Metal Halide Ballast

[K9coral]

What is the difference between a "pulse start" and a regular metal halide ballast? What type do you need for SWR use?

 

[PeeJ]

pulse start has an ignitor in it to help start the euro type bulbs. it just depends on what bulb you are going to use.

 

[K9coral]

Well,
Im looking into building sometype of MH w/ VHO or PC type hood for my 46 gallon BF tank. I have no xperience with MH so Im not sure what type of bulbs would be the best.
Ive looked on a bunch of different forums and there are too many opinions out there to make a decision!!!

 

[hsosa]

I would go with a 250watt Iwasaki 2 55watt PC 03 actinics with an Ice cab or blueline ballast. This is a good combo or a try the new 10k XM bulb . This is a good setup as well less yellow than the Iwasaki. Your evaporation rate will increase. I was losing about 1.5 gallons a day on a 33 gal tank with this light set-up

 

[MattM]

Maximum coral growth: Iwasaki MH bulbs, normal ballast, PC or VHO actinics.

Whiter: Aqualine Buschke 10K MH Bulbs, pluse start or HQI ballast, lower wattage actinic PCs

Bluer: Radium 20K MH bulbs, HQI Ballast, no actinics.

 

[1937 Waco]

Hello:

Some of the articles that I have been reading are suggesting (through extensive tests) that the pluse start may provide a longer bulb life. Both ballasts will work for lighting a MH bulb.

Bob

 

[shr00m]

i would recomend against getting a ice cap, cheap ballasts work just as well.... but yes, pulse start should give you more bulb life.

 

[PeeJ]

i just ordered 2x250 watt xm 10k...i cant seee a big difference with or without actinic in photos