[smokinreefer]

thanks for the info.
but no, i do not want icecap type lighting...i dont really understand why anyone would want to underdrive their bulbs, i want real VHO lighting.

just as a heads up, i have modififed my diagram to show a 3 prong plug that i will be using...and i will connect the ground wire to the screw that is used on the mounting harness on the ballast. this will provide a ground for the ballast just as any regular electrical device has.

it was something i was planning on doing, but in talking to darren, he felt it is something that we should point out, to be sure that others do the samething and keep things safe around our reeftanks and in our homes.