How accurate is this PAR calculator?

[NormanB]

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Townes_Van_Camp, I really appreciate your input on this spreadsheet. I'll checkout BRS videos on the Reefbreeders lights.​

From your experience what did you find when comparing the spreadsheet values to the PAR meter? Was the spreadsheet high/low in it's estimates?

Thanks again!!

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[Townes_Van_Camp]

That was a couple years ago. I don’t remember the specific issues with it. But i cooked corals that had been doing great. I believe it was hotspots and poorly blended light.

 

[NormanB]

Thanks again for your input. I watched the BRS video and it seems where I'm at now intensity wise is spot on for my softies. According to them I need to raise the fixture up some as currently it's 9" above the water and they recommend 18"

 

[Townes_Van_Camp]

Thanks again for your input. I watched the BRS video and it seems where I'm at now intensity wise is spot on for my softies. According to them I need to raise the fixture up some as currently it's 9" above the water and they recommend 18"

Raising it will certainly help even out the spread and if it’s disco balling that will also stop. The cost, a little light spill

 

[NormanB]

Fortunately no disco ball effect even at 9". Light spread isn't an issue as the tank is an in-wall, so the spill will be in the equipment area.

One thing though, being in the wall the top of the front isn't open to the light due to the wall. That was the main reason I went with 9" to help minimize the wall shadow.

Do you think raising the fixture will impact that any? As in make it worse.

Thanks

 

[NormanB]

Update: Based on BRS setup tips for the Photon 48-V2+ light is now 14.5" above the water. Yes, BRS recommended 16", but close enough for government work.

As expected the tank is less bright, but more evenly light. It's been up for a week and will now start to slowly increase intensity.

Thanks to all for your help.