Illuminance Converter

Convert between lux and foot-candles. Essential for lighting design and workplace standards.

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Background

Illuminance = light on a surface. Lux (lm/m²) is SI, used internationally. Foot-candles (lm/ft²) used in the US. 1 fc = 10.764 lux.

Recommended Levels

Office: 300–500 lux. Retail: 300–1,500 lux. Warehouse: 100–200 lux. Parking: 20–50 lux.

Lux vs Foot-Candles

1 fc = 10.764 lux. 50 fc ≈ 538 lux. Conversion based on m² vs ft².

How to Use This Calculator

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Applications

Lighting Design

Architects specify in lux or fc. Convert for international standards/US equipment.

Workplace Compliance

AS 1680: 320 lux for offices ≈ 30 fc. Convert for US comparisons.

Photography

Well-lit indoor: ~500 lux (46 fc). Light meters may use either unit.

Industrial Applications

Illuminance converters can be particularly useful in industrial settings where tasks may involve working with sensitive equipment or materials. For example, a converter could help ensure that the appropriate level of illumination is maintained in a clean room or laboratory to prevent contamination or damage to delicate instruments.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you convert fc to lux?

Multiply by 10.764. 50 fc = 538.2 lux.

How do you convert lux to fc?

Divide by 10.764. 500 lux = 46.5 fc.

Good office lighting level?

300–500 lux (28–46 fc). Detailed tasks: 750–1,000 lux.

What is the recommended illuminance level for a home office?

The recommended illuminance level for a home office varies depending on the task being performed, but generally falls between 500-1000 lux. For general office work, a level of around 750-850 lux is often considered appropriate.

How do I convert foot-candles to lumens?

To convert foot-candles to lumens, divide the number of foot-candles by 10. So, for example, 1000 foot-candles is equal to 100 lumens.