candela per meter squared

The candela per meter squared (cd / m ² ) is the standard unit of luminance. It represents a luminous intensity of one candela radiating from a surface whose area is one square meter.

Formally, the candela is defined as the magnitude of an electromagnetic field ( EM field ), in a specified direction, that has a power level of 1/683 watt (1.46 x 10 ^-3 W) per steradian at a frequency of 540 terahertz (540 THz or 5.40 x 10 ¹⁴ Hz). This is in the middle of the visible-light spectrum.

Luminance is sometimes quoted when specifying the brightness of computer displays. Cathode-ray tube ( CRT ) monitors generally provide greater luminance than thin-film transistor ( TFT ) displays. However, the best criterion for choosing and adjusting a display is the user's own viewing comfort. This will depend on the level of illumination in the room where the display is used.

Also see candela , meter squared , steradian , and SI (International System of Units).

Last updated on: Sep 21, 2005

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