SS2450 Solar Spectrum Meter

Explaining Performance Measurements During A Sales Presentation

When the SS2450 is used as a window or film demonstration tool during a sales presentation, it is important for the salesperson to understand the meaning of each performance measurement and how to translate the performance into tangible benefits for the prospective buyer.

T UV(A) stands for UltraViolet (UV) Transmission.  UV energy is the primary component responsible for fading of furnishings and the overall deterioration of fabric quality. The more a window product can reject or absorb the sun’s UV energy, the longer the life and quality of the furnishings are protected. All window products should strive for the lowest UV transmission value possible.  Using glass and film samples, the SS2450 allows you to demonstrate how well your product will block harmful UV energy compared to other types of glass and film.

T IR (780 - 1700nm) stands for Infrared (IR) Transmission within the 780 - 1700nm+ range.  As explained above, this range accounts for the vast majority of IR energy from the sun.  IR energy relates to the heat energy that is emitted from the sun.  Our eyes cannot see this energy, but our bodies can feel this heat when we're in the sun, and this heat also hits a window surface and transmits through the glass to increase the temperature inside the building.  The lower the number, the less heat energy is added to a building, thus reducing overheating effects in summer and hot climates.

T IR (900 - 1000nm) stands for IR Transmission within the 900 - 1000nm range.  We included this measurement to allow users to highlight the difference between the two methods of measuring IR.  The 900 - 1000nm range has been commonly used in the industry because it is an extremely cost-effective method for showing a glimpse of IR performance.  Two of our meters use this method (SD2400 & WP4500).  Meters only using the 900 - 1000nm range can lead to misleading performance data.  The SS2450 allows for more complete and accurate analysis with the 780 - 1700nm option. It provides the utmost professionalism and transparency by allowing the salesperson to compare and contrast how different demonstration meters display IR performance.

T VISIBLE (Photopic) stands for Visible Light Transmission or the portion of the sun's spectrum that human eyes can see.  The SS2450 uses a new method of more accurately measuring the wavelengths that the eye can register.  Essentially, what the eye sees is what the SS2450 measures.  A window product with high visible light transmission values will result in a clearer and more natural view through the window and allow more natural light into the building.  Too much visible light, however, can result in unwanted glare - especially aggravating in rooms with televisions or computer monitors.

T SOLAR stands for Solar Transmission, including UV, Visible and Infrared energy.  With its expanded infrared range, the SS2450 accounts for 300 - 1700nm+, which offers a much more complete and accurate Solar Transmission measurement when compared to other portable devices on the market.

T DAMAGE WEIGHT (Tdw) represents the transmission amount for a weighted spectral range that extends over portions of the UV and Visible spectrums.  This value is used to give an estimation of the amount of fading-causing light that gets transmitted through a window.  For example, an 80% Tdw will cause more fading than a 20% Tdw.  While UV Transmission is a good indicator of fading caused by the sun, Tdw is widely recognized as a more accurate and complete indicator of fading.  For more on Damage Weight and detailed information on the Solar Spectrum Meter, please visit the SS2450 User Manual.