VHO ballast question

[jaybob]

I recently got an IceCap 430-008 ballast new...for free (long story) http://www.marinedepot.com/ps_ViewItem.aspx?idproduct=IC1111,
I'd like to use it on my 90 gallon for sure, but Im not quite sure what I'd all need to DIY or what lighting would be the best use for it. The tank has a few softies and leathers, and it could use a bit more light I think.

Right now, Im using a dual T12 actinic fixture, and a dual PC 10k fixture.

Any suggestions? Thanks

[David Grigor]

I believe the max you could use would be 3 48" VHO bulbs with a 430.

If it came complete with the heatsink and wiring harness, then all you need is the bulbs ( Likely will want to get VHO bulbs with internal reflectors ) and to buy a set of endcaps with standoffs ( standoffs are usually sold seperately ). Expect to pay about $15 a pair for endcaps with standoff.

Go to icecapinc.com for the wiring diagrams ( 2 bulb diagrams is printed on the ballst. 1 bulb and 3 bulb diagrams on the website ). Everything is color coded and push in so wiring is not difficult.

[gogregerson]

I believe the max you could use would be 3 48" VHO bulbs with a 430.

If it came complete with the heatsink and wiring harness, then all you need is the bulbs ( Likely will want to get VHO bulbs with internal reflectors ) and to buy a set of endcaps with standoffs ( standoffs are usually sold seperately ). Expect to pay about $15 a pair for endcaps with standoff.

Go to icecapinc.com for the wiring diagrams ( 2 bulb diagrams is printed on the ballst. 1 bulb and 3 bulb diagrams on the website ). Everything is color coded and push in so wiring is not difficult.

Why is it nessasary to have standoffs?

[MNGold15]

Why is it nessasary to have standoffs?

I dont think it is if you have a way to mount them. Stand offs just make it easier to mount the endcaps.

[David Grigor]

Easier to mount with standoffs less chance of crimping the wires but can be done without. In the grand scheme of things.....most people can afford an extra $5.

[gogregerson]

Got it, I only asked because I didn't use the standoffs that came with my VHO retro kit.

[jaybob]

I was thinking 3 bulbs also. Nice to know that Im at least on the right track. 2 daylight actinic and 1 blue actinic? OH, and it did come with the wiring harness and heat sink.

I do have a canopy and would be nice to mount it underneath, but I might have to do a little modifying so all the bulbs fit on the lid (the hinge is in the middle of the canopy). I'll do some searching for a similar set-up and see how others have done it...hopefully someone has.

thanks again

[mattb]

I think I have two VHO endcaps and standoffs, you can have them if you want....

[MNGold15]

I was thinking 3 bulbs also. Nice to know that Im at least on the right track. 2 daylight actinic and 1 blue actinic? OH, and it did come with the wiring harness and heat sink.

I do have a canopy and would be nice to mount it underneath, but I might have to do a little modifying so all the bulbs fit on the lid (the hinge is in the middle of the canopy). I'll do some searching for a similar set-up and see how others have done it...hopefully someone has.

thanks again

Personally I would do 2 UVL super actinics, and one daylight bulb. Personally I like a much more blue spectrum, but it is all about what looks best to you.

[jaybob]

I'll just order the 3 pair of end caps, but thanks for the offer Matt. Figure I need to get 2 anyhow.

The GF likes the white look, I like the blue look...what to do, what to do....

[mattb]

I also like the white look :) The 2 UVL SA and one dailylight would be pretty blue though...

[mtfatwork]

just pick up 2 of each and then you can mix and match till you get the color you like. It never hurts to have an extra bulb laying around anyway :)

[jaybob]

My lights came and Im ready to install them. The stand and canopy that I have is AGA oak, and it looks like there is room for 3 lights on the lid, but there is plenty of room behind the lid.

few questions

1. Placement of the bulbs. should I put all 3 on the lid? It seems that this would focus all the light on the front third of the tank, or should I spread out the light and put 2 on the lid and one behind it.

2. Where should I install the ballast? there is plenty of wire to put it outside the canopy.

3. Heat issues, should I router out some vents in the canopy for fans, or just direct a small fan from the back. Or other suggestions.

4. Glass or no glass. I have covers on the tank now, but maybe I should take them off? makes sense to keep the bulbs protected somehow though

If anyone knows off hand of some DIY guides to lead me through it, that would be fantastic

thanks

[David Grigor]

You want to spread the bulbs fairly evenly so if that means putting one or two behind the lid then so be it.

Best to mount the ballast on the back of the canopy. Not in the canopy and not under the tank. Greater humidity there and more likely to get water damage.

Glass or no glass is up to you. Glass blocks about 10% of the light but when winter time comes and more evaporation occurs you may need to put the back on.

With VHOs just as long as there is some air movement will be fine. Placement of the fan is as important as other lighting configs. Can never hurt to vent as much as you can and not butcher the canopy.