Poseidon's NEW Adventure!

[Poseidon]

Tank shots:

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-jkML66n/0/L/1D2N2563-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-jkML66n/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-JjTX3wX/0/L/1D2N2564-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-JjTX3wX/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-Sz9HFJd/0/L/1D2N2584-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-Sz9HFJd/A)

[Poseidon]

A couple more, what the heck:

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-3jcdWtL/0/L/1D2N2580-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-3jcdWtL/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-mGJJ9qv/0/L/1D2N2582-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-mGJJ9qv/A)

I have a gallery from April 2013, maybe I can find some then and now pictures.

[jimsflies]

Looking good Mike!

[binford4000]

Going to be very nice when it grows out. Nice job!

Looks like ya did a lot of glueing !! Looking forward to the next 6 month update

[Poseidon]

Looking good Mike!

Thanks Jim! It has a lot of growing to do. :D


Going to be very nice when it grows out. Nice job!

Looks like ya did a lot of glueing !! Looking forward to the next 6 month update

Thanks Chuck, I think I have everything in place for significant growth over the next 6 months. I did do a LOT of glueing, there were 25+ frags from a recent trip. :)

Not all are pictured here, but all most are placed in the tank. Some on the back where I can see them, but at an angle that totally messes up the camera. Once those fast growing back side pieces pick up steam, it will be much easier to get pictures. :D

[MizTanks]

Wow! Nice photo skill :) Pic #5 (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=5) is that a Favia or zoas?

[Poseidon]

This one?

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-7bZKhWC/0/S/1D2N2520-S.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-7bZKhWC/A)
War Coral, a favid I think. ;)

[MizTanks]

This one?

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-7bZKhWC/0/S/1D2N2520-S.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-7bZKhWC/A)
War Coral, a favid I think. ;)

Nope sorry it's pic #7 (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=7) Don't know how I got that wrong-lol I think it's a Favia-I'm gonna be wanting a frag some day when it grows up :)

[Poseidon]

Came home to a slightly cloudy tank yesterday, not sure why. Changed the carbon and PhosGuard this morning, will do water tests a bit later.

I added an AquaClear Quick filter to try and clear it up mechanically. I really need to find the source though.

[Poseidon]

All fish accounted for, the plate coral is VERY puffy. There have been no changes to tank schedule or food, this is why I am so perplexed.

[dlhirst]

I had an orange plate that would get freakishly puffy from time to time. Always seemed to recover without problems. Never knew why...

[MizTanks]

I read on AA that plates will puff up when wanting to move. Hoping to get caught in a current so they can float.

[Poseidon]

Well the tank is still cloudy. I have 25 gallons of RC mixing to do a water change later tonight. I noticed the yellow tang is acting "shy" today, not sure why.

[Poseidon]

Still waiting on the water to mix, the tank is still a bit cloudy, but not as bad. I have been stirring the shallow sand bed up a bit here and there, as long as I have the quick filter in there. (It'll be coming out tonight.)

Had a nice chat with Andy over at Reef Paradise, he has a some OUTSTANDING coral pieces in stock right now, it is well worth the trip to the store.

[Poseidon]

Just a quick picture of my quick filter! These things are great at picking up all kinds of crap. http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/18/vahuqy6y.jpg

[Poseidon]

Back to crystal clear. Yellow tang is breathing really heavy, I am concerned about him.

[Poseidon]

Yellow tang seems to be recovering. Yay!!!

[MizTanks]

That's great news!! :)

[Poseidon]

Yellow Tang is back to acting as his normal self, I am glad that water change perked him back up. I think I found the cause of the cloudiness, I can not find the Long Spine urchin that I had moved to my sump after it developed a tasted for zoas.

I started my 2 week sump maintenance today, and noticed a lot more hair algae then had ever been there before, and started looking for that lawn mower. He was no where to be found. I removed a lot of it manually, and with a toothbrush. I added a filter pad to grab what floated through, but the tank is a bit cloudy. Once it clears, I will start on what I had intended to work on, my ATO.

Other then the loss of the urchin, the tank is doing very well. I am seeing visible growth on just about everything now, which is good news!

I have been dosing about 1 ounce a day of the Alk part of the 2 part additives that we have been using for years, but my Ca has remained fairly constant. My last few batches of RC have been terribly inconsistent, one bag was 12 dKh, the next bag was over 500 Ca, and 8 dKh. It may be time to go with something else.

I think I have a line on a Ca reactor, a small one, which should be plenty for this tank for a while, and a Kalk reactor won't be far behind now that the ATO will be back up and running today.

[Poseidon]

Well, the urchin "poked" out from behind the rock work, glad to say he is still alive and eating.

[MizTanks]

Don't you love it when something you thought you lost is found! Lol. I'm glad your Tang is doing well, another good feeling right?! Keep the updates coming :)

[Poseidon]

Starting to poke around for ideas on how to supplement my halide with LED, I had one option that was free, but wouldn't quite work out the way I wanted it to, so I am back in the market for Blue.

I found an LED driver/power supply for REALLY cheap:
Meanwell CLG 150 36A 150W Single Output Switching Power Supply | eBay (http://www.ebay.com/itm/201081051476?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1497.l2649)
MeanWell, CLG 150-36A

I am hoping to add either a number of the more common blue Cree stars to either side of my PFO halide on there own heatsinks, using something like this kit:
18 LED Dimmable Actinic Supplement Kit - Rapid LED (http://www.rapidled.com/18-led-dimmable-actinic-supplement-kit/)
I could cut that 36" length to two 14" lengths to match that of the long side of my halide, and just attach them directly to it.

OR I could do something like this:
http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/NDg4WDY1MA==/z/zH0AAOxyhodRz0XJ/$(KGrHqEOKooFG-4-g7LPBRz0(JcYUg~~60_12.JPG

http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/NDg4WDY1MA==/z/QpMAAOxypthRygEq/$T2eC16JHJFsFFR-L4dliBRygEqj)dw~~60_12.JPG

http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/NDg4WDY1MA==/$T2eC16R,!y8E9s2fjKU(BR69nc6,7!~~60_12.JPG

http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/NDg4WDY1MA==/z/9-AAAOxyyq5TLEU7/$_12.JPG

I could build 2 of those, and use some sort of enclosure to make them look nice.

What do you think?

[Poseidon]

For the enclosure, I was thinking of something like this:

https://www.easyorchids.co.uk/shop/images/P/2-03.jpg

Suspended upside down on either side of my halide. The halide will have to be turned 90 degrees to accommodate this, but the reflector is better suited for that orientation anyway.

[Poseidon]

Strange thing on the tank today, I had a couple of frags bleach. Just out of the blue, yesterday they were fine, today very pale, almost white.

Tank Parameters that I can check are on, Alk is 8 and Ca is 440. Temp is fine, no recorded spike or drop. I did use a very small piece of Aqua Mend glue that I found in my storage unit, it mixed up fine, and I didn't think that epoxy has an expiration date on it. I suppose that could have caused it, but why now? I have been using that same 2 part for years, and never had an issue before.

I did proceed with my plans of getting my ATO back up and running today. I also changed my return pump plumbing, I went to 1" black vinyl directly from the pump, out of the stand and connected it to my PVC return line out side the stand. These changes were after the bleaching event, so I know it didn't cause it. The change in plumbing cleared up some space in the cabinet, and removed 2 90's from the return line, so I may be getting just a bit more flow through the sump now.

As for the corals, I mixed up a 25 gallon batch of RC, and did a water change today. I am hoping that whatever it was that triggered it, is removed enough by the water change and the carbon I added to the tank. I guess we will see in the AM. *Crosses fingers*

[MizTanks]

Any signs of RTN?

[Poseidon]

Nope. Note a pealing of tissue, or a chance to frag away damage. The corals are still fully covered in tissue, just very light colored as compared to what they are normally are.

So far they are all still alive, and have good polyp extension. I will continue to monitor them, and make sure tank parameters are where they are supposed to be.

[MizTanks]

Wishing them the best :)

[Poseidon]

Well, I pulled the trigger on my dawn to dusk lights. I really like the LED blue, nothing compares, so:

Philips Luxeon M ROYAL BLUE 12 Watt LEDs (http://shop.stevesleds.com/Philips-Luxeon-M-ROYAL-BLUE-12-Watt-LEDs-Luxeon-M-RB.htm)

I ordered 4 of these beasts, which is in effect, more power then 16 Cree LEDs on a stars, and in a very small package, keeping my desire for shimmer lines.

