Quantum meters/blue bulbs and PAR?

JRechcygl · 02/17/2009, 08:19 AM

I remember reading an article somewhere I believe on Reefkeeping mag or maybe Advanced Aquarists in regards to Quantum meters reading lower levels with "bluer" bulbs.
I have 3 Actinic+, 3 Aquablue+ and 2 6000k Giesemann bulbs over my 180 and had good levels but wonder if they are actually higher.
The article said something in regards to Quantums reading about 50% less in the blue range...
Anyone know if there is any truth to this?

Thanks and happy lighting!

evilc66 · 02/17/2009, 09:24 AM

The issue was the Apogee meter reading lower than the much more expensive Licor meter. The variance changed depending on if you used the daylight or electronic calibration. I don't think the difference was as high as 50%, but you more than likely are getting more PAR than the meter is telling you.

02/17/2009, 08:19 AM	#1
JRechcygl Registered Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Somewhere playing with lamps Posts: 449	Quantum meters/blue bulbs and PAR? I remember reading an article somewhere I believe on Reefkeeping mag or maybe Advanced Aquarists in regards to Quantum meters reading lower levels with "bluer" bulbs. I have 3 Actinic+, 3 Aquablue+ and 2 6000k Giesemann bulbs over my 180 and had good levels but wonder if they are actually higher. The article said something in regards to Quantums reading about 50% less in the blue range... Anyone know if there is any truth to this? Thanks and happy lighting! __________________ Rechcygl...Yeah only one vowel AKA Dr.Fragenstein Big Glass tank lit by thin glass bulbs Current Tank Info: Propane, 180 reef

02/17/2009, 09:24 AM	#2
evilc66 Registered Member. Join Date: Oct 2007 Posts: 245	The issue was the Apogee meter reading lower than the much more expensive Licor meter. The variance changed depending on if you used the daylight or electronic calibration. I don't think the difference was as high as 50%, but you more than likely are getting more PAR than the meter is telling you.