1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the TASi TA636A/TA636B Digital Illuminance Meter. This device is a high-precision instrument designed for measuring illuminance (brightness) in various environments. It features a wide measurement range, high accuracy, and user-friendly operation. The TA636B model also includes Bluetooth connectivity for enhanced data management.
This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use of your illuminance meter. Please read it thoroughly before operation and keep it for future reference.
2. Safety Information
To ensure safe operation and to avoid damage to the meter, please observe the following safety precautions:
- Do not operate the meter in environments with explosive gas, vapor, or dust.
- Avoid exposing the meter to direct sunlight, high temperatures, or high humidity.
- Keep the sensor clean and free from obstructions to ensure accurate readings.
- Remove batteries if the meter is not used for an extended period to prevent leakage.
- Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the meter. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
- Dispose of batteries and the device according to local regulations.
3. Product Overview
The TASi TA636A/TA636B is a compact and robust digital light meter. It features an integrated design where the sensor is built into the main unit.
3.1 Components
The meter consists of:
- Light Sensor: Located at the top of the device, protected by a white dome.
- LCD Display: Large screen for displaying illuminance values, units, and other indicators.
- Control Buttons:
- Power Button (①): Turns the device on or off.
- MAX/MIN Button: Toggles between maximum and minimum recorded values.
- HOLD Button: Freezes the current reading on the display.
- UNIT Button: Switches between Lux (LUX) and Foot-candle (FC) units.
- Bluetooth Button (TA636B only): Long press to activate/deactivate Bluetooth.
- Battery Compartment: Located on the back of the device.
3.2 Display Indicators
The LCD display shows the following information:
- Illuminance Value: The primary numerical reading.
- Unit: LUX or FC.
- APO: Automatic Power Off indicator.
- MAX: Maximum value indicator.
- MIN: Minimum value indicator.
- HOLD: Data hold indicator.
- Battery Indicator: Shows remaining battery life.
- Bluetooth Icon (TA636B only): Indicates Bluetooth connection status.
- Backlight Icon: Indicates backlight is active.
4. Setup
4.1 Battery Installation
The meter requires 2 x 1.5V AAA batteries (R03/LR03). Batteries are not included with the shipment.
- Locate the battery compartment cover on the back of the device.
- Open the battery compartment cover.
- Insert two 1.5V AAA batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
- Close the battery compartment cover securely.
Note: Remove batteries if the device is not used for an extended period to prevent battery leakage and damage to the meter.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Power On/Off
- Press the Power button (①) to turn the meter ON.
- Press and hold the Power button (①) for approximately 2 seconds to turn the meter OFF.
5.2 Taking Measurements
Once powered on, the meter will immediately begin displaying real-time illuminance readings.
- Point the light sensor towards the light source or the area where you want to measure illuminance.
- Ensure the sensor is not obstructed and is clean for accurate readings.
- Read the illuminance value directly from the LCD display.
5.3 Unit Switching (LUX/FC)
The meter supports both Lux (LUX) and Foot-candle (FC) units.
- Lightly press the "UNIT" button to switch between LUX and FC measurement units.
5.4 MAX/MIN Measurement
This function allows you to view the maximum and minimum illuminance values recorded during a measurement session.
- Press the "MAX/MIN" button once to display the maximum recorded value (MAX indicator appears).
- Press the "MAX/MIN" button again to display the minimum recorded value (MIN indicator appears).
- Press the "MAX/MIN" button a third time to return to real-time measurement.
5.5 Data Hold
To freeze the current reading on the display:
- Press the "HOLD" button once. The "HOLD" indicator will appear on the display, and the reading will be frozen.
- Press the "HOLD" button again to release the hold function and resume real-time measurement.
5.6 Backlight
The meter features a white backlight for improved visibility in low-light conditions. The backlight is typically activated by a dedicated button (often marked with a sun icon) or a long press of a specific function button. Please refer to the specific model's physical buttons for clarification on backlight activation.
5.7 Bluetooth Connectivity (TA636B Only)
The TA636B model offers Bluetooth connectivity to a mobile application for data logging and analysis.
- Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your mobile device.
- Long press the Bluetooth button (marked with a Bluetooth symbol) on the TA636B for more than 2 seconds to activate Bluetooth. The Bluetooth icon will appear on the meter's display.
- Open the dedicated mobile application (if available, usually provided by the manufacturer) and follow the app's instructions to connect to the TA636B.
- Once connected, you can view real-time data, record measurements, and perform analysis through the app.
- To deactivate Bluetooth, long press the Bluetooth button again.
5.8 Automatic Power Off (APO)
The meter is equipped with an automatic power-off function to conserve battery life. If no operation is performed for 15 minutes, the meter will automatically shut down. This feature can typically be disabled manually if continuous measurement is required (refer to specific model instructions for disabling APO, if applicable).
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the meter's casing. For the light sensor, use a soft brush or lens cleaning cloth to gently remove dust. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the meter in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Remove the batteries before storage.
- Battery Replacement: Replace batteries when the low battery indicator appears on the display to ensure accurate readings and proper operation.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Meter does not power on. | Dead or incorrectly installed batteries. | Check battery polarity; replace with new batteries. |
| Inaccurate readings. | Dirty sensor; sensor obstructed; meter not calibrated (unlikely for user); extreme environmental conditions. | Clean the sensor; ensure no obstructions; operate within specified environmental limits. |
| Display shows "OL" or "OVER". | Measurement range exceeded. | The illuminance is too high for the meter's range. Move to a less bright area or note that the reading is beyond the maximum. |
| Bluetooth (TA636B) not connecting. | Bluetooth not activated on meter; mobile device Bluetooth off; out of range; app issue. | Long press Bluetooth button on meter; enable Bluetooth on mobile; ensure within 10m range; restart app/meter. |
8. Specifications
The following table details the technical specifications for the TA636A, TA636B, and TA637A models.
| Parameter | TA636A | TA636B | TA637A |
|---|---|---|---|
| Measurement Method | Integrated | Integrated | Split |
| Measurement Range | 0.1 ~ 200,000 LUX / 0.01 ~ 20,000 FC | ||
| Measurement Gears | 200 / 2,000 / 20,000 / 200,000 LUX; 20 / 200 / 2,000 / 20,000 FC | ||
| Accuracy | ±(4%+10dgts); Calibrated with color temperature 2856K standard flat lamp | ||
| Resolution | LUX < 200: 0.1; LUX ≥ 200: 1; FC < 20: 0.01; 20 ≤ FC < 200: 0.1; FC ≥ 200: 1 | ||
| Illuminance Display | Four-digit display (max 1999, with range multiplier) | ||
| Sensor | Silicon photodiode with filter lens | ||
| Sampling Rate | 2 times/second | ||
| Incidence Angle | 120 degrees | ||
| Repeatability | ±2% | ||
| Spectral Range | 400 ~ 700 nm | ||
| Bluetooth Function | No | Yes | No |
| Bluetooth Effective Distance | — | 10m | — |
| Automatic Shutdown | 15 minutes (can be manually turned off) | ||
| Operating Environment | -10 ~ 50℃, max 80% RH, indoor altitude < 2000m | ||
| Storage Environment | -10 ~ 50℃, max 70% RH (remove battery) | ||
| Cable Length | — | — | 1m |
| Product Dimensions | 150 x 56 x 28mm | 150 x 56 x 28mm | 126 x 56 x 28mm |
| Display Screen Size | 30 x 30mm | ||
| Weight (without battery) | Approx. 150g | Approx. 150g | Approx. 165g |
| Power Supply | 2 x 1.5V AAA (R03/LR03) | ||
9. User Tips
- For consistent readings, always ensure the sensor is pointed directly at the light source or the surface being measured.
- When measuring in very bright conditions, consider using the MAX function to capture peak illuminance.
- If using the TA636B with Bluetooth, ensure the mobile app is up-to-date for the best performance and data logging capabilities.
- Regularly check the battery indicator and replace batteries promptly to avoid interruptions during measurements.
10. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact your retailer or the manufacturer directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