Control will be handled by by a CLG 150, and two LDD1000's for now, with a future option to add control via my Reef Keeper. I am really anxious to get all my pieces. The last step before I can fire it up, will be heat sink. I have some ideas there. ;)

[Poseidon]

Well, here it is:
http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-RhMrPcN/0/L/IMG_4421-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-RhMrPcN/A)
Heat sink cut to size, LED placement marked out. The holes are for the wires to the LEDs.

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-6QRGgdX/0/L/IMG_5324-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-6QRGgdX/A)
My "chimney" idea. This gives the hot air a vertical exit, and a horizontal input, convection should draw air along the cooling fin.

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-Pp5x4nj/0/L/IMG_9410-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-Pp5x4nj/A)
The cooling fin. ;)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-w4trnmq/0/L/IMG_7920-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-w4trnmq/A)
The LED and reflector for it.

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-D5hkH7C/0/L/IMG_9271-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-D5hkH7C/A)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-qnzrNNf/1/L/IMG_9581-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-qnzrNNf/A)
All wired up!

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-vxP4W6q/0/L/IMG_1884-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-vxP4W6q/A)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-v4FtdHz/0/L/IMG_0677-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-v4FtdHz/A)
HOLY CRAP! That is REALLY Bright!

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-mXq7f8Z/0/L/IMG_9556-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-mXq7f8Z/A)
I left the reflectors off on one side, I wanted to see the difference. In this image you can clearly see that difference, The spread is better without the optic, of course, but there is way to much spill into the room. :( I'll end up adding the reflectors to this side tonight.

Next up is a decision on control, and I have to rotate my halide 90 degrees in order to get the best spread from both the halide and the new LED's. I will get the good camera out once the mess is cleaned up. ;)

[binford4000]

Holly Po poo!,, that's really blue!! Nice job Mike.

[Poseidon]

Thanks Chuck!

Those pictures are with only the LED's, the halide wasn't on. With the halide on, I got just a tad bit more blue, which is exactly what I wanted.

When the halide is off, POP!

I am a bit blown away by how bright those 4 emitters are, I am going to have to get a PAR meter from the club, as I am sure these are pumping out some serious light.

[MizTanks]

Poseidon,
12w!! Wow!! Why so much wattage?

[Poseidon]

In order for me to see the difference in color with the halide, I would need to have a lot of 3W, or just these 4 12W LED's. In lumens produced these Luxeons or the equivlent of 18 Cree 3W LEDs.

The cost was pretty cheap too:
$2.95 for the CLG power supply. ($10 promo from PayPal.)
$60 for the LED's and reflectors.
$23 for the LDD's and the printed circuit board.
$20 for the heatsink

Plus having it fit perfectly on my halide! WOOT!

[Poseidon]

Well here it is all finished up, and hung. :D

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-X4DjhVn/0/L/IMG_0486-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-X4DjhVn/A)
This is from the rear right corner of the tank, so you can see the wiring.

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-bJ4CPs2/0/L/IMG_3976-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-bJ4CPs2/A)
From the front of the tank pointing up.

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-bhhB5mw/0/L/IMG_8152-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-bhhB5mw/A)
From the front of the tank, back about 6 feet. I have fixed the lean to the left already. :)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-LhDgqZ4/0/L/IMG_5331-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-LhDgqZ4/A)
This is the last area that needs clean up. I know there are bare wires here, I am trying to decide what to use for a PWM dimmer, potentially it could be something really simple like the AC-RC dial that I mentioned earlier, or it could be a full blown LED controller like the Storm by Coralux. I am also considering the 0-10v adapter for my reef keeper, with an adapter made by O2Surplus over on RC, but that is actually the most expensive option, and it gives me only 2 channels of control, where the Storm gives 6. With the power supply I have, I can add several more LED's to the mix very easy, maybe some near UV LED's would be a good option, I have room for 4 more. :D

[MizTanks]

That is sweet as he$$!! Looks very professional :) Great job!

[binford4000]

UV would be my choice for sure!! Get a little more pop and it's for coloring up the sticks. Win win. Nicely done by the way. Looks very clean! Any chance of a picture with everything on ?

[Poseidon]

That is sweet as he$$!! Looks very professional :) Great job!

Thanks!


UV would be my choice for sure!! Get a little more pop and it's for coloring up the sticks. Win win. Nicely done by the way. Looks very clean! Any chance of a picture with everything on ?

Thanks Chuck! I am thinking that adding UV can only be a good thing, but that will be a project for another day. ;)

Here is a short series of pictures:
LED only:
http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Halide-LED-May-14/i-GqF3h36/0/L/1D2N3280-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Halide-LED-May-14/i-GqF3h36/A)

Halide Only:
http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Halide-LED-May-14/i-s4WJzSp/0/L/1D2N3302-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Halide-LED-May-14/i-s4WJzSp/A)

Halide + LED:
http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Halide-LED-May-14/i-m6NWPFf/0/L/1D2N3312-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Halide-LED-May-14/i-m6NWPFf/A)
I sure like this last one, it is exactly what I was looking for.

[Poseidon]

And a couple more, that extension cord is short term, until I figure out the controller.

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Halide-LED-May-14/i-Xx7cP7s/0/L/1D2N3318-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Halide-LED-May-14/i-Xx7cP7s/A)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Halide-LED-May-14/i-NJxqPms/0/L/1D2N3322-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Halide-LED-May-14/i-NJxqPms/A)

[binford4000]

Wow that's a nice mix ! Perfect amount of blue in my opinion. Looks sweet

[tcp316]

Very nice. You are very handy. Love it.

[Poseidon]

Wow that's a nice mix ! Perfect amount of blue in my opinion. Looks sweet

Thanks Chuck, I think so to. I really am happy with the color.


Very nice. You are very handy. Love it.

Thanks Vicki! I really like it too. :D

I decided to go the simple route for the controller for now, I added a mechanical timer and set it for 6PM to 11PM, giving me 5 hours of LED light when I home. I also backed the halide off time to 10PM from 11PM, giving me 1 hour of just blue LED light before bed.

Lighting schedule is, as of right now:
2:30PM Halide On
6PM LED's On
10PM Halide Off
11PM LED's Off.

So far the results have been very positive with the addition of the blue, I am seeing colored encrusting leading edges on small frags, that were not there a week ago. I am also seeing an increase in color from the Lobo.

I am trying to be cautious as I am sure these are putting out some serious PAR, and I don't want to cook anything. I am working on getting that PAR meter so I can see just how much PAR these really put out. My friend Nick was over Friday, when he saw just the LED, he thought it looked as bright as the blue from previous LED fixture I had... That is quite bright!

After some serious discussion, we opened the beers! Woot!

[Poseidon]

So far so good with the LED's, the new lighting schedule seems to be working very well. I really like the color scheme now, and the corals are responding well also. I am FINALLY getting growth tips on my Blue Tort, as well as a fair amount of encrusting on my Original Oregon Tort! The Tyree Pink Lemonaid has TAKEN OFF sending new growth in every direction, and the finally the HELLBOY has really colored up RED. I have also noticed a lot of growth from HellBoy, he seems to be very happy with the 20K halide, LED combo. :D

[Poseidon]

PAR meter! Woohoo! I'll have some playing to do with the tank tonight.

My next project is micro bubbles, I have to many of them. The plan is to take the return pump out, clean it all up, and replace the input tubing and hose clamps. (All the stuff on the exit side is new.)

[Poseidon]

I had those extra pair of hands last night, my tank is covered in sharpie marker PAR numbers now. I'll post up the results once I have time to make something internet worthy.

Strange thing, just using the readings straight from the PAR meter, my tank with the LEDs and Halide on ranges from 400 PAR about 2" below the water to a low of about 250 PAR at the sanded. So, just about everywhere I have an average of 300. http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif (Assuming 300 is the sweet spot for SPS, it seems to be.

[Poseidon]

Here are those numbers, not my best work, but readable:
http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Halide-LED-May-14/i-jfQ2g5P/0/L/SCN_0001-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Halide-LED-May-14/i-jfQ2g5P/A)
The pumps were still on, and the PAR meter was reading +/- 50 units in spots, so the number recorded was the average, or middle of those high and low values.

[binford4000]

Those are really good numbers Mike !! Looks like you nailed it

[Poseidon]

Thanks Chuck! I am looking at some Violet next, to make it REALLY pop.

