
same spatial radiation pattern. the physically precise definition of lumi-
There are also mandatory regula- nous intensity. It instead relates to the
tions on the spatial radiation char- measurement of the partial luminous flux
acteristics of LEDs used for traffic at a specified fixed distance and detector
The CIE’s “averaged luminous signals and automotive taillights. area. The CIE recommendation has gain-
intensity” concept. The area of the
detector is always 1 cm2. LED production tolerances also ed worldwide recognition because it

RADIOMETRIC AND PHOTOMETRIC CHARACTERISTICS

The relevant optical quantities for LED metrology are defined by the fields of radiometry and photometry. Radiometric quantities describe physical
radiation properties, while photometric quantities define effects on the human eye. The V(λ) curve is used in photometry to evaluate the radiometric
parameter that is a function of wavelength λ. The V(λ) function represents the sensitivity of the human eye in the wavelength range from 380 nm
to 780 nm.

RADIOMETRIC AND FORMULA DEFINITION

PHOTOMETRIC QUANTITY
Radiant power [W] Φe/v = dQ/dt Radiant power Φe is the total power dQe emitted by a light source per
Luminous flux [lm] unit time dt.
Radiant intensity [W/sr] Ie/v = dΦe/v/dΩ Radiant intensity I e is defined as the power dΦe emitted per unit solid
Luminous intensity [lm/sr = cd] angle dΩ. The solid angle dΩ is calculated from the Area dA of a sphere
dΩ = dA/r2 surface and the square of the distance r of this surface from the center-
point of the sphere.
Radiance [W/sr cm 2] Le/v = dΦe/v/dA dΩ Radiance Le is measured for extended, i.e. not point, light sources
Luminance [cd/m2] and corresponds to the radiant power dΦe, emitted from an area dA per
solid unit angle dΩ.
 7

provides the ability to correlate measure-

CIE Distance between Solid angle Application
ments made in different laboratories. Recommendation LED tip and detector
Condition A 316 mm 0.001 sr For narrow-angled LEDs
Condition B 100 mm 0.01 sr Standard configuration

Spectroradiometer Luminous flux and radiant power Spectral characteristics of LEDs

Luminous flux is the total photometric The spectral power distribution of LEDs
power emitted by an LED and is deter- differs in many aspects from other radia-
LED
mined using an integrating sphere or a tion sources. It is neither monochromatic
goniophotometer. This measurement is like a laser nor broadband like a filament
becoming more important due to the lamp. The spectrum of an LED has a spe-
emergence of applications such as back- cific peak wavelength λp that depends
Section through an integrating lighting and luminaires. The interior of on the manufacturing process, and a
sphere. The LED port is positioned
at the side and the measurement the integrating sphere is uniformly coat- spectral width (FWHM) of typically 15 to
port for connection to the spectro-
radiometer is positioned at 90°. ed with a material that is an almost per- 100 nanometers. Spectroradiometers are
The LED port is baffled to prevent
direct radiation on the measure- fect diffuse reflector. The LED should be ideal for determining these spectral char-
ment port.
positioned in the integrating sphere such acteristics. They measure the radiation
that the base of the package is tangen- spectrum of an LED and the desired
Principles of colorimetry tial to the inner surface of the sphere. This parameters are then calculated from this:
CIE colorimetry provides a quan-
titative and qualitative description
configuration most closely approximates
of color. It is based on the the conditions prevailing in real LED
assumption that every color is a
combination of the three primary applications. The goniophotometer pro-
colors red, green and blue. In
1931 the CIE established the X, Y, vides another method for determining the
Z tristimulus system. The X, Y, Z
tristimulus values are obtained by luminous flux or radiant power. This
integrating the spectral distribution
of radiation S(λ) and the three eye instrument measures the entire radiation
response curves x(λ), y(λ) and z(λ)
over the 380 nm to 780 nm wave- pattern of an LED and calculates the
length range. The familiar x, y and
z color coordinates are then de- luminous flux by integrating these meas-
rived from the tristimulus values.
ured values. The spectral distribution of a
blue LED and important spectral
characteristics.

Peak wavelength λp
Wavelength with the maximum intensity within the spectrum. Specification of peak wave-
length has little significance, since the dominant wavelength or centroid wavelength is
more suitable for characterizing an LED.
FWHM
The spectral bandwidth at half intensity ∆λ0.5 is calculated from the two wavelengths
λ`0.5 and λ``0.5 on either side of λp: ∆λ0.5 = λ`0.5 - λ``0.5
Centroid wavelength λc
The centroid wavelength λc is the wavelength that divides the integral of a spectrum into
two equal parts. The centroid wavelength is ideal for characterizing the radiometric prop-
erties of LEDs (e.g. infrared LEDs).
Dominant wavelength
The dominant wavelength is determined from the x, y color coordinates of the measured
spectrum. A straight line is taken through the color coordinates of a reference illuminant
and the measured color coordinate in the color diagram. The intersection between the
straight line and the boundary of the color diagram gives the dominant wavelength. It is a
measure of the color sensation produced by the LED in the human eye.
Color purity
Purity is defined as the ratio of the distance from the reference illuminant to the color
coordinate and to the above mentionned intersection in the color diagram. Most LEDs
The tristimulus functions x(λ) 1931 CIE color diagram for have a purity of 100%, i.e. the color cannot be distinguished from a monochromatic
(dashed line), y(λ) (solid line) and 2° observer beam. White LEDs, of course, are an exception to this.
z(λ) (dotted line)
Correlated Color Temperature
CCT is the temperature of a blackbody radiator that most closely matches the perceived
color of a light source. CCT is an appropriate method for characterizing white LEDs.
 8

Ultimate precision:
LED testing with
Instrument Systems
Our measuring instruments are unique in individual calibration files are then select-
being based on spectrometer technology ed through the software. A single test
that conforms to CIE recommendations. system can therefore be used to deter-
Instrument Systems measuring adapters mine luminous intensity, luminous flux,
realize the precise geometries for lumi- luminance, the spatial distribution pat-
nous intensity according to CIE conditions tern, and the corresponding radiometric
A and B. The distance from the LED tip to and colorimetric quantities.
the sensor is either 100 mm or 316 mm.
Furthermore, the sensor is a special dif- The benefit: Spectroradiometers
fuser with an aperture of precisely 1 cm2. from Instrument Systems We have
In addition, special integrating spheres developed spectroradiometers that deliver
have been developed for determining superb measurement accuracy for all LED
luminous flux and total radiant power. colors.
The spectroradiometer is connected to Traditional photometers are optimized for
an LED test adapter by fiber-optic cable performing measurements on broadband
to form a complete test station. This radiation sources such as halogen lamps,
setup is then calibrated as a turnkey but the correction of the detector to the
system. The universal fiber connection spectral sensitivity function of the eye is
means that the test adapter is easily poor at the edge of the visible spectral
changed without the calibration becom- range. This entails substantial measuring
ing invalid – a unique feature of our errors if photometers are used to analyze
instruments. Spectroradiometers from blue, red and white LEDs.
Instrument Systems can be calibrated
with any number of test accessories, and

1.0000

0.1000
Relative Response

0.0100
CIE V(Lambda) Curve
0.0010 Photometer

0.0001

0.0000
400 500 600 700
Wavelength (nm)

This diagram plots the CIE V(λ) curve and the actual response curve of a photometer. The logarithmic repre-
sentation shows deviations of up to 100% in the blue and red region, although the photometer in question has
an accuracy of 2% when performing measurements on halogen light. Spectroradiometers from Instrument
Systems avoid these errors because the exact V(λ) curve is stored in the software and used for processing the
data from the measured spectrum of the LED.
 9
Klappen 10 mm verkürzt für Lochung!!

Complete test-setup incl.

CAS140B spectroradiometer,
LED-430 optical probe,
LED-511 LED test-socket,
PC and Keithley current source
 10

Spectroradiometers:
for different applications
Instrument Systems supplies spectrora- Since not every spectrometer is suitable Array spectrometers: for short
measuring times. The MAS30
diometers (both array and scanning tech- for LED measurements, you should make
and CAS140B array spectrome-
nology) that have been optimized for your selection based on stringent crite- ters are simple to operate, ex-
various applications. The instruments are ria. Spectroradiometers from Instrument tremely robust and have very
operated by SpecWin or SpecWin-Lite Systems are designed to meet and short measuring times. This is due
to the fact that these instruments
software running under Windows 95/98 exceed these criteria, and provide you
have no moving mechanical parts
or NT. Windows DLLs are available for all with a platform for carrying out accurate apart from the shutter for meas-
spectroradiometers to create customer- and reliable measurements. uring dark current. These prop-
specific programs. erties make array spectrome-
ters particularly suitable for
applications in quality assurance
and production.

MAIN CRITERIA FOR SPECTROMETERS SUITABLE FOR TAKING ACCURATE Scanning spectrometers: for
LED MEASUREMENTS the highest precision. The
high signal dynamic range and
Stray light rejection 3 to 4 orders of magnitude wavelength resolution of the
Linearity Better than ± 1.5 % over the entire measuring range and
SPECTRO170 and SPECTRO320
integration time
scanning spectrometers make it
Signal-to-noise ratio 3 to 4 orders of magnitude, making cooled detectors
preferable possible to conduct especially
Sensitivity Light loss with CIE-compliant optical probes demands precise measurements. These
extremely high sensitivity spectrometers are based on an
innovative grating drive that de-
livers high wavelength accuracy,
high spectral resolution, and fast
scanning in the same unit.
Exceptionally low levels of stray
light in the monochromator and
dynamic adjustment of signal
MAS30 CAS140B SPECTRO170 SPECTRO320 gain while the spectrum is being
Mini Array Spectrometer, Compact Array Spectro- Scanning Spectrometer Scanning Spectrometer for
recorded ensure a high signal
the introductory model meter for quality assurance for all general laboratory high-end applications
and production testing applications dynamic range and absolute
measurement accuracy.

