Flicker Index (Approx)

Estimate Flicker Index from min/max light output and a waveform assumption. Includes waveform preview and Show Work.

How to Use

  1. Pick a waveform model that best matches your driver (PWM, square, triangle, sine).
  2. Enter Min and Max light output (relative % or any consistent units).
  3. If using PWM, enter duty cycle (and optional smoothing).
  4. View Flicker Index and the preview waveform. Open Show Work for steps.

This is an approximation tool. Real flicker depends on driver topology, dimming method, sensor bandwidth, and sampling.

Waveform Preview
Assumption-based waveform. Area above average vs total area determines Flicker Index.
Flicker Index
—
Avg
—
Min
—
Max
—
Risk: —
Avg t Output
Tip: If you only know “percent flicker”, use the related tool in the rail to convert, then come back.
Inputs & Settings
Use consistent units. Relative % (0–100) is easiest.
Choose the closest behavior your light output follows.
Flicker Index is unitless; only relative shape matters.
0–100%. Used only for PWM model.
Models diffuser/capacitor persistence (approx).
Higher = smoother preview (minor CPU cost).
Show Work (step-by-step)
—
Flicker Index is computed from one cycle: FI = AreaAboveAvg / TotalArea.

Reference

Flicker Index is a ratio based on the waveform over one period (unitless). This tool estimates it from simplified models.

Term Meaning
Average Mean output over one cycle.
Area Above Avg Integrated area where waveform is above the average line.
Total Area Integrated area under the waveform over one cycle.
Flicker Index FI = AreaAboveAvg / TotalArea

For compliance measurements, use a proper photodiode + sampling chain and the relevant standard methods.

FAQ

Is Flicker Index the same as Percent Flicker?

No. Percent Flicker uses (Max − Min) / (Max + Min). Flicker Index depends on the waveform shape and the area above average.

What should I put for “Min” and “Max”?

Use relative values (0–100%) if you can. Otherwise any consistent units work (arbitrary). The index is unitless.

Why is this labeled “Approx”?

Because real drivers can create non-ideal waveforms and sensor bandwidth can change what you observe. This tool uses simplified waveform models or your custom samples.

Can this tool read a waveform from a file?

Not in this version. Utilities Bunker tools avoid uploads by default. If you paste samples, the tool can compute from them.

Tool Info

Last updated:

Updates may include improved waveform models, additional input modes, and edge-case handling.