Measurements made by this test method are related to visual observations of retroreflective sheeting as seen by the human eye when illuminated by tungsten-filament light sources such as a motor vehicle headlamp.

The values determined relate to the visual effects for a given geometric configuration as specified by the user of the test method. This test method has been found useful for tests at observation angles between 0.1 and 2.0° (observation angles between 0.1° and 0.2° may be achieved by careful design of source and receiver aperture configuration), and at entrance angles up to 60°. It has been used to determine coefficient of retroreflection values as low as 0.1 cd·lx⁻¹· m⁻², but for values less than 1 cd·lx⁻¹· m⁻² special attention must be given to the responsivity of the receiver and to the elimination of very small amounts of stray light.

1.1 This test method describes the instrument measurement of the retroreflective performance of retroreflective sheeting.

1.2 The user of this test method must specify the entrance and observation angles to be used.

1.3 This test method is intended as a laboratory test and requires a facility that can be darkened sufficiently so that stray light does not affect the test results.

1.4 Portable and bench retroreflection measuring equipment may be used to determine R_A values provided the geometry and appropriate substitutional standard reference panels, measured in accordance with this test method, are utilized. In this case the methods of Procedure B in Practice E809 apply. Additional information on the use of portable retroreflectometers may be found in Test Method E 1709.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.