SPECTROMETER MAS30 CAS140B SPECTRO170 SPECTRO320

Application Cost effective Production and Standard laboratory High-End reference
introductory model quality assurance instrument instrument
Main feature Power supply from Very short High signal Very high
PC; small and measuring times in dynamic range and wavelength accuracy
lightweight the ms range high sensitivity
Technology Diode Array CCD Array Scanning Scanning
(–10°C, back- Spectrometer Spectrometer
illuminated)
SPECIFICATIONS
Spectral range *1 210 to 1100 nm 190 to 1050 nm 190 to 2500 nm 190 to 5000 nm
*1 Refers to the total available spectral
Spectral resolution *2 5 to 10 nm 2 to 3.5 nm 0.5 to 5 nm 0.07 to 10 nm range covered by all models in each
series of instruments. The exact spectral
Measuring time (range) 4 msec to 6 sec 9 msec to 30 sec 3 sec *4 to 5 min 1 sec *4 to 1 min range and resolution of an individual
model is specified in the data sheet.
Meas. time at 10 mcd *3 3 sec 0.04 sec 5 sec 4 sec *2 Depends on the slit and model
in CAS140B; programmable in
SENSITIVITY SPECTRO170/320
Luminous intensity *3 0.5 mcd to 5 cd 0.02 mcd to 50 cd 0.01 mcd to 1000 cd 0.01 mcd to 2000 cd *3 Specified for a signal-to-noise ratio of
the spectrum of 10 : 1, for a yellow LED
Luminous flux *3 1 mlm to 8 lm 0.04 mlm to 80 lm 0.01 mlm to 2000 lm 0.02 mlm to 4000 lm at 585 nm, and refering to a VIS model
*4 For a 380 to 780 nm spectral range
ACCURACY *5 Valid immediately after calibration, for
diffuse LEDs, relative to the calibration
Luminous intensity *5 ±8% ±5% ±4% ±4% standard
*6 Assuming sufficient signal dynamic
Luminous flux *5 ±9% ±6% ±5% ±5% range and valid calibration. The
specified errors apply a twofold
Dominant ± 1 resp. 1.5 nm ± 0.5 nm ± 0.4 nm ± 0.3 nm
standard deviation.
wavelength *6
Chromaticity (x,y) *6 ± 0.004 ± 0.002 ± 0.0015 ± 0.0015 Specifications are subject to change without
prior notice.
 11

Software for
Windows 95/98 and NT
SpecWin: the software for SpecWin-Lite: for quality Spectrometer DLLs: for
spectral measurements in assurance. SpecWin-Lite is a customer-specific programs.
the lab. SpecWin is an extreme- version of the SpecWin software Windows DLLs are available for
ly powerful software tool and is that is easier to operate. It reduc- developing customer-specific
ideal for all applications in re- es the number of functions and programs. These DLLs operate
search and development. The focuses on evaluation and user- all the functions of our spectro-
dedicated menu for analyzing friendly presentation of impor- radiometers. They also have com-
LEDs provides comprehensive tant radiometric, photometric, prehensive calculation routines
evaluation of all the optical and colorimetric data. This reduc- for carrying out photometric and
parameters from an LED and es the amount of training and colorimetric evaluations. This flexi-
clear presentation of the results. expertise necessary for instru- bility allows customer-specific
SpecWin also offers the follow- ment operators. programs to be created quickly
ing functions: and reliably. DLLs have been
• MS Excel-compatible spread- optimized for speed and tailored
SpecWin laboratory software offers numerous sheet for user-defined eval- to applications in production.
functions specifically tailored to LED testing.
uations and calculations
• MS Word-compatible report
generator for documenting The following parameters of an LED can be measured:
test results tailored to user PHOTOMETRIC QUANTITIES
requirements
Luminous intensity Iv [candela]
• Watch Window with pass/fail
Luminous flux Φv [lumen]
evaluation of measurement
Luminance Lv [cd/m2]
results
• Optional auto-sequence mode RADIOMETRIC QUANTITIES

for automated measurement Radiant intensity Ie [W/sr]

series interfacing with exter- Radiant power Φe [W]
nal instrument DLLs. A DLL Radiance Le [W/sr cm2]
is available for the Keithley SPECTRAL PARAMETERS
2400 Series SourceMeter. Dominant wavelength λDom
Peak wavelength λPeak
Centroid wavelength λCentroid
The spreadsheet, report generator and watch
Spectral width FWHM
window functions support analysis of measure-
ment results. COLORIMETRIC PARAMETERS
Chromaticity x,y,z / u´,v´
Purity [%]
Color rendering index CRI
Color temperature (CCT) [K]

Optical probes for radiant intensity

and luminous intensity: CIE-compliant
Our LED optical probes for measuring In each case the sensor area is 1 cm2.
radiant intensity and luminous intensity Light radiation from the LED adapter is
conform fully to CIE recommendations. launched into the instrument through a
The great benefit of these optical probes fiber bundle that is made up of a large
is that they have been optimized for use number of individual fibers. This setup
with spectroradiometers. Apart from ensures that measurement accuracy is
measuring luminous intensity, this means not compromised by changes in fiber
that they also determine spectral para- position.
meters such as dominant wavelength in
conformance with CIE recommendations.
Instrument Systems has a range of LED
optical probes for both CIE Condition A
and CIE Condition B (see following table).
 12

OPTICAL COMPLETE CIE SOLID DISTANCE COMMENT

PROBE WITH 1.5 MM CONDITION ANGLE BETWEEN
FIBER BUNDLE LED TIP AND
AND PLUG SENSOR
LED-430 LED430-15 B 0.01 sr 100 mm For all standard applications
LED-432 LED432-15 B 0.01 sr 100 mm UV version 190 to 1700 nm
LED-440 LED440-15 A 0.001 sr 316 mm For narrow emission angles
LED-445 LED445-15 A 0.001 sr 316 mm With adjustable LED mounting
and directional-control screen

LED-445 analyzes the luminous intensity

of narrow-angled LEDs. The adjustable
LED mounting can be tilted manually in
conjunction with the directional-control
screen so that the maximum intensity of
the radiation beam can be measured.

Different LED optical probes for radiant

intensity and luminous intensity
measurement

Integrating spheres:
for luminous flux and radiant power
Instrument Systems supplies two differ- sits inside the sphere such that the base
ent integrating spheres for measuring of the package is tangential to the inner
radiant power and luminous flux using a surface). Both spheres connect to the
spectroradiometer. Both barium sulphate spectrometer via a fiber bundle that is
coated spheres have a port for the LED included.
test sockets and the fiber-bundle The ISP80 integrating sphere has an
connection. The measurement geometry internal diameter of 80 mm. It is ideal for
is designed according to the current CIE all standard applications and, with a
recommendation where the luminous flux slightly modified version, for production
from one hemisphere of the LED is meas- testing. The ISP150 has an internal dia-
The ISP80 and ISP150
integrating spheres ured (the entire body of the LED package meter of 150 mm which, because of the
larger interior area, reduces errors at the
expense of less light throughput. How-
ever, our LED goniospectroradiometer is
recommended for flux measurements
that demand the highest accuracy.
 13

LED test sockets and current sources:

simple and precise

The LED-5xx
precision test
Range of LED-6xx test sockets ensure
sockets for standard improved alignment
applications with LED of the mechanical
700 current source. axis.

Instrument Systems has developed two developed for basic requirements when
different families of LED test sockets. The testing LEDs. The current can be varied
standard series is suitable for general from 2 to 35 mA. Also, sensitive GaN
applications, while the precision series LEDs are protected against voltage
ensures particularly good alignment with surges. For precision measurements, we
the mechanical axis of the LED. All LED recommend the Keithley Model 2400
test sockets have a cable with banana SourceMeter since it has extensive
plugs for connection with a current functions specially designed for LEDs.
source. The list of available test sockets Instrument Systems has developed a DLL
is regularly updated to include new for the Keithley 2400 to carry out auto-
manufacturer types. mated measurement sequences using
Our Model LED 700 current source was SpecWin software.

Testing LED displays:

from very small to very big
The TOP 100 telescope optical probe is
used for taking luminance or radiance
measurements. This is necessary, for
example, when LEDs are used as back-
lights for symbols commonly found in
automotive switches and instrument
panels. The measuring spot can be as small
as 0.15 mm in diameter. This combines
with the sensitivity of the spectrometer to
permit the measurement of extremely
fine structures at luminance levels even
below 0.1 cd/m2. Other objective lenses
are available for performing tests with
larger measuring-spot diameters at sub-
stantial distances from the test sample,
e.g. on large-scale LED signs.
 14

The LED Goniospectroradiometer:

for all spatial radiation characteristics
The LED Goniospectroradiometer from for narrow-angled LEDs at high angular
Instrument Systems determines angle- resolutions of 0.1°. Angle-dependent
dependent spatial radiation characteris- spectral parameters can also be deter-
tics of LEDs and miniature lamps. This mined with the attached spectroradio-
analysis is not restricted to one profile but meter. For example, the color temperature
allows a complete spatial radiation pat- of a white LED is interesting since it
tern to be measured automatically. changes significantly as a function of the
Accurate measurements can be obtained emission angle.

Instrument setup: lightproof

without a darkroom. The
instrument comprises an optical
rail with two rotation stages
mounted at one end for setting
phi and theta angles. The phi
angle stage has a hollow shaft to
accommodate any LED test
socket from Instrument Systems.
A sensor is positioned at one
end of the optical rail, and the
distance to the LED can be adjus-
ted between 5 cm and 50 cm.
The complete setup is housed in
a lightproof enclosure with a
hinged lid, thus eliminating the
need for a darkroom. For the
sensor, there is a choice be-
LED Goniospectroradiometer
with open lid tween a photodetector with and
without V(λ) filter or a fiber optic
probe to guide the light to an
Luminous flux and radiant power: spheres are eliminated. Instrument Instrument Systems spectrora-
extremely accurate The LED Gonio- Systems has developed a menu within diometer.
spectroradiometer is also ideal for a very the SpecWin software that allows these
accurate determination of radiant power measurements and calculations to be
or luminous flux. Measurement errors performed automatically.
caused by the geometry of integrating

A dedicated menu for the LED

Goniospectroradiometer has
been implemented in SpecWin,
providing comprehensive
evaluation. The example
illustrates the superimposition
of the radiation pattern in 0°
and 90° of an LED.

White LEDs housed in a radial package show a significant blue

shift in chromaticity when observed on-axis and from the side.
The LED Goniospectroradiometer allows you to determine this
property by measuring the xy color coordinates as a function of
angle.
 15

Production testing:
new standards for the conveyor belt
A 19” rack houses a CAS140B Well connected: interfaces to
CCD Array Spectrometer, a Instrument Systems
Keithley 2400 series SourceMeterTM, handling machines, die sorters,
and a Windows NT control saves you time and
computer. and wafer probers DLL driver and
money in production
hardware interfaces are also supplied for
with pioneering me-
sorting machines manufactured by MBL
trology.
(radial LEDs), ASM (die sorters) and a
range of wafer probers. The modular
design also permits other handling
systems to be integrated. Instrument
Systems has already created numerous
hardware/software interfaces for LED man-
ufacturers’ in-house automated systems.