This combo allows me to take the best of the halide, a nice crisp white with glimmer lines and the white part allows for the color of the fish to really pop. The LED Blue is incredible for color on the corals, and these add a substantial amount of PAR too.

It seems we are always tinkering with something, and I am no exception. My next project may really turn out killer, a space saver that will directly impact coral growth. (It's under wraps for now.)

[schminksbro]

Looks great Mike! I love the combo that you have chosen!

[Poseidon]

Looks great Mike! I love the combo that you have chosen!

Thanks Andy! It looks really good in person, just the right amount of blue for me. The corals seem to approve as well, everything from Acans to Oregon Tort.

The "last" ok "most recent" part of the puzzle:
http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-vbZRF8R/0/L/Front-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-vbZRF8R/A)
Front of the board.


http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-Vw6Pqpn/0/L/Back%20of%20board-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-Vw6Pqpn/A)
Back of the board.


I soldered a jumper on the back of the board because the LDD ground coming from the project box is a single wire. (Soldered a jumper in there too.)


I didn't expect this, but the O2Surplus board fades in when power is applied, neat touch. ;) The price was certainly right, for $17 + Shipping, I have a simple 4 channel dimmer. Right now I have left and right on separate channels, but I can always put them on a single if I need too.


Now, on to the violets.... :D

[MizTanks]

Not that I understand any if this. I'm still finding myself enjoying this project of yours :) Pretty interesting too.

[Poseidon]

LOL!

That last bit just allows me to dial down the LED's if I ever need too. It has expansion for 2 more channels too. :D

[binford4000]

Thanks Chuck! I am looking at some Violet next, to make it REALLY pop.

This combo allows me to take the best of the halide, a nice crisp white with glimmer lines and the white part allows for the color of the fish to really pop. The LED Blue is incredible for color on the corals, and these add a substantial amount of PAR too.

It seems we are always tinkering with something, and I am no exception. My next project may really turn out killer, a space saver that will directly impact coral growth. (It's under wraps for now.)

By violet do you mean UV?? If not you might want to consider adding 454nm to your mix. Lots of pop and great for your corals. I personally contribute the color of my SPS to them. Foodfor thought is all. I really like what you have done and really glad to hear the torts doing well.Looking forward to more pics!!

[Poseidon]

Yes, I am thinking UV Chuck. I found these:
Semileds 4-core True Violet LED (http://reefll.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=59_63&product_id=58)

They are $29 each, and can be ran at the same current as my Blues, but they recommend 700, which means more parts, so I am waiting a bit. I think 2 of them on their own channel will make an impact for sure.

[Poseidon]

Placed an order from Melev's Reef today. 2 5x5x20 chambers, with a flange top and bottom. One will become a Kalk reactor the other a Ca Reactor. Marc is shipping me the containers, and I will DIY it up to do what I need in each case. Using 1/4" acrylic will allow me to drill and tap the acrylic for PVC fittings, or I may use some uni-seals. In either case, I look forward to doing the little things to each to make them my own.

[MizTanks]

I would love to have one of his ATO containers! He does awesome work :)

[Tom@HaslettMI]

Everythings looking great Mike!


Thanks Andy! It looks really good in person, just the right amount of blue for me. The corals seem to approve as well, everything from Acans to Oregon Tort.

The "last" ok "most recent" part of the puzzle:
http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-vbZRF8R/0/L/Front-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-vbZRF8R/A)
Front of the board.


http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-Vw6Pqpn/0/L/Back%20of%20board-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-Vw6Pqpn/A)
Back of the board.


I soldered a jumper on the back of the board because the LDD ground coming from the project box is a single wire. (Soldered a jumper in there too.)


I didn't expect this, but the O2Surplus board fades in when power is applied, neat touch. ;) The price was certainly right, for $17 + Shipping, I have a simple 4 channel dimmer. Right now I have left and right on separate channels, but I can always put them on a single if I need too.


Now, on to the violets.... :D

I've got one of O2surplus' converters and it is awesome. I believe he said it can control something like 24 LDDs per channel!


Placed an order from Melev's Reef today. 2 5x5x20 chambers, with a flange top and bottom. One will become a Kalk reactor the other a Ca Reactor. Marc is shipping me the containers, and I will DIY it up to do what I need in each case. Using 1/4" acrylic will allow me to drill and tap the acrylic for PVC fittings, or I may use some uni-seals. In either case, I look forward to doing the little things to each to make them my own.

You should just buy the Korallin I'm selling. Shoot me a PM... I'll make a sweet you a deal.

Tom

[Poseidon]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEpSJq61H1E


A quick video update, the tank is looking really good to me today! :D :D :D

[MizTanks]

Everything's looking awesome!! Can't wait to see it a year from now. The way you have everything placed...epic grow out!!

[Poseidon]

Time for a photo update, these were all taken yesterday. I am so happy to be back to halides, it is so much easier to match the color to my eye than it is with Blue heavy LED!

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-GchwS9R/0/L/1D2N3906-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-GchwS9R/A)
War Coral

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-5nRJV28/0/L/1D2N3907-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-5nRJV28/A)
Pink Lemon Aid. (Grows like a WEED!)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-vTgX8Kr/0/L/1D2N3909-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-vTgX8Kr/A)
Red Planet. Growing well here, but color has faded a lot. I think it prefers much lower PAR than what it is getting here.

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-2PhSzb5/0/L/1D2N3912-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-2PhSzb5/A)
Rasta's, Blue Stag, and some really slow growing Zoa that is BRIGHT BRIGHT ORANGE/RED!

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-S35MHCD/0/L/1D2N3914-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-S35MHCD/A)
My last Anthias, I think she is turning to a he. I would really like to add more, but lately the females have been as much as the males at the LFS. These fish used to be $24-$30, now they are $50+!?

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-3CMcrNB/0/L/1D2N3917-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-3CMcrNB/A)
GARF Bonsai from Beaker Bob. I am so happy this is doing so well.

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-3rBDzQX/0/L/1D2N3922-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-3rBDzQX/A)
Pink Sticky Punch, **** Boy, and something from Cherry Corals, some sort of PE.

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-3n3J6JK/0/L/1D2N3923-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-3n3J6JK/A)
Red Chalice, also from Bob. I am not sure the name, but it is RED. I am not getting much growth, too much light?

[Poseidon]

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-h44qS29/0/L/1D2N3928-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-h44qS29/A)
Green Duncan from Tom, from an MMMC meeting. This was 2 heads.

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-pJzsHKL/0/L/1D2N3931-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-pJzsHKL/A)
Acan's from Skyhigh and Detroit Coral Farm

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-kZ69hPW/0/L/1D2N3934-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-kZ69hPW/A)
Another Chalice, I am trying to hide this one in a shadow. More Acans, and a Red Dragon visible. Trying to find a sweet spot for it, that coral I hear like low light and good flow.

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-PJ95V78/0/L/1D2N3935-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-PJ95V78/A)
Full tank from the right side.

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-g6Zk75d/0/L/1D2N3937-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-g6Zk75d/A)
Full tank from the front.

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-SvjCNMR/0/L/1D2N3945-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-SvjCNMR/A)
Full tank from the left.

[Poseidon]

Last one:
http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-gnXCBVh/0/L/1D2N3948-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-gnXCBVh/A)
My view from standing in front of the tank, at my usual viewing angle. I am pretty happy with this so far, I can't wait to get more consistent growth.

[Tom@HaslettMI]

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-h44qS29/0/L/1D2N3928-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/July-2014/i-h44qS29/A)
Green Duncan from Tom, from an MMMC meeting. This was 2 heads.

Looking good! Please keep me in mind if you frag it. I lost all of mine (over 30 heads) to a combo of dinoflagellates, brown jelly and polyp bailout... my tank has something wrong and I can't figure out what:(

Thanks,
Tom

[Poseidon]

Sure thing Tom! I'll make sure you get a nice frag.

[MizTanks]

That was a special Duncan :(

[Poseidon]

A quick documentation post, I changed the PhosGuard and Carbon, yesterday. I also removed the filter pad from the return chamber.

Tank observations are good, everything is growing well, mostly encrusting. Zoa's are paly's are ever expanding. I talked with Marc from Melev's Reef, and my "chambers" are scheduled for delivery this week. I am going to round up the fittings that I expect I will need to make one into a Kalk reactor, and the other into a CaRX.

