LED Growers Unite, Who makes the BEST LED and how long has it lasted ? Cast Your Vote!!!

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I wouldn't trust a thing Spiderfarmer tells ya mate they have been lying about specs since they started!

Specs are from independent testing facilities

American National Standards Institute - ANSI Home

The American National Standards Institute - ANSI - facilitates and corrdinates the U.S. voluntary standards and conformity assessment system.

www.ansi.org

RoHS Directive

Discover EU rules on the restriction of hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS in EEE).

environment.ec.europa.eu

UL Empowering Trust®

UL is a global independent safety science company with more than a century of expertise innovating safety solutions.

www.ul.com

The spreadsheets have all the LED specs from all the industry manufacturers and certifying tech companies
We just need to look at what diode at what voltage and how many diode's
Sure there are many that list the apex, looks better than the average

 

[acespicoli]

Horticulture Lighting​

Recently, horticulture lighting is one of the popular lighting applications. Not only can it replace conventional high-pressure sodium lamps, but it also can be used on the different color of LEDs with necessary tuning, so that required wavelengths for every stage of plants growth can be supplied. Horticulture lighting can be divided into top lighting and inter lighting. Top lighting supplies common plants basic light source for photosynthesis while inter lighting supplies extra light for the purpose of expediting fruit growth. By now, MEAN WELL has accumulated a variety of field cases in horticulture lighting application.

LED Product Catalog

LED Product Catalog

online.fliphtml5.com

HVG(C) series can be implemented in such application with output wattage 65W/100W/150W/240W/320W/480W/650W and 1000W under operating at high voltage input. In addition,

HLG(C) covers an output range from 40W/60W/80W/100W/120W/150W/185W/240W/320W/480W to 600W and able to run in common voltage, together with complete product series

including 0-10V and DALI dimming function,
which makes it a perfect fit for application, especially in horticulture lighting.

LED Driver Power Supply Solution - MEAN WELL

Finding suitable LED drivers for LED lighting? A complete range of 8~1000W drivers featuring dimmable, IP67 with global safety certificates and ship from stock.

led.meanwell.com

LETS GET BACK TO THE POWER SUPPLIES BEFORE WE TOUCH ON SANS LIGHT AND REVISIT DIY
THIS IS A 8/2024 SNAP SHOT OF MEANWELLS HORT OFFERINGS
THIS UP TO 650 WATT ON RESIDENTIAL 120V... SO WE NEED TO DIG DEEPER

and 1000W under operating at high voltage input. <<<

 

[Rocket Soul]

Yield at seedling ppfd 116 @ 120 is still close to indusrty standard 1gm/watt
Actually its 0.98gm/watt but usually rounded up, more of a goal than a absolute

116 ppfd 120g > you cannot really say that its 1g/w, 120 is ppfd and not wattage. How many watts for 120ppfd?
I

JUST SOME SNIPPETS FOUND TO BE INTERESTING, HOPE TO FIND CONSENSUS ON THIS TOPIC
WHAT KIND OF YIELD SHOULD WE EXPECT
WITH 700-1200 WATT INPUTS WOULD BE PRACTICAL FOR M2 ?

Depends on so many things i dont know anyone who uses 700w per m2. Maybe per tray but not per m2 of floor space.

 

[acespicoli]

Micro moles (µmol) Oversimplified​

• Jun 21, 2018

The end goal for horticultural lighting is fairly simple: provide plants the amount and type of light energy they need at the lowest energy cost. That being said, understanding the terms used to explain light output from lamps and complete fixtures (lamp, ballast and optics) can be somewhat challenging for the beginner to average grower. In a somewhat oversimplified format, a few lighting terms that may help you with your customer base are as follows:

Photosynthetic Photon Flux (PPF), µmol/s (“Micro moles per second”).​

The quantity of light (photons or particles of light) that drives photosynthesis. Increased photosynthesis enhances growth, quality and yield. The output of discharge lamps such as CMH or HPS is measured in µmoles/s, usually in the photosynthetically active radiation wavelengths between 400-700 nm. Industry 1000W HPS lamps typically deliver between 1,700 and 2,100 µmol/s.
When a lamp is placed within a fixture, the resulting µmol/s is affected by the fixture efficiency.
A typical fixture with specular aluminium reflector might have an efficiency of 80%, where 80% of the light produced by the lamp is delivered from the fixture. Therefore the output of an 80% efficient fixture would be 1,600 µmol/s when fitted with a 2,000 µmol/s lamp.
Of note, the µmol/s rating of lamps is typically specified when the lamp is driven to rated Watts. For example, a poorly made ballast, under-driving a 1000 Watt lamp to only 950 Watts should be taken into consideration as the resulting quantity of light would be diminished.

Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density (PPFD), µmol s-1 m-2 (“Micro moles per second per meter squared”).​

The unit for instantaneous light in a square meter. This takes into account the area that is being lighted for plant growth.

Daily Light Interval (DLI), µmol m-2 d-1 (“Micro moles per meter squared per day”)​

The cumulative amount of light in a square meter over 24 hours, measured in moles, (or 1,000,000 µmol). This is the same as an instantaneous measurement but totalled for a day’s worth of photons, analogous to a ‘rain gauge’ for light. Plants require DLI values between 2 and 30+, depending upon their species.

Photosynthetic Photon Efficacy (PPE), µmol/J (“Micro moles per Joule”)​

A Joule can be defined as the work required to produce one Watt of power for one second. Therefore, in turn, the efficiency of a light source can be defined as the quantity of light output (µmol/s) per Watt. A 1000W light source producing 2,000 µmol/s of light delivers 2 µmol/J.
While µmol relates to the output of a light source, one must also consider the colours of light (spectrum) delivered within this output. In the spirit of keeping this simple, we’ll cover spectrum in greater detail in coming articles.

 

[acespicoli]

116 ppfd 120g > you cannot really say that its 1g/w, 120 is ppfd and not wattage. How many watts for 120ppfd?
Depends on so many things i dont know anyone who uses 700w per m2. Maybe per tray but not per m2 of floor space.

I imagine for many hobby growers 600-700 watts would be a sweet spot for flowering
Those more demanding growers in a tent 4x4 or 5x5 m2 etc would be looking for 1000+ watts

More than that your likely not a hobby home grower your more of a producer looking for profit
not a 1020 seedling tray ? maybe a ebb and flow table ?
We have looked at meter square up to commercial growers harvesting up to tons/year
BEEN A LONG TIME SINCE I SAW TONS/YEAR ... IM A LITTLE DATED IN THIS
IM WILLING TO LEARN !!!


I LIKED THIS FROM THE 3Gs ARTICLE, IGNORE EVERYTHING BEFORE THE BUT...
But really the 30 to 35 (grams) is the low bar, and if growers can achieve 50 or even 70 grams per square foot, then they’re really in the ballpark. That’s when you become productive and really lucrative.
THIS LACKS THE POWER INPUT ?


HOW WOULD YOU MEASURE IT?
TELL ME A LIGHT INTENSITY AND EXPECTED YIELD PLEASE
MAYBE IN A GRAPH YOU KNOW MAKE IT ACCESSIBLE FOR HOBBY AND PRO
BEST>>>

I SEE WHAT YOU ARE SAYING, IM FUZZY WITH MATH... TO ME 90% EFFICIENCY
CONVERTING ELECTRIC TO LIGHT A 10% DIFFERENCE ITS BALLPARK
ITS 9:47AM HERE I REFER TO THIS AS QUARTER TILL 10 JUST HOW I THINK

AND IN THESE THINGS I DO A OVERVIEW MACRO TYPE APPROACH THEN I GET INTO MICROS
SO I SEE YOUR GENIUS AS I HAVE ALREADY WITNESSED SO FEEL FREE TO JUMP IN WITH DATA
THANKS FOR KEEPING ME ON TRACK WITH DETAILS, NEED THAT AT TIMES
THE PPFD TO GRAM WAS DATA I QUOTED FROM THE CHART
IT WAS CONFUSING... WATTS>PPFD>YIELD (STANDARD ?)

 

[acespicoli]

How to Choose LED Drivers for Horticulture Lighting​

More and more growers utilize horticulture lighting to achieve better plant growth, higher yields, and year-round production. Compared to traditional light sources, LED grow lights are more efficient and long-lasting. Therefore, LED grow lights are the most popular choice for horticulture lighting. The specific selection of LED grow lights depends on the species of plants and their growing stages. Except for the efficiency, protection, spectrum, reliability, and other relevant factors, LED drivers should also be taken into account when choosing LED grow lights for your greenhouses, vertical farms, grow tents, etc. That is because every LED grow light requires a driver to function properly. Without quality drivers, LED grow lights may burn out. Thus, choosing the right LED grow light with the right LED driver is critical. Let’s learn more about LED drivers in this post.

What is an LED driver?​

An LED driver is an electrical device that regulates the power required for an LED or array of LEDs. It is also known as an LED power supply. An LED driver is similar to ballasts of fluorescent lights, helping LEDs perform at their best with the correct power supply. An LED driver is effective in preventing “thermal runaway”, which will damage LEDs. LEDs require a certain amount of volts to conduct electricity. This is called “forward voltage”. But forward voltage will decrease with increased temperature. The decreased forward voltage causes the LED to draw more current. LEDs also get hotter and hotter as the current increases. Eventually, LEDs will burn itself out. With the help of LED drivers, the power required for an LED or a string of LEDs is regulated appropriately. As last, the “thermal runaway” is avoided.

