1. What is a Foot Candles from Lumens Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the illuminance (in foot-candles) produced by a light source based on its luminous flux (in lumens) over a given area.

Purpose: It helps lighting designers, architects, and engineers properly illuminate spaces by converting between lumens and foot-candles.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( FC \) — Illuminance in foot-candles (fc)
• \( Lumens \) — Total luminous flux (lm)
• \( Area \) — Surface area in square feet (ft²)

Explanation: Foot-candles measure how much light actually reaches a surface area, calculated by dividing the total lumens by the area in square feet.

3. Importance of Foot Candle Calculation

Details: Proper illuminance calculations ensure adequate lighting for tasks, safety, and comfort while optimizing energy efficiency.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the total lumens of your light source and the area to be illuminated in square feet. Both values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a foot-candle?
A: A foot-candle is a unit of illuminance equal to one lumen per square foot.

Q2: How many foot-candles are recommended for offices?
A: Typical office spaces require 30-50 foot-candles, while detailed work areas may need 75-100 foot-candles.

Q3: What's the difference between lumens and foot-candles?
A: Lumens measure total light output, while foot-candles measure how much light reaches a surface.

Q4: How do I find the lumens of a light bulb?
A: Check the packaging or manufacturer specifications - modern LED bulbs typically list lumens prominently.

Q5: Does this account for light loss factors?
A: No, this is a basic calculation. For precise designs, consider factors like fixture efficiency, room reflectance, and maintenance factors.