[MizTanks]

Poseidon-Please keep me in mind if you ever frag the Garf Bonsai from BB...I'd love to have a coral of his growing in my tank...I miss him :)

[tcp316]

Wow Mike, I can't believe how much your corals have grown. It is really filling in. It is beautiful.

[Poseidon]

Thanks Vicki!

Documentation post- Water change completed this past Saturday.

Things to come post- New containers coming from MelevsReef, one will be a Kalk reactor, the other a Ca Reactor. I will be doing the Kalk first, with the Ca Reactor coming a bit later.

[Poseidon]

Started the build on my reactors. I finished the top of the Kalk reactor , drilled 8 holes, and then 2 more larger ones and tapped them both. Tightened it all up, and decided to clean up the sharpie marker marks with some rubbing alcohol. BAD PLAN. The alcohol worked its way in the holes, and started to crack the top. DOH!!! The top was all good until I started to clean it up, I had no idea that the rubbing alcohol would cause such damage.

Time to get another 7x7x.25" piece of acrylic.

Bummer!

[Poseidon]

Progress is being made, I used the lid from the other reactor to have one good one. Drill 2 holes for the Uni Seals, and I can't seem to create a good seal. :(

I applied a VERY thin layer of black silicone to the uni-seal, I'll let that dry, and see what happens tomorrow.

[Sir Patrick]

Your tank is looking great Mike. Very nice.

[Poseidon]

Thanks Chris. Things are starting to grow in, finally!

[Poseidon]

New Kalk reactor is ONLINE!

Did a water test today, ALk is at 8 and Ca at 380. I will not be adding my usual 1 oz of Alk part over the next few days, just to see if the Kalk reactor can maintain those levels.

I have a bunch of pictures on the phone from the construction of the reactor. I will try and get them uploaded tonight.

[Poseidon]

Ok, here is my latest near DIY project. I started with a very nice container from Melev's Reef:
http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-MPjnNpV/0/L/IMG_2735-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-MPjnNpV/A)
The clamps are there to hold the lid tightly to the flange on the chamber for drilling.
http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-7rDM8db/0/L/IMG_2738-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-7rDM8db/A)
All drilled!
Feet were added:
http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-t8tBmSd/0/L/IMG_2737-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-t8tBmSd/A)
Gasket was closed cell foam from JoAnn fabric, $1.49:
http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-s36NVHP/0/L/IMG_2740-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-s36NVHP/A)
Lid Trial fitting:
http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-mZgs6mx/0/M/IMG_2741-M.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-mZgs6mx/A)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-Cx2SQnX/0/L/IMG_2742-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-Cx2SQnX/A)

Marks for drilling the input and output:
http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-WqKGGZ8/0/L/IMG_2745-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-WqKGGZ8/A)

Drilled:
http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-wfHPR5Z/0/L/IMG_2746-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-wfHPR5Z/A)

Tapped and fittings added:
http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-8ZK5Vwb/0/L/IMG_2751-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-8ZK5Vwb/A)

Leak testing:
http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-dHMDnFJ/0/L/IMG_2750-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-dHMDnFJ/A)

1.25" Hole in the side, this was scary. Drilling a hole this large in the reactor side was a do or die for the reactor, I went very slow. The hole is not as clean as I would have liked, and it required some careful cleanup.
http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-5rS4Cvs/0/L/IMG_2754-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-5rS4Cvs/A)

YAY!
http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-Kr2MHWg/0/L/IMG_2756-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-Kr2MHWg/A)
2 hole drilled, uni seals in place, and plumbing done!

More leak testing, this time with the mix pump running:
http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-BdtVCHK/0/L/IMG_2761-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-BdtVCHK/A)

Finally:
http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-mxnN5tQ/0/L/IMG_2766-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Kalk-Reactor-DIY/i-mxnN5tQ/A)

[binford4000]

Nice job mike

[tcp316]

Looks professionally designed and made. Fantastic. You are very talented at DIY

[MizTanks]

It amazes me what you guys can make! Awesome job Poseidon! :)

[Tom@HaslettMI]

Sweet DIY. How much kalk are you running in the reactor?

Tom

[Poseidon]

Nice job mike

Thanks Chuck!


Looks professionally designed and made. Fantastic. You are very talented at DIY

Thank you Vicki, I really enjoy that part of the hobby. Almost as much as watching the coral grow. :D


It amazes me what you guys can make! Awesome job @Poseidon (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/poseidon/)! :)

Thank you Jamie, I think it turned out OK. :)


Sweet DIY. How much kalk are you running in the reactor?

Tom

Thanks Tom!

I have about 1 cup in there for now, wanted to start slow. What works for you for those CaRx parts?

[Tom@HaslettMI]

A cup is more than I was expecting based on the pics. What volume is the reactor? Also, how thick is that closed cell foam? I want to put a pad under the new tank setup I'm working on and that looks like what I need.

Lastly, I just sent you a PM regarding the CaRx parts.

Tom

[Poseidon]

I am not exactly sure on the volume, I would say about 2 gallons though. The dimensions are 4.5x4.5x19.25 inside the reactor. That foam comes in 3 sizes, 2mm 3mm and 6mm, this is the 6.

[Poseidon]

Documentation post-

I went to a 250W DE Halide over the 250W mogul bulb, mostly due to the far superior reflector. The bulb is an old Ushio 20K, and I am not a huge fan of it. I plan to replace it with a 14K Phoenix once the budget allows. I had to modify my LED's to fit the new reflector, by cutting 4" off the length. I attached them with screws this time, keeping the tubing separate from the halide reflector by about 1/4". Removing that 4" certainly made a difference in the heat of the tubing, they get MUCH warmer now. I added a thermal switch in series, that will cut power if the heatsink gets to hot, and so far there has been no problem.

Today I had an issue with the tank temp, I had failed to set my controller properly, and the heater did not turn on. Tank temp was 73.5. I fixed that and I am on way back to 75.5.

While I was trouble shooting, I decided to clean out the sump, and removed about 50% of my algae as a nutrient export. :D

Since putting the Kalk reactor online, I have seen an increase in growth... of Coralline Algae! LOL! I am sure the corals are also growing better, but that is harder to see over a short period.

Last night I did some minor rock work too, I had a small rock slide that needed to be fixed, and of course as soon as you touch the rock work, you end up changing more than you intend too. Once the tank clears up, I will take some pics to show the changes. Cleaning detritus from the sump, sure clouds the tank! :p

[Poseidon]

I finally got around to finishing the LED driver box. I also bought a new halide fixture, with a much better reflector in it. Here are the FINISHED pictures. LOL!


http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-DG87Nnv/0/L/IMG_2794-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-DG87Nnv/A)
The heat sink is now only 10" in length, and yes it does get quite warm. I have added a thermal switch from Steve's LED's to the middle of the heat sink, and it has never tripped off. The quarter is there for scale.


http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-bjs3BTL/0/L/IMG_2796-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-bjs3BTL/A)
Mounted to the side of the halide, this time I used a rubber grommet between the LED's and halide. The grommet creates an air gap to allow for better cooling, and less heat transfer from the halide to the LED.


http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-f7rVnXN/0/L/IMG_2806-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-f7rVnXN/A)
Lights on. This is taken with a Ushio 20K bulb that was about 12 months old, it has been replaced by a Phoenix 14K, which I like a lot more. I like the Phoenix even better than the Radium to be honest. The 14K Phoenix looks just a tad more blue to me, I know the charts show otherwise. Also the LED on the left is dim because I had touched the LED with the double sticky tape on the bottom of the reflector. The LED was on when I was placing those, and it started smoking immediately. I ended up replacing that particular emitter, and ordered a spare in case I do something stupid again.


http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-cxgvtWb/0/L/IMG_2830-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-cxgvtWb/A)
LDD's into the O2 Surplus manual PWM Dimmer. This works perfect for me, manual dimmer on LED's that are only there to enhance the color of the tank, and add a dawn/dusk effect to the halide.


http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-T78QkpF/0/L/IMG_2831-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-T78QkpF/A)
E-bay special voltage dropper. This takes the 36v from the LED power supply and drops it to 5.2V which goes into the O2 Surplus dimmer.


http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-J6Mvvzp/0/L/IMG_2833-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-J6Mvvzp/A)
All 3 parts hanging before getting added to the project box.


http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-nv9pKV2/0/L/IMG_2839-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-nv9pKV2/A)
All placed in the box, you can see the voltage to the Dimmer at 5.22. I can also push a button and see the input voltage, which is 36.2.


http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-3dxpCP6/0/L/IMG_2840-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Luxeon-DIY-Build/i-3dxpCP6/A)
And finally all buttoned up, looking much cleaner than having that dimmer hanging out in space. :D

[Poseidon]

Well, the Phoenix bulb, new reflector and the LED's all combined really cranked up the par... I am measuring 300 par on the SAND. Guess I better raise the light a bit before I cook stuff. :)

I am 900+ at the waters surface, and 350-400 at the 1/2 way point, these readings were taken with my Galaxy e-ballast on "HQI", I turned it to the 250W setting, I should take a couple quick readings to see the difference.

