AGi32 Workflow: From Site Model to Verified Footcandles
AGi32 is the industry-standard lighting calculation software, and a disciplined workflow — model, place, calculate, evaluate, iterate — moves a sports lighting design from intent to a guaranteed point-by-point result before a single pole is set. The value isn't the software itself but the discipline: an accurate model, real fixture data, and honest loss factors are what make the prediction match reality on the field.
This reference walks the workflow step by step and describes the deliverable it produces.
The steps
| Step | What it involves |
|---|---|
| 1. Build the site model | Field dimensions, property lines (spill is calculated there), pole locations, mounting heights |
| 2. Place luminaires | Real, tested IES files (not generic substitutes), with aiming per pole |
| 3. Define the grid | Consistent point spacing on the field plus a property-line spill grid |
| 4. Apply the light loss factor | Dirt depreciation + LED lumen maintenance (LM-80/TM-21) for maintained results |
| 5. Calculate & evaluate | Average/min/max footcandles and uniformity vs the RP-6 class; review spill |
| 6. Iterate | Refine aiming and layout until every target is met at the lowest fixture count |
The order matters: an inaccurate model or generic IES file at the start invalidates everything downstream, no matter how carefully the calculation runs.
Why the inputs decide the outcome
Two inputs make or break the study. Real IES files — the manufacturer's lab-tested distribution, not a generic stand-in — ensure the model predicts the light the fixture actually delivers. And the light loss factor, combining luminaire dirt depreciation and LED lumen maintenance (LM-80/TM-21), produces maintained results rather than optimistic initial numbers. A study built on generic files and no loss factor will look great on paper and disappoint on the field.
The deliverable
The workflow produces a point-by-point report with an isolux plot (a visual map of light distribution), a statistical summary (average, min, max, uniformity), an aiming schedule (the exact aim for every fixture), and a spill analysis at the property line. This is the document that wins approvals and settles bid comparisons on equal terms. Duvon provides it free, before purchase.
Frequently asked questions
What is the AGi32 photometric workflow?
A disciplined process — model the site, place real IES files, define the grid, apply the light loss factor, calculate against the RP-6 class, and iterate — that proves the design before any pole is set.
Why use real IES files?
They describe the actual fixture's distribution; generic substitutes make the model predict light the fixture can't deliver.
What is the light loss factor?
A combination of dirt depreciation and LED lumen maintenance (LM-80/TM-21) that produces maintained results, so the field meets target years later.
What does the study deliver?
A point-by-point report with an isolux plot, statistical summary, aiming schedule, and spill analysis — the document that wins approvals and compares bids.
Can I trust a study without a light loss factor?
No — without it, the study describes opening night, not maintained performance. Always confirm a realistic loss factor was applied.
Request a free certified AGi32 photometric study. Get it at duvonlighting.com/photometric-study.