DIY LED questions

[EricTMah]

Hey everyone

So I have ZERO experience with any LED DIY project. Just haven't come across any situation that I needed to inform myself on it.

I'm debating on converting an old T5 fixture into a DIY LED light. Also possibly using the knowledge down the road to make lights for other tanks I maybe setting up in the future.

So my question for the community is:

Are there any sources out there that explain the ins and outs of a DIY project?

I have some basic knowledge of wiring and such, but I'm nowhere near being an electrician. So something more in layman terms to start with then possibly moving to more advanced articles or sites to further my knowledge.

I love DIY projects, but will only attempt it when I'm full educated on the project.

Any suggestions or help would be great.

 

[TORX]

Basically it is connect the - to the +

But need to know more about what your DIY type will be. Dimmable? Dimmable with Apex? RapidLED comes with a great walkthrough on installation and will send any diagrams you would like for your purchase. Aquastyleonline, same deal, straight forward - to +, only debate is what driver/control you are looking to run.

 

[MrHermit85]

+1 on what TORX said. Most places that sell packages will give you detailed instructions on how to attach everything and some even have solderless options so it's just a matter of connecting everything. LED group buy has some good deals but they don't sell packages so you will have to pick your parts according to your own design. They do however have some reference material on their website:

 

[KBennett]

Leds give a directional light, so there is no reason to convert a lamp... The reflectors arent needed...All you need is a heat sink.

 

[TORX]

Leds give a directional light, so there is no reason to convert a lamp... The reflectors arent needed...All you need is a heat sink.

Exactly, only some people are just converting so they have a stylish housing for the LED DIY. Lets face it, a heatsink and wire is not all that pretty unless it is contained. (issue if you are running hoodless)

 

[Neopimp]

There are a couple LED build threads on here. Mine included.

 

[reefgeek]

I'll be completing a build shortly as well, not much on the build thread now but the pics do give a good idea of how many wires can end up being involved in a larger project. Check it out http://www.thefragtank.ca/community/index.php?threads/reefgeek-300g-build-thread.11344/page-2

Cheers

 

[Neopimp]

congrats on the first person to post int he new forum I am gogin to bed been up all night

I'll be completing a build shortly as well, not much on the build thread now but the pics do give a good idea of how many wires can end up being involved in a larger project. Check it out http://www.thefragtank.ca/community/index.php?threads/reefgeek-300g-build-thread.11344/page-2

Cheers

 

[EricTMah]

Thanks for all the info guys.

I was actually planning on the retro fit into housing because like Torx said,(Still don't know how to quote in the new forum). I don't want all the wires and heat sink showing.

I actually thought there was a lot more to in than just purchasing a kit.

I probably plan on doing a 2 channel dimmable kit.

I'll take a look at all the recommended sites and see what route I'd like to go.

 

[MrHermit85]

Aquastyle has some sweet heatsinks now that will conceal your wiring and another more expensive option is the makersled heatsink. I think for smaller projects they can be affordable but once you get o the big fixtures it could get a little pricey... Otherwise rapidled has heatsinks with splash guards.

Check out my build for an idea too...

http://www.thefragtank.ca/community...style-solarlux-led-controller-kit-build.9196/