Building 33gal hood

[beginnermatt]

Because of this weird shaped tank the lighting has been a problem. To correct this I want to build a hood and install some vho lighting. Hamiltontechnolgy.com sells ballasts assembled and unassembled. Does anyone have pics to explain this and would it be cheaper to buy the addition parts? Also, are fans needed for this type of lighting. Thanks in advance.

 

[justinl]

What wierd shape would that be?
Unassembled would be this:

which is just the ballast or this:

which is the ballast, endcaps, and power cord.
Assembled would be this:

You'll thank yourself later for going with the assembled. Spend the extra money and save yourself some frustration.
Also, fans greatly reduce the heat given off by VHO's and I would strongly recommend getting one at radio shack or whatever.