[Poseidon]

Another documentation post-

I am battling some algae I have never seen before, it is brown and stringy, and the worst part is it seems to want to grow on the coral tips.I blow it off the corals daily with a turkey baster but it grows right back. It also grows on the sand and the rock work. I knew I would get some sort of algae bloom with the new light, but I had no idea I would get this crap.

I have tried mechanical removal, with "quick filters" I added a sponge to the overflow that is cleaned twice a day.

The corals that are the most affected are the Hawkins and the Red Dragon, with the fine branches. The Acans and favia seem to love the stuff though, as they are out and puffed up every time I blow the crap off the rocks.

Tomorrow I am planning on picking up more salt for a water change.

The skimmer is producing dark nasty crap, and I have replaced my 1 cup worth of Phosguard with 2 cups with of the stuff. I did that a couple of days ago, I am hoping to see improvement.

This tank sure has given me a work out, the last one was a breeze in comparison. :(

[MizTanks]

Roflmao!! I too am seeing crap I've never seen before with this tank. Some days I'm sooo happy I have a t.v. in my room. Cause that's where I go when I don't wanna look-lol.
I hope no real damage is done to your sticks!

[Poseidon]

I am still battling this algae, it has caused significant loss of corals. Hawkins is almost dead, I lost a separate frag of hawkins that was doing well on its own too. Red Dragon is losing tissue at an alarming rate.

I've been using manual removal methods and water changes over the last 2 weeks. The algae blows right off the coral, or rock or sand with a gentle puff from a turkey baster, I used machanical filter pads to trap the now free floating algae, and then I remove that pad from the system.

There has been 2 cups of phosguard in the system for those 2 weeks as well, the flow must not have been good where I had it placed in the sump, and since I changed my return pump to an internal one, I don't have that nice little shelf that I once had for media such as this.

Yesterday I was off from work, and made a call out to Preuss Pets. They had a Coralife Chemical reactor in the used stuff section, for $20. I drove out there post haste and picked up TWO of them. One reactor now holds 1.5 cups of Phosguard, the other 1.5 cups of Carbon, the 2 reactors are driven by a MJ1200 that I had laying around. It seems to work perfectly as far as the media is tumbling and not getting blasted out of the reactors. :p

Now, I am sure the phosguard is getting good flow, hopefully whatever is in the water that is allowing that algae to grow can be eliminated and I can get back to enjoying my hobby. :)

[MizTanks]

Hoping for the best Mike!! Have you thought about using GFO? I've seen many using it when battling nuisance algae. Just a thought :)

[Poseidon]

Phosguard =/= GFO Jamie. It is just what I have had better luck with. GFO has the ability to impact corals, Phosguard seems to be a less risky option.

[MizTanks]

Whatever works for you right :) That's all that matters.

[Poseidon]

The algae was gone... for about a week. It came back. Tuesday I noticed it growing on the sand, so I went lights out for 3 days, hoping to see an improvement today.

I did add a couple fish and a shrimp last Sunday, I added a sail fin tang, a flame angel, and finally a blood shrimp, all are doing well so far. The Flame is eating well, the sail fin is a big. LOL

The next issue, with this tank it seems there is always something.... is pH. I am really struggling to keep it at 8. I am going to confirm my pH probe reading with a liquid test later today.

dKh is on the high side, I am at 11. Ca test is next up, but I have not know Ca to affect pH directly like Alk does. Something is certainly out of whack.

[MizTanks]

Personally I wouldn't fret to much over your ph. Let your ALK drop on its own.

[Poseidon]

Ca Tested out at 440, so Alk and Ca are both high, but in balance.

[binford4000]

The algae was gone... for about a week. It came back. Tuesday I noticed it growing on the sand, so I went lights out for 3 days, hoping to see an improvement today.

I did add a couple fish and a shrimp last Sunday, I added a sail fin tang, a flame angel, and finally a blood shrimp, all are doing well so far. The Flame is eating well, the sail fin is a big. LOL


The next issue, with this tank it seems there is always something.... is pH. I am really struggling to keep it at 8. I am going to confirm my pH probe reading with a liquid test later today.

dKh is on the high side, I am at 11. Ca test is next up, but I have not know Ca to affect pH directly like Alk does. Something is certainly out of whack.
With your Alk at 11 Dkh I am not surprised that your Ph is unstable. Not the end of the world as Miz says ,stop doaseing and it will come down,but high and low Alk will effect the buffering ability or Ph of your water column. What is your mag at. Not only does Mag keep your 2 part solution from bonding low levels will make Algae breakouts more unpredictable and also allow calcium build up in your pumps. Just my .02 tho

[Poseidon]

Your .02 is worth at least a Quarter Chuck. ;)

I have not been dosing 2 part for a while, once I got the Kalk reactor running right. The coralline algae really likes the higher dKh! I've noticed growth tips on the stag, and pink lemonade, so maybe chasing the pH isn't a great idea, I am really trying to make up for lost time due to that crap.

[binford4000]

Your .02 is worth at least a Quarter Chuck. ;)

I have not been dosing 2 part for a while, once I got the Kalk reactor running right. The coralline algae really likes the higher dKh! I've noticed growth tips on the stag, and pink lemonade, so maybe chasing the pH isn't a great idea, I am really trying to make up for lost time due to that crap.
Coralline and growth is all good!! If you let it come down some I think the Ph will fall inline. I know on our system when the Ph starts to climb it usually means the Salinty has creeped due to the 2 part doaseing. Either way sounds like over all it's going pretty good!

[Tom@HaslettMI]

I believe this thread is due for a FTS...

Tom

[Poseidon]

I think you are right Tom, I'll have to dig the camera out soon.

Documentation post, today I cleaned the skimmer, changed the Phoguard, and went from carbon to SeaChem's synthetic product, Purigen.

I also did a 25 gallon water change.

[binford4000]

Documentation post: pictures,pictures,pictures,pictures!!lol. We all know you got the camera and this skills show us what ya got brother!!!

PS: the Idaho grape and the Orange cap have finally blended,would like to get you some,back up plan

[Poseidon]

Sweet Chuck!

I'll do a picture post Wednesday, I'll have time. :D

[Poseidon]

PICTURES!!!!!

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/January-2015/i-Z4C8Hfw/0/L/1D2N4882-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/January-2015/i-Z4C8Hfw/A)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/January-2015/i-ngS2fJK/0/L/1D2N4883-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/January-2015/i-ngS2fJK/A)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/January-2015/i-vgCn2Rg/0/L/1D2N4892-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/January-2015/i-vgCn2Rg/A)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/January-2015/i-s3TFjK6/0/L/1D2N4893-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/January-2015/i-s3TFjK6/A)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/January-2015/i-L9jZsGH/0/L/1D2N4896-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/January-2015/i-L9jZsGH/A)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/January-2015/i-4nhHn5s/0/L/1D2N4897-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/January-2015/i-4nhHn5s/A)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/January-2015/i-PJ2RnMs/0/L/1D2N4900-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/January-2015/i-PJ2RnMs/A)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/January-2015/i-bg7qXG6/0/L/1D2N4901-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/January-2015/i-bg7qXG6/A)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/January-2015/i-QrFxPs3/0/L/1D2N4904-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/January-2015/i-QrFxPs3/A)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/January-2015/i-FFDCmGV/0/L/1D2N4908-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/January-2015/i-FFDCmGV/A)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/January-2015/i-gshQ6Mp/0/L/1D2N4918-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/January-2015/i-gshQ6Mp/A)

[ksfulk]

Nice stick shots... Is that a red planet between the chalice and frogspawn pics? Mine doesnt show the green apart from right around the base. Very cool shots.

[Poseidon]

Thanks! Yes, that is a Red Planet, all the green is gone. It had really nice green under LED, now not so much.

