The SolarPRO300 (Pro3) pulls 300w+ giving you 37.5w/sqft. with it's 2' x 4' recommended footprint. The CXB3070 COBs are very efficient and the patented reflector lenses array maximize coverage and intensity. The SolarPRO series feature premium Meanwell drivers, powering the CXB3070 @~70w each...
No need, because you can simply turn off either the cobs or monochromes, accordingly. Adhering to the K.I.S.S. principle to ensure reliability, because a dimmer is another thing that can go wrong.
Unless it's really necessary, adding a dimmer is another part that can go wrong. In this case, more than likely not. The T8 is not powerful enough to cause damages at the recommended operating distance. In fact it will not damage plants even at 10", though not recommended due to coverage...
@bobrown14.
The SolarPro300/400(Pro3/4) are new bar-type models designed for improved coverage and flexibility. The Pro3 has just been released recently and the Pro4 will be soon be available in ~14 days. Both models will be available online soon.
SolarPro300(Pro3)
COB: Top-bin CXB3070...
The proven 3070 is also a very efficient chip that delivers a more cost-effective option for the application. The 3590 is for the grower who demands the highest efficacy. All of the COBs are 3000k.
The wattage requirement depends on the lights efficacy. COBs are much more efficient than HID in terms of umol/watt with a much superior spectrum, which further enhance it's efficacy.
They look yummy! Density can be strain related too. You can have the same strain from the same parents and the density will vary depending on the pheno's. The only way to compare is a side by side with exact clones, nutes, etc..
Yes, the heat-sinks and vents will help dissipate the heat and cool the light, but the main advantage between LED and HID is there's no major secondary heat source of the HID bulb.
Should be approximately the same as a comparable wattage HID ballast, because X amount of wattage,
will put out X amount of BTU's. The main advantage is LED delivers more par intensity watt for watt, minus the 700F fireball HID bulb. No bulb replacements for life, along with no more fire...