Why do you use an Icecap 660?

[RobG]

I'm trying to decide on how to add actinincs to my MH setup I'm in the process of building, and I'm a little confused (What else is new?).

It appears to me that most, if not all, use Icecap 660s for their VHO or PC actinic supplementation. What is the advantage of these ballasts that warrants the extra cost over something like this:

http://www.lampsnow.com/2lampvhokit.html

If I went the Icecap route, I'm looking at around $200 compared to $130 for this setup at lampsnow.

Can anyone give me a compelling reason to buy an Icecap 660 as opposed to this lampsnow kit?

I just noticed that my last 10 or so posts have been lighting-oriented posts... Without a doubt the most confusing, frustrating decisions I've every needed to make

Thanks

[naser]

i just got my 2 lamp vhos kit from lampnow.. i fired them up all ready. no wiring to do and i give them a thumbs up. its the same as icecap.

[Ltspd]

IC allows you to run up to 4 bulbs depending on the length. The supposivly run cooler, and use less wattage to run. If the last is true then they also save you money every month.

The lampsnow also claims to save elec, and run cooler. If you have no plans to run more bulbs then its a good deal. If you have plans to run a few more bulbs then the IC may be the way to go.

FWIW from lampsnow


Dear Fellow Reefer,

Congratulations! You have been selected to receive an e-coupon from lampsnow.com, your full-service lighting superstore. This e-coupon will allow you to receive up to 20% off of your next order of $100.00 or more.


E-Coupon Code: ZRC1001 Good For 10% off of $50.00 or more.
E-Coupon Code: ZRC1001b Good For 20% off of $100.00 or more.
Expiration Date: November 15, 2001


Lampsnow.com has experienced significant growth over the last year, and we wanted to show our appreciation to you and other reefers who have helped us along the way. Feel free to share these e-coupons with fellow reefers. Thank you for voicing your positive experiences with us. We stand committed in bringing you the best prices on the best products, with of course, unsurpassed customer service and satisfaction guarantees. Thank you.

Enjoy!

Note: E-coupons may not be used in conjunction with any other offer. If you would like to be removed from our mailing list, please reply to this e-mail with "remove" on the subject line.

[golfish]

I think the Lampsnow ballast is the way to go. I have read good things about the 660 ballast but it seems the Lampsnow ballast is coming on strong. I also like the idea that it comes wired and ready to go....I'd like to add some but I have no room. Hmmmmmmmmm

[Strangelove]

Icecaps can also be dimmed which is helpful if you want to simulate sunreis/set. Here's a link to a 660 delivered for $169. IMO they just appear to be more heavy-duty than other ballasts. FWIW

[Ltspd]

Originally posted by Strangelove
IMO they just appear to be more heavy-duty than other ballasts. FWIW

They are VERY sensitive, and cant really agree on the heavy-dutyness of them. I just wired up (2)660's for 6 48" vho bulbs on a freinds system. It took me a good 40 hrs of wiring time alone, but they were going from upstairs to downstairs. We have to send one ballast back (not uncommon) and the other one worked for 2-1/2 weeks after several hours of "tweaking" the bulbs then, has all of a sudden decided to stop firing the bulbs again. This means the owner (not I) will have to go back and re-tweak the bulbs. I will admit they are a royal PITA to wire. Just on that fact alone the lampsnow re-wired is really really appealing to me.

[JG]

It took me a good 40 hrs of wiring time alone

Umm, it took you 40hrs to wire up two 660's?

[Ltspd]

Yes, but let me explain a bit more. I wire all my lights and this guys lights thru pull apart terminal blocks. I also solder all of my connections. His ballast as well as mine are in remote locations from the tank itself. His were at the end of a 14ft "extension" harnass I had to wire up. This was the majority of the time but I still consider the IC to be more difficult than regular ballast to wire. And after the trouble they have produced for my friend I cant say I would ever use them

Here is a shot of the terminal blocks. The mating end is at the other end on the back side of the wall.

[batman]

FYI all, the Lampsnow ballast can easily be rewired to accomodate 2 or 4 bulbs in the same way that the Icecap can be. It is the EXACT same ballast sold in both configurations.

[RobG]

I ended up going with the LN ballast, and it was SO easy. Mounted endcaps, put bulb in, turn on -- working.

Doesn't get any easier than that. Two thumbs up for LN.

[Ltspd]

Great! Glad you are pleased.