From: Sandy King (sanking@clemson.edu)
Date: 02/06/03-10:28:07 PM Z
Cactus Rose wrote:
>Assuming you're handy with tools, I'd recommend building 'from scratch'
>using components assembled inside a wooden frame.
If by building "from scratch" Dave means assembling dual-tube holders
inside a wooden frame I agree with your recommendation. If by scratch
he means assembling the unit with bi-pin holders inside a wooden
frame, then I think it is not worth the trouble --- and the wiring is
much more complicated. And the only advantage is, possibly, some
slight saving in weight. I have built and used both types and in my
opinion there is absolutely nothing to be gained by building with the
bi-pin holders.
> It's very important to
>have a large piece of sheet metal immediately behind the bulbs - they won't
>work without it.
Not really. If you construct with the dual-tube units there is no
need for sheet metal behind the bulbs. Just be sure to connect to a
power outlet with a ground, and ground all of the dual units together
to this outlet and the unit will work fine. But you should ground all
electrical units anyway!!
> Drill some ventilation holes into your wooden frame to let
>heat escape. I installed the ballasts on the outside of my frame, that
>helps reduce heat buildup considerably. The interior dimension of my frame
>is 16.5" x 24", with .5" spacing between each of the eight bulbs.
You definitely need the ventilation holes, and even better in my
opinion, put a small 3-4" diameter fan on one side of the exposing
unit. This will eliminate heat build up.
>
>Stay away from shop lights and other cheap components. Buy quality ballasts
>and fixtures and you'll have no problems.
You can buy good dual-tube units from most home supply stores today
with either magnetic or electronic ballast. You pay a little more for
the electronic ballast, but it is far superior.
Sandy King
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