DIY PC lighting steps?

StirCrazy · #1 03-02-2006, 11:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Twisted-1

How would I go about modifying my Light fixture to house PC lights. I see alot of modded fixtures but no instructions on how.
So what all do I have to do and how?
What type of ballasts and wiring steps do I need to take and how do I set up a reflector?
What materials should I use?
It is only to house 1 or 2 , 21 inch 65 watts buld. So I am not to concerned about heat. Also what alternatives could I do instead?

Step by step instructions would be great. Thanx

what are we starting with here? are you building a whole hood or just modifying an fixture you already have there? if so we need dimentions and stuff befor I can look at the best way to do it.

Steve

Twisted-1 · #2 03-03-2006, 06:38 AM

I am modifying a Light Fixture. It is about 28" long by 4.5" wide.

StirCrazy · #3 03-03-2006, 12:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Twisted-1

I am modifying a Light Fixture. It is about 28" long by 4.5" wide.

How high?

Steve

Twisted-1 · #4 03-03-2006, 05:42 PM

It is 3.5" high

TheReefGeek · #5 03-03-2006, 05:44 PM

You should be able to rig up a few T5 lights, those are you best bet they are the smallest tubes and the brightest. Best configuration is individual parabolic reflectors for each tube. You should be able to find some retrofit kits online, places like www.hellolights.com and others.

fishmanty · #6 03-03-2006, 06:15 PM

I recently setup 4 55watt 21" PC's in my Reef tank, and added 2 fans for air movement too cool off the ballasts and just get a little more air around the bulbs...

Easiest thing to do is to go to a lighting store, and ask for a workhorse 5 and 2 straight pin sockets. You can also get 55watt 10k bulbs from lighting stores for around $10 a piece... or if you're in calgary, I could sell you a few of my spares.

You'll then have to go to homedepot or equivalent and buy all the wires, caps, and wall plugs. It can be quite intimidating at first, but its really simple. took me 2 hours from start to finish to have great lights for less than $200.

However, if i choose to do it again, i'd just buy a used coralife system here in town...

TheReefGeek · #7 03-03-2006, 06:20 PM

We still dont know what you are trying to keep alive with these lights, so it is hard to be specific.