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T5 ballast

LeviT

LeviT

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Hey everyone. I bought a used icecap 430 ballast a month or so ago and after much tinkering (thanks again Matt!) I've determinded it's toast. Does anyone have a spare I could borrow until I find out if I can have this one rebuilt or replaced. I only need to power 4 24w bulbs so it doesn't have to be an icecap ballast.

Thanks in advance!

... because I know someone is going to ask, the bulbs work, the fuse isn't blown and we tested all the connections. Even in a 2 bulb configuration i only get a flicker when i plug it in.
 
OH ok.. Thanks for the correction Mike.. I thought 430 only support 2 bulbs that's why there is a 660.. I guess the only different between the two is the wattage.
 
an icecap 430 is meant to power up to 4 bulbs (8 ft of bulbs) but i tried with 2 just bulbs even if I was wrong (which I'm not, look it up :) )
 
[quote author=xinumaster link=topic=5142.msg63267#msg63267 date=1226334008]
how many endcaps to you have hooked up on your 430?[/quote]

I've tried both a 2 bulb and 4 bulb configuration. Matt (Dyngoe) checked for shorts from the endcap to the ballast and it was wired fine. My goal was 4 bulbs but right now I have an RBTA and some softies in there with just a fw light so I have to get something quick, even if it's temporary.


Do any of the LFS's sell new ballast's? I just want to put it behind me at this point.... sigh.
 
[quote author=sfsuphysics link=topic=5142.msg63272#msg63272 date=1226335433]
Want a quick fix? Swing by homedepot/lowes pick up an advance t8 ballast, 4 bulb. It'll fire 4-24watt T5s just fine.[/quote]

Really... hmm any idea what they run $$ or if the light output is weaker (I'm ok with overdriven :))?


FYI, the tank is only 18 deep.
 
it looks like they are 4x32 watts so that would mean they would be overdriven some. I'm guessing that's brighter light but a lower bulb life.... are there any other draw back? For the price that'll work for short term at least but I may just leave it that's the only concern.
 
They may or may not overdrive the bulbs, electronic ballasts don't quite work in the way they'll pull what the rating is.

I think they run $20-30, its been a while since I've bought them.

But they'll work for the short term no problem, hell I ran a couple 54w T5s with one for quite a while, I'm sure you can get a better deal/price on stuff online, but you need something in a hurry, it's a good alternative.
 
Thanks guys. I'll make some time to run to HD and get one.


....now what to do about my bad ballast. is anyone familiar with icecaps procedures/policies?
 
Give it to me. With a little more time I can check each piece of the board. I think IC has a $75 flat fee for basic repairs. Don't quote me on this but I remember reading something like that on RC once.
 
[quote author=sfsuphysics link=topic=5142.msg63285#msg63285 date=1226338170]
email/call them[/quote]
duh! :) I was looking for some first hand info Mike. everyone has to be a wise guys :) ....wait that sounds like a comment I would make. :p

[quote author=Dyngoe link=topic=5142.msg63290#msg63290 date=1226339082]
Give it to me. With a little more time I can check each piece of the board. I think IC has a $75 flat fee for basic repairs. Don't quote me on this but I remember reading something like that on RC once.[/quote]
Thanks Matt. I'm going to throw in a T8 ballast to buy me some time. I should be out your way tonight but if you aren't home I'll leave it on your patio if that's ok?
 
[quote author=Elite link=topic=5142.msg63294#msg63294 date=1226339334]
There should be a date on the ballast. Is it out of warranty?[/quote]
Just a serial number from what i can find.

No worries, I'll give Matt a crack at it and if he doesn't find anything I'll give IC a call.
 
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