Photometry Camera Unlocks New Testing Capabilities at Forge

At Forge, we’re always looking for ways to push the boundaries of what’s possible with light. Our latest investment - a cutting-edge Viso photometry camera - marks a significant step forward in how we test, validate, and optimise lighting solutions for our customers.

We caught up with our Technical Director, Mark McIntosh, to find out what makes this new equipment so special and why it’s a game-changer for Forge and our partners.

A Wider Spectrum of Insight

Traditional photometric equipment measures visible light between around 360nm and 800nm. While this has served us well for many projects, it limits testing to only what the human eye can see.

This new spectrometer breaks through that barrier. It covers a far wider detection range - from deep in the UV spectrum at 200nm, right up to 1100nm in the infrared. This means we can now measure both photometric and radiometric data, giving us the ability to fully characterise non-visible light sources.

Opening Up New Markets With Our Photometry Camera

So why did we invest? In short, this capability gives us access to markets that depend on light outside the visible spectrum.

From UV sterilisation and leak detection using fluorescing hydrocarbons, to infrared therapeutics and enhanced vision recognition systems - these are areas where standard photometric equipment falls short. With our new system, we can accurately test and validate light sources across these applications, unlocking opportunities for innovation alongside our customers.

More Detail, More Precision

The photometry camera enables us to take integrated radiometric and photometric spatial and spectral characterisations. In practice, this includes measurements such as:

• Photosynthetically active radiation (PAR)
• Photosynthetic photon flux and flux density
• Radiometric dose units

In short, we can now measure parameters that were previously out of reach - all in-house.

The Benefits of the Photometry Camera for Our Customers

What does this mean for those we work with?

• Better product development – we can measure and quantify the performance of non-visible light sources, helping to design improved, application-specific solutions.
• Faster timelines – projects no longer need to rely on external test houses for spectral data outside the visible range. This accelerates validation and reduces time to market.
• Wider possibilities – by combining our custom LED expertise with this expanded testing capability, we can collaborate on projects that were once beyond scope.

Looking Ahead

For Mark, the most exciting part of this investment is its potential:

“The enhanced capability of this new camera is not just about testing - it’s about what comes next. By unlocking the ability to validate light sources across a much wider spectrum, we’re opening the door to new markets, new partnerships, and new opportunities for innovation.”

At Forge, we pride ourselves on staying ahead of the curve. This new camera is just the latest example of how we evolve so we can help our customers.