Radion TIR Lenses

[AcroporAddict]

The Reefbuilder's blog posted about these, and they alone are supposed to increase the Radion's light output by 30% without any additional modifications simply by dropping them into the unit (also replaces the splash guard). There are also 4 additional openings in the TIR lens vs the old one, and RB speculated these were for new LED pucks with 4 more LEDs. But instead, since the TIR stands for Total Internal Reflection, couldn't the 4 additional openings just be outlets for some of the additional internally reflected light to be directed downward, and not necessarily a lens for more LEDs?

 

[BigKahuna]

The Reefbuilder's blog posted about these, and they alone are supposed to increase the Radion's light output by 30% without any additional modifications simply by dropping them into the unit (also replaces the splash guard). There are also 4 additional openings in the TIR lens vs the old one, and RB speculated these were for new LED pucks with 4 more LEDs. But instead, since the TIR stands for Total Internal Reflection, couldn't the 4 additional openings just be outlets for some of the additional internally reflected light to be directed downward, and not necessarily a lens for more LEDs?

If the light was reflected to another lens it would stop being a TIR lens. Even though it's one unit it they are really all discrete lenses. I would assume the mold costs are not insignificant for something as complicated as a TIR lens, otherwise they would be more common than regular lenses and reflectors, so they figured they might as well make it work for a future upgrade with more LED's while they were at is so they didn't have to invest in another mold.

ETA- I know Ecotech is very secretive about their future products, as they have every right to be, but in this case the cat is already out of the bag. I am looking foward to more info on these like how much and when they will be available.

 

[AcroporAddict]

If the light was reflected to another lens it would stop being a TIR lens. Even though it's one unit it they are really all discrete lenses. I would assume the mold costs are not insignificant for something as QUOTE]

OK thanks. I thought the lens might funnel some light to the new openings. Not familiar with the technical aspects of TIR lenses. Does make sense to mold in the additional lenses if they are planning more LEDs.

 

[Mrcat]

They look like they are quality lenses and a definite improvement to the stock lens. Be curious to see if they move all new units to this lens or if they will keep it as a premium upgrade.

 

[rgauvin]

if the reviews pan out, and the cost isn't too much, those Lens will be a worthwhile upgrade but if the cost is something like 300~ it'd almost make more money to just buy an additional radion if more light is desired