How Much Light??

[Chris Jones]

O.K. I'm buying stuff now and my sights are on a pc light. there is a JBJ 48" model PL-JD2-42 for $150 including shipping. but it says it has two 65 watt 50/50 bulbs. Is this enough for my depth tank, 24"??? or do I need to look for a 4x65 light?? I heard it is approx, 4 watt per gallon which = 220 watt.

Secondly, should i be looking for the fixtures that have dual cords so I can independantly time them for sunrise/sunset, or does the 50/50 light suffice?? thanks.

[JohnO]

I reality the ' watts per gallon ' equation is useless with a marine tank. The depth of the water should be the guiding factor as discussed in part in this article

http://www.aquarticles.com/articles/..._lighting.html

HTH

John

[Chris Jones]

excellent article John, i appreciate the info. i will bookmark it for future reference and possible advice.

[Chris Jones]

oh yeah, the article did not address the second question i had
Secondly, should i be looking for the fixtures that have dual cords so I can independantly time them for sunrise/sunset, or does the 50/50 light suffice?? thanks

can anyone help me out with this??

[Matt Rogers]

Not sure how the 50/50 acts as sunrise/sunset, can you explain?

To answer your question, it is nice to have separate cords so you can stagger on/off times and do sunset/sunrise, so yes, that is what I would look for too.

@JohnO - GREAT LINK! Although I prefer a higher kelvin than he recommends.

[Chris Jones]

Thanks matt. I have my eyes on the JBJ Formosa DX JG-3, it is a 4x96 2 blue 2 white, 2 cords and a pretty cool hinge design that swings up and away from the top with out removal. triple fans, and ill add my own moonlights to it.
thanks again for the input.

[Matt Rogers]

No prob.
Formosa's are really, really nice PC fixtures.