Hanging MH/VHO light rack

Mark: 

I'm in the processos making a base/cabinet for a new tank.  I've got the garage filthy and tools out, so if your interested in a DIY rack for your lights, get some ideas and drop by to chat.  We should be able to knock something out pretty quick. 

JFinch, why 250W

Because I figured I couldn't talk you into 400Ws .

Here's my reasoning.  From a DIY standpoint there really isn't any cost difference between 250 and 175.  And with Rich selling M58 ballasts for $40, the 250 is probably cheaper.  I've got a feeling that 250w might be more light then you'll like (there are some mushrooms and "red" corals that need serious shade in my tank), but with your style of canopy all you need to do is raise it up a bit to reduce the light.  Also, many (maybe most) other softies actually look and grow better, at least to my eyes, under intense MH lighting.  For example, green nepthia is much greener and compact under MHs.  With 175w there is no way to get more light without dropping the hood into the water. 

When I lived in Italy I plugged a 120v 100w light bulb into a 220v socket. (The house was wired for 120v and 220v and I guess I mixed the lights up).  It was one of the brightest light bulbs I've ever seen, it only lasted for 45 minuets though.

MHs and ballasts are different then regulate light bulbs, as I was doubling the voltage and thus increased the current as well, but my guess is a 175w MH on a 250w MH ballast would have a similar effect.