How to Use a UVB Meter

Detailed suggestions for the use of the Solarmeter 6.2 for the testing of Reptile Lamps may be found on the UV Guide UK website - Using the Solarmeter 6.2 meter.

Here are some simple guidelines:
Wear eye protection when checking UV lamps (eg: UV-block eyewear)

Allow lamps to warm-up prior to taking readings (at least 5 min). Thermal equilibrium may take 20-30 minutes so allow 30mins warm-up for accurate results.

To record the UVB output of a lamp

Hold the meter at a set distance from the surface of the lamp. Use this same distance every time you repeat the measurement.

Many hobbyists use 12" as a standard distance, and websites such as UVGuideUK use this, which can be helpful to check on other recordings made for your particular brand of lamp.

To record the UVB levels at your reptile's basking spot

Hold your meter in the basking spot so the sensor is where your reptile's back would be, and aim it directly up at the lamp.

When checking ageing of lamps, keep measuring distance and locations constant and take measurements monthly. In general, lamps should be replaced when output drops to about 70% of their original (new) readings.

When checking UV transmission through glass (or acrylic, etc) take the reading through the glass; then remove it and hold the meter sensor at approximately the same distance from lamp as the glass was located.

Do not use the meter to compare different type lamps, due to their different spectral power distributions. Although higher output lamps will read higher than low output lamps, the readings are relative rather than absolute.

Don't touch the sensor against the lamp itself - the heat may damage it.

Do not subject the meter to extremes in temperature, humidity, shock or dust.

Use a dry, soft cloth to clean the intrument. Keep sensor free of oil, dirt, etc.