DIY led actinc "strip light" T5 supplement question

dburt520 · Nov 3, 2017

I originally posted this in the DIY section, but think it actually should be here instead.

I am getting ready to wrap up the lighting portion of my build (180gal 72x28x21 DPS dominate). I was going to use just 8 LET MIRO4 60" T5's (already purchased) however am now thinking I may go with 6 t5s and build 2 60" diy led acting strips (it will be in a canopy which is why I am looking at diy vs. a pair of reefbrites).

My main goals are of course coral "pop" and adding some shimmer to my tank.

I am unsure how many leds per foot are recommended for a setup like this, and would I be best to use all RB, or mix in some of the 410nM HyperViolet leds. I was thinking the following configuration per every foot:

Rb Rb HV Rb Rb

Any suggestions or comments that can help me? I have done a few DIY led projects but it was back when you just bought rb/cw chips at a 4:1 ratio - was pretty straight forward.

reefndude · Nov 3, 2017

I built 2 60" led bars. I used 27 3 watt leds per bar. All royal blues. Ended using 4 drivers total for the build

dburt520 · Nov 3, 2017

Did you happen to document the build anywhere?

reefndude · Nov 3, 2017

I didn't. I actually just pulled them out yesterday. I can take some pictures of it if you want to see it

dburt520 · Nov 3, 2017

Hmmm, mind if I asked why you removed them? Yes, would love to see a pic.

reefndude · Nov 3, 2017

I switched tanks. It was originally over a 125. New tank is a 250 5 ft. I removed them to cut to fit new tank. I will get some pics for you in just a few minutes

reefndude · Nov 3, 2017

Ran these along with 4 b+ and 2 c+ bulbs. Loved the color and was very happy with the coral growth and color

reefndude · Nov 3, 2017

Sorry for the duplicate pictures

dburt520 · Nov 4, 2017

That's exactly what I am looking for!

Do you happen to have any pics of your tank? Did you run the leds for the entire light cycle or just for sunrise / sunset, and off during peak?

Thank you!