12V halogen dichorics as UVB source

[Red Ink AUS]

Hi Guys,

In my un-ending quest for knowledge about reptiles i have come accross these light sources as an alternative. They are basically dichoric downlights with the glass in front removed. One test has shown that they actually out perform MVBs at a given distance. They are longer lasting and cheaper, $8 AUD here per 1. Imagine the output of an MVB for $8, they are equivalent to a 60 watt bulb in their heat output and could last a couple of years.

There is also a local reptile supplies manufacturer here that has caught on to them and started selling pre-packaged products. I am tempted to switch over when the lights in my enclosures need changing.

Some references
http://www.herpshop.com.au/CareSheets/UVtable.doc
Scroll down to the bottom and see the output of them (compare it to the MVB output on the first page)

Reptile one dichorics
http://www.reptileone.com.au/instructions/Heat Fan Light/R1_fanheatlight_public.pdf

 

[crypticdragons]

is this the same type of light
http://www.reptileuvinfo.com/docs/dichroic-halogen-report.pdf

not sure if we have the same access to bulbs that produce useful amounts of uv light here in the states though that would be nice if it did. The other issue raised on that link is the probability of explosion. Is it the same with the bulb you are talking about? great info by the way

 

[Red Ink AUS]

is this the same type of light
http://www.reptileuvinfo.com/docs/dichroic-halogen-report.pdf

not sure if we have the same access to bulbs that produce useful amounts of uv light here in the states though that would be nice if it did. The other issue raised on that link is the probability of explosion. Is it the same with the bulb you are talking about? great info by the way

Thanks for the link Bri , I have skimmed through it and Greg Fyfe is mentioned in the link you gave me. Interesting enough he is one of the researchers that has tested the dichorics here in OZ on that link i have. It must be a diffrence in manufacturers as the link you gave me does not mention the manufacturers but Greg does. Frances Baine did mention that there where 2 brands that were satisfactory in their output for heat and UV. I might just have to get those specifics brands if i decide to switch (both of them easily available here in OZ).