Since current only flows for a very short

time during production tests, differences
Instrument Systems supplies a complete in the values for luminous intensity may
LED tester that has been designed for the arise between pulsed and constant-cur-
production environment and can be easi- rent operation. It is not possible to stabi-
ly integrated with a mechanical sorter. lize the LED temperature in this operating
The LED tester comprises a CAS140B mode but there is generally a well-
CCD Array Spectrometer, a Keithley defined correlation between measuring
Model 2400 SourceMeter, and a results for pulsed and constant-current
WindowsNT computer with control soft- operation. These correction factors must
ware. The complete system is housed in be included in the analysis.
a rugged 19” rack. The tester includes Contact us directly to discuss your pro-
shortened luminous-intensity adapters duction tester requirements and we can
from the LED-4xx series as optical team up to develop the best solution for
probes or a modified ISP80 integrating your needs.
sphere. LED tester software
All radiometric, photometric and spectral from Instrument
Systems integrates all
characteristics can typically be meas- functions, including
bin classification and
ured within a period of 20 msec. Electrical statistical analysis.

parameters such as actual current and

forward voltage are also determined for
each LED. In addition, the control soft-
ware has functions for classifying and
sorting LEDs into as many as 32 bin clas-
ses. All data are stored in a database and
are statistically analyzed upon comple-
tion of sorting.
 16

Reliable values:
with accurate calibration LEDs
Accurate LED measurements demand a temperature above the ambient tempera-
precise calibration traceable to a national ture. A range of LED types with different
standard. Instrument Systems has a fully colors and radiation pattern are available
equipped calibration laboratory for cali- that can be operated by the control unit.
brating all the radiometric and photome- This is mainly of importance in carrying
tric parameters used in testing LEDs. We out accurate luminous flux measure-
also supply calibrated LEDs with a con- ments with an integrating sphere since
trol unit for checking and recalibrating individual calibration factors can be
absolute intensity. This allows you to generated for LEDs with different spatial
guarantee your customers on-site meas- radiation characteristics.
urements in strict conformity with ISO
9000.
The LED calibration system from
Instrument Systems is ideal for checking
measurement accuracy and recalibrating
absolute intensity. It includes a special
LED test socket with a stabilized LED and
a control unit for supplying a constant
current. Radiation characteristics of LEDs
are highly dependent on the ambient
temperature, and the control unit there-
fore also features electronics for stabiliz-
ing the chip temperature. The LED is
Temperature and current-stabilized
programmed to heat up to a designated calibration LED with control unit
 17

Ultimate calibration:
the calibration laboratory
at Instrument Systems

Instrument Systems
calibration laboratory

Instrument Systems is dedicated to The wavelength has to be calibrated

Instrument Systems is
direct traceability to international stand- with a laser and mercury-argon standard
working on the cali-
ards in calibration. That’s why we main- lamp. The spectral sensitivity function is
bration of your LEDs in
tain our own calibration laboratory. It is determined using a 1000 W FEL Lamp
its own laboratory, con-
regularly updated to keep up with state- with a particularly stable radiation distri-
verting international
of-the-art technology. All instruments bution. Absolute calibration for luminous
standards to reference
and components used in calibration pro- intensity or luminous flux is then per-
and operating stand-
cedures are calibrated and certified in formed using standard LEDs that have
ards.
accordance with PTB (German National been specially developed by Siemens/
Laboratory), DKD (German Calibration Osram and calibrated by the PTB. The meas-
service) or NIST (US National Institute of uring geometry of the setup is in compli-
Standards and Technology) standards. A ance with the CIE recommendations. This
complex calibration process must be procedure corresponds to the substitution
performed in order to take absolute meas- method and is the best method for guar-
urements of luminous intensity and lumi- anteeing direct traceability to interna-
nous flux using a spectroradiometer. tional standards.
 18

The highest standard:

our customers

Audi • Boeing • BMW • Delco Electronics • EBT/Kingbright • Ford

GELcore • Hewlett Packard • Mannesmann VDO • Nichia Chemicals
NIST • Osram • PTB • Siemens • Samsung • Stanley • Toshiba • TRW
VW • Vishay (Temic Telefunken) • Wustlich Optoelektronik

Instrument Systems has been developing proven, innovative solutions in other

and manufacturing test instrumentation domains of optical metrology:
for optical metrology since 1986.
Innovation has always been the bench- Display test systems
mark of success. The development of a
pioneering generation of spectrometers Mini/Compact Array
is just one of our achievements. These Spectrometers
spectrometers delivered precise spectral
analysis with fast measurement speeds Scanning spectrometers in ver-
for the first time. sions with single and double
monochromator
Fast and innovative implemen-
tation. Companies like Instrument Polarization analyzers
Systems who aim to be at the cutting
edge of metrology always have to be one Test systems for determining
step ahead of the competition. They also stress birefringence
need pioneering enterprise. We set the
pace when it comes to implementing Selected accessories for
customer requirements. One result: spectroradiometry, photometry,
Products offering complete measurement transmission and reflection
solutions. measurements
Instrument Systems provides profession-
al expertise in LED metrology and delivers

WE BRING QUALITY TO L I G H T.
 19

Consultation creates
added value

Expert advice at Instrument Systems We ensure that your investment operates

means that you also have a reliable part- with maximum efficiency and has a long
ner for after-sales service and support. service life.
 X

www.instrumentsystems.de

International (World Headquarters)

Distributor/Representative
INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS GMBH
Neumarkter Str. 83, 81673 Munich, Germany
Tel. +49-89-45 49 43-0, Fax +49-89-45 49 43-11
E-mail: [email protected]

North America
INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS CANADA
576 Golden Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K2A 2E9
Tel.: (613) 729-0614, Fax: (613) 729-9067
E-mail: [email protected]
WE BRING QUALITY TO LIGHT.

Handbook of
LED Metrology
Handbook of LED Metrology INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS GmbH

LED Metrology
Contents
Page

1. Introduction 2

2. Terms and Definitions in Photometry and Colorimetry 3

2.1 Radiometric quantities 3
2.2 Photometric quantities 4
2.3 Colorimetry 6

3 Basic Properties of LEDs 7

3.1 Package design 7
3.2 Electrical properties and ambient conditions 8

4 Optical Characteristics of LEDs 11

4.1 Spatial radiation characteristics 11
4.2 Luminous intensity and radiant intensity 13
4.3 Luminous flux and radiant power 15
4.4 Wavelength, color and spectrum 18

5 Requirements for Optical Measuring Instruments 20

5.1 Comparison of photometer and spectroradiometer 20
5.2 Requirements for a spectroradiometer 21
5.3 Calibration 24

6 Discussion of Sample Measurements with Error Analysis 27

6.1 Effects of the dynamic measuring range 27
6.2 Influence of stray light on white LEDs 30
6.3 Influence of bandpass (spectral resolution) 33
6.4 External influences 34
6.5 Measurement in production 35

7 Summary 38

8 Bibliography 40

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Handbook of LED Metrology INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS GmbH

1. Introduction
Incredible developments in LEDs in recent years have generated a significant
growth market with completely new applications. Full color displays only
became possible with the introduction of high-intensity blue LEDs, while white
LEDs are becoming widely used in lighting engineering and the automobile
industry. These new applications have placed increasingly stringent demands
on the optical characterization of LEDs, which serves as the benchmark of
product quality.
Specific expertise is needed in order to obtain precise and reproducible
results. This application note discusses the special characteristics of LEDs
and provides recommendations for obtaining accurate measurement results.
The goal here is to provide not only an introduction to LED metrology for
readers new to this subject area, but also a useful reference work for more
experienced readers.

A short introduction describes the basic terms and definitions used in

photometry and colorimetry, and details the physical properties that are
specific to LEDs. Later sections describe the test setups and methodology
required for accurate measurements. Possible sources of error arising from
interactions between LEDs and measuring instruments are also discussed.

Readers who are short of time can go straight to the summary at the end of
the brochure and then selectively read individual sections. However, we
recommend that you read the entire brochure to obtain in-depth
understanding of this subject area.

The CIE (Commission Internationale de l´Éclairage) is currently the only

internationally recognized institution providing recommendations for LED
measurements. The CIE publication 127 entitled LED Measurements was
published in 1997 and is an important cornerstone of this application note.

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Handbook of LED Metrology INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS GmbH

2. Terms and Definitions in Photometry and Colorimetry

The relevant optical quantities for LED metrology are defined under
radiometry and photometry. This section provides a brief overview of
important terms that are essential for an in-depth understanding and correct
use of measuring instruments. A distinction is made between radiometric
quantities describing physical radiation properties and photometric quantities
describing effects on the human eye.

2.1 Radiometric quantities

Radiometry is concerned with the energy or the power of optical radiation for
a given geometry of propagation. The spectrum covers the full range from UV
to infrared light and is therefore independent of the sensitivity of the human
eye to brightness and color.

There are four basic radiometric quantities:

Radiant power or radiant flux

Radiant power Φe is defined as the total power dQe emitted by a light source
per unit time dt (see Figure 1). The unit of radiant power is the watt [W].
dQ e
Φe =
dt

Radiant intensity

Radiant intensity Ie is defined as the power dΦe emitted per unit solid angle
dΩ (see Figure 1). It is expressed in watts per steradian [W/sr].

dΦ e
Ie =
dΩ

A detector with an active area A positioned at distance r from a light source

measures radiant power dΦe. This configuration assumes a point source and
that therefore the inverse square law holds true. Distance r and the detector
area dA define the solid angle dΩ.

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Handbook of LED Metrology INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS GmbH

dA
dΩ =
r2

Irradiance

Irradiance Ee is obtained from the ratio of the radiant power dΦe and the area
of the detector dA. It is expressed in watts per square meter [W/m 2].

dΦ e
Ee =
dA

The following relationship between radiant intensity Ie and irradiance Ee for a

point light source is derived from the above formula for irradiance Ee.

dΦ e I e dΩ I e
Ee = = = 2
dA dA r

Radiance

Radiance Le is measured for extended, light sources (i.e. no point source)

and is defined as the radiant power dΦe emitted from an area dAe per unit
solid angle dΩ. It is expressed in watts per steradian per square centimeter
[W/sr cm 2]:
d2Φe
Le =
dA e dΩ

2.2 Photometric quantities

Each radiant quantity has a corresponding luminous quantity which considers

the visual perception of the human eye. The V(λ) curve describes the spectral
response function of the human eye in the wavelength range from 380 nm to
780 nm and is used to evaluate the corresponding radiometric quantity that is
a function of wavelength λ. As an example, the photometric value luminous
flux is obtained by integrating radiant power Φe (λ) as follows:

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Handbook of LED Metrology INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS GmbH

780nm
Φv = Km ∫ Φ e (λ ) ⋅ V (λ )dλ
380nm

The unit of luminous flux Φv is lumen [lm]. The factor Km = 683 lm/W
establishes the relationship between the (physical) radiometric unit watt and
the (physiological) photometric unit lumen. All other photometric quantities
are also obtained from the integral of their corresponding radiometric
quantities weighted with the V(λ) curve.

The table below lists important radiometric and photometric quantities:

Radiometry Unit
Radiant power Φe W
Radiant intensity Ie W/sr
Irradiance Ee W/m2
Radiance Le W/m2 sr
Photometry Unit
Luminous flux Φv lm
Luminous intensity Iv lm/sr = cd
Illuminance Ev lm/m2 = lx
Luminance Lv cd/m2

Table 1: gives an overview of radiometric and photometric quantities and

their units.

