The T5 Q&a Thread

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Currently running 2X250w mh in luminarcs with no supplementation. Would like to add something to get a little more fluoresce from my SPS. Was looking at maybe adding a 2X48" T5 retro and need to know if that is enough T5 so that my mh wouldn't completely drown them out? What retro kit would you suggest and why if 2X48 inch will be enough. Also which bulbs would you suggest? I'm not looking for more light just more pop. Thanks in advance.
 
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12076251#post12076251 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by TwistedTiger
Currently running 2X250w mh in luminarcs with no supplementation. Would like to add something to get a little more fluoresce from my SPS. Was looking at maybe adding a 2X48" T5 retro and need to know if that is enough T5 so that my mh wouldn't completely drown them out? What retro kit would you suggest and why if 2X48 inch will be enough. Also which bulbs would you suggest? I'm not looking for more light just more pop. Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...

I have 2 X 250w 14k MH and I just added 2 X 54w T5 Tru 03 actinics. I got the kit from Hellolights. It was just what it needed.

Here is the kit: http://www.hellolights.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=1369

They still have the special for the bulbs $10 each! $137 shipped for everything!

Paul
 
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12076304#post12076304 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Paul_PSU
I have 2 X 250w 14k MH and I just added 2 X 54w T5 Tru 03 actinics. I got the kit from Hellolights. It was just what it needed.

Here is the kit: http://www.hellolights.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=1369

They still have the special for the bulbs $10 each! $137 shipped for everything!

Paul
Click to expand...
Thanks for the response. Are the Tru bulbs considered quality bulbs like ATI or URL?
 
I am new to T5's also, but several people told me to get those particular bulbs. I am very happy with the color.

Paul
 
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12077022#post12077022 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Paul_PSU
I am new to T5's also, but several people told me to get those particular bulbs. I am very happy with the color.

Paul
Click to expand...
which bulbs? TRU bulbs?
 
grim, i finally got my lights!!!! the install went flawlessly too! I ordered the 4x54w ic t5 w/ a pair of 660s

Heres my questions... first did i put them in the right order?

front
blue+
super actinic
aquasun
blue+



second question... i put the first 2 bulbs for my morning/night effects for about 3 hours then all the bulbs come on for about 6 hours and then the first 2 bulbs again for the last 3 hours. Did i choose the right fixture/bulb combo for morn/night effect? also should i change my hour setup?(i plan on keeping a full mixed reef)

third question... Can i simply acclimate by leaving the first 2 bulbs on longer in the morn/and night and use the full 4 bulbs for only 2-3 hours a day for a week or so? (i dont want to have to buy screen material if i dont have to)

Also, can i mount the ballasts w/ the heatsink to the underside of my stand? (on the underside of the wood where my tank sits) it was where my old ballasts were and they were out of the way.

Thanks grim and im looking forward to your responses!!! by the way the setup is awesome and thanks for all your help dude!
 
what would be the best lighting for a 36"x13"x24"tall mixed reef Aussi biotope...

TX5 Series Aquactinics 36" 5

Icecap 24" 4 Lamp T5 Retro Kit w/ 660 ballast

Icecap 36" 4 Lamp T5 Retro Kit w/ 660 ballast

36" Tek Light: 4-39W T5 High-Output Fixture

24" 4x24W Powermodule T5 High-Output Fixture

36" 2x39W Powermodule T5 High-Output Fixture

36" 4x39W Powermodule T5 High-Output Fixture

or I would be open to any other suggestions.

Thanks
 
what would be the best lighting for a 36"x13"x24"tall mixed reef Aussi biotope.

TX5 Series Aquactinics 36" 5

Icecap 24" 4 Lamp T5 Retro Kit w/ 660 ballast

Icecap 36" 4 Lamp T5 Retro Kit w/ 660 ballast

36" Tek Light: 4-39W T5 High-Output Fixture

24" 4x24W Powermodule T5 High-Output Fixture

36" 2x39W Powermodule T5 High-Output Fixture

36" 4x39W Powermodule T5 High-Output Fixture

or I would be open to any other suggestions.

Thanks
 
Grim,

What bulb configuration would you recommend for a Tech light, six bulb array for a 75 gallon tank with SPS, clams and either a H. Crispa or an M Doreensis anemone?
 
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12078083#post12078083 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by DazedandConfuse
Grim,

What bulb configuration would you recommend for a Tech light, six bulb array for a 75 gallon tank with SPS, clams and either a H. Crispa or an M Doreensis anemone?
Click to expand...
Oops. That should have been TEK light! That's what happens when I post in the middle of the night! :)
 
Grim I have a tek 8x54w and my bulbs or
ati12k abs
uvl sa
ati b+(4)of this
ati pro color
uvl75/25 14k

How would you place these in the fixture.
 
