metal halide questions

[rachell321]

Ok so am a total newb when it comes to advanced lighting. What makes made for aquarium MH light fixtures any different than other fixtures? I know that tanks require a specific light spectrum, but you can just change out the bulbs right? I found an interesting portable ceramic metal halide fixture for really cheap, but I dont want to get it if I cant use it.

 

[lilrobb]

What is a portable ceramic fixture?
Any pics?

 

[ralph atl]

here's some info for you:

 

[cr500_af]

The general overall quality is important for the same reason as in any other product.

Also, the design, construction and materials of the reflector can make a HUGE difference in the amount of light that your animals can make use of. Cheap reflectors cost you a lot of PAR in some cases.

 

[rachell321]

Thanks guys.. the fixture I was looking at would definitely not do the job then lol

 

[rbredding]

at this point.. if you're looking to upgrade your lighting.. go to LED... if you bite the bullet now.. you'll see tremendous savings (not having to buy/run a chiller, and they use a tiny fraction of the juice that MH's do)