A1 A2

radiant power or radiant intensity or

luminous flux luminous intensity

Figure 1: illustrates the definition of luminous flux and luminous intensity.

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Handbook of LED Metrology INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS GmbH

2.3 Colorimetry

Colorimetry relates to the visual perception of color by the human eye and
provides a quantitative and qualitative description of color. In 1931 the CIE
established the X, Y, Z tristimulus system which is based on the assumption
that every color is a combination of the three primary colors red, green and
blue [1]. The X, Y, Z tristimulus values are obtained by integrating the spectral
power distribution of radiation S (λ) and the three eye response curves x (λ),
y (λ) and z (λ) over the 380 nm to 780 nm wavelength range (see Figure 2,
left). The known x, y and z color coordinates are then derived from the
tristimulus values. Figure 2 (right) shows this chromaticity space. There are
other chromaticity spaces, e.g. u´ v´ and L∗a∗b∗ that can be calculated by
transformation of the x,y,z values.

2.0
520 nm
spectral tristim ulus values [a.u.]

CIE, 1931
0.8
2° observer
550 nm
1.5
0.6
λ dom .
y-coordinate

500 nm
F
1.0 0.4
600 nm
E
650 nm
0.2 780 nm
0.5
480 nm

0.0 450 nm
380 nm
0.0
400 500 600 700 0.0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8

wavelength [nm ] x-coordinate

Figure 2: left: The tristimulus functions x(λ) (dashed line), y(λ) (solid line) and
z(λ) (dotted line).
Right: 1931 CIE color diagram for 2° observer.

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3. Basic Properties of LEDs

This section describes the basic physical properties of LEDs. Some of these
properties have a significant influence on optical measurements.

3.1 Package design

Radiation from LEDs is generated by a semiconductor chip that has been

mounted in a package. LEDs can now be obtained in a wide range of designs
and types that exert a significant influence on the spatial radiation
characteristics of the particular LED (see Figure 3). Lenses, mirrors or
diffusers can be built into the package to achieve specific spatial radiation
characteristics. Production tolerances in the manufacture of the LED package
can also play a role. For example, the mechanical and optical axes may not
be coincident (see figure 3 below).

mechanical axis

optical axis

Figure 3: shows various LED designs and an example of a skewed radiation

cone of a LED.

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Handbook of LED Metrology INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS GmbH

A reproducible test setup is therefore an important prerequisite for precise

measurement of luminous intensity in order to guarantee that the detector
always sees the same section of the emission cone.

Figure 4 A precision test socket from Instrument Systems for 5 mm LEDs.

Figure 4 shows a precision test socket from Instrument Systems for 5 mm

LEDs. The three clamps always grip the LED package at the same point and
thus permit identical alignment of the mechanical axis for all LEDs with the
same package. This setup follows the CIE recommendation that the
mechanical axis of the LED, rather than the optical axis, should be taken as
the reference axis for measurements [2].

3.2 Electrical properties and ambient conditions

LEDs are normally operated at a constant current. The emitted light is a

function of the set forward current IF, and the compliance voltage Uf.
Experiments show that the voltage is not stable instantly following the device
energization. Uf comes to stabilization as the temperature of the (light
emitting) diode junction stabilizes. The temperature rises due to electrical
power consumed by the LED chip and then stabilizes at a temperature value
Tc > TAmbient after a period of time. Because of this effect, the emitted light is
not stabilized until a stable forward voltage is attained

Figure 5 shows the stabilization over time of a white LED. The luminous
intensity and the forward voltage is obtained every 10 seconds when a

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Handbook of LED Metrology INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS GmbH

current begins to flow through the LED lasting until a constant forward voltage
value is achieved.

3.26

3.25
U F [V]

3.24

3.23

2.46
I V [cd]

2.43

2.40

2.37
0 20 40 60 80 100 120

time [sec.]

Figure 5: shows the stabilization period of a white LED. Time [sec.] is

entered on the x-axis and luminous intensity [cd], respectively forward voltage
UF[V] on the y-axes.

The stabilization procedure can last several seconds or up to a minute,

although this is an extreme example and might be influenced by the
properties of the phosphor (for white LEDs). As soon as thermal equilibrium
has been reached in the chip, the value Tc is determined by measuring the
heat exchange with the ambient surroundings. This occurs mainly via the
electrical contacts.

Since the heat from the junction must be dissipated into the ambient
somehow, changing the ambient temperature affects the junction temperature
and hence the emitted light. A typical temperature coefficient for the forward
voltage at constant current is approximately –1.5 to – 2.5 mV/K. At a given

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Handbook of LED Metrology INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS GmbH

current, therefore, the measured forward voltage is lower at higher

temperatures.

If the ambient temperature rises, the entire spectral power distribution is

shifted in the direction of the longer wavelengths (except for blue LEDs). The
shift in peak wavelength is typically about 0.1 to 0.3 nm/K. This effect has a
negligible influence upon the photometric values of green, yellow or amber
LEDs because their peak wavelength is at the flatter portions of the V(λ)
curve. However, the peak wavelength for red and blue LEDs are on the much
steeper slopes of the V(λ) curve and this can lead to significant changes in
the photometric values (see Figure 12). This is why the current and
temperature stabilization is important for attaining constant spectral
properties.

If the forward current is not constant, i.e. modulated, the temperature may
fluctuate. The average radiant power then no longer corresponds to the
radiant power under constant current conditions. Similar problems apply to
pulsed LEDs, where a high current is switched on and off periodically.
Differences in the value for luminous intensity may arise between multiplex
operation and constant-current operation despite comparable power
consumption.

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Handbook of LED Metrology INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS GmbH

4. Optical Characteristics of LEDs

4.1 Spatial radiation characteristics

The many different packages and types of LEDs generate different spatial
radiation patterns. Precise knowledge of the angle-dependent distribution of
radiation is necessary for some applications. For example, a full-color (red,
green, blue) LED display may appear white when observed at a normal
angle if all three colors are illuminated simultaneously. However, if the LEDs
have a different spatial distribution of radiation for the individual colors a color
change occurs when the display is observed off axis.

90

120 60
0.9

0.6 150 30

0.3
intensity [%]

0.0 180 0

0.3

0.6 210 330

0.9
240 300
270

Figure 6: shows three very different spatial distribution patterns of radiation

Figure 6 shows three typical LED radiation patterns: a diffuse LED with
virtually Lambertian distribution (dotted line), a narrow-angled specular LED
(solid line), and a LED with two intensity peaks at 30° and 150° for
background illumination of displays (Argus LED, broken line).

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A goniometer can be used to analyze the radiation pattern of an LED. The

LED is pivoted about its tip and the intensity is measured, i.e. the angle ϑ is
scanned. This provides a profile of the radiated beam in one plane. In order to
record the two-dimensional radiation pattern the LED can also be rotated
about its mechanical axis. This corresponds to angle ϕ in the spherical
coordinate system.

0.36

0.34
x-coordinate

0.32

0.30

-80 -60 -40 -20 0 20 40 60 80

angle θ [degree]

Figure 7: shows the x color coordinate of an angle-dependent measurement

of a white LED. A significant blue shift is seen in the center and edges of the
beam.

Both a single profile and the complete spatial radiation pattern can be
determined using the LED goniospectroradiometer (see Figure 10) from
Instrument Systems. The detector comprises a diffuser and a fiber bundle
linked to the spectroradiometer. The advantage of a goniospectroradiometer
is that all relevant information such as the photometric integral, color
coordinates, dominant wavelength, color temperature, etc. can be recorded
simultaneously with each single measurement. For example, the color
coordinates of a white LEDs often show a significant blue shift because the
light path through the yellow phosphor is angle dependent (see Figure 7)

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The detector should be positioned at a distance of 10–20 cm for measuring

Lambertian radiation distributions. If resolution is required to determine the
structure of very narrow-angled LEDs, the detector should instead be
positioned at a distance of 30–50 cm with an aperture limit at the detector.
Angular scanning requires increments of 0.1° ϑ for typical narrow-angled
LEDs with FWHM of 2°.

4.2 Luminous intensity and radiant intensity

Luminous intensity is the most frequently measured parameter. However, the

underlying concept for measuring radiant intensity and luminous intensity
assumes a point source of light. One method of determining luminous
intensity lv involves calibrating the detector in illuminance Ev and calculating
luminous intensity using the inverse square law Iv = Ev r2. However, the
validity of this calculation requires two conditions:
• The distance r between the detector and LED must be precisely
determined. The many different designs available make it difficult to
determine the precise position of the emission center (also known as the
goniometric centroid) of the LED.
• The distance between the detector and LED must be large with respect to
the spatial width of the light source (far field condition).

Many LEDs have a relatively large emitting area compared to the short
distance that is generally used for a measurement and hence a point source
can not be assumed. Therefore the inverse square law no longer holds, and
the irradiance measured at the detector is not easily related to the intensity of
the source.

“Averaged LED intensity” concept

Because of this, the CIE has developed the concept of “averaged LED
intensity” to solve the problem that occurs under near field conditions [2].
This concept no longer corresponds to the physically precise definition of
luminous intensity but relates more to a measurement of illuminance at a
fixed distance. The LED is positioned in such a way that its mechanical axis is
directly in line with the center point of a round detector with an active area of
1 cm 2, and the surface of the detector is perpendicular to this axis.

The CIE gives two recommendations for the distance between the LED and
the detector surface (see table below). The front tip of the LED is always

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taken as the reference point for the distance in both cases. This guarantees
that the same geometry is always used when measuring luminous intensity in
different laboratories irrespective of the design of the LED.

CIE Distance between Solid angle

Recommendation LED tip and
detector
Condition A 316 mm 0.001 sr
Condition B 100 mm 0.01 sr

Table 2: The CIE recommendations for the concept of averaged LED

intensity. The area of the detector is always 1 cm2. The relevant solid angle is
determined by the distance between the LED tip and the detector.

Figure 8 shows the realization of this concept in practice. The LED 430
intensity probe developed by Instrument Systems comprises an optical probe
of suitable length into which an LED test socket can be inserted. The distance
between the tip of the LED and the detector – in this case a diffuser – is
exactly 100 mm. Two baffles in the beam path help to reduce stray light. A
fiber bundle is located behind the diffuser to guide the light into a calibrated
spectroradiometer.

Figure 8: shows the LED-430 measuring adapter that conforms to the

standard CIE condition B for 100 mm distance.

Condition B (100mm) is the most commonly used geometry since it is also

suitable for weak LED light sources. An optical probe such as the LED-440
should be used in accordance with condition A for bright LEDs with a very
narrow emission angle.

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4.3 Luminous flux and radiant power

The two principal methods for measuring total radiant power/luminous flux are
using either an integrating sphere or a goniophotometer. These two
measuring principles are explained below.

