Watts to Candlepower Calculator

Converts light power in watts to candlepower (luminous intensity) based on beam angle and light source type

Input Parameters

Calculation Results

Calculation Formula

Candlepower = (P × cos(θ)) / 4π

Where:
P = Light Power in watts
θ = Beam Angle in radians
cos(θ) = Cosine of the beam angle
π = Pi (approximately 3.14159)

Note: This calculation assumes an ideal point source and perfect beam angle. Real-world results may vary.

Watts to Candlepower Calculator Usage Guide

Learn how to use the Watts to Candlepower Calculator and its working principles

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Enter the light power in watts (W) for your light source.
  2. Input the beam angle of your light source in degrees. This is the angle within which the light is most intense.
  3. Select the type of light source from the dropdown menu to account for different light efficiency characteristics.
  4. Click the "Calculate" button to compute the candlepower.
  5. The result will be displayed in candlepower (cd), which measures luminous intensity in a given direction.

Understanding Candlepower

Candlepower (cd) is the luminous intensity of a light source in a specific direction. It's a measure of how focused or concentrated the light is. The formula used here assumes an ideal point source, but real-world lights may have different beam patterns and efficiencies.

Light Source Types

  • Incandescent: Traditional light bulbs with lower efficiency.
  • LED: Modern light sources with high efficiency and various beam patterns.
  • Halogen: Bright, focused lights commonly used in spotlights.
  • Fluorescent: Generally used for broader, less directional lighting.

Applications

This calculator is useful for:

  • Photography and videography lighting planning
  • Stage and event lighting design
  • Outdoor lighting projects
  • Comparing different light sources based on their intensity