Solarmeter® Model 5.0 Standard UVA+B Meter
The semiconductor UV sensor consists of a GaAsP photodiode chip and a UV filter which is completely insensitive to visible light longer than 400 nm and infrared radiation, since its spectral response covers only the UV region from 260 to 400 nm. Applications include solar UV detection (as the spectral response is well matched to the solar UV spectrum) and tanning lamps peaking near 365 nm (“new era” fluorescent and “high pressure” HID.)
Sensor
The semiconductor UV sensor consists of a GaAsP photodiode chip and a UV filter which is completely insensitive to visible light longer than 400 nm and infrared radiation, since its spectral response covers only the UV region from 260 to 400 nm. Applications include solar UV detection (as the spectral response is well matched to the solar UV spectrum) and tanning lamps peaking near 365 nm (“new era” fluorescent and “high pressure” HID.)
Operation
To operate your Solarmeter, aim the sensor window located on the top panel of the meter directly at a UV source. Press and hold the push-button switch on the face of the meter. For best results take note of the distance the reading was taken from the UV source in order to ensure repeatable results. Battery operation voltage is viable from 9V down to 6.5V. Below 6.5V, the numbers on the LCD display will begin to dim, indicating the need for battery replacement. Under typical service load, a standard 9V battery will last approximately 2 years.
Proper Usage of Solarmeter®Ultraviolet Radiometer for Lamp Aging Tests
Wear eye protection when checking UV lamps (UV-block wrap around glasses)
Allow lamps to warm-up prior to taking readings (at least 5 min).
When checking aging of lamps, keep measuring distance and locations constant.
Lamps should be replaced when output drops to about 70% of their original (new) readings. Take overall reading at center of tanning bed bench pointing up with canopy closed, or check individual lamps at acrylic with canopy up. Keep track of hours vs. readings on a chart.
If unsure of what original new values were, replace two adjacent lamps with new ones of the same kind and compare old ones.
This meter is primarily “seeing” the UVA “browning” rays. For erythemal rays use Model 7.0 MED/hr meter to relate to Te time.
When checking acrylic transmission, take reading through acrylic; then remove acrylic and hold meter sensor at approximately the same distance from lamp as the acrylic shield was located. Note: Model 6.0 UVB meter is better for this purpose).
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.
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TOP REVIEWS
Hiroki
Reviewed in the United States on August 31, 2025
If you guess your uv meter is wrong, I suggest this uv meter.
The media could not be loaded. This is the most accurate uv meter I have ever used ! Please see video. These are new 100w high performance lamps in tanning bed !
Gerald
Reviewed in the United States on August 28, 2023
Good meter, seems to be dependable
I wish Solarmeter and other companies would give us buyers some idea of what measurement range is needed for various uses. This meter measures 0 to 199.9 mV/cm2. I got a meter with that high range because I had no idea of what I needed. My only use is for measuring UV (A+B) intensity from sunlight. I can now see a range of 0 to 15 mV/cm2 is more than adequate for sunlight UV. The highest reading I have gotten is 8 mV/cm2 and I live at 7300 feet elevation. The operation of the meter is simple, push the button, read the number. If you need a meter which stores readings for later retrieval, this meter does not do that.
David Goodson
Reviewed in the United States on April 14, 2022
Awesome!
Awesome meter that works well. We use it to measure our tanning beds output. It works well and gives you good insight to how.effective your lamps are.
Dan Willmann
Reviewed in the United States on August 19, 2020
Works very well
Works great for testing and my needs.
Ian
Reviewed in the United States on October 6, 2017
It works, but only ever shows 2 digits.
It seems to work. I used this for testing outdoor UV levels and the protection provided by various windows and sunglasses. However, at noon in the middle of summer, pointing at the sun, the highest reading I read was 4.5. That is, the device has 3 digits to display the reading but it only ever uses 2. I would give it 5 stars if it had 3 digits of precision. Also, I bought this over cheaper models because it was the only product that listed the spectral response graph.
Richard C. Drew
Reviewed in the United States on June 9, 2017
Measures UVA+B, simple to use - one button - carrying case and battery included.
I use this meter for testing UV lamps in tanning beds. After a set of new lamps is installed and the acrylic is in place, we warm up the bed for a few minutes then test each lamp at the middle, about 10" away. We retest at the same spot periodically. When the lamps hit 70% of the original output, it's time for replacement. Yes, you need to wear UV eye protection! Operation is as simple as pressing one button and reading the number. UVA and UVB are measured. 9V battery and a nice case are included.
BigNick
Reviewed in the United States on August 9, 2015
Good product.
Good product, timely delivered, works as intended, A bit pricey.
4.9 out of 5
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