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How accurate are Pro PAR / PPFD / spectrum measurements?
How accurate are Pro PAR / PPFD / spectrum measurements?
Chris Tosi avatar
Written by Chris Tosi
Updated over a week ago

Very accurate.

The advanced light sensor in Pulse Pro is both very accurate and capable.

In this example, we will take a look at Pro readings versus some industry standards and top of the line dedicated meters:

Equipment List

Apogee MQ-500 (msrp $535): Regarded as the industry standard in PAR sampling

Pulse Pro (msrp $499)

NextLight Core 210w LED Grow Light


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Sample 1: Direct lighting

Here we will compare the data from readings taken directly below the fixture:

PAR readings

Apogee: 321

Sekonic: 317.3

Pulse: 317.2

The PAR readings are all very close. You may notice the right side of the spectrum reading on the Pulse looks different than the right side of the Sekonic -- this is because Pulse can detect wavelengths of up to 1000nm (infrared), while the Sekonic only detects up to 800nm.


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Sample 2: Side lighting

In this example, we will compare all 3 meters again but this time we will take the readings at the edge of the light window. Why is this important? It helps you understand how well you are lighting your area, whether moving a light up or down is the correct change for your footprint, try adding/removing additional lights will help optimize your canopy and energy use.

PAR readings

Apogee: 165

Sekonic: 161.2

Pulse: 157.8

*** It is important to note that there will always be slight variance between readings as it is nearly impossible to take an identical sample (light intensity, angle, shadows, etc). ***

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