What are the common types of LED drivers?​

Constant current drivers and constant voltage drivers are the two common types of drivers for LED grow lights. Both of them have their own advantages. Which one do you need based on your requirements and applications?

• Constant current drivers​

LED constant current drivers are the most widely used LED drivers for horticulture lighting. Constant current drivers produce a consistent amount of current. They can constantly control and regulate the current level regardless of external temperatures. Therefore, constant current drivers are perfect for preventing burnout and thermal runaway.

• Constant voltage drivers​

Unlike constant current drivers, constant voltage drivers produce a fixed output voltage range. Constant voltage drivers are ideal for lighting systems with multiple strings of LED lights. For example, commercial grow rooms feature integrated electronics. Constant voltage drivers supply current according to the number of connected electronics, and prevent excessive current.

Tips for choosing the right LED driver​

LED drivers supply the right voltage to your grow lights as well as convert current from AC to DC. Choosing the right LED drivers plays an important role in ensuring perfect performance and a long lifespan for your grow lights. Here are some tips for choosing the right LED driver for your horticulture lights.

• Output and input voltage/current​

First, consider the power requirements including output voltage/current and input voltage/current. Output voltage/current requirements mean the power requirement of your horticulture fixtures. For example, a 12-volt LED grow light requires a 12-volt LED driver to make it operate normally. In simple words, the LED drivers should be compatible with your grow lights.
Input voltage/current requirements refer to the power supply of your applications. If you use constant voltage LED drivers, LED drivers must work well with the input voltage of your applications. Without the right input voltage, LED drivers cannot properly start and light fixtures. Most homes supply an average of 120 volts, while commercial and industrial facilities supply 277 volts or even 480 volts. Similarly, check the input current range and the compatibility when choosing a constant current LED driver.

• Max wattage​

When it comes to the maximum wattage of LED drivers, it is simpler to figure out. LED drivers shall have a higher max wattage than your LED grow lights. Moreover, the maximum wattage of your fixtures should be at least 50% of the driver’s max wattage. If the max wattage of drivers exceeds that of grow lights, this can damage the fixtures and drivers.

• Dimming​

Both constant current and constant voltage LED drivers can include dimming capability. Our LED grow lights can be customized with both dimming and adjustable spectrum. Dimmable grow lights enable growers to regulate the light intensity given to crops freely. You can increase or decrease the light intensity depending on your needs. Most dimmable grow lights work with a low voltage dimming system, 0-10V dimming system. With dimmer and dimmable LED drivers, you can provide the right amount of light for various plants regardless of their growing stages. For example, you can cut down the flow of current of a dimmable grow light from 1000W to 600W or 300W by simply switching the dimmer. Then the light intensity of the grow light is reduced. But do you really need dimmable grow lights? Check out our previous post and find the answer.

• Safety​

As known, an LED driver is an electrical device. Therefore, the safety of LED drivers is also critical. Heat dissipation and enclosure protection are two main factors affecting the safety of LED drivers. Heat dissipation is related to the material and structure design of LED drivers. Excellent heat dissipation not only ensures stable performance but also extends the lifespan of LED drivers. IP rating explains the enclosure protection of LED drivers to both solid objects and water elements. Check our previous post for more details about IP ratings.
LED drivers regulate and supply the power required for LEDs, and avoid the thermal runway effectively. Choosing the right LED driver and LED grow lights for your application is an important part of successful cultivation. If it is too complicated to choose external drivers, why not start with quality LED grow lights with external drivers? Contact us and learn about horticulture lighting solutions with external LED drivers

How to Choose LED Drivers for Horticulture Lighting - Atop Lighting

www.atophort.com

HAVE NOT REALLY LOOKED INTO THIS LATELY, NOT SINCE MY DIY BUILD
THESE WERE SOME OF THE DETAILS YOU LEARN IN YOUR DIY BUILDS AND DRIVER SELECTIONS
REASON IM POSTING THIS NOW IS, JUST AS A HOBBY GROWER PICKS A DIY DRIVER
SO DO THE MANUFACTURERS BUILDING LIGHTS FOR HOME OR COMMERCIAL USE
THINK IT WISE AS A SAVY CONSUMER TO BE AWARE OF THE DETAILS YOU SELECT FOR

 

[acespicoli]

PUTING ALL THESE POWER SUPPLIES TOGETHER
OUTPUT WATTS 65 - 