Looking for MH info

[TriggerFinger]

I’m looking for information on metal halide lighting. I don’t know ANYTHING about these...how do I know what’s sufficient for my tank size? I have a 90g, 48x18x24 high. I would prefer two separate fixtures vs one long fixture. Can someone point me to a good read that explains all the component differences?

 

[GoVols]

I’m looking for information on metal halide lighting. I don’t know ANYTHING about these...how do I know what’s sufficient for my tank size? I have a 90g, 48x18x24 high. I would prefer two separate fixtures vs one long fixture. Can someone point me to a good read that explains all the component differences?

https://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article.cfm?articleid=1039

FWIW:
I'd go with an good MH/T5 fixture.

 

[TriggerFinger]

https://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article.cfm?articleid=1039

FWIW:
I'd go with an good MH/T5 fixture.

Exactly the type of thing I was looking for. Thank you! Do you run a mh t5 combo? If so, which one?

 

[GoVols]

Do you run a mh t5 combo? If so, which one?

Not anymore. My wife would shot me (if I went back) unless it was the Giesemann Spectra.

At the time I could not find it in a 36" wide. Looks like they got it now.

https://www.coralvue.com/giesemann-spectra-se-metal-halide-t5-fixture-iridium

 

[RCS82]

The Giesemann spectra is a looker and regarded as the sleekest M/H T5 unit. Hamilton makes a great M/H T5 fixture as well as an assortment of pendants. If you are looking for 2 individual units then maybe look at the Reefbrite M/H setups. They can come with the Xho LED strips installed for a great hybrid unit.

 

[TriggerFinger]

So it seems I need 250 watts for a 24” deep tank. What do I choose first, reflectors, bulbs or ballasts? Can one ballast run two reflectors?

I’m thinking 14k bulbs. Any preference over single or double end bulbs?

 

[Breadman03]

There are a couple 2 in 1 ballasts that I’ve seen, but typically 1 ballast per bulb. I went double ended, but the venerable Radium bulb is single ended.

I would just go on Hamilton’s site and buy a complete system, though you can certainly piece your own together.