Physics
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Lux to Foot-candle Converter.
Convert illuminance from lux to foot-candles.
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Use Cases
Lighting Design and Specification
Architects and lighting designers convert lux values from international standards to foot-candles for projects in countries using imperial units, ensuring proper illumination levels.
Example: Convert 500 lux (typical office lighting) to foot-candles: 500 / 10.764 ≈ 46.45 fc.
Comparing Light Meter Readings
Photographers and engineers may have light meters that display in different units. This converter helps compare readings and ensure consistent exposure or measurement.
Example: A light meter reads 300 lux; convert to foot-candles to match a colleague's meter that uses fc.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I convert lux to foot-candles?
- To convert lux to foot-candles, divide the lux value by 10.7639. For example, 100 lux is approximately 9.29 foot-candles. This converter does the calculation for you instantly.
- What is the difference between lux and foot-candles?
- Lux and foot-candles both measure illuminance (light intensity), but use different units: lux is lumens per square meter, while foot-candles are lumens per square foot. One foot-candle equals about 10.764 lux.
- Why would I need to convert lux to foot-candles?
- You might need to convert when comparing lighting specifications from different countries or when using equipment calibrated in different units. For example, European light meters often read in lux, while American standards may use foot-candles.
Tips & Common Mistakes
Tips
- Remember that 1 foot-candle equals approximately 10.764 lux. To convert from lux to foot-candles, divide by 10.764.
- For quick estimates, you can use the approximation: 1 lux ≈ 0.093 foot-candles, or roughly 0.1 fc.
- When entering values, ensure you use the correct unit (lux) as indicated in the input field. The result will be in foot-candles.
- This converter is useful for checking lighting levels in workplaces, studios, or any area where illuminance standards are specified in foot-candles.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Multiplying instead of dividing: To convert lux to foot-candles, you must divide by 10.764, not multiply. For example, 100 lux is about 9.29 fc, not 1076.4 fc.
- Using the wrong conversion factor: Some may use 10.76 or 10.764, but the exact factor is 10.7639. Using a rounded value can cause slight inaccuracies.
- Confusing lux and lumens: Lux measures illuminance per area, while lumens measure total light output. This converter only works for illuminance values in lux.
Last updated: August 13, 2026