Choosing the proper filter/detector combination for the measurement of UVA and UVB radiation from various light...

UVA and UVB radiation is often measured with simple detectors by non-skilled personnel. In this study spectroradiometric measurements are compared to measurements with simple detectors equipped with various filters or filtercombinations. Measurements have been performed on light sources commonly used in dermatology such as UVA and UVB fluorescent tubes and medium pressure Mercury lamps, as well as on a Quartz Halogen lamp. Our results show that the application of Si photodiodes should, generally, be avoided, that UVA measurements can be performed with reasonable accuracy with detectors which are not sensitive to near infrared radiation when combined with simple filters, and that UVB measurements should be made with solar blind detector types for best all-round results.