question for Ltspd

[jsaltzgi]

What is your impression of the LN ballasts for the 250-watt HQI? I am contemplating modifying a PFO hood or building a canopy for HQI and was wondering about the LN ballasts. Do they flicker like some say about the Icecap MH ballasts? Thanks!!

[Ltspd]

Ok, First let me say I am not a huge IC fan. Their products are fine but IMPO highly overpriced, and there return rate is poor, but their CS is the best out there from what I have read.

I really really like my LN ballast's. If you will look at the HQI comparision thread the 250w's are ran on the LN's. But, as usual my picture taking skills are poor

I have and have never had any flicker, on either of the 2 bulbs they have fired.

The Ln's have powered both the 6500k Iwasaki and the 10kk HQI's without having to be sent in for a retune. They are suppose to be able to power almost all bulbs out there

The size are great.

They are very easy (for me atleast) to wire, 5 wires.

I do not know the amp draw, but I have intentions to get a hold of a amp probe one day and test. This will determine how efficinet they are compared to others.

[jsaltzgi]

I just wanted to say thanks for the reply!! I think that I am going to go ahead and order a couple of the LN ballasts from HelloLights!! The difference in price between those and the PFO HQI is not even that bad!!

[Ltspd]

According to Sanjay's tests in the 2002 annual the Mag and tar ballast will drive the bulbs a bit more, but also consume more elec. The diffrence was minimual as far as increased PAR, but the elec cost savings made up the diffrenc and then some on the savings.

Your Welcome, glad I was of help

[jsaltzgi]

well, I ordered everything now. I went with the AB bulbs, under your recommendation. I'm sure it will be great and I can't wait for them to get here!! Thanks again!!

[jsaltzgi]

Here's the finalized lighting plan for the new 75 gal:
2 AB 250 watt HQI DE
4 VHO fluorescents, 2 actinics and two actinic white or aquasuns. I can't wait till the tank I ordered comes in...

One other question. How did you mount the double-ended sockets? I know that one end is supposed to be left slightly loose to allow for expansion, but did you just mount them to the reflector, or did you use something to make them stand off a bit like the normal mogul socket does?

Thanks again!

[Ltspd]

Get the brackets that go along with the holders. That way the play is built in.

I mounted mine to another bracke that made them stand off the reflector. Sort of a C with legs.

Sounds like a nice setup, you will be pleased.

[jsaltzgi]

Just wanted to say that the LN ballasts finally arrived. They are awesome with those DE bulbs!! I tested the bulbs tonight, turning them on in the kitchen and not looking at the bulbs. I must say that I like the color much better than the Iwasaki's, even from just a few minutes. I can't wait to get this thing going...

[Ltspd]

Glad you are pleased. I am very happy with them myself