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Reports that the machine generates is accurate and more accurate than a sphere test and separate goniometer test. The reason the IES files are going to work for you guys is because you can mount the light at 18 inches and see exactly how it will spread and the par levels at the canopy on a very easy to use free to download program before you have made a purchase. You would be very surprised how some lights spread at different heights. Basically if I do a test then it eliminates the need to use a hand held par meter as it can all be done on a computer.
Regarding how far field measurements work it is just how the machine works and isn't really relevant to what you guys want to see, it's more of a technical thing about accuracy in a goniometer test. My machine makes it very accurate.