Will PCs cover what I need?

motorslave · 03-18-2004, 10:41 PM

Okay Ive done a little more research. Will PCs cover the the spectrum so that I can add some light intensive coral if I so choose? Will this be adequate on a 55? Want a little of everything.

Geoff · 03-18-2004, 11:24 PM

i thnk VHO's are a better choice. they will be cheaper in the long run. they also come in better sizes. PC's are ok for smaller tanks, like 20's and below, but when the tank gets near 4' i give the nod to VHO's.

G~

motorslave · 03-18-2004, 11:26 PM

Thanks once again Geoff!!

cyberchef · 03-19-2004, 12:51 AM

I ran my 55 RR with 520W of PC for over a year and I had no problems keeping anything I chose including clams and SPS corals. I used 8 65W bulbs placed in rows of 2, end to end. I basically di the equivalent of all 50/50 bulbs and got great coloration from all of my sps. You can fit 2 65W PC bulbs in the same space a single 110W VHO bulb will take up.

Also depending on how your hood is made you should be able to fit as many as 10 (possibly even 12) 65W PC bulbs.

jimcfar · 03-19-2004, 06:46 AM

I have a 75 using 4 96W PC's and I haven't had any troubles what so ever. Running 2 10K and 2 act03. I have some acro and a blue carpet and they're growing nicely.