Details of my high tech Orchidarium

[razka3]

I used to have a chart/graph/picture of the light output of this particular bulb/reflector setup - can't seem to find it now. The lumens definitely drop off when moved from directly under light, maybe I should just buy a light meter, I think they are under $30.

I'm trying to get all my phals, dens, cym, paphs all under the same light. I think I'll find a nice spot for them all - given the dropoff in light levels.

I found the link you were talking about by the way
http://www.orchidboard.com/community...ht-levels.html

[Ross]

Originally Posted by razka3

maybe I should just buy a light meter, I think they are under $30.

You definitely get what you pay for. I had one of those $30 specials and it was never accurate and always misleading. Decisions based on those can be risky. Here's the one I bought and worth every single penny!

Light Meters, 840006,840020,21,22 I have the 840020 Lux/Foot candles. It's adjustable, self zeroing-self calibrating, etc. Very accute to 1/10 lux.

[razka3]

Thanks Ross,

That's definitely good to know. I don't think I'll have the money for one of those for a while! I'll just be doing it by eye for now hahaa. Hope I don't hurt them too bad... will try to ease into the light. Can probably do a lot of damage with a 430w hps if not careful.

Frank

[Ocelaris]

yeah, 430w HPS can give out incredible amounts of light, I would hesitate on putting anything within 3 feet of it...

I ended up getting a 50$ light meter, and I'm glad I got one, and I've never owned one, or could bear to spend the money on one, although it's not the greatest, it gives me a good idea, and will help greatly with my new tank...

This is my meter:
LX802,Digital LUX Meter

I got it here for about 50$

Carsten's Orchid-Depot and Orchid Shop

[razka3]

Ocelaris - Just wanted to apologize for hijacking your thread a bit, just had to jump in back there.

I just about finished my setup now, with the 430w, and a table under it - panda film came in mail today so hung it around the table setup in my basement. I moved all my plants under the light except for the phals, which I might move in later into some shaded corners.

I just hung my Schoenorchis fragrans about 6 inches from the light, at the brightest spot - apparently they like full sun. Hopefully I don't roast it! It's got a little spike coming out... will take some pics soon and post in a new thread.

I really do need a meter, otherwise I'm just guessing what will work, and it could be dangerous to their health. $50 sounds more reasonable than $120.

Thanks for the info.