[MizTanks]

Someday I hope my corals look as good! How old is this tank now?

[Sir Patrick]

Man! Tanks looking awesome!

[ksfulk]

Thanks! Yes, that is a Red Planet, all the green is gone. It had really nice green under LED, now not so much.

Ive been told the only way they keep that green base is under really intense lighting. I've got mine up pretty high in my tank under a set of LEDS, and the reds are intense, but the base is a dark green. Really, really pretty. Again, really beautiful tank shots.

[Tankster]

Does your flame pick on any of your corals? That is my all time favorite fish. :fish2:

[binford4000]

Looks really nice Mike. Frags are really growing nicely! You need a chunk of my 500K Lokan!

[Poseidon]

Ive been told the only way they keep that green base is under really intense lighting. I've got mine up pretty high in my tank under a set of LEDS, and the reds are intense, but the base is a dark green. Really, really pretty. Again, really beautiful tank shots.

Thank you. That Red Planet is under 450+ PAR right now, directly under a 250W halide, and 4 12W LED's. Not sure how much more I can give it. ;)


Does your flame pick on any of your corals? That is my all time favorite fish. :fish2:

Not that I have seen. So far it has been a model citizen, one of my clowns chases it occasionally. I need to add more fish.


Looks really nice Mike. Frags are really growing nicely! You need a chunk of my 500K Lokan!

Thank you Chuck! I am always excited to come see your tank. Hopefully I can keep mine on this good path for a while, and not have anymore drastic issues to deal with.

[Poseidon]

Someday I hope my corals look as good! How old is this tank now?

Thanks! The tank is about 2 and half, it went through a move a new smaller sump system at 6 months. I have battled a lot of issues that I have not had in the past. Went through a time where the LED fixture I had was not putting out the PAR I thought. Then I went through a summer of cyano heck, and finally and most devastating was the dino's. I have had my hands full with this tank for some reason. Hopefully I have all that crap behind me, and I can grow corals now. :D


Man! Tanks looking awesome!

Thanks Chris! I am looking forward to the sticks filling in the space. :)

[Tropical Buff]

Wow awesome tank

[Poseidon]

The tank continues to run, and so far so good. :D

Some of my SPS have really started to take off, I attribute that to learning my demand for Ca and Alk, for today the Kalk reactor is keeping up. In the short term, I will finish my DIY Ca Reactor and then my Ca/Alk will be covered long term.

As another topic, I have started house hunting. My lease is up in about 5 months, and I really want a house, with a basement. ;) I also want a dog, a German Shepherd to be exact. I know that moving the tank is a big deal, but I think I have a pretty good routine now, having moved a tank several times. :D

[Tom@HaslettMI]

Glad to hear the tank is doing good.

Let me know when it comes time to move the tank. I'd like to lend a hand (and a few buckets) if needed.

Tom

[Poseidon]

Thanks Tom! I appreciate the offer, and I will gladly take you up on it.

Last time I moved, it was a day to move all my crap, and on the second day, I moved the tank. That second day was just as hard as the first. :(

[Sir Patrick]

Thanks Tom! I appreciate the offer, and I will gladly take you up on it.

Last time I moved, it was a day to move all my crap, and on the second day, I moved the tank. That second day was just as hard as the first. :(

I agree!!! Done it the same way, and tank day was just as hard as moving day.

[adalius]

Wowsa. Popping in after a long time away, tank looks great Mike. Sorry to hear about the circumstances around moving it though. :(

[Poseidon]

Thank you Adalius.

I picked up a couple dozen Astrea snails today, from the Trop. I took my girlfriend with me, Amanda was really impressed with the SHARKS! ;)
jimsflies cursed me at the MMMC meeting a short time ago, this tank has had a rather substantial population of Astrina stars, I never noticed them eating eating any corals. Jim mentioned to me, that one I had brought in as a hitchhiker to the MMMC meeting was a "bad one" that eats Zoas. I get home from the meeting, and no kidding, there is a little star eating away at my Black Cherry paly. ARGH!!!

So, I go to removing the ones I can see, and in about 10 minutes time, I have pulled out 63, yes 63 stars!

I have pulled an additional 15-20 since then as well, I was very tempted to get a Harlequin Shrimp today, but passed as I don't want to start buying stars for food once this are gone. Manual removal will continue daily until I get the population in check. The snails are to replace the stars that I have removed, I am sure the stars were eating a significant amount of algae, along with a Zoa or 10.

Also, I have ordered a few more parts to get my CaRx running, a pH probe holder that fits inline with my recirculation pump, and some nylon screws/nuts. I was also able to find some scrap acrylic to replace the 7x7 square that I ruined with my first attempt.

My list is shrinking for the reactor project. :) I think the last thing I need is a feed pump, and that recirc pump. Maybe I can find those at the upcoming swap in Lansing.

[jimsflies]

Time for a harlequin shrimp ( @Preuss Pets (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/preuss-pets/) had a few the other day). They will eat those stars in no time.

...and "cursed" you may be a bit of an exaggeration... :swearing:

[Poseidon]

It seems to be that time again.... Return pump.

Last night the Ocean Runner 3500 did not restart after the feed mode, I took it apart and there was considerable build up on the impeller. No big deal, a 30 minute soak in vinegar and water and all cleaned up. Put it back together, and no start. :(

After some work, apart and together, apart and together, I have it running. How long will it last?

Why does this system seem to EAT return pumps, good ones too. Reeflo, Blueline, and now Ocean Runner. UGH.

[Seph]

Man Mike that just seems wrong that your going through that many pumps on your system. There has to be something specific thats causing it, cause the odds that three different companies pumps all fail early seems too odd. I've had the same return pump on my system now for 8 years with no problems. Knock on wood. :) Its a gen-x pcx40. Just keeps on keeping on - Praise the Lord!

[Poseidon]

I know Joe! I've never had this type of issue before, in 30 years of keeping a tank, 20 years of Saltwater.

[Mike]

The tank looks awesome Mike!!!

[binford4000]

Thank you Adalius.

I picked up a couple dozen Astrea snails today, from the Trop. I took my girlfriend with me, Amanda was really impressed with the SHARKS! ;)
jimsflies cursed me at the MMMC meeting a short time ago, this tank has had a rather substantial population of Astrina stars, I never noticed them eating eating any corals. Jim mentioned to me, that one I had brought in as a hitchhiker to the MMMC meeting was a "bad one" that eats Zoas. I get home from the meeting, and no kidding, there is a little star eating away at my Black Cherry paly. ARGH!!!

So, I go to removing the ones I can see, and in about 10 minutes time, I have pulled out 63, yes 63 stars!

I have pulled an additional 15-20 since then as well, I was very tempted to get a Harlequin Shrimp today, but passed as I don't want to start buying stars for food once this are gone. Manual removal will continue daily until I get the population in check. The snails are to replace the stars that I have removed, I am sure the stars were eating a significant amount of algae, along with a Zoa or 10.

Also, I have ordered a few more parts to get my CaRx running, a pH probe holder that fits inline with my recirculation pump, and some nylon screws/nuts. I was also able to find some scrap acrylic to replace the 7x7 square that I ruined with my first attempt.

My list is shrinking for the reactor project. :) I think the last thing I need is a feed pump, and that recirc pump. Maybe I can find those at the upcoming swap in Lansing.

Mike I have a killer reactor that has everything you need just collecting dust! Even the 60# of media and the Co2 tank! LMK if your intrested

[Poseidon]

Hey Chuck! I'll give you a call in a couple days, I have some busy days ahead.

[MightiesKeeper]

Hey Mlike, The tank looks great. On your pump issue... have you looked at out the your places electrical equipment. Like is the outlet wired properly, is there a main ground, are they to many outlets on a breaker, is the outlet getting voltage spikes. I could not imagine that many pumps going bad as being just bad luck.

[Poseidon]

I placed an offer on a house on Tuesday evening, they accepted my offer last night!

I will be moving, sometime in June I imagine. 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, and a BASEMENT! Very exciting time for me, I can't wait!

[Seph]

That's great mike. Let me know if you need help moving when the time comes.

[Dmmz]

Congrats on getting the house

[Poseidon]

Another trip to Preuss' today, and another great time! This is the first time that I was able to take corals in for trade since I set this tank up, and I was very happy with the results.

I was able to replace that suspect return pump, this time with a Sicce Syncra 4.0, it is about 1/2 the size of the Ocean Runner, and it pumps twice as much. :) The pump is SILENT too, no noise, no hum, nothing. It is a quality piece for sure, hopefully it ends my return pump curse.

