18"x18"x18" Tank DIY LED Build Tutorial

[Aqua Pro Builder]

18" Cube DIY LED Build Tutorial

As title described, this thread is a DIY LED build thread for a 18" x 18" x 18" 25G tank.

The finished LED setup can be easily moved over to my other Bio Cube 29, but I am thinking of the making DIY mod for the hood in the future for that. So, may be I will leave this setup with this tank and do another build thread for the Bio Cube.

I will measure par data after finishing the project with and without lenses or may be between different lenses. You can use the numbers as reference.


There are many options and I have not decided yet. I will just follow the flow. Stay tuned.

I will first show the parts I am going to use. Then, when my friend can come over to take pictures while I DIY, I will post more pics and instruct-able descriptions.

A) The Tank and Expected Final Setup
B) The Tank and Expected Final Setup using 2 bar to spread out the coverage
C) All the parts at a glance


You may ask questions if you like now.

 

[Aqua Pro Builder]

Reserved for more write up and pics. (1)



The Design:
-2 circuits: 1 for Royal Blue, 1 for Cool White
-Modular: currently setup with 2 constant current drivers with modular plugs, later on if I decided to change to dimmable drivers, it will be just a plug away.
-2 separate fixtures: In case I change the tank's need to low light, I can jsut use one fixture. When I need high light setup, I can use 2 units

Part List:
-12 Cree XP in 2 strips capable of 36W to 60W for this 25G at 18x18x18 coverage
-12 lens, most likely, I will only use on 4 pcs at the end. Will decide 40 or 60 degree after actual testing.
-A length of the wire. We will use 4 pairs of wires.
-2 power supplies
-2 pairs of legs
-4 end plates with 8 screws
-2 wires straps with holder
-1 Tube of adhesive

Tools:
-Soldering Iron with solder paste
-Wire cutter

 

[Aqua Pro Builder]

Reserved for more write up and pics. (2)


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[Aqua Pro Builder]

Reserved for more write up and pics. (3)