The integrating sphere

The integrating sphere is a hollow sphere, the interior of which is coated with
a very stable material that is a diffuse reflector. Figure 9 shows a cross-
section of an integrating sphere suitable for carrying out measurements of
luminous flux. The sphere has a port for the LED and a baffled port for the
detector.
spectroradiometer

LED

Figure 9: shows a cross-section of an integrating sphere. The LED port is at

the left and the detector is positioned at 90° (top ).

The coating on the interior of the sphere ensures that the launched radiant
flux Φ incident on area ∆A in the interior of the sphere is reflected in such a
way that the radiance or luminance is equal in all directions. Under a certain
angle the area ∆A radiates to ∆A` and generates an indirect irradiance Eind
that is independent of the relative position of ∆A to ∆A` [3]. The indirect
irradiance Eind is therefore already equal over the entire surface of the sphere

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after one reflection. The irradiance E, that arises at a specific area ∆A´ within
the sphere can be calculated by integrating the indirect irradiance Eind over
the entire surface of the sphere. Taking multiple reflections into account this
irradiance E is proportional to the total radiation Φ and is measured by a
detector.

This only applies if the interior of the sphere has a Lambertian characteristic
with constant spectral properties, if the detector has perfect cosine correction,
and if there are no absorbing surfaces in the sphere [3, 4]. However, there
are a number of error sources under experimental conditions. For example, it
is not possible to create a perfectly diffuse reflector with constant reflectance
over the entire interior of the sphere. Spectral characteristics of the coating
and the size of the ports also constitute additional sources of error.

The wide range of radiation characteristics shown by LEDs can introduce

calibration errors in measuring luminous flux. An accuracy of ±5% can be
obtained for components with diffuse emission, but deviations of more than
10% are possible with narrow-angled LEDs. Sphere diameters of 80 and 150
mm have become established for measuring luminous flux. The larger sphere
is recommended if it is important to keep measurement errors to a minimum,
because the ratio of the sphere area to the size of the ports and the LED is
more favorable. However, this advantage results in a loss of intensity.

Where to position the LED in the integrating sphere remains a matter of

controversy. In the latest CIE discussions it was agreed to position the entire
package of the LED inside the sphere (ie up to the point where the contacts
start, see Figure 9). This setup is called 2π luminous flux measurement
allowing the best match to the actual use of the LED in a final end product
(e.g. in a backlight).

The goniophotometer

A goniophotometer offers another method for determining luminous flux and

radiant power. It is best to envisage the LED enclosed by an imaginary
sphere. A cosine-corrected detector moves on the surface of the sphere
along specific paths at distance r (the sphere radius). The detector is used to
determine irradiance E arising as a result of the partial radiant flux dΦ
incident on detector area dA as a function of ϑ and ϕ.

dΦ
E(ϑ, ϕ ) =
dA

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In order to determine total radiant power, the detector is moved incrementally

around angle ϑ. Several measurements are taken for each angle ϑ with angle
ϕ varying from 0° to 360°. Individual zones are scan ned corresponding to a
constant degree of latitude of the sphere. Total radiant power Φ is then
2π π
Φ = r2 ⋅ ∫ ∫ E(ϑ, φ) ⋅ sin(ϑ ) dϑ ⋅ dϕ
0 0

Alternatively, instead of moving the detector which requires considerable

mechanical effort, the LED can be rotated about its tip. Measurements at the
PTB (Physikalisch-technische Bundesanstalt) have shown that it is irrelevant
whether the detector or the LED moves [6]. The distance between the LED
and detector should be 30 cm. A measurement area of 1 cm2 is
recommended for diffuse LEDs. However, the active area should be reduced
for narrow-angled LEDs. Figure 10 shows the setup for this kind of LED
goniophotometer. The angle ϕ is adjusted by rotating the LED about its
mechanical axis and angle ϑ by pivoting about its tip. The detector sits on an
optical rail to permit measurements at various distances.

Figure 10. shows the LED goniospectroradiometer from Instrument Systems

where the LED is moved instead of the detector.

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4.4 Wavelength, color and spectrum

The spectral power distribution of the optical radiation emitted by LEDs differs
in many ways from other radiation sources. It is neither monochromatic like a
laser nor broadband like a tungsten lamp but rather lies somewhere between
these two extremes. The spectrum of an LED has a specific peak wavelength
λp depending on the manufacturing process where the FWHM is typically a
couple of tens of nanometers (Figure 11).

1.0

0.8
λp

0.6
intensity [%]

0.4
λc

0.2

0.0
400 450 500 550 600

∆ λ 0.5 wavelength [nm]

Figure 11: The spectral power distribution of a blue LED and important
spectral parameters.

The spectral parameters of LEDs are listed below:

Peak wavelength λp :
The wavelength at the maximum intensity of the spectrum. The peak
wavelength is easy to define and is therefore generally given in LED data
sheets. However, the peak wavelength has little significance for practical
purposes since two LEDs may well have the same peak wavelength but
different color perception.

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FWHM:
The spectral bandwidth at half intensity ∆λ0,5 is calculated from the two
wavelengths λ`0.5 and λ``0.5 on either side of λp: ∆λ0.5 = λ`0.5 - λ``0.5
Center wavelength λ0.5m:
The average wavelength corresponds to the wavelength halfway between
the half-wavelengths λ`0.5 and λ``0.5.
Centroid wavelength λc:
The centroid wavelength λc is the wavelength that divides the integral of a
spectrum into two equal parts according to the following formula:
λ2

∫ λ ⋅ S(λ ) ⋅ dλ
λc =
λ1
λ2

∫ S(λ ) ⋅dλ
λ1

The centroid wavelength is ideal for characterizing the radiometric properties

of LEDs (e.g. infrared LEDs).
Dominant wavelength:
The dominant wavelength is determined from the color coordinates of the
measured spectrum. A straight line is taken through the color coordinates of a
reference illuminant and the measured color coordinate F in the color diagram
(see Figure 2). The equal energy point E is generally taken as the reference
illuminant. The intersection S between the straight line and the boundary of
the color diagram gives the dominant wavelength. It is a measure of the color
sensation produced in the human eye by the LED.
Purity:
Purity is defined as the ratio of the distance from the equal energy point E to
the color coordinate F and the distance from the equal energy point E to
intersection S in the color diagram. Most LEDs are narrow band radiators,
with a purity of nearly 100%, i.e. the color cannot be distinguished from a
monochromatic beam.

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5. Requirements for Optical Measuring Instruments

This section describes the most important properties of optical measuring
instruments relevant to the precise measurement of optical LED parameters.
There are two measuring procedures for determining the photometric and
colorimetric values of light radiation:
• The integration method based on a photometer
• The spectral resolution method based on a spectroradiometer

5.1 Comparison of photometers and spectroradiometers

Photometers use a broadband detector in conjunction with a V(λ) filter to

measure luminous intensity. The output current of this detector is directly
proportional to the photometrically measured value, i.e. a photometer for
luminous intensity is calibrated in cd per photocurrent.
A spectroradiometer measures the total spectral power distribution of the
LED. Then the photometric value is calculated (usually in software) from this
measured spectrum weighted by standard CIE tables. This basic difference
between spectroradiometers and photometers is extremely important in LED
metrology.

V(λ) filters are well suited for carrying out measurements on standard
illuminant A light sources (Planckian radiator with 2850 K color temperature).
These sources have a maximum radiation distribution in the infrared region
which decreases gradually over the visible range of the spectrum. At 400nm,
the value is only 8% of the maximum. If the V(λ) filter is optimized to this
radiation distribution, the accuracy of the correction in the slopes of the V(λ)
curve is not so important because there is relatively little light in the blue
range of the spectrum. A filter deviation in the slopes only results in a slight
error of the measured photometric values. LEDs, however, have a completely
different spectral power distribution, which tends to be Gaussian with a
specific peak wavelength and a FWHM of a couple of tens of nanometers.
The relatively poor correction of the filter, particularly at the slopes of the V(λ)
function (see figure 12 dashed and broken curve), results in large deviations
in the luminous intensity and dominant wavelength particularly for blue, red
and white LEDs. Errors of several 100% are not unusual for blue LEDs [4, 5]
and correct evaluation of the blue peak in white LEDs is critical for an
accurate determination of the color coordinates (see also section 6.2).

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0.1

0.01
intensity [%]

1E-3

1E-4

1E-5
400 500 600 700

wavelength [nm]

Figure 12: Theoretical V-lambda function (dashed line) and measured

transmission curve (broken line) of a real V(λ)-filter, a blue and red LED (solid
lines), and radiation from standard illuminant A (dotted line).

A precise spectroradiometer (see next section) avoids these errors because

the photometric quantities are calculated from the spectral data with precisely
defined CIE functions. Spectroradiometers should therefore be used for LED
metrology.

5.2. Requirements for a spectroradiometer

A spectrometer must meet certain basic requirements for carrying out

radiometric measurements before it can be used as an accurate
spectroradiometer. Accuracy depends on the interaction of all components
including both the optical systems (monochromator, optical probe) and
electronics (detector, amplifier and analog/digital converter). Simple, low-cost
spectrometers generally fail to meet these high standards and can lead to
significant errors and lack of correlation in measurements.

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The following criteria should be considered for the monochromator or spectrograph:

Spectral resolution
Depends on the slit width, focal length and dispersion of the grating and should be about
3 nm. Measurements with poor spectral resolution can lead to errors, particularly for
narrow band LEDs.
Wavelength accuracy
Should be better than ±0.5 nm. Wavelength deviations have linear effect on peak and
centroid wavelength, but errors of 1 nm also lead to similar deviations in calculating the
dominant wavelength for red and blue LEDs.
Stray light rejection
Three orders of magnitude are the minimum requirement. Section 6 discusses examples
of the wide-ranging effects of stray light.
There are similar rigorous requirements for the detector and electronics:
Sensitivity
Extremely sensitive detectors are required for testing LEDs in the mcd and mlm range
because the optical probes for luminous intensity (diffuser) and luminous flux (integrating
sphere) result in a considerable loss of light.
Signal-to-noise ratio of the detector
Excellent signal-to-noise ratio is important for radiometry because the measured spectra
are analyzed over the entire wavelength range and a high noise signal at the spectral
ends leads to errors. Cooled detectors are preferable because these significantly reduce
thermal noise and guarantee long-term stability of the dark current.
Linearity of the detector
Linearity is an important factor for a spectroradiometer. Any change in the light power
launched into the spectrometer must lead to a proportional change in the detector signal,
otherwise the system is not suitable for radiometric measurements. Array spectrometers
must have linearity over the entire specified range of integration times.
Electronic dynamic range
There should be at least three to four orders of magnitude as in stray-light rejection, and
this demands 14-bit analog-to-digital electronics as a minimum.

A spectroradiometer can be designed on the basis of two different principles.

