S
siptang
Guest
As requested by Seth, I will be documenting my new build of LED build up.
My aim.
1.) Currently in my set up I have a custom center bar going horizontally across my tank in my canopy and my aim is to create two strips of LEDs that will be mounted or zip tied to the center bar.
2.) Create different light scenarios that I can control with my apex controller.
3.) Strong, energy efficient unit that can sustain SPS corals with full colors.
4.) Create full spectrum of light that will help will enhance the colors like top LED brands.
5.) Make this project as CHEAP as humanely possible and make it good at the same time.
First of all, most important thing is colors. I found these aluminum pcb circuit board that has 6 spots for every foot and my tank is 4ft and needing total of 8 ft I needed to get 48 lights.
I was considering large power LEDs then changed my mind to go with conventional 3w bulbs (easier to replace if one were to go out)
I have purchased 10 20000k Cool white, 22 Extreme Royal Blue, 10 UV (also gives that purple tint), 3 Red and 3 Green bulbs. (1 in the left, 1 in the middle and 1 on the right)
All of the LEDs come with 120 degree lenses which is fine for the color bulbs but I want intensity for the white bulbs and I ordered degree lenses for whites. 22 awg wire for the hooking them together and 3 water proof LED for 12 bulbs each. (colors) and 1 dimmable driver with dim kit for the whites so I don't kill off all of my sps.
Based on my tank height and amount of lights I'm putting in, it should be equivalent to dual 400w MH.
After I construct this, I will be housing it in aluminum casing from home depot and painting in black to match my canopy.
I just ordered it.
Total cost $160.
I'm expecting to spend 30 more dollars on the housing and power cord.
I will post beginning construction, during, after and PAR readings at the end.
My aim.
1.) Currently in my set up I have a custom center bar going horizontally across my tank in my canopy and my aim is to create two strips of LEDs that will be mounted or zip tied to the center bar.
2.) Create different light scenarios that I can control with my apex controller.
3.) Strong, energy efficient unit that can sustain SPS corals with full colors.
4.) Create full spectrum of light that will help will enhance the colors like top LED brands.
5.) Make this project as CHEAP as humanely possible and make it good at the same time.
First of all, most important thing is colors. I found these aluminum pcb circuit board that has 6 spots for every foot and my tank is 4ft and needing total of 8 ft I needed to get 48 lights.
I was considering large power LEDs then changed my mind to go with conventional 3w bulbs (easier to replace if one were to go out)
I have purchased 10 20000k Cool white, 22 Extreme Royal Blue, 10 UV (also gives that purple tint), 3 Red and 3 Green bulbs. (1 in the left, 1 in the middle and 1 on the right)
All of the LEDs come with 120 degree lenses which is fine for the color bulbs but I want intensity for the white bulbs and I ordered degree lenses for whites. 22 awg wire for the hooking them together and 3 water proof LED for 12 bulbs each. (colors) and 1 dimmable driver with dim kit for the whites so I don't kill off all of my sps.
Based on my tank height and amount of lights I'm putting in, it should be equivalent to dual 400w MH.
After I construct this, I will be housing it in aluminum casing from home depot and painting in black to match my canopy.
I just ordered it.
Total cost $160.
I'm expecting to spend 30 more dollars on the housing and power cord.
I will post beginning construction, during, after and PAR readings at the end.
