A clear, practical look at realizing a radiometric scale with electrically calibrated detectors.
This technical note presents the philosophy and practical work behind a national program to realize, maintain, and transfer a scale of total irradiance using absolute radiometers. It covers the theory of absolute radiometry, the design of detectors, and how these devices were tested in international comparisons. The material is written for readers familiar with basic radiometry and photometry, and it explains both concepts and measurement techniques with concrete examples.
From the development of electrically calibrated detectors to the analysis of error sources, the book outlines the approach to achieving reliable, traceable irradiance measurements. It is a detailed reference that pairs theory with the practical steps taken to build and evaluate detectors used in solar and optical measurements.
- Foundational theory of absolute radiometry and detector responsivity
- Design, construction, and testing of electrically calibrated radiometers
- Techniques for correcting measurement errors and assessing uncertainty
- Case study: participation in the Third International Pyrheliometer Comparisons
Ideal for readers such as engineers and physicists who work with radiometric scales, instrumentation, or optical metrology, and those seeking a rigorous, experience-based view of absolute radiometry in practice.