ballast/bulb question??

[waterdog]

Not sure if the New hobbyist place is the right place to post this, but here it goes. Can the IceCap 660 run metal halides too?? I have heard that hit can run up to 4 VHOs or 4PCs but someone told me that it could run MHs too.
I know that they are a great ballast but when looking to buy one they are only listed under the VHO ballast listing. If someone could please shed some light on the for me I would appreciate it. Also, for lighting a tank where I might keep SPSs, should I go with 250W MHs or the 400s? What are the benefits/deficits? Thanks again everyone!!

 

[thomas712]

Did a search on MH ballast just today, there is info out there for you. Kip is right it will take a MH ballast to run a MH bulb, normally one for one bulb each, they do seem to make two in one ballasts that can drive two bulbs but they become larger and bulkier.
Is this for your 55 or the 37? I can figure the 55 but what are the dimentions of the 37?
Thomas

 

[waterdog]

sorry, should have been more specific. This is for my 37, but the key is to make something that I can expand to a larger tank once I get out of school and have more time (and money). The dimensions of the 37 are 24.5" L X 18.5" W X 21.5" H.
I have looked at the dual light ballasts and have also come to the conclusion that they are too bulky.
Even if I just decide to get another PC fixture I would like the info on the halides. Espesially if there really is much of a difference between 250 and 400W except in an abnormally deep tank. Thanks again for all the help, I hope I filled in all the holes.
Keith