ATI 48" 8 x 54W Dimmable Powermodule Review

[JGard911]

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I just opened my new lighting fixture for the first time and I hate to say that so far I am not very impressed.

The first thing I noticed is that the ac/dc power adapter that powers the cooling fans looks like it was picked up in a $1 store and thrown in the box. It is a "universal adapter" with 6 different plugs on the end and 5 different output power settings. For $1200 you would think they could provide an adapter made specifically for the light.

The directions are also very poor. I am theorizing that it has to do with translating German into English.

The is no reference to the dimming module at all in the directions. There are 2 toggle switches with 2 different settings, 2 dimmer knobs, and 4 banana plugs on the bottom of the dimmer unit that I have no idea what they are used for.

2 of the 8 bulbs are controlled by different circuits, but there is no mention of which bulbs they are in the directions. (I know I can find out thru trial and error, but this should be referenced in the directions)

I am not to the point where I am ready to see how the lights themselves perform. I will update the thread when that happens. But I am a little discouraged so far. Any input or comments from anyone with these lights is appreciated.

[Chasman]

I bought a 6 lamp Power Module that is not the dimmable one. Haven't hooked it up yet but I agree with you on some points. I got the multi wall wart too which I thought was odd. I had the same feeling. For that kind of money you would think they would have something quite slick. I think it's the 120v vs 220v issue. The Germans are on 220v so an easy export fix is the transformer we got. As I'm sure you noticed, it's a multi-purpose, mulit-volt from China. POS that can be easily replaced.

And yes, the directions are worthless. The hanging directions are the worst. But you have to admit the cable system is pretty trick once you figure out how it works.

But in the end the build quality of the fixture is first class. At least mine is. If the transformer for the fan goes I'll get another one. Nobody will ever see it anyway.

Is your hooked up?

[JGard911]

Chasman

I dont have it hooked up yet. Dont even have water in my tank yet!!

I actually got a phone call from the distributor. He had to agree with just about everything I had to say, including the "universal" adapter being kind of "cheap" and the poor directions. But he seemed very knowledgeable and was able to talk me thru the Apex settup.
I apparently need a 2 channel light dimming cable from Neptune Systems which connects to the banana plug connectors on the control unit. Interestingly enough he had to point out that the red wire connects to the black terminal, and vice versa. (I guess they wire things differently in Germany). He even included this picture in an email.


Also, bulbs 3 and 6 are controlled on a seperate circuit.
Hope he takes this information and adds it to the directions included with the light fixture.