  The subject of calculating the topological charge (TC) or vortex strength of
optical vortices has generated divided opinions among scientists. This is due
to the fact that proper analytical results are hard to support from the
experimental point of view, leading to different results and conclusions. In
this work we will present numerical data that shows the limits of TC
measurements for practical fractional vortices and the possible challenges that
high order measurements may pose. By analyzing the far field phase and the
behavior of the transitions we have shown that they follow specific curves that
depend not only on the TC but also on the beam waist. This leads us to present
a new "strength staircase" for practical vortices. Our aim is to give some
insight in practical scenarios that have not been taken into account in
previous results.
