Am I correct?

[EQCM2B]

I am looking at a PC lighting system

http://www.marinedepot.com/md_viewItem.asp?idproduct=CU01020


With this system does it mean that I have the equivalent of 300 watts of incandescent lighting? Would this be good for LPS and MAYBE some SPS? Opinions if it is a good setup or not are welcome.

[perpetual98]

It would be fine for some LPS for the most part. There's a couple exceptions of ones that need higher light, but I'm no expert, maybe someone else will answer that one. I don't think that you're going to be able to keep SPS under that light. While you may be able to keep some lower light SPS alive, they aren't going to thrive like they are with more advanced lighting.

I'm not sure where on that website you're referring to 300W of incandescent.

[EQCM2B]

The system has 2 x 40 watt PC bulbs. Doesn't a 40 watt PC bulbs equate to about 150 watts of incandescent each?

[perpetual98]

I wouldn't go by those numbers. You're still only putting 80W of light over your tank. All the numbers are different. You're going to get far more useful light from a 70W metal halide bulb than you will from 80W of N.O. fluorescent

[davejnz]

I agree,wattage doesn't grow corals,its proper spectrum and intensity of the light.
That PC fixture is 20" long,you have a 45gal corner tank.What are the dimensions of your tank?If it were me,I'd just go with a single 250Mh retro.With corner tanks,a single MH is idea because they can light a 2' x 2' area.a 250 retro could be done for the same price too

[jerryc]

If you wont SPS and LPS don't thank id wast my $$ on that light

The only thing you will be able to keep with it is some soft coral
and not all of the soft

With a 45 you will have less thin 2 watts per gallon. As Dave has
already stated the one 250 watt MH will be the cheapest way to go
for the best light

[perpetual98]

Jeepers. I was thinking that because it was a 20" light that it was going on a 10G tank. The light in question would be good over a 45 gallon fish only tank or a freshwater tank, and that's about it. Go with a halide and you won't regret it.

[EQCM2B]

Thanks for all of the advice guys. My tank is taller than it is long, that is why I was looking at the shorter length. I guess I will have to go with my first decision and get the 250 watt MH like everyone recommended in the first place.

Thanks.