DIY MH Ballast

whyamisofly

Tang
M.A.S.C Club Member
#1
Anyone here make their own ballasts? Years ago when I had my 180g set up, I ran my own DIY ballasts similar to these - https://lbu-main-lightbulbu.netdna-...75_watt_metal_halide_ballast_kit_quad_tap.jpg

The problem is that my brain has not retained the information necessary to build them from scratch. It's hard to pass up $35 ballasts when made yourself, other than paying $100+ for a big heat sink with a brand name on it.
 

Walter White

Reef Shark
M.A.S.C Club Member
#2
I built my own to replace the old PFO 400w HQI that is no longer made. I'm no expert though. In fact I have a hole bunch of cores igniters and caps to build several more. let me know if you are interested. The parts I have are designed to overdrive a 400W radium however.
 

whyamisofly

Tang
M.A.S.C Club Member
#3
I shouldn't have any reason to overdrive a 400w - just looking to power a couple 400w with standard voltage.
 

whyamisofly

Tang
M.A.S.C Club Member
#5
Open to discussion at this time. I have been out of the hobby since 2010, so I'm not sure if the same manufactures are still in business.

After talking with you the other night about radiums though, I would prefer to have the 20k look as opposed to the new bulbs "whiteish" look.
 

jda123

Dolphin
M.A.S.C Club Member
#6
If you don't build your own, just call Hamilton. The are a great company who will get it right - M59 is the spec ballast for 400W Radium.
 
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