SOLARMETER ® 6.5R VITAMIN D ACTION SPECTRUM FOR REPTILES

The Model 6.5R features an Integral Sensor and applications include UV Index and Spectral Response Erythemally Weighted to Match Vitamin-D Action Spectrum in Reptiles. To be used in conjunction with the Model 6.2R UVB Meter for Reptiles to ensure a complete wellness environment.

 

 

 

Specifications Radiometer
Model 6.5
Irradiance Range 290-400 nm Diffey EAS
Peak Sunlight Response 290-298 nm
Resolution 0.1 UVI
Conversion Rate 3.0 Readings/Sec
Display 3.5 Digit LCD
Operating Temps 0° C to 40° C
Operating Humidity 5% to 80% RH
Accuracy ±10% REF.NIST
Dimensions (LxWxD) 10.5 x 6 x 2.2 cm
Weight 110 Grams
Power Source 9-Volt DC Battery
Lens Silicon Carbide (SiC) Photodiode
Diffuser Virgin Teflon .005

 

Solarmeter's new Model 6.5R Reptile UV Index Meter updates our legendary original Model 6.5 UV Index Meter with attractive, informative graphics specifically designed for reptile husbandry. Many scientists and breeders worldwide rely on the original Model 6.5 UV Index Meter, so the new Model 6.5R is unchanged operationally or in terms of specifications from the original. We just made this meter easier for reptile owners to use by updating the graphics with the latest scientific research about proper UV dosages for reptiles. Specifically, the Ferguson Zone chart at the top of the meter provides the user with an instant, accurate reference for the meter's UVI readout.

 

To enquire on the the Model 6.5R please click on the link below or use the contact page.

When requesting a quote please provide quantity and suburb/state for postage/delivery details.

 

Sensor
Silicon Carbide (SiC) Photodiode packaged on gold plated header via gold wire bonding under UV glass window cap, hermetically sealed. Filter: Metal Oxide Eeff (erythemally effective) and teflon diffuser cap.

Operation
Place meter at "basking" position. Aim sensor window in top panel of meter directly at UV source. Press and hold push-button switch on face of unit. Note reading on LCD and record if desired.  

Proper usage of Solarmeter ® Ultraviolet Radiometer for Reptile Environment Measurement

What is a Ferguson Zone?
Using the original Solarmeter ® Model 6.5 UV Index Meter, a team of herpetologists led by Professor Gary Ferguson of Texas Christian University published research in 2010, which summarized the daily UV exposure of 15 species of reptiles that were studied in the wild. These species were grouped
into four zones, aka "Ferguson Zones," according to their daily sun exposure requirements. In 2012, the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquaria (BIAZA) built on Ferguson's research to produce a document allocating Ferguson Zones to 254 species of reptiles and amphibians. You can download
this report here. Today, ongoing research continues to apply Ferguson Zones to even more species.

Which Meter Do I Need For My Reptile – Model 6.5R Reptile UV Index Meter or the Model 6.2R Reptile UVB Lamp Meter?
Ideally, reptile keepers will want both meters. Because the Model 6.5R Reptile UV Index Meter's erythemally weighted action spectrum is extremely close
to the action spectrum for vitamin D3 synthesis, it is the ideal tool to determine proper UV dose for your reptile, per the appropriate Ferguson Zone for
the species. In fact, the 6.5R's readings can function as a proxy for the vitamin D3-producing ability of the habitat's light source. Meanwhile, the Model
6.2R Reptile UVB Lamp Meter is ideally suited to determine if UVB lamps are performing to manufacturer's specifications, gauge intensity, and measure
aging over time. So, in short, use the Model 6.5R to determine proper UV dose for the animal, and use the Model 6.2R to determine UVB lamp output.

References

An In-Depth Look At UV Light And Its Proper Use With Reptiles by Dr. Frances M. Baines - Reptiles Magazine January / February 2017


How much UV-B does my reptile need? The UV-Tool - A Guide to the Selection of UV Lighting for Reptiles and Amphibians In Captivity - Journal of Zoo and Aquarium Research, January 2016


Reptile Lighting Information by Dr. Frances M. Baines – Reptiles Magazine 2009

 

 

 

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