I have made a simple light bar to replace the old 18W floro tube and hood on my goldfish tank.
I think it looks better now without the hood - just a glass box. The LEDs are visible, but not too brightly with the domes directing most light down.
There are three Cree XR-Es on star-mounts attached (thermal paste & glue) to an aluminium bar that runs the 60cm length of the tank under the cover glass. They are powered by a 10V regulated supply (old phone charger). I was going to use 12V with a series resistor, but its bright enough as is.
There are no live plants, and I used cool-white LEDs to match the room lighting.
It is a freshwater tank. Should I be worried about corrosion? Will the damp environment (aerator) damage the LEDs?
Any suggestions?
edit:
Answer: yes, the crees are already looking grotty around the cathode. Will need to find some protective covers to keep them dry.
I think it looks better now without the hood - just a glass box. The LEDs are visible, but not too brightly with the domes directing most light down.
There are three Cree XR-Es on star-mounts attached (thermal paste & glue) to an aluminium bar that runs the 60cm length of the tank under the cover glass. They are powered by a 10V regulated supply (old phone charger). I was going to use 12V with a series resistor, but its bright enough as is.
There are no live plants, and I used cool-white LEDs to match the room lighting.
It is a freshwater tank. Should I be worried about corrosion? Will the damp environment (aerator) damage the LEDs?
Any suggestions?
edit:
Answer: yes, the crees are already looking grotty around the cathode. Will need to find some protective covers to keep them dry.
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