ATI Lighting Placement Options

[RealReef]

Be out of the hobby for over a year due to move and how ready to start back in. Had successful 55 setup, thanks to this forum, and moving to 120 - 180 setup. First concern is lighting options as I want some SPS. Looking at the feasibility of install a ATI T5 setup in a hood. Will this work or do I need to look at retro units?

 

[Henry Bowman]

The ATI's have fan's on the top of the unit. You would have to allow for those fans and an opening to allow the fans to pull air in from the ends of the light.

 

[RealReef]

Thanks for the feedback. Any suggestions on a similar type unit that may be more adaptable to placement in a hood?

 

[salty child 79]

48" IceCap retro w/ 6-8 bulbs depending on how many sps you want and the dimensions of the tank.

 

[Stanley-Reefer]

get your hole saw out and put in some vents above the fans in the unit along with one bringing in cool air from the room.

 

[RealReef]

Thanks again for your responses. I am leaning towards the Ocecanic Utimate 158 which is 60 x 24 x 25. I am debating going acrylic but scratches scare me as I know the tank needs to be scraped. I know enough that you need to do the right thing the first time and lighting is as important as a good skimmer. I like the appearance of a hood and the functionality of an ATI unit. If a few mods to the hood can accomodate this unit then it will work for me.

Only additional question is will a 48" x 10 x 54w or 60" x 6 x 80w unit be more appropriate. I assume the 6" at either end would be the issue re coral placement.