Smallest MH?

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caryn_ia

Guest
Does anyone know of a very small metal halide? What is the smallest size that you know of? All imputs are welcomed! :D
 
marvida

marvida

Member
I don't know of any 50w bulbs that are of the right color temp. The smallest MH for this hobby that I'm familiar with is a 70w HQI. Bulbs available for this wattage are 6.5K & 10K.
 
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caryn_ia

Guest
All around size. I already have enough light, but no MH. So just looking for some supplemental light.
 
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caryn_ia

Guest
Also, if you know of anyone who does bare bones kits (do it yourself wiring, etc.) Trying not to spend $250 on a 70wt lamp...but, I won't just say forget it. So any other ideas?
 
marvida

marvida

Member
If you put a 70w over your 70 gallon, you won't even see the glimmer. I just upgraded my ten gallon, removing a 70w HQI because I needed more light.
 
marvida

marvida

Member
As far as a DIY project, the 70w HQI has got to be the easiest! buy a 500w DE halogen yardlight, an M85 ballast and a couple of short extension cords and you're good to go. The 70w HQI will fit into the 500w halogen socket. So you get the fixture, socket, heat resistant wiring, and glass shield for less than $10.
 
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caryn_ia

Guest
I'm sorry, didn't specify tank size. It's not for the 70, I have 350wts MH over that. It's for a very small tank I'm going to start, and I'm trying to get some info.
 
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caryn_ia

Guest
Unfortunatly, I don't think that would work, though it's a good idea to keep for future knowledge (maybe another tank). But I think the tubes are going to be too long.
 
marvida

marvida

Member
Oh, sorry about that!
If you can do the wiring, this is what I did:
M85 ballast off of ---- $24
70w HQI 10K Ushio $70
2 3 prong extension cords $7
1 halogen yard light $7
 
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caryn_ia

Guest
Yes! getting closer, a little confused about the halogen light thou. Can you also give me a little direction on this. I can do the wiring, but suppliers, what you're using it for....(nano???) email is above if needed. Thanks!
 
marvida

marvida

Member
Here's a photo of the type of light I'm talking about. I was going to take some pics of the system I made but the battery on my camera is dead. If it's OK, I'll email you more information & photographs tomorrow.
 
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caryn_ia

Guest
So you were using the halogen for the reflector and base, right? Yes please e-mail me. I am searching e-bay as I type.
 
marvida

marvida

Member
Yep, you also get the UV shield and the socket. Both the halogen bulb and the 70w DE are the same length. Just make sure that you measure the halogen because I think they are less than universal.
I'll send you an email.
 
bang guy

bang guy

Moderator

Originally posted by MarVida
Yep, you also get the UV shield and the socket. Both the halogen bulb and the 70w DE are the same length. Just make sure that you measure the halogen because I think they are less than universal.

That's pretty sweet!
 
marvida

marvida

Member
This is what I was refering to comparing the size of the halogen tube to the 70w HQI. The main thing to remember is that while there is only one size of 70w MH, I think there may be a couple of different lengths available for 500w halogen. Just remember to physically measure the socket in the fixture you buy. I am putting together more detailed instructions for this DIY project for Caryn_IA & if anyone else would like a copy drop me an email at harmskwATyahooDOTcom
The halogen is the top bulb
 
footbag

footbag

Active Member
I have used both the AB and the Ushio 70w's. I prefer the AB. I think that Ushio's look yellow, maybe it's just me. I have it over a 7g minibow. Pics to be posted soon.
 
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