Scanning spectrometers have a single detector and a grating that rotates.
Array spectrometers have a fixed grating and a detector comprising many
single diodes or CCD elements. The array setup has the advantage of
capturing the entire spectrum simultaneously.

Scanning spectroradiometer

A scanning spectroradiometer will generally offer the highest accuracy, but at

the expense of longer measuring times (ie several to tens of seconds).
Switching the dynamic range electronically during the scanning procedure
enables precise recording at the steep slopes of very narrow-band LEDs.

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Using a single detector permits use of an additional baffled slit on the detector
side of the spectrometer to minimize stray light. This produces an extremely
good optical dynamic range that may be up to five orders of magnitude when
measuring LEDs. Another advantage of scanning spectrometers is the large
spectral range combined with high spectral resolution and wavelength
accuracy. The SPECTRO 320 from Instrument Systems is based on this
concept and is the preferred choice as a reference instrument for R&D and
calibration labs.

detector

concave
mirrors
slits

grating

Figure 13: Technical drawing of a scanning monochromator.

Array spectroradiometer

An array spectrometer can carry out measurements much faster because the
entire wavelength range is recorded simultaneously. The fastest measuring
times are around 10 ms, and an increase in sensitivity can be achieved by
increasing the integration (measurement) time. The absence of an exit slit
results in a loss of optical dynamic range of about an order of magnitude
compared to a scanning spectrometer because the stray light cannot be
excluded as effectively. The spectral resolution of array spectrometers is in
the region from 1 to 10 nm, depending on the number of pixels of the detector
and the optical resolution of the spectrograph. The imaging optics in the
spectrograph are extremely important to guarantee optimum flatfield

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correction for the flat detector. This means that optical imaging errors such as
astigmatism and field curvature must not cause any image distortions over
the entire width of the detector. Imaging errors of this type lead to
deterioration of the spectral resolution at the outer edge of the detector.
Improved imaging characteristics can generally be obtained with longer focal
lengths and larger optics. The fast measuring speeds make this type of
spectroradiometer ideal for measurements in production control.

fixed concave grating diode or

CCD array

plane
mirror

slit

focussing lens

Figure 14: Design of an array spectrometer.

5.3 Calibration

Accurate radiometric measurements require precise calibration of the

measuring instrument. Spectroradiometers are calibrated in three stages:

Wavelength calibration

Wavelength calibration is the first stage. A fixed-frequency laser or Hg / HgAr

lamp with several lines can be used for this purpose. Particularly in the case
of array spectrometers many calibration points should be checked to calibrate
the entire spectral range.

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Spectral calibration

The second stage involves spectral calibration of the spectroradiometer, i.e.

determining the relative spectral response of the system over the specified
wavelength range. This is basically determined by the sensitivity curves of the
detector, the grating and the optical probe used. The measured relative
sensitivity curve of the spectrometer and the spectral data of a 1000 W FEL
lamp (traceable to a national calibration laboratory) are used to generate the
correction function (calibration file). The lamp current must be stabilized to
within ±0.0001 A to attain a constant operating state and hence exact
reproducibility of the spectrum. A change in current leads to a change of the
lamp temperature. The Planckian radiation distribution is exponentially
dependent on temperature, therefore slight changes in color temperature
cause significant changes in spectral distribution, particularly in the short
wavelength range. A current error of 10-4 results in an irradiance error of 10-3.

Absolute calibration

Absolute calibration of the spectroradiometer is then carried out using an LED

for which the luminous intensity has been determined by a national calibration
laboratory. The value for luminous intensity of the reference LED is then
assigned to the result that has been calculated from integrating the measured
LED spectrum which has been weighted with the V(λ) curve. The broadband
spectral calibration is thus equated with an absolute value. This stage
corresponds to the substitution method recommended by all national
calibration laboratories [7, 4]. The substitution method means using a
reference standard for calibrating a measuring instrument such that the
properties of the standard are intended to correspond as closely as possible
to those of the test specimen. This is the only way of guaranteeing direct
traceability to a national standard. Instrument Systems measures the
luminous intensity of four different calibration LEDs (different colors) to check
calibration. The entire spectral range must not show any deviation greater
than ±5% from Iv.

Why is an LED necessary for absolute calibration?

Only an LED can be used as a reference for absolute calibration. The reason
for this is that LEDs are not point light sources under standard measuring
conditions. In addition, their spectral distribution and radiation characteristics
differ considerably from those of a halogen lamp. Attempts to perform an
absolute calibration of a detector for irradiance using a halogen lamp

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standard and calculating radiant intensity using the inverse square law fail
because the essential prerequisite for the validity of the inverse square law is
not fulfilled. Even if the intensity probe is calibrated for irradiance at 3 meters
distance from the FEL lamp, one can still obtain radiometric errors of 15 % at
the correct CIE measurement distance B.
For that reason Instrument Systems uses current and temperature stabilized
reference LEDs. The luminous intensity of these LEDs has been calibrated by
the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt in Germany. The LEDs and
control electronics have been specially developed by Osram Opto
Semiconductors. A special package is used with a diffuser as a cap for the
LED in order to obtain Lambertian spatial radiation characteristics.

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6. Discussion of Sample Measurements with Error

Analysis
This section discusses possible sources of error in LED measurements.
Examples are used to show the influence of optical and electronic properties
of a spectrometer on measurement accuracy. On the basis of calculation with
the CIE evaluation functions, it emerges that the quality of the spectrometer
and calibration is much more important than was initially realized.

6.1 Effects of the dynamic measuring range

The dynamic measuring range of a spectrometer is determined by its

electronic and optical properties. The electronic dynamic range depends on
the resolution and accuracy of the A/D converter and the signal-to-noise ratio
of the detector. The optical dynamic range is determined by the stray light
properties of the monochromator. Measurements on a red LED are used as
an example to demonstrate the influence of the dynamic measuring range
(see figure 15).

Table 3 lists the relevant measuring results of these spectra, shown in figure
15:

Dynamic x y λ dom. Color

range [nm] saturation
10 E2 0.675 0.282 648.1 87 %

10 E2.5 0.701 0.286 637.0 96 %

10 E3.5 0.714 0.287 634.3 100 %

Table 3: lists the measuring results of the spectra.

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0.1
intensity [% ]

0.01

1E-3

1E-4
400 500 600 700

wavelength [nm]

Figure 15: shows three measurements of a red LED as a relative logarithmic

representation with different dynamic measuring ranges (solid = 10 E2,
dashed = 10 E2.5 and dotted = 10 E3.5). The other dotted line corresponds to
the x(λ) evaluation function.

Correlation between color values and the corresponding dynamic measuring

range can be clearly seen. The noise in the spectral range from 380 nm to
approximately 570 nm (where the actual spectrum of the LED begins)
contributes more to calculating the color coordinates as the dynamic
measuring range decreases (becomes poorer). The optical and electronic
dynamic range of the spectrometer must be at least an order of magnitude
greater than the range covered by the weighting curves to prevent this artifact
exerting an influence on the evaluation.

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1.0

0.8

0.4 0.6 E

0.4
y-coordinate

634 nm
E 0.2
0.0 0.2 0.4 0.6
0.0

648 nm
0.2

0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7

x-coordinate

Figure 16: The points of the color coordinates from the series of
measurements are indicated in this section of the color diagram (the triangle
corresponds to the color coordinates of the measurement with 100% purity,
the square to 96% purity and the circle to 87% purity).

Calculation of the dominant wavelength and color saturation is also affected

by the change in color coordinates. If for red GaAs-LEDs values lower than
100% are measured in color saturation, this always indicates a poor dynamic
measuring range [8]. Figure 16 shows how a reduction in the color saturation
in this part of the CIE color diagram produces a large shift in the dominant
wavelength to the infrared region even though noise rises in the short-
wavelength range of the affected spectra.

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6.2 Influence of stray light on white LEDs

This section will focus on the question of stray light rejection and the effects
of stray light on the measurement accuracy for white LEDs. Stray light is a
property of the spectrometer and should not be confused with ambient or
background light.

There are different methods of determining stray light performance of a

spectrometer. The following procedure provides the most useful information
for a spectroradiometer: Light from a halogen lamp1 is launched into the
spectrometer through a yellow filter with a cut wavelength of 455 nm. The
yellow filter has an absorption of 6 orders of magnitude below this wavelength
and hence radiation detected below this cut wavelength must be caused by
stray light artifacts from the monochromator.

0.1
intensity [%]

0.01

1E-3

1E-4

400 500 600 700

wavelength [nm]

Figure 17: shows the result of a stray light test from three different
spectrometers. The solid curve was determined using a scanning
spectrometer and the two dashed curves using two different array
spectrometers. The spectrum of a halogen lamp is also indicated (dotted line)
for reference. All curves were normalized to 1 at the same wavelength.
1
The spectrum of halogen lamps correponds to that of Plankian radiators.

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Stray light properties of spectrometers

Figure 17 shows curves from the three different spectrometers used in the
stray light test described above. The curve with the best stray light rejection
was measured using a scanning spectrometer and the other two curves were
measured using array spectrometers.

Erroneous calibration caused by stray light

The section on calibration described how a Planckian radiator with a color

temperature of approximately 3000 K and maximum intensity in the near
infrared range is used for spectral calibration. The stray light superimposed
on the actual spectrum of the lamp (see Figure 17) will contribute to the
measurement because only 10% of the maximum intensity is available in the
blue spectral range at 400 nm. The calibration error is therefore 1% for 0.1%
stray light and as much as 10% for 1% stray light.

-6
1.6x10 -6
1.5x10
radiant intensity [W /sr]

-6
1.2x10
-6 1.0x10
radiant Intensity [W /sr]

-7
5.0x10
-7
8.0x10

0.0
400 420 440
-7 wavelength [nm]
4.0x10

0.0
400 500 600 700

wavelength [nm]

Figure 18: shows three measurements from a white LED (solid line:
measurement with scanning spectroradiometer corresponds to the highest
peak, dashed lines: measurements with two different array
spectroradiometers). The maximum of the blue peak diminishes as the optical
dynamic range of the spectrometer decreases.

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Measurement errors as a result of incorrect calibration

This calibration error does not lead to large measurement errors provided that
a similar type of lamp is being tested. However, large measurement errors
may arise in the case of white LEDs where the spectrum deviates significantly
from a Planckian radiator. Figure 18 shows three spectra from the same white
LED obtained using the spectrometers with the stray light curves shown in
Figure 17.

When a white LED is measured there is less stray light within the
spectrometer (compared with the amount produced by the calibration lamp)
because white LEDs emit light in the visible spectrum, but none in the near
infrared range. In conjunction with the calibration file which contains stray
light from the broadband lamp standard, this leads to an inaccurate
evaluation of the blue peak. Correct weighting of the blue peak with the
broadband part of the spectrum has a decisive effect on the calculated color
coordinates. These are listed in Table 4 for the spectra shown in Figure 18.

