Anyone know what's up with LED lighting?

While trying to get the lightest information on LED reef lighting I have been unable to pull up PFO Lighting's web site (makers of Solaris). Do ony of you know what's going on there? Has the company folded?

 

I have recently seen literature from PFO so I don't believe they have folded unless it was fairly recent.
As far as LEDs are concerned personally I think it is a couple more years out before they start becoming more affordable. It seems like they are still in the process of working out the kinks so once thats all smoothed over the price should come down.
I did see a Solaris two years back at the annual Christmas Trade show, and while it had impressive features it wasn't BRIGHT like MH or T5... BUT the PAR was there, I have seen some LED PAR tests and they are really nice, esp for the amount of wattage used and heat put off. Not to mention how long bulbs last....

If you have the money go for it, otherwise wait, but if you do go for it I want you to tell me everything about it!!

Happy lighting!

 

PFO is for the most part out of business. They are being sued over patent infringement. Doubt you'll see any other US manufacturers of LEDs for aquariums other than the company that holds the patent. Question now is whether there will be any coming in from offshore.

 

Do ony of you know what's going on there? Has the company folded?


Im not sure and dont hold me to it,but when i ordered a halide fixture from hamalton a few weeks ago we were talking abut pfo fixtures.he had said to me the company is being sued and will most likely fold.he said he doesent even see them filling any out of stock items..i like there stuff i hope they pull throught what ever is going on....again please dont hold me to this info.......

 

Thanks for the update GLAMPKA. While doing some surfing this afternoon, I came across this site that confirms what you said and provides a bit more detailed information as well.
Orbital Technologies LED Aquarium Patent Crippling PFO and Aquarium Industry | glassbox-design.com

 

Yes; an aerospace company patented the concept of LEDs on a fish tank and sued. PFO tried to rally other manufacturers to help fight, and no one stepped up. PFO looks like it is shutting down, and it may be that all LEDs for tanks, including moonlights, will be off the market soon

 

That's a shame...I was hoping to get one in a few yearswhen the price is competetive with halides.

 

Super long run time on bulb life, very low power draw, run very cool. SUPER EXPENSIVE!!!! I priced one for my 90gal, a 48" LED fixture was over $3000.00

 

Yup. PFO seems to be gone.

LED lighting I think we go back a few years now since Orbitec will be the only company making them, and they currently do not make any aquarium fixtures.....

Kim

 

Figured Id post the update on this topic...I just saw a new post that was put up on glass box design. PFO is still in the fight and seems to have some valid claims that may hold up in court..
PFO v Orbitec case continues, Orbital Technologies "Orbitec" Patent on LED Lighting for Marine Aquariums being fought | glassbox-design.com

Guess we will have to wait and see how this pans out!