DIY LED build for 20" cube

jaytizzle · Sep 9, 2011

I would like to share my DIY LED build that is going over my 20" cube tank with you all here. I am working on this and it will take quite some time before it's fired up and running (still need to build a canopy). Here's just a teaser...

Big thanks to Rick and Bill at www.reefledlights.com. That black anodized heat sink is absolutely sexy!

jaytizzle · Sep 9, 2011

This system will consist of 6 "pucks". I styled this after the AI Nano. Each puck will consist of 2 Cree XP-E RB, 2 Cree XP-E B and 1 Cree XM-L NW. The RB's will all be run on one driver (Inventronics 40W), the B's also on one driver (same), and the XM-L NW's will be on a special Inventronics driver that will push them at 1750mA. This system is going to be severe overkill but it is a test, pretty much, for a future build on my 120.

I connected all of the LEDs to the board with thermal grease (NOT PASTE) so that they can easily be removed. BJB connectors were used because I can't solder to save my life and I think they look super clean. I am not planning to use any optics at this time but have the option to easily add them with the BJB connector system.

irish02bk · Sep 10, 2011

looks nice, i'm looking at doing a DIY for my 75g

bige · Sep 10, 2011

Sexy indeed. Lets see it functional!

ReefLEDLights · Sep 10, 2011

Every good build starts with a beer!

looking good! and good pick on the 1750, the BJBs can only handle up to 2,000

jaytizzle · Sep 11, 2011

Thanks, guys. I'll detail a full build sequence once I get it all lined out. This is going to be pretty tricked out on how I integrate it into my canopy. I'm planning to have outlet plugs mounted on the canopy so I can run computer power cords from the Apex EnergyBar and plug into the back of the canopy. Also, for the dimmer cable, I'm going to custom wire a pair of Cat5 outlets and mount them on the back of the canopy so I can run a basic ethernet cord from the Apex and plug directly into the back of the canopy. This will allow me to unplug a couple of cables and be able to remove the entire canopy from the tank with ease. I'm completing the canopy plans and will start building hopefully next weekend.