What is cheapest/best way to run 36 LEDs?

[CptanPanic]

Hello,
I am looking to make LED lights for a planted aquarium. So my requirements are efficiency since it will be on all day, and longevity, and price. What should I look at doing?
Thanks,
CP

 

[doctaq]

http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.42744

maybe a couple of those

 

[CptanPanic]

I forgot I want to use some 700ma Cree's.

 

[blasterman]

What should I look at doing?

Giving us more information?

Are those 36 1watt LEDs or 36 XPGs driven at an Amp?

 

[CptanPanic]

Yes 36 3W LEDs.

 

[blasterman]

That comes out to roughly 100watts.

Assuming you don't need dimming and just want straight forward 'on/off' it's pretty easy.

You can go four rows of 9 LEDs, and drive each row with a MeanWell LPC-35. Those are good budget drivers and RapidLED has them for $16. You could in theory get away with 3x12 rows, but the extra driver will buy you more longevity and efficiency with the drivers. Worth $16 in my book.

You could also use two 60watt drivers.

For single driver, you'd need something between 120-150watts, and those run about $90-100. The big ones tend to be efficient though. An HLG-120 is like 94% efficient.