Source for a good, reasonably-priced light meter?

[Austinerd]

Hello all,
I have been following the threads on light output of various lighting types. I am getting a 200-watt, 5000k
compact fluourescent for my new orchid setup, and from what I have gathered I need to get a light meter. Does anybody know if these are available at the big box stores, and do I need to calibrate it to 5000k, or buy one that's calibrated that way already?
Thanks for any help...and will be posting pics as I get the shelving unit with the lamp set up.
Thanks,
Dan in Austin

[Ross]

Light meters (mostly) do not measure color of light (Kelvin) but they measure light intensity. I was very frustrated trying to figure out what my meter was telling me when I had an inexpensive one. I bought this one: Sper Scientific Light Meter Lux & Foot Candle | Sper Scientific but they have a foot-candle only version for less. I like it because it calibrates itself every time you turn it on, so it knows true zero. There are scales, but you just hit the scale button till something reads on the screen. Quite simple and highly accurate. The most important reason for owning a good meter is to take a reference reading at a certain distance from the fixture and subsequent readings to determine when the tube is fading over time. Don't rely on your eye alone.

[Austinerd]

Ross,
Thank you so much for replying and for the help! I was actually sort of hoping I would get a response from you since from what I have read you know your stuff. Actually I may be in contact if it is okay in the very near future while setting up my new lighting. I am also interested in the smaller, compact (if not always miniature) types....but just beginning so I will definitely be in need of some mentoring.
Thanks again,
Dan in Austin

[Ross]

Originally Posted by Austinerd

Ross,
Thank you so much for replying and for the help! I was actually sort of hoping I would get a response from you since from what I have read you know your stuff. Actually I may be in contact if it is okay in the very near future while setting up my new lighting. I am also interested in the smaller, compact (if not always miniature) types....but just beginning so I will definitely be in need of some mentoring.
Thanks again,
Dan in Austin

Sure Dan, but plan on being out of town for a while, so go ahead and PM and if I don't get back right away, just be patient.

[Austinerd]

Ok Ross, will do, and have a good trip.
Thanks again,
Dan