1. What is a Lighting Beam Spread Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the beam spread angle of a light source based on the beam width at a certain distance from the source.

Purpose: It helps lighting designers, photographers, and engineers calculate how light spreads over distance for proper illumination planning.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( θ \) — Beam spread angle (degrees)
• \( w \) — Beam width at distance (meters)
• \( d \) — Distance from light source (meters)

Explanation: The formula calculates the angle by which light spreads from its source based on how wide the beam is at a given distance.

3. Importance of Beam Spread Calculation

Details: Proper beam spread calculation ensures correct lighting coverage, avoids dark spots, and helps achieve desired lighting effects in architectural, theatrical, and photographic applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the beam width at the measurement point and the distance from the light source to that point. Both values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical beam spread for common lighting?
A: Spotlights might have 10-30°, floodlights 30-60°, and wide floods up to 120°.

Q2: How does distance affect beam spread?
A: The same light source will appear to have a narrower beam angle when measured at greater distances.

Q3: What if my light source isn't perfectly focused?
A: This calculation assumes a well-defined beam edge. For diffuse sources, multiple measurements may be needed.

Q4: Can I use this for LED lights?
A: Yes, this works for any directional light source including LED, halogen, and incandescent.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It's mathematically precise for ideal point sources with sharp beam edges. Real-world results may vary slightly.