Spectro- x Error y Error

meter
Scanning 0.2894 - 0.3041 -

Array 1 0.2903 0.0009 0.3065 0.0024

Array 2 0.2915 0.0021 0.3098 0.0058

Table 4: shows the results of color coordinates for the three measurements
from Figure 18.

Scanning spectroradiometers generally obtain the correct result because of

their sufficient stray light rejection. Measurements with array spectrometers
can give rise to substantial deviations depending on the quality of the
spectrometer.

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6.3 Influence of bandpass (spectral resolution)

The measurement result of a spectrometer is always a convolution of the

spectrometer bandpass with the actual spectrum of the light source. The
bandpass determines the spectral resolving power of the spectrometer.
Provided that the spectrum of the light source is significantly wider than the
spectral resolving power, e.g. in a halogen lamp, the measured spectrum also
corresponds to the actual spectrum of the light source. Conversely, the
measured FWHM will correspond to the bandpass for a very narrow laser
line.

Table 5 and Figure 19 show how different bandpass functions affect the
measuring results of a red LED with a FWHM (full width at half maximum) of
20 nm.

1.0

0.8

0.6
intensity [% ]

0.4

0.2

0.0
600 620 640 660 680

wavelength [nm]

Figure 19: shows three measurement curves of the same red LED that were
measured at different spectral resolutions (solid line: 10nm, dashed line: 5 nm
and dotted line: 2nm).

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Handbook of LED Metrology INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS GmbH

Band- Lambda Centroid FWHM

pass dom. [nm] wavelength [nm]
[nm] [nm]
0,5 634.18 644.71 20.75
1 634.16 644.59 20.80
2 634.13 644.62 20.95
5 633.91 644.56 21.82
10 633.26 644.44 24.49

Table 5: lists the measuring results of a red LED obtained with different
spectral resolutions

The measured FWHM increases substantially from a bandpass of 5 nm. The

centroid wavelength remains virtually the same within the scope of the
measuring accuracy, but the increase in FWHM causes a shift in the
dominant wavelength of up to 1 nm for large slits. Wrong color coordinates
leading to a change in the dominant wavelength will be calculated by
widening the spectrum.

A publication by Carolyn Jones describes how this behavior can be explained

in theoretical terms [9]. The interaction between the spectrum and the
resulting color coordinates is modeled on a mathematical formulation. This
analysis shows that the dominant wavelength in certain spectral ranges –
below 480 nm and above 590 nm – is heavily influenced by the spectral width
of the measured LED spectrum. However, practical measurements show less
dependence than the mathematical model because the bandpass does not
contribute fully to the measured FWHM [10].

A recommendation for the spectral resolution of a spectrometer can be

derived from these experiments. The bandpass should be approximately 1/5
of the FWHM of the LED for measurements of narrow band LEDs, i.e. should
not significantly exceed 3 nm.

6.4 External influences

There are a number of other parameters apart from the spectrometer that
influence the measuring accuracy of LEDs. These are given below in a short
list. The percentage errors and uncertainties specified were obtained by
comparative measurements.

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Handbook of LED Metrology INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS GmbH

a) The accuracy and stability of the current source: In the case of a red LED
a change of more than 1% in the value for luminous intensity was
observed for a deviation of 2% in the current. It is therefore advisable to
monitor the value of the current using a multimeter for simple current
sources.
b) The precise mechanical setup plays an important role. The CIE
recommends that the distance from the LED tip to the diffuser must be
precisely 100 nm. The inverse square law means that a deviation of just 2
millimeters leads to an error of approximately ±4 %.
c) The quality of the test socket may be of considerable importance
particularly in the case of clear, narrow-angled LEDs. Reproducible
alignment of the mechanical axis of the LED must be guaranteed to
achieve a reproducible measurement of luminous intensity. This can be
obtained for clear 5 mm LEDs by using the LED 511 precision test socket
with twist-lock mechanism (see Figure 4). An investigation revealed that
this precision socket guarantees a standard deviation of 2% for
measurements on a green narrow-angled LED while simpler test sockets
without the twist-lock mechanism show standard deviations of 3% and
more.
d) The temperature stabilization time for LEDs (see section 3.2) exerts
considerable influence. Figure 6 shows that beginning the measurement at
a different point in time can lead to results differing by several percent. The
stabilization time depends on the LED type and external conditions such
as ambient temperature. It is therefore not possible to give a general
recommendation for the time of measurement. The forward voltage of the
LED gives an indication of when the steady state has been attained at
which point the measurement can be performed.

6.5 Measurements in production

Photometers and color measuring heads performing integral measurements

were generally used in production control because measuring speed is a
critical factor for this application. The basic problems with photometers have
been discussed in section 5.1. The quality of photometer based testers in
production was reasonable for testing green, yellow and red LEDs but not
sufficient for blue and white LEDs.

The robust construction of array spectrometers and their short measuring

time make them ideal for production applications. The biggest disadvantage

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Handbook of LED Metrology INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS GmbH

up to now has been the lack of sensitivity and dynamic range. Integration
times in the millisecond range could not be obtained using an optical probe
compliant with CIE recommendation B (section 3.2) and a diffuser that
reduced light throughput dramatically.

The development of a new generation of high quality “back-illuminated” CCD

sensors (with a significant increase of sensitivity) now permits LED
measurements according to CIE recommendations in milliseconds.
Array spectroradiometers with this type of detector are now prefereable for
production control of LEDs because they eliminate the disadvantages of
photometers without compromising on measurement time.

Figure 20: shows the optical measurement setup integrated in a sorting

system for LEDs. (Photo by courtesy of Osram Opto Semiconductors).

Version 1.1 page: 36

Handbook of LED Metrology INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS GmbH

A high speed sorting system places exacting demands on the accuracy of

mechanical positioning for the handler. The mechanical axis of the LED has
to be exactly aligned along the optical axis of the intensity probe. External
influences, such as ambient light and undesired reflections within the feed
mechanism for the LED, need to be taken into account.

There is a further phenomenon relating to the metrology of testing under

production conditions. As discussed in detail in section 3.2, LEDs require a
certain stabilization time before reaching steady state. However, current only
flows through LEDs for a few milliseconds during an optical test, a period of
time which is not sufficient to guarantee a steady state in most LED types.
The values measured under these test conditions therefore differ from those
obtained under constant-current conditions. However, there is generally a
reproducible correlation between the two test procedures. The manufacturers
of LEDs are responsible for determining this correction function for individual
LED types and taking account of it in production testing.

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Handbook of LED Metrology INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS GmbH

7. Summary
A number of conditions must be met for performing light measurements on
LEDs and obtaining accuracies better than 10%. They may be classified into
four groups:
• CIE-compatible optical probe for measuring the relevant photometric
parameter
• Calibration equipment traceable to a national calibration laboratory
• High-performance spectroradiometer
• Proper handling

Industrial photometers are not recommended for testing blue, deep red and
white LEDs because of an inadequate V-lambda correction in those regions
as shown in figure 12.

CIE-compatible optical probe

The CIE has published two geometric recommendations for measuring the
luminous intensity of LEDs. The distance of the LED to a sensor with an area
of 1 cm² is defined giving a specific solid angle. Since LEDs are not point light
sources and their spatial radiation characteristics vary, the mechanical axis of
an LED must be aligned while maintaining the distance between the LED tip
and the sensor.

Two measuring principles are suitable for luminous flux measurements: the
integrating sphere, which integrates the total luminous flux, and the
goniophotometer, which measures the radiation beam of the LED at different
theta and phi angles with subsequent calculation of total luminous flux.
Numerous geometric and spectral sources of error have to be taken into
account when using the integrating sphere, in particular the wide range of
radiation characteristics of LEDs. Thus, the goniophotometer provides the
greatest accuracy.

Calibration with the right standards

An accurate calibration of the measuring instrument is essential for carrying

out precise measurements of luminous intensity on LEDs. Broadband light
sources for spectral calibration of a spectrometer where spectral data is
traceable to a national calibration authority are frequently found in optical
laboratories. These are ideal for calibrating the relative spectral sensitivity of
the spectrometer. However, such lamps are not suitable for absolute

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Handbook of LED Metrology INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS GmbH

calibration of a CIE-compatible setup for measuring “average luminous

intensity” of LEDs. Because LEDs are not point light sources within the
measuring geometries proposed by the CIE the inverse square law is not
valid for calculating radiant intensity from irradiance. It is therefore necessary
to use temperature-stabilized LEDs with lambertian radiation characteristics
for absolute calibration. The value for luminous intensity or radiant intensity of
these standards has to be determined by a national calibration lab. Only
under these conditions can luminous intensity be measured accurately using
the right optical probe and traceable to national standards.

Spectroradiometer with high dynamic measuring range and precision

Only spectrometers meeting stringent criteria can be used as

spectroradiometers. The wavelength accuracy of the monochromator must
be better than 0.5 nm and the spectral resolution must be approximately
3 nm. Only stray light rejection of at least three orders of magnitude
guarantees a calibration and subsequent measurement without errors.
Otherwise there are inevitably substantial deviations in the color coordinates.
The detector must have a dark current signal that is as low and stable as
possible, and this is best obtained by cooling the detector. The detector must
show linear behavior over the entire output range. Any deviation produces
incorrect radiometric results. The downstream electronics should permit a
dynamic measuring range of four orders of magnitude in order to avoid errors
resulting from noise at the edges of the spectrum. The technical requirements
for carrying out measurements on blue and white LEDs are particularly
rigorous because the effect of all these errors is amplified in this spectral
region.

Proper handling

The best measuring instruments cannot replace proper handling. Careful

attention must be paid to external influences such as ambient temperature,
forward voltage stabilization, and LED fixturing in order to obtain precise
results.

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Handbook of LED Metrology INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS GmbH

8. Bibliography
[1] Commission Internationale de l´Éclairage, 'Colorimetry', CIE
Publication 15.2.1986
[2] Commission Internationale de l´Éclairage, 'Measurements of LEDs',
CIE Publication 127, 1997
[3] T.Q. Kahn, W. Dähn, “Die Ulbrichtsche Kugel”, Photonik, 4,1998
[4] Y. Ohno, “Fundamentals in Photometry and Radiometry II –
Photometers and Integrating Spheres”, CIE LED Workshop and
Symposium, Vienna, 1997
[5] G. Heidel, “Actual problems at the industrial optical measurement of
Leds”, Proceedings of the CIE LED Symposium 1997 on Standard
Methods for Specifying and Measuring LED Characteristics, 1997
[6] Dr. G. Sauter, [private communication], Physikalisch-Technische
Bundesanstalt PTB, 1999
[7] Dr. G. Sauter, 'LED radiation and measurement uncertainty', CIE LED
Workshop and Symposium, Vienna, 1997
[8] P.A. Boynton, Y. Ohno and E.F. Kelley, “Interference-Filter
Characterization of Spectroradiometers and Colorimeters”, SID Intl.
Symp. Digest. Tech. Papers 18, 1997
[9] C. Jones, “Colorimetry, chromaticity space and LEDs”, CORM Meeting
1998
[10] Y. Ohno, “Colorimetric accuracies in spectroradiometry of LEDs”,
CORM Meeting 1999

Version 1.1 page: 40

 INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS GMBH
Neumarkter Str. 83 • D-81673 München • Germany
Tel: 089-4549430 • Fax: 089-45494311
E-mail: [email protected]
 We bring quality to light.