Grim-

I think I have settled on the Aquactinic Constellation for my 90g.

I can get a good price on a new fixture and you say they are equal to the ATI fixture. I was having a hard time deciding between the two and then I found out I could get the Constellation at a good price.

Question: Bulbs- I have no clue. ATI and UVL seem to be the thing. Also I'm reading a Blue plus and tru actinic for dawn/dust.

What about the other 5 bulbs. What ones do I use? If you could me names with brands would be much appreciated :) Looking to keep sps (upper half more then likely) and would like to be able to keep clams in the sand.

Once again thank you, I see your very busy with all these questions. Your doing a super job. :D

I will be ordering my setup as soon as I know what bulbs to include hehe.
 
Re: Decisions...

Re: Decisions...

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12073895#post12073895 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Frozn
Well after looking at other options. I could convert my current coralife fixture from 150w to 250w for $450ish with bulbs and shipping.. Maybe a little more. This would put me at 500w MH and 184w actinics. total of 684w

On the other hand I could do an Aquactinic Constellation with bulbs for about $800 shipped. Which would only be running 54w x7 = 378w But I think they run at 80w a piece?? I thought I read that somewhere if true then that would be 560w.

So, now if I converted to 250w I also have lots more heat and power usage. But a cheaper initial cost.

If I run the T5s then I pay more but might save more in the long run, could avoid possible heat problems and have more flexable lighting. Plus, a brand new fixture.

Last question- What would the differance in light penatration to the bottom of the tank between 2 -250w MHs or the Constellation T5s.

I would like to be able to keep my clams at the bottom with out any ill effects. Obviously SPS at the top is not a problem since I'm doing that now.
Click to expand...

The constellation doesn't overdrive the T5's, the Solar Flare does.

You need to replace the sockets when you upgrade the halide fixture. Make sure they will fit the reflector.

I suspect the penetration is going to be close, With premium reflectors like PFO minis or Reefoptix the halide would have a advantage, maybe.
 
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12075133#post12075133 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by bakana
If I was going to do t5's for a 90 gallon with NO SPS. Meaning LPS: scolymia frogspawn torches, Leathers, Brains, Zoas and Palys would 4 be enough? Also, what brand bulb type would work best?
Click to expand...

Should be fine.

ATI Blue Plus
UVL Super Actinic
UVL Aquasun
ATI Aquablue
 
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12075813#post12075813 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Frozn
ATI in the US!? I thought they where still in germany..

http://www.reefgeek.com/lighting/T5...h__6x54W_Powermodule_T5_High-Output_Fixture_w!_Bulbs_by_ATI

This would cost the same as the aquactinics constellation. Only difference is ATI has 6bulbs not 7..

So which one wins, the ATI or the constellation at the same price.
Click to expand...

I would look at the design of the fixtures and decide wich you like best. they will be close in output.
 
Hi
grim
i currently have 2 nova extreme (4x54) total 8bulbs on standard 75 gallon with some zoos and mushrooms.

first question how high should i keep the lights?

and second will i be able to put clams and sps?
 
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12076251#post12076251 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by TwistedTiger
Currently running 2X250w mh in luminarcs with no supplementation. Would like to add something to get a little more fluoresce from my SPS. Was looking at maybe adding a 2X48" T5 retro and need to know if that is enough T5 so that my mh wouldn't completely drown them out? What retro kit would you suggest and why if 2X48 inch will be enough. Also which bulbs would you suggest? I'm not looking for more light just more pop. Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...

I'd go with the 4 lamp Ice Cap normally driven retro using 3 Blue Plus and 1 Super Actinic lamp.

If you only have room for 2 do the Blue Plus.
 
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12077932#post12077932 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ghstrider
grim, i finally got my lights!!!! the install went flawlessly too! I ordered the 4x54w ic t5 w/ a pair of 660s

Heres my questions... first did i put them in the right order?

front
blue+
super actinic
aquasun
blue+



second question... i put the first 2 bulbs for my morning/night effects for about 3 hours then all the bulbs come on for about 6 hours and then the first 2 bulbs again for the last 3 hours. Did i choose the right fixture/bulb combo for morn/night effect? also should i change my hour setup?(i plan on keeping a full mixed reef)

third question... Can i simply acclimate by leaving the first 2 bulbs on longer in the morn/and night and use the full 4 bulbs for only 2-3 hours a day for a week or so? (i dont want to have to buy screen material if i dont have to)

Also, can i mount the ballasts w/ the heatsink to the underside of my stand? (on the underside of the wood where my tank sits) it was where my old ballasts were and they were out of the way.

Thanks grim and im looking forward to your responses!!! by the way the setup is awesome and thanks for all your help dude!
Click to expand...

Yes to all
 
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