T5 lamp PAR readings

[Red Sea Purple Tang]

Hey Guys! Tom brought this link up as we're getting some T5's. Just thought I'd pass it along. This info was not done by me:

"OK, Here's the latest readings taken with the lamps running on a triad ballast. The numbers are only good for comparison here. Previous readings I took were with a different ballast and reflector so don't try to compare the two. "

ATI

Sun Pro 357
Aquablue 336
Blue Plus 311
Actinic 137

D&D/Giesemann

Midday 325
Aquablue 324
Actinic Plus 264
Pure Actinic 157

UVL

Aqua sun 345
Actinic White 293
Super Actinic 210

AquaZ

Sun Pro 285
Ocean Pro 323
Blue Pro 266

Helios

Daylight 309
Super Blue 225

Current Sun Paq

Daylight 10K 272
Blue 252

GE Daylight 340

 

[horkn]

those tests were done by the grim reefer.

he also has test numbers when a 54w is overdriven by a IC ballast. the numbers are staggering when IC overdriven. let me find those #s for you.

 

[prugs]

ATI
Blue Plus 311

D&D/Giesemann
Actinic Plus 264


Anthony, that's why I'm going with the ATI's.

 

[smketyr]

Are you running this for actinic supplements ?

Tom

 

[prugs]

Tom,
I really don't need actinic supplementation with the 14K Phoenix HQI lamps.
What I do need is some dusk/dawn/cloudy day lighting. And to grow more coraline algae. Although my tank is really pink already, thanks to Purpleup.
It would be interesting to see what these lamps would do if I had whiter HQI lamps.

 

[smketyr]

Your lights are dead on perfect. Great color and looks like you have good growth. I am considering T5's. If the boss ok's a larger tank again. The 120 leak is still a sore spot with her, but she thinks the nano is too small. I like your halides, they ARO pendants if I remember, with 14K. What ballast are you using?
I'm at a crossroad now on what lighting I want.

 

[prugs]

PFO mini pendants, but there are better pendants out there now.
I'm using EVC HQI electronic ballasts. ARO HQI electronic ballasts would be my choice for replacement.
Premium Aquatics had a PFO 250watt HQI electronic setup for a good price also.