Solarmeter® Model 5.7 Sensitive UVA+B Meter

I just had cataract surgery and got a Light Adjustable Lens, which means I had to avoid UV light inside and outside my house or wear the special UV glasses inside and outside. Having this device helped me identify where UV came through windows and blinds so I knew if I had to have the glasses on. However, I needed to do my own research to figure out what it really did. This device measures microwatts per square centimeter (vs their other device that measures milliwatts per square centimeter). Microwatts are 1/1000 of a milliwatt so this device is much more sensitive. So if you need to be really careful about UV inside, this is the device for you! Plus you can just hold down the button and point it to see how much UV is getting through and you can keep the button depressed and move the device to get a range. Amazon showed this device as one that was frequently returned, and I’ll bet that’s because of the lack of user information that comes with the device.

I’m not an expert on electronics, nor am I reptile keeper. I got it to check UV intensity in a hanger to make sure that the solar windows are adequately protecting fabric on an airplane. Outside measurements were in 1600 range when indoors it went to 70‘s, and under a tarp or a shield drop to 3 on a heavier cover and nine on an alternate. This is gibberish except for the fact that it test the theory that this is a very sensitive device. Probably could’ve gotten the standard one but this one meets the criteria for exceptional UV protection when you’re trying to make sure things don’t fade in your home because of UV exposure. Cannot address the reptile function that people talk about. That’s another topic.

I purchased this to determine when I need to close my balcony doors (double pane glass that significantly reduces UV rays) when working in my office near the door. My other concern is to reduce damage to flooring, furniture and the like. My home has a lot of sunlight from the balcony and windows. Although this meter provides a combined reading, it does not separate out the UVA and UVB rays; I have not found a meter in the price range that does. Overall it does the job, even though it is pricey for what it does. Again, have not found a comparable meter for a lower price range that I would be wiling to purchase. Some suggestions for improvement are as follows: 1. Dual UV Measurement (UVA and UVB): The meter should measure and display both UVA and UVB separately and as an aggregate (it does the aggregate now) 2. UV Index Measurement: Integration of the UV Index scale, which rates exposure risk from 0 (low) to 11+ (extreme). This makes it easier to understand when protection is needed, e.g., applying sunscreen, covering furniture, etc. 3. Portable and Durable: For outdoor activities and everyday use, it should be lightweight, portable, and rugged enough to handle various weather conditions, especially if used frequently in direct sunlight. 4. Data Logging (nice to have): For long-term monitoring, the ability to log UV data over time can help track trends 5. Water Resistance: For outdoor use it should be water-resistant Right now, it is fine for checking your UV lamps and for my purpose of protecting myself and loved ones and furniture from solar damage. A lower price point would make it a better deal! If most of the recommended features were included at the current price, this product would earn a 5 star rating!

Does exactly what it is supposed to do. Where I live (7500' above sea level,) the UV is sometimes offscale (Yikes!) but with it, I have been able to precisely quantify how much UVA and UVB various plastic, glass and sunscreen materials work. Big surprise - some sunscreens are way less effective than advertised... I anticipate using this to protect my family from UV exposure, and to design an effective greenhouse, among other things... Very useful tool with very reproducible results. At some point, I may adapt a UVB filter to enable distinction between UVA and UVB contribution to measurement, but it is a great tool. It's also incredibly easy to use.

The media could not be loaded. No instructions. This is suppose to give the UVa and UVb reading. When you push the button, it flashed a high number in the thousands and then switches to a low number. I don't know what either number means BECAUSE THERE IS NO INSTRUCTIONS. The device also feels cheap. I'm very disappointed - this isn't worth $250.

Good

Este medidor lo usamos para mejorar la calidad de vida de nuestro nieto, diagnosticado con una enfermedad minoritaria llamada Xeroderma Pigmentosum. Los rayos ultravioleta, infrarrojos y cualquier fuente de luz, excepto los LED, provocan a los afectados graves quemaduras en la piel, que pueden convertirse en cancer de piel, ademas de otras afectaciones. El uso del medidor ayuda a determinar cuando puede quitarse la ptroteccion total y cuando no.

It works I guess. Don't have another unit to verify its accuracy. It is quite expensive.