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 operate your Solarmeter, aim the sensor window located on the top panel of the meter directly at a UV source. Press and hold the push-button switch on the face of the meter. For best results take note of the distance the reading was taken from the UV source in order to ensure repeatable results. Battery operation voltage is viable from 9V down to 6.5V. Below 6.5V, the numbers on the LCD display will begin to dim, indicating the need for battery replacement. Under typical service load, a standard 9V battery will last approximately 2 years.

Wear eye protection when checking UV lamps (Glasses that provide wrap around protection are ideal). Allow lamps to warm up prior to taking readings (at least 15 minutes).

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 Aquariums (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.

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.