DIY LED Hood: Prebuild Thoughts...

[TheMikey]

I can't find the thread, but when I was considering doing a DIY, I came across a thread on RC about LED optics.

The poster looked at the PAR range between 40, 60, and 80 degree (I think) optics and found that the 60 degree optics were the most efficient and gave the best PAR.

I'll dig around a bit longer and see if I can find it...

[TheMikey]

Alright, I lied. But at least I found what I was looking for!

Looks like 70 degree optics make the most of your LEDs:


Source

However, reading through this again, they didn't test the 40 degree. My assumption is that this source is trying to show you how to get the most par using the least LEDs. Take it with a grain of salt, I'm no expert

[Bryan]

Here is an interesting read on optics in a tank

http://www.nano-reef.com/forums/inde...owtopic=261525

[claymax]

what would be optimal for a diy fluval edge, in regards to optics, as the canopy forces them to be kept very close to the surface.

[Bryan]

With the Edge you don't want to use optics as the opening is so small, you want the light to scatter as much as it can When I get a chance I will upload a couple pics of the DIY LED lighting for my edge.

[claymax]

k cool!

[oupulino]

It is interesting read .What is best height to hang if you using 70 deg optic for DIY fixture