Additional Lighting for a Nano Cube

[Merman]

Hi
I am going to purchase the 24gal Nano cube, however I was wondering if anyone has fit this tank with additional lighting? I would like to fit another 16.5 inch power compact if possible.

Any info would be gladdly received.

Many Thanks

Phill

[rockpoolie]

It can be done and I thnk people are getting kits from nanotuners in the us.

[JMF]

I have done it. I got a replacement heatshield from nanocustoms. One thing to note is that the UK version I have does not have the same ballast configuration as the US models, my model came with magnetic ballast and starters. I replace the ballasts with a 2x36w and 1x36w. The heatshield also has holes for a 24w bulb, if you feel you need it.
The heatshield is just a bit of galvanised steel with holes drilled in the right places, so you could probably make something yourself if you are any good a that sort of thing.

[gregcope]

Haveing got a nanocustoms heatsheild on I'd make one having seen it.

JMF - What did you replace your ballasts with? I want to do the samething but do not know what bits I need - wiring wise I'm fine.

[Merman]

Thanks guys
I will have a look at the nano custom/tuner sites.

JMF, was it difficult to add the additional lighting?

I went to my local dealer today to ask about nano cube prices and he said he had some other models coming in that are exactly the same as the D&D models only cheaper. Has anyone heard of these and if so are they the same?

[Sye Davies]

hi

they are called orca and look the same as the d and d.

however i dont think the lighting is the same.....they have the fans but only one 24w tube if memory serves me.

[Merman]

Thanks Sye, sounds like the Nano Cubes are a better option then. im trying to find a detailed pic of the nano cube, so I can plan some mods.

[JMF]

Haveing got a nanocustoms heatsheild on I'd make one having seen it.

JMF - What did you replace your ballasts with? I want to do the samething but do not know what bits I need - wiring wise I'm fine.
I ordered these from www.dealec.co.uk (http://www.dealec.co.uk)
696435 Mectronic SQU
696483 Mectronic SQU
Came it around £40 with VAT and delivery. I have no idea if they are any good or how long they will last. They appear to be made in Italy (not sure if that is a good thing) and the manufacturer has a decent website.

Took a lot of information from the nanocustomn website. However these ballast will not fit in the original ballast box, I got a black ABS one from Maplins. I did use the original cables, you need to use all the core for the PC lights, this means you need to power the fans and LEDs separately, I also had to cut the pins of the top switch to get the heatshield in, which means you can’t use it.
I managed to break the LEDs, so am using a small cold cathode tube from maplins, effect is quite good, wife likes it better than LEDs, which is lucky.

Merman – It was not that difficult, but I wouldn’t say it was straight forward, it might be if you are any good with electrics, I aren’t, that’s how I broke my LEDs. But as long as you can follow the wiring diagrams on the ballasts and solder a little you should be OK.

John

[JMF]

Thanks guys
I went to my local dealer today to ask about nano cube prices and he said he had some other models coming in that are exactly the same as the D&D models only cheaper. Has anyone heard of these and if so are they the same?

have a look at http://www.shirleyaquatics.co.uk/ the boyu midi tanks look nearly identical to the D&D - but does not show sizes. If you plan on ripping the guts out of the hood anyway, then this may be a cheaper option.

[DC110770]

Would I be able to take the tank to someone to get the additional lighting put in??

[andyk25]

i have a a 150w halide and actinics over my 12g