Reading an AGi32 Photometric Report
An AGi32 photometric report shows, point by point, how a lighting design will actually perform — before a single pole goes in the ground. It contains a grid of footcandle values, the average, minimum, and maximum with uniformity ratios, an aiming schedule for every fixture, and a spill analysis at the property line. In short, it is the proof a design meets IES RP-6, and learning to read it turns you from a buyer trusting a salesperson into one verifying a guarantee.
This guide walks through what's in the report, which numbers to check and against what, and why this one document does three jobs at once.
What's in the report
| Element | What it shows |
|---|---|
| Footcandle grid | Predicted light at each point on the playing surface |
| Statistical summary | Average, minimum, maximum, and uniformity ratios |
| Isolux / contour plot | A visual map of how light is distributed |
| Aiming schedule | The exact aim for each fixture on each pole |
| Spill analysis | Illuminance at the property line for zoning |
How to read the key numbers
Three checks tell you almost everything. First, compare the maintained average footcandles to the RP-6 target for your sport and class of play — it should meet or modestly exceed it, not fall short. Second, check the uniformity ratio (max/min or avg/min) against the class requirement: roughly 3:1 for recreation, 2:1 for competition, tighter for broadcast. Third, check the spill values at the property line against your local ordinance limits.
The single most important verification: confirm the report uses maintained values with a realistic light loss factor, not initial output. A report quoting bright initial numbers with no light loss factor is describing opening night, not year five — and that's how a field that "met spec" on paper ends up dim in service.
Why the report matters — three jobs in one
The photometric report is, first, your guarantee on paper: it documents the performance you're buying, so there's an objective standard to hold the project to. Second, it's your bid-comparison tool: when every vendor provides one against the same RP-6 criteria, you can compare designs on equal terms instead of trusting marketing claims — and an underdesigned bid becomes obvious. Third, it's your approval document: zoning boards and funders accept the report's footcandle and spill numbers as evidence the project will perform and comply. Duvon provides this report free with every design.
Frequently asked questions
What is in an AGi32 photometric report?
A point-by-point footcandle grid, a statistical summary (average, min, max, uniformity), an isolux/contour plot, a per-fixture aiming schedule, and a property-line spill analysis.
How do you read it?
Check maintained average footcandles vs the RP-6 target, uniformity vs the class-of-play requirement, and spill vs local limits — and confirm it uses maintained values, not initial output.
Why does it matter?
It's proof a design meets RP-6 before installation, serving as your guarantee, your bid-comparison tool, and your zoning/funding approval document.
What's the difference between maintained and initial values?
Initial is opening-night brightness; maintained is the level after depreciation. A credible report designs to maintained footcandles with a realistic light loss factor.
Should I require a report from every bidder?
Yes — it's the single best filter against suppliers who can't prove performance, and it makes bids genuinely comparable.
Request your free certified photometric report for your project. Get it at duvonlighting.com/photometric-study.