ReefKeeper Moonlights

[mpderksen]

There are moonlight kits from Digital Aquatics that plug right into my ALC module. They are available in Blue, White or Red. Since I have 2 ALC, I can have a total of 4 pods (two for each). Over a 4' tank, I was thinking of having a blue on each end, and two whites in the middle. I could have the whites come on with a separate timer.
The question is if that's too much, or if a different mix would be better. I have no idea yet what kind of spread they have.

 

[DaveMorris]

They are pretty bright so I would think four would be fine. I only use white when I use moonlights.

 

[supra400hptt]

I use two in the middle of a 4 ft set at 80%. During a full moon they are really bright. Rest of the time the ends of the tank are almost completely dark. I'd probably do 4 around 50~70%. I use white because it looks more natural to me. Moonlight isn't blue or red.

 

[mpderksen]

Do you know if the ALC can dim the moonlight pods? It has great control over the LEDs through the 1-10v ports, but not sure about the pod plugs.

If so, I can start with 2 and see if I want more. I like the dim blue to view the tank in the evening. But thought white in the middle would look nicer.

 

[supra400hptt]

There are two controls the ALC or MLC applies. One, maximum brightness you set. I set mine to 80%. I read on the DA forums somewhere they recommended less than 100% for longevity of the moon leds. Then the ALC will vary the intensity over the month simulating the moon cycle. Some parts of the month it's at full brightness, i.e. full moon, other times moon lights are completely off, i.e. no moon. Rest of the time it's somewhere in between depending on the phase.

I use it strictly for the moon simulation, not for night viewing like you sound like you want to do. Although for most of the month there is some amount of moon light to where you can see what's going on in the tank.

 

[mpderksen]

Awesome, thanks. I plan on two ALC total because the Rapid led kit I'm getting has 4 drivers.
So I could put 2 moonlight one one with whites nearer the middle and run the moon cycle you mention, but keep 2 blue ones further out and set them at whatever intensity I like.

If running them dimmer shortens the life it's not a big deal since they are only $10. I thought only the 1-10V ports could be controlled for intensity. If I can set the moonlight ports to, say, 75% for he viewing level I like! then even better.

They also sell red, which I don't get at all..

 

[supra400hptt]

Fish and other animals in the tank don't really seem to notice red so they go about their usual business. This lets you observe them at night. White, red, blue, just a matter of preference.