ASTM E824-05

1.1 The method described in this standard applies to the transfer of calibration from reference to field radiometers to be used for measuring and monitoring outdoor radiant exposure levels. This standard has been harmonized with ISO 9847.

1.2 This test method is applicable to field radiometers regardless of the radiation receptor employed, but is limited to radiometers having approximately 180° (2π Steradian), field angles.

1.3 The calibration covered by this test method employs the use of natural sunshine as the source.

1.4 Calibrations of field radiometers may be performed at tilt as well as horizontal (at 0° from the horizontal to the earth). The essential requirement is that the reference radiometer shall have been calibrated at essentially the same tilt from horizontal as the tilt employed in the transfer of calibration.

1.5 The primary reference instrument shall not be used as a field instrument and its exposure to sunlight shall be limited to calibration or intercomparisons.

Note 1 - At a laboratory where calibrations are performed regularly it is advisable to maintain a group of two or three reference radiometers that are included in every calibration. These serve as controls to detect any instability or irregularity in the standard reference instrument.

1.6 Reference standard instruments shall be stored in a manner as to not degrade their calibration.

1.7 The method of calibration specified for total solar pyranometers shall be traceable to the World Radiometric Reference (WRR) through the calibration methods of the reference standard instruments (Method E 913 and Test Method E 941), and the method of calibration specified for narrow- and broad-band ultraviolet radiometers shall be traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), or other internationally recognized national standards laboratories.

1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.