Starting to doubt I-Bars...opinions?

[SeanT]

Whereas I like the fact that the GHL I-bars are dimmable, I am beginning to doubt their effectiveness due to the large amount of space they take up versus the number of bulbs they hold.

Example:
With 22" of width two T5 units , such as the Fauna Marin UltraSolaris, hold 12 bulbs.
In that same space the GHL I-Bars only hold 6.

A 2 to 1 disparity.

My thinking is that with such large gaps between the bulbs I will not be able to give my reef enough light.

Opinions?

Sean

 

[jamesdawson]

I think its only a problem (having 1/2 the approximate Par over the same given area) if you are only using T5 for your lighting. If the T5 is going to be supplemental to MH then its probably not a problem.

My 2 cents,

James

 

[SeanT]

T5 is my only lighting, not a supplement.

Since I have them all ready to go on the new tank, I will try them out and see what problems, if any, their are.

Sean

 

[jamesdawson]

Good luck and let us know

James

 

[ReefRockerLive]

I would have went with the FM UltraSolaris for the 12 bulbs. For the dimming capability you could have either requested the fixtures with these kind of ballasts or purchased the GHL dimmable ballasts.

This way you could have had 12 bulbs, plus the dimable feature. A tank of your size will not do well with just 6 T5 bulbs, too many gaps like you said. JMO

 

[SeanT]

Well, my tank is going to have 18 bulbs.
1, 6 bulb UltraSolaris and 6, 2 bulb I-Bars.


Sean

 

[Creetin]

I am sure FM could send the dimmable versions with euro ballasts. You would need a step up transformer though.
I almost went that way with the ATI model which I HEARD alot of german profilux users have ATI fixture's. Fully controllable mind you 1-10v.

 

[AQD_ottawa]

Yes FM did do the Solaris fully dimmable in 54 watt for NA customers but due to the work on new concept lighting these will not be available. However any exisiting 54 watt units can still be modified to dimmable