I have a 32, and all mine are on auto by following the instruction booklet. Not sure why you wouldn't be able to put it on auto. When I first set up my tank I had a similar schedule as they are talking about and got a huge algae bloom, but limited my lights for a week and it's back under control. Slowly been upping my "on time" to find a good equilibrium... but don't currently have any corals.
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