MAS 40
Mini-Array Spectrometer

light measurement
 We bring quality to light.

Features at a glance
 Cost-effective and robust CCD spectrometer
technology
 Standard USB interface
 Compatible with all Instrument Systems
measuring adapters
 Different models for UV / VIS / NIR spectral
range
 Optimized for spectroradiometry and spec-
trophotometry
 Easy operation using SpecWin Light soft-
ware
 DLL and LabVIEW driver available for writing
custom software

MAS 40: A high-quality spectrometer

worth the money
calibration procedure uses standards directly traceable to
Have you been looking for a value-for-money spectrome-
PTB or NIST.
ter that delivers quality and precision? Then the MAS 40
All Instrument Systems measurement adapters can be
Mini-Array Spectrometer is just what you need.
linked up to the spectrometer by optical fiber. This permits
Instrument Systems has drawn on the experience gained a broad field of applications:
in industrial quality control to develop an instrument that  LED measurement
meets your demanding requirements, yet won’t break your  Display measurement
budget.  General spectroradiometry
Like all spectrometers from Instrument Systems, optical  Spectrophotometry
fiber connectivity provides access to all the measurement-  Colorimetry
adapter accessories. This capability supports for a wide
range of applications. Flexibility of this nature means that MAS 40 Software: seamless integration in your
the MAS 40 is also ideal as a cost-effective instrument for application
research and development work. Instrument Systems is a partner who understands what
you need for optical metrology. In addition, DLLs and
USB Interface: plug and go LabVIEW drivers permit efficient integration within existing
customer applications. These drivers are also compatible
Install the software, connect up the USB cable and start
with the entire Instrument Systems spectrometer family.
taking measurements. That’s how quick it is to get up and
running – whether on a desktop or a notebook. The bene-
The Setup
fit: you can start working productively straight away.
The MAS 40 includes the complete spectrometer with data
MAS 40: compact, precise, complete acquisition electronics and a USB port in a convenient
package. The optical input is compatible with all PLG fiber
A number of manufacturers produce miniature spectrome-
adapters from Instrument Systems.
ters that boast compact design and low price. The snag is
that they just aren’t up to the complete application support For the adjustment of the sensitivity range according to the

required for the challenges of photometry, colorimetry and desired application, alternative density filters of optical

high-quality spectral analysis. density 1 and 2 are available.

The MAS 40 is manufactured to the exacting quality stan-

dards of Instrument Systems. It is also calibrated with the
measurement adapter of choice prior to shipment. The
LED measurement
Light can also be operated by semi-skilled personnel,
Instrument Systems has developed a complete entry level
e.g. in quality assurance.
model for the measurement of LEDs which is based on
the MAS 40.

LED Station - The complete solution for

testing LEDs

A variety of measurement adapters that can be mounted

to the stable input port of the MAS 40, transform the Mini-
Array-Spectrometer into the LED Station.

The LED station is a cost-effective spectrometer system

for fast and easy measurements of all optical parameters
of an LED:

 Luminous intensity [cd] and Luminous flux [lm]

 Color coordinates, color temperature Measurement of luminous intensity -
 Color rendering index the ILED-B adapter
 Spatial radiation pattern
The ILED-B adapter provides CIE-compatible measure-
 Dominant, centroid and Peak wavelength [nm]
ments of luminous intensity and all spectral parameters.
Despite the attractive price, there are no compromises on Precision engineering maintains the specified measure-
measurement accuracy. All the components of the LED ment distance of precisely 10 cm from a detector with an
Station have been manufactured to the exacting quality area of 1 cm². The ILED-B adapter can accommodate all
standards of Instrument Systems and are calibrated with LED test fixtures (supporting different package types
the spectrometer prior to shipment. including SMD) from Instrument Systems.

SpecWin Light Software - simple and user-

friendly

SpecWin Light helps to make the LED Station easy to use

by focusing on the basic functions of measurement,
analysis and documentation. This means that SpecWin
 We bring quality to light.

Mesurement of luminous flux - the integrating The Mini-Goniophotometer is controlled by the software
sphere adapter ISP 75 via an USB interface.

The ISP75 integrating sphere adapter is available for

measuring luminous flux and radiant power.

The LED test fixture is used to push the LED into the
opening of the sphere in such a way that the light radia-
tion is captured by the integrating sphere. The interior of
the integrating sphere has a highly reflective and diffusing
white coating for this purpose.

All LED test fixtures from Instrument Systems can be

used with the integrating sphere.

A special measurement mode of the SpecWin Light soft-

ware features the dialog for setting angular parameters.

The radiation pattern is displayed in either polar or Car-

tesian (xy) coordinates.

The test data obtained are stored in ASCII-text files and

can be easily imported into MS Excel.

The Mini-Goniophotometer

The Mini-Goniophotometer was developed to character-

ize the spatial radiation pattern of LEDs. The high angular
resolution of 0.06° means that precise measurements can
also be taken of narrow-angled LEDs. The integrated
stepper motor control offers an angular range of 90° to
the mechanical axis of the LED. The orientation of the
LED in the phi axis can be manually adjusted for four
orientations (0°, 45°, 90° and 135°).

The standard measurement geometry corresponds to the

ILED-B configuration, i.e. the distance between the LED and
the detector is 10 cm with a detector area of 1 cm². The
detector diameter can be limited to 0.6 mm when meas-
uring narrow-angled LEDs.
Technical specifications for LED
measurements:
Spectrometer Model UV-VIS VIS-NIR
Spectral range 250 – 830 nm 380 – 950 nm
Spectral resolution 2.7 nm 2.7 nm
Stray light (for LEDs) *1 5·10E-4 5·10E-4
Sensitivity range*2
Luminous intensity (ILED-B) 20 μcd – 5 cd
Luminous flux (ISP 75) 65 μlm – 15 lm
Measurement accuracy*3
Luminous intensity +/- 7 %
Luminous flux +/- 7 %
Dominant wavelength +/- 1 nm
Chromaticity (x,y) +/- 0.005
LED40-400 Mini-Goniophotometer
Angular range in theta axis +/- 90°
Angular resolution 0.06°
Angular accuracy +/- 5 %
Interface USB
LED-720 Current source
Current range 0 – 48 mA
Interface USB
*1 Measured at 100nm distance to the left of the peak wavelength, relative to the peak intensity of the unweighted spectral data
*2 Measured at 600 nm wavelength, a signal-to-noise ratio of 10:1, and without averaging
*3 Directly after calibration relative to the calibration standard

Instrument Systems is continually working to develop and improve products. Any technical changes, errors or misprints do not form grounds for
compensation. The company’s Terms of Delivery and Payment apply in all other respects.
 We bring quality to light.

Technical specifications
Model UV - VIS VIS - NIR
Spectral range 250 – 830 nm 380 – 950 nm
Spectral resolution 2.7 nm 2.7 nm
Wavelength accuracy *1  0.5 nm  0.5 nm
Stray light (broadband with standard illuminant A) *2 2·10E-3 at 400 nm 2·10E-3 at 400 nm
General
Detector CCD line sensor
Number of pixels 2048
Integration time 4 msec – 20 sec
Linearity  2.5 %
Spectroradiometry
Sensitivity range for irradiance *3 1 μW/m² nm – 0.15 W/m² nm
Signal sensitivity at 1 s integration time *3 20 μW/m² nm
Spectroradiometric accuracy *4 7%
Spectrophotometry
Baseline noise *5  0.5 %
Photometric transmission accuracy *6 1%
Baseline drift *6 0.5 %/h
Miscellaneous
Interface USB
AD converter 15 Bit
Dimensions (H, W, D) 145 mm x 90 mm x 185 mm
Power consumption approx. 650 mW (via USB interface)
Ambient conditions 10 – 35° C; relative humidity 70%
Weight approx. 2.1 kg
*1 Applies to penray lamp or laser
*2 Measured with 455 nm cut filter
*3 Measured with EOP120 and OFG424 fiber bundle at 500 nm wavelength, a signal-to-noise ratio of 10:1 and without averaging
*4 Directly after calibration relative to the calibration standard
*5 For the shortest integration time, a sufficient signal level and averaging of 10; noise is reduced further at higher averaging
*6 Applies to LS100-130 light source after 1 hour of warming up and averaging of 10

Instrument Systems is continually working to develop and improve products. Any technical changes, errors or misprints do not form grounds for
compensation. The company’s Terms of Delivery and Payment apply in all other respects.
Ordering information
Order No. Descripition
Spectrometer
Model Spectral range Spectral resolution Data point interval
MAS40-111 250 – 830 nm 2.7 nm 0.33 nm
MAS40-121 380 – 950 nm 2.7 nm 0.33 nm
Options
MAS40-221 Density 1 filter (reduces signal level nominally by a factor of 10)
MAS40-222 Density 2 filter (reduces signal level nominally by a factor of 100)
MAS40-231 UV density 1 filter (reduces signal level nominally by a factor of 10)
Software
SW-120 SpecWin Light spectral software for Windows XP/Vista
SW-130 SpecWin Pro high-end spectral software for Windows XP/Vista
SW-251 Windows DLL for custom software development
SW-253 LabVIEW driver (requires SW-251 DLL)

Options for LED-Station

Order No. Description

Measurement adapters
LED40-310 ILED-B Luminous intensity adapter; spectral range 320 nm – 950 nm
LED40-311 ILED-B Luminous intensity adapter; spectral range 200 nm – 950 nm
LED40-320 Integrating sphere ISP 75
LED40-400 Mini-Goniophotometer
LED40-410 Fiber-bundle connector for Mini-Goniophotometer; spectral range 320 nm – 1650 nm
LED40-411 Fiber-bundle connector for Mini-Goniophotometer; spectral range 190 nm – 1700 nm
LED40-415 Extension tube for optional ILED-A configuration of the Mini-Goniophotometer
Current source
LED-720 Constant current source; current range 0 to 48 mA; compliance voltage 0 to 5.6 V;
USB interface
We bring quality to light.

light measurement

Instrument Systems GmbH

Neumarkter Str. 83,
81673 Munich, Germany
Tel.: +49 89 45 49 43 - 0
Fax: +49 89 45 49 43 - 11
E-mail: [email protected]
www.instrumentsystems.com