DIY HID lighting

[5ft24]

Wondering how the lighting from a pair of 35 watt automotive HID lamps would work for a reef...
They can be had in kits of 2 for about 100 bucks, and come from 5000K up to 15,000K
Each unit runs off 12V at about 4 amps... Have also seen newer HID ballasts that are 55W each with Bulbs.

 

[bella aqua]

check out rapidleds.com

 

[IEreefmaster]

Already been done @ NAA. You can run them directly off a car battery, as they are ran on a 12v system

 

[ieGlenn_2316]

i have converted my automotive lights to these HID conversions. i have wondered about how they'd look and work on a reef tank. have you tried it 5ft24? i have some off road 55w with internal ballasts....

 

[jkinros]

I think if you can get the right color and the proper reflector for the right spread. Then in theory it works... Riiight?

 

[james-lee]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWNB9L9yi7M

 

[james-lee]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kCGr38yWUeU&NR=1

 

[Clifford]

Dave already run them on an SPS dominated tank. In order to get the right intensity from them you need to go with 6k. For the right look either really good led or just two t5. If you going lps or softies use the 30k with led and it will really pop. I test run every bulb and color. In addition, if your thinking of the 55watt they don't put out really any more considering the bulb is the same and the ballast is different (not worth the money imo). Let me know if you want anymore info on these.

 

[IEreefmaster]

I remember the tank setup at the shop. The finger coral loved these, it was huge! But I don't think it is practical in the long run IMO.