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V2 #108 RE: T-8 bulbs




Devin Sung had a question about "long" T-8 bulbs...

I've done quite a bit of research in this area, and I've found that
OSRAM/Sylvania seems to make some pretty decent hardware.  

For the bulbs I'd recommend one of the following:

(these are 4' long)

	Octron FO32/750		(75CRI, 5000K) - $3.75 cdn
	Octron FO32/950		(90CRI, 5000K) - $14.61 cdn

I'm currently using their FO32/750 bulbs with EXCELLENT results...and at a
very reasonable price...

OSRAM/Sylvania also has excellent electronic ballasts in their QUICKTRONIC
SYSTEM 32 family.  All are electronic, and all have independant output 
drivers (ie. if one tube dies, the others remain lit).  The ballasts come in
1,2,3, and 4 tube models and with 3 different output ratings (low power, normal,
and plus).  Like their bulbs they too are priced to sell :

3x4' Normal Output system (system lumens:7965, 90 lumens/watt)

  QT3X32/120IS -----$ 39 cdn


If you really want to get fancy, try an electronic dimming ballast.  This will 
allow you to ramp-up/down the intensity and it can also be used to set the max.
brightness of the tank...lots of options.  (about $55 cdn)

Anyway, I hope this helps!
Torsten Tiedtke