Overview
IEC TR 63158:2018 defines an objective test method for stroboscopic effects of lighting equipment used in general indoor lighting. The Technical Report specifies an objective Stroboscopic Effect Visibility (SVM) meter and a laboratory measurement procedure for quantifying visible stroboscopic effects produced by temporal light modulation (TLM). The scope focuses on typical indoor levels (>100 lx) and moderate observer or object movement. The published corrigendum (July 2018) is included in this edition.
Key Topics and Requirements
- Stroboscopic Effect Visibility (SVM) meter: Description and detailed specifications (Annex A) for an objective meter that converts illuminance waveforms into a standardized SVM value.
- Measurement setup: Schematic lab arrangement, optical environment, light sensor and amplifier requirements, and stabilization/mounting procedures.
- Signal processing: Requirements for anti-aliasing filtering, sampling frequency, signal resolution and SVM calculation algorithms.
- Verification and calibration: Verification waveform, meter verification procedures, and recommended verification tests.
- Test procedures: General test flow, operating conditions, ageing, stabilization time, and documentation of results.
- Application-specific tests: Procedures for phase-cut dimmer compatibility, controlgear testing, and guidance on in‑situ testing.
- Uncertainty and quality assurance: Measurement uncertainty analysis, influence quantities, repeatability and recommended tolerances (Annex B).
- Examples and implementation: Example results, numerical SVM calculations and a MATLAB implementation example (Annexes C and A).
Applications - Who Uses This Standard
IEC TR 63158:2018 is practical for:
- Lighting manufacturers and LED module suppliers validating product performance against stroboscopic visibility criteria.
- Controlgear and dimmer manufacturers testing compatibility and dimming behavior.
- Test laboratories and certification bodies establishing repeatable SVM measurement methods.
- Lighting designers, specifiers and facility managers assessing stroboscopic risk in indoor installations (workplaces, retail, schools).
- Research teams studying temporal light modulation, flicker and human visual response.
Use cases include product R&D, compliance testing, dimmer compatibility evaluation, in-situ measurement campaigns, and comparative benchmarking of luminaires.
Related Standards
For a comprehensive approach, consult other IEC and national documents addressing temporal light modulation, photometric measurement methods, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) for lighting equipment, and human factors. Check the IEC Catalogue or your national committee for the latest related standards and normative references cited within IEC TR 63158:2018.
Keywords: IEC TR 63158:2018, stroboscopic effects, SVM meter, stroboscopic effect visibility, temporal light modulation, lighting equipment testing, dimmer compatibility, in‑situ testing, measurement uncertainty.