DIY LED questions

axe_man16 · #1 08-31-2012, 03:04 AM

I am potentialy interested in doing a DIY led for my tank. My tank measures 48"l x 13"w x 18" h. I have a rough layout in my head and would need 4 dimmable drivers. I also have a ReefKeeper lt. So i would like to use an alc as a dimmer (if it is even possible to run 2 drivers per port).

My biggest issue is with the new AI Vega coming out, people who are interested in getting the Vega might sell off their SOLs for a price that would make me regret going the DIY route.

Any help or advice is greatly appreciated.

The Grizz · #2 08-31-2012, 03:11 AM

I thought the same way about some of the other LED fixtures out there but once I got into the design of my DIY it was clear to me that it was the way to go, for me anyways. I was able to add way more LEDs, mix up the colors and control each color independently. Plus I can add more LEDs anytime I want at a fraction of the price compared to the factory fixtures.

But that's just my 2 cent for what is worth around here

waynemah · #3 08-31-2012, 03:22 AM

I've done a few DIY builds and it really depends on the tank size and budget.

If I had a 13" wide tank it would be DIY all the way. All of the other fixtures are really built to cover a 20"+ width. With the DIY you could go with 2x 1.8" x 36" heatsinks and put 12 led's on each. With this you would only need 2 drivers (one for whites and one for blue/royal blue). My guess is you wouldn't even need a fan. I run 36 led's per 12x6 pendant (fan-less) and the fixture maxes at 100F (130 is acceptable). I'd guess this setup wouldn't run you more than $350.

axe_man16 · #4 08-31-2012, 03:32 AM

I looked up on modularled.ca and found some basic measurements to figure out what might work. I came up with 2x 16x6 heatsinks with 14 modular led's on each. I wouldnt mind up sizing the drivers to two Inventronics 700mA 75W Driver, just because of what i have heard when putting 4 meanwell drivers on the reef keepers alc modual.

Does this sound like it would be doable and enough/too much light for my tank.

I have mostly SPS. And am currently running a 6 bulb t5 (-1 burnt out ballast)

axe_man16 · #5 08-31-2012, 03:37 AM

Thanks for the responses. I have also thought about tilting the heatsinks so that they are not parallel to the tank and shine more at an angle therefore reducing the darkspots i may get from the leds pointing straight down.... So many things to ponder

The Grizz · #6 08-31-2012, 04:03 AM

There is a min & max to each driver, just make sure to stay with that & you will be fine. Martin has taken time to figure out kit but changing & adding more or different color never fails. If you use the right optics & space the LEDs out right you will not have any dark spots so no need to tilt the heatsinks.

lpsreefer · #7 08-31-2012, 04:10 AM

Depending on what u want in the tank would prolly only need maybe 18 3 watt LEDs to do sps. 48 gallon tank roughly. I just order this for one of my tanks.
http://www.aquastyleonline.com/produ...mable-Kit.html
Came to 120 bucks with shipping.
Just an idea.

mike31154 · #8 08-31-2012, 02:46 PM

I used 10 watt multi chips for DIY fixture. There are a few more builds out there using them these days & might be worth looking into. One of the main reasons I did this is there are individual heatsinks with fans for them allowing me to keep the weight down. Downside is more wiring for all the fans.

There's an extensive thread on RC about the multichip LEDs. Look for 'minimalistic' in the title. It's a long read though. Link to my build follows:

http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=82206

I used a total of 27 ten watt chips on 3 rails. The outer rails are tilted 10 degrees inward. Dimming is manual so you'd have to use a different driver/power supply configuration than I have. You could cover your narrow tank with 2 rails nicely.

Seth81 · #9 09-04-2012, 06:57 PM

I am very happy with my DIY LED's, but if my tank weren't such an odd size and shape I think I would have been much better off buying off the shelf.

I spent almost the same amount of money going the DIY route then if I had bought off the shelf. Plus I put in many, many hours.

One thing is sure though, I have much more control and expandability then any off the shelf model.

Quote:

Originally Posted by axe_man16

I am potentialy interested in doing a DIY led for my tank. My tank measures 48"l x 13"w x 18" h. I have a rough layout in my head and would need 4 dimmable drivers. I also have a ReefKeeper lt. So i would like to use an alc as a dimmer (if it is even possible to run 2 drivers per port).

My biggest issue is with the new AI Vega coming out, people who are interested in getting the Vega might sell off their SOLs for a price that would make me regret going the DIY route.

Any help or advice is greatly appreciated.

pseudonym · #10 09-06-2012, 03:17 AM

haven't tried these yet, but the price is certainly right! You can get a package if you want, but for two sets of 12 LEDs (10 Blue, 10 White, 2 Green, 2 Red) lens, drivers, dimmers, heat sinks and wires is about $450. I will be giving these a chance when I finally get around to setting up the 90 wave.

http://www.modularled.ca/