[binford4000]

Congrats on the house Mike!! That is a sweet pump,I do hope this cures the issue. Very strange how this system eats pumps?? But sounds like it grows coral well!!

[MizTanks]

Congrats Mike!! How exciting [emoji119]
I too am running a Sicce Syncra return pump. So far it's been awesome. [emoji106]

[Poseidon]

Thanks Chuck! I am really looking forward to having a real home, no more townhouse or apartment living for me. The house has a HUGE backyard (for a subdivision) so I will be able to add that special 4 legged family member. ;)

The corals that I took in were all what I call bread and butter stuff, a huge chuck of Frogspawn, about 20 heads, several pieces of green Duncan's, and a small rubble rock full of Rasta's. (About 50 polyps) I was very happy with the trade, and I have a bit more room for fuzzy sticks now. :)

[Poseidon]

Thanks Jamie! I am very excited for sure, trying not to plan out all the things I want to do to the house... Just in case something stupid happens.

[Poseidon]

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2015/i-rxFqpZB/0/L/1D2N5657-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2015/i-rxFqpZB/A)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2015/i-4p553st/0/L/1D2N5658-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2015/i-4p553st/A)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2015/i-SKNWq78/0/L/1D2N5663-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2015/i-SKNWq78/A)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2015/i-2RCHprB/0/L/1D2N5667-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2015/i-2RCHprB/A)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2015/i-ph5HtZB/0/L/1D2N5683-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2015/i-ph5HtZB/A)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2015/i-Kgw6mSZ/0/L/1D2N5696-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2015/i-Kgw6mSZ/A)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2015/i-L7HVpnn/0/L/1D2N5700-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2015/i-L7HVpnn/A)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2015/i-zjkHnGx/0/L/1D2N5707-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2015/i-zjkHnGx/A)

http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2015/i-Zm4cfv2/0/L/1D2N5708-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2015/i-Zm4cfv2/A)

A quick batch of mostly fish pics. :)

[MizTanks]

Very nice batch of pics at that!! What coral is that in pic #1 (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=1) ?

[Poseidon]

That is a M. Setosa, weird growth right? :p

[MizTanks]

That is a M. Setosa, weird growth right? :p

Very weird [emoji12]

[Sir Patrick]

Your tank looks like its doing amazing Mike.

Any chance at a FTS?

[Poseidon]

Your tank looks like its doing amazing Mike.

Any chance at a FTS?

Sure thing!
http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2015/i-H4x6GzG/0/L/1D2N5721-L.jpg (http://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2015/i-H4x6GzG/A)
I think it is looking pretty good. :D

[MizTanks]

Makes me feel like I'm doing something wrong [emoji12]

[Poseidon]

Well, I closed on the house!!!!

I am now the proud owner of a HOUSE! The sellers are not going to use the 30 days they asked for either, I will get possession of the house 1 week from today, May 23rd! I am VERY excited, I have been planning this for a LONG time. No more apartments or townhouses for me, I am finally getting into a place of my own.

I have not decided on an actual move date yet, but I have to be out of the Apartment by June 13th. I have a lot of work to do getting ready for the move in. The Carpet in the house has to go, it will be replaced with a laminate floor, and I am going to paint the living and dining rooms as well, before I move in.

The timing really couldn't be better, I have the first week of June off from work for a Vacation. :)

So far I have picked up some supplies for painting, and the PAINT. I went to Home Depot, picked out a couple of colors, and boom done. No back and forth, no what if's just BAM I am choosing THIS COLOR. LOL It was fun.

When I have a date in mind, I'll fly a help wanted (needed) flag, as moving the tank is quite the ordeal, and the more people I can have help, the better, especially experienced reef people, that know what to do. :D

[Tom@HaslettMI]

Congratulations on the new house! The tank is looking real good too.

Tom

[Poseidon]

Thanks Tom! It has been a bit of a bumpy road getting to the house, but now that I am (nearly) there, I can't wait to get started. :D

[Poseidon]

Small update, I have been crazy busy on the new house over the last week. Saturday a good friend of mine Nick and I ran 2 lines from where I want the tank to the basement. Sounds easy enough right? Not so much. The tank is on an addition to the house, no access from the basement, and get this, no crawl space either. There is any a couple of inches between the bottom of the joist, and the concrete floor that used to be the garage. There was a few unexpected obstacles, and some crappy 2" hole saws that made the job much harder, not to mention the furnace and duct work that were in the way to being able to access the holes. I am very glad that I am over 6ft tall, or this would have been a truly impossible task.

So, 2 1.5" PVC lines, and a string to be used to pull my Apex wire have been run in preparation for the tank move. Today, I will be finishing up the new floor hopefully, moving the bulk of the apartment to the house tomorrow, with a tank move scheduled for late in the week. :D

[jimsflies]

Good luck! Sounds like a big job. Another reminder of why I like all-in-one tanks.

[Poseidon]

Floor and paint are just about done. All that's left is the floor trim. The tank move got pushed back, I'm hoping for Sunday, but that's a stretch goal. I've been on vacation all week, I've never worked this hard at a JOB, much less a Vacation. Grrr

[Poseidon]

Well, the tank made it to the new house. I had some challenges, I'll detail them later. Here are. A couple quick pictures

. http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/15/50a3fe97b3193604d82175583607d30c.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/15/1ba72f2c11135151d22eedc59d3bf932.jpg

[Sir Patrick]

Had my tank catch fire, in the middle of the night one time, so I notice things sometimes.

I wouldnt trust that power strip over your tanks plumbing like that for any longer than you have to.

I would hate to hear that you had an accident in the new home.

[Poseidon]

Thanks Chris, that is very temporary.

[Poseidon]

Well a LOT has happened since my last update. There was some pretty serious health issues that I conquered, I lacerated my spleen tubing, the bed rest to heal the spleen resulted in a DVT (blood clot), and finally SHINGLES. (Brought on by the stress of the previous 2 events according to my doctor. I am finally HEALTHY, and happy too!

Ok.... Done with the boring stuff, on to some pictures.

Here are a few pictures from running the plumbing, 2 1.5" PVC lines under the floor. Good thing I ripped up the carpet and put down a new floor otherwise the tank would have had to been located somewhere else.

Large Image Linked to Load Page Faster (https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/IPhone-Pics-from-Summer-2015/i-LqFNwGM/0/O/IMG_3636.jpg) (1603 kB)
From the back to front, that is hole cut to the size of a heat vent, where the plumbing comes up. If I ever move out, I can drop a vent in there and plug the hole. ;)

In the middle is a hole cut for securing the PVC to a floor joist. That hole was also used for access to join the 2 pieces needed to get to the basement.

Closest hole was cut because there are 2 joists, about 8" apart that I had to cut holes in. This was a BIG job, about 8 hours, and 3 hole saws later, I got this:
Large Image Linked to Load Page Faster (https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/IPhone-Pics-from-Summer-2015/i-9tGNdzF/0/O/IMG_3667.jpg) (1381 kB)

The black line is for the Apex, the orange line is not in use, it is there for power should I need to take the tank off the circuit in the dining room I can. The twine is there to pull added electrical through the floor. So far, I have pulled 2 Cat5 lines in addition to what you see here. The first was for the Apex internet, the second for Apex controlled dimming of my LED's.

[Poseidon]

Here is a pic of my tank and view for a couple weeks once I was home from the hospital:
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/IPhone-Pics-from-Summer-2015/i-dHKRdst/0/XL/IMG_3839-XL.jpg

[Poseidon]

My first house project after the injury, can you see it?
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/IPhone-Pics-from-Summer-2015/i-JT2Wngf/0/X3/IMG_3977-X3.jpg

[MizTanks]

Yup I see it or more like now I don't. Nice job!!

[Poseidon]

SO, when things are working, change it to make it better right?

https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/IPhone-Pics-from-Summer-2015/i-TSFHQV2/0/X3/IMG_3990-X3.jpg

I decided to add violet LED's, not a lot, just 6 of them, 3 on each side of the halide. Since each side of the halide will have 33W of LED on it, I decided to go with actual heat sink material this time instead of the square tubing.

https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/IPhone-Pics-from-Summer-2015/i-xFtB34B/0/X3/IMG_3991-X3.jpg

There was a LOT of spill into the room with this arrangement:
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/IPhone-Pics-from-Summer-2015/i-xjDhrXj/0/X3/IMG_3994-X3.jpg
I'll figure that out later...

