The NBS scale of spectral irradiance

Abstract

This paper describes the measurement methods and the instrumentation used in the realization and transfer of the NBS scale of spectral irradiance. The basic measurement equation for the irradiance realization is derived. The spectral responsivity function, linearity of response, and “size of source” effect of the spectroradiometer are described. The analysis of sources of error and the estimates of uncertainty are described. The assigned uncertainties (3σ level) in spectral irradiance range from 2.2% at 250 nm to 1.0% at 654.6 nm to 6.5% at 2400 nm.