Decided it was time to work on the stand a bit more:
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/IPhone-Pics-from-Summer-2015/i-qnDpKSD/0/X3/IMG_4004-X3.jpg
There is LED rope lights above that shelf, they are not very bright though. It does illuminate the knick knacks when the lights in the house are out though.

Look how bright they are:
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/IPhone-Pics-from-Summer-2015/i-vF4wrk5/0/X3/IMG_4029-X3.jpg
LOL!

[Poseidon]

Time to address that shelving unit in the basement:
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/IPhone-Pics-from-Summer-2015/i-vQkFV4s/0/X3/IMG_4044-X3.jpg

Left over paint from the living room, I don't mind if I do!
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/IPhone-Pics-from-Summer-2015/i-Np5GvJf/0/X3/IMG_4063-X3.jpg

I needed a hand to get that stand into the basement, while I waited for some help with that, I solved the light spill issue.
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/IPhone-Pics-from-Summer-2015/i-qZxcQxM/0/X3/IMG_4139-X3.jpg
Stainless steel, held in place by some super high strength double sided sticky tape. The strips are not quite long enough, but the next size up was 4X the price. I'll live with that little gap at the back.

[Poseidon]

Looks pretty good!
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/IPhone-Pics-from-Summer-2015/i-ThDJbN9/0/X3/IMG_4141-X3.jpg

Here's that gap, it kinda bugs me, no one else notices it though.
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/IPhone-Pics-from-Summer-2015/i-F3BZ3Fx/0/X3/IMG_4142-X3.jpg

Had some help getting this up:
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/IPhone-Pics-from-Summer-2015/i-S9DqV3w/0/X3/IMG_4147-X3.jpg
Everything is so clean and shiny!

[Poseidon]

Here are the last 2, my heater was on 100% of the time with the house temp between 65-68, so I decided to insulate the sump.
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/IPhone-Pics-from-Summer-2015/i-MC9H3Rd/0/X3/IMG_4275-X3.jpg
Now I can see times where the heater is off, for about 90 minutes, then on for about 120, off for 90, on for 120... The tank stays between 76 and 76.5 99% of the time.

And finally:
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/IPhone-Pics-from-Summer-2015/i-HZNpcmQ/0/X3/IMG_4280-X3.jpg
This is the latest view from my spot on the couch. :D

[Poseidon]

Things on the to do list, I need to clean up the wiring downstairs, and I have to finish my CaRX, I have all the parts, just haven't had the time.

[MizTanks]

Dang!! You been one busy lil reefer-lol. Came together great though!! [emoji106]

[Poseidon]

Good evening everyone, it has been a long while since I posted anything on the boards about my tank! I am still in the hobby, recovering from a case of LARS (Lazy A** Reefer Syndrome) where I did lose quite a few corals. Unfortunately they were the SPS that are hard or impossible to find, the old school ones.


Anyway, I have moved away from the metal halide/led combo and went 100% LED using these AcroStar pucks. I decided to go with the 1/2 Mega, 8 3W emitters on a 2" puck. My first plan was to use my existing power supply and 6 of the pucks, but that didn't work as the power supply was to small to drive all 6 properly with the LDD drivers. (The supply was 36v, 150W max, and I was pushing that to the edge, with no success.)


With that plan not working out, I upgrade my supply to a 45v 350W version and ordered 2 more of the pucks from Yann.


I couldn't be happier with the results!


Here is a list of what I am using:
45V 350W Power Supply from Amazon
2 LDD 1000 mAH Drivers
2 LDD 700 mAH Drivers
1 AcroIQ Micro Driver (Also from Blue Acro) This thing is NEAT, and TINY
https://blueacro.com/acroiq/
1 Voltage dropping thing from EBay, 45v in, 12v out to run the fan and
1 O2 Surplus 0-10V to 5v PWM converter board
8 Half-Mega 18k Blue https://blueacro.com/acrostar/
PCI cooling fan from Amazon
36" Makers Slim Heatsink


Ok, now that the list is out of the way, some pictures!
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-HH5JLDr/A] (https://photos.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-HH5JLDr/0/XL/IMG_5304-XL.jpg[/img]



https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-fT6NBfz/A] (https://photos.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-fT6NBfz/0/L/IMG_5307-L.jpg[/img]




These are the old light, 14k Phoenix 4 Luxeon M 12W LED's


New Light:
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-RnWwgcJ/A] (https://photos.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-RnWwgcJ/0/X2/IMG_5310-X2.jpg[/img]

The emitter itself, still in the plastic. Really well done, looks like a full on commercial production product, not something designed and built by a hobbyist.


Project starting:
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-d9Qs875/A] (https://photos.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-d9Qs875/0/X2/IMG_5314-X2.jpg[/img]



Here the fan is in place, and you can see the center lines for the 3 pucks, this was updated to 4 later:
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-XRhMkBd/A] (https://photos.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-XRhMkBd/0/X2/IMG_5315-X2.jpg[/img]



A better picture of the emitters mounted to the heatsink:
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-8r943g3/A] (https://photos.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-8r943g3/0/X2/IMG_5316-X2.jpg[/img]



Here we have after many hours a nearly complete fixture, the reflectors and diffusers are mounted and you can see my wiring 1.0, it was also upgraded when I added the 2nd pair of pucks.
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-NtvrGgT/A] (https://photos.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-NtvrGgT/0/X2/IMG_5325-X2.jpg[/img]



Cont…

[Poseidon]

First picture of the tank with the 6 pucks and my old power supply, this was a 1 AM (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/x-apple-data-detectors://11) picture:
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-9ZXzRfT/A] (https://photos.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-9ZXzRfT/0/XL/IMG_0476-XL.jpg[/img]



Here we go again, 2 more pucks and more wiring to do:
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-msSnjwJ/A] (https://photos.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-msSnjwJ/0/XL/IMG_5353-XL.jpg[/img]



I did a much better job on this endcap, I can plug in the ethernet cable that goes to my Apex for control right into the side of the light:
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-xPFS3XT/A] (https://photos.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-xPFS3XT/0/XL/IMG_5355-XL.jpg[/img]



Let the wiring begin! Three of the 4 components are viewable here, but none of the wires:
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-nLhdHcZ/A] (https://photos.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-nLhdHcZ/0/XL/IMG_5361-XL.jpg[/img]



AcroIQ Driver, remember I said this was SMALL?:
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-2JbKH8s/A] (https://photos.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-2JbKH8s/0/XL/IMG_5364-XL.jpg[/img]



After about 3 hours of cutting, stripping, and screwing in tiny wires to tiny terminals:
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-ZBq7GgK/A] (https://photos.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-ZBq7GgK/0/X2/IMG_5367-X2.jpg[/img]



Power side endcap, I am pleased with how this turned out:
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-HfVdWs8/A] (https://photos.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-HfVdWs8/0/X2/IMG_5369-X2.jpg[/img]


Cont…

[Poseidon]

And FINALLY! On the tank, the sun was actually shining into that window of course, but this pic shows all 8 pucks in operation over the tank.:
https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-3RzcXNR/A] (https://photos.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-3RzcXNR/0/X2/IMG_0488-X2.jpg[/img]



For some numbers, I have the LED's about 6" off the surface of the water the top of my rock work or the tips of the green acro on the left are getting about 325 PAR, the Rastas also to the left are 250 ish, and the sanded varies from 80 to 100. These values are straight from the clubs apogee PAR meter. I have set the Apex to ramp up the blue channel to 75%, and the white to 50% over about an hour, then it stays there for 8 hours and ramps back down over about 2 hours.


I have only had the lights in operation about 10 days, and I have a few immediate observations. The Jason Fox Witch Hunter monti LOVES these lights, I think I can see it growing in front of my very eyes. The algae that grows on the glass has been reduced by 80%, most likely due to the light being so focused down onto the rock work. My black background also seems to have faded into the back even more, I am sure also due to the focused light no longer illuminating the glass panes themselves.


I'll make sure to update the thread as my tank grows, I added several new frags this weekend from a local swap, and so far everything is HAPPY!


-Mike

[Poseidon]

https://splitsecond.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Acrostar-build/i-GxtQQXm

i just snapped this picture. Tank is looking ok, lots of corals lost, but all my remaining pieces are showing signs of growth.

[binford4000]

Hey Mike is that the green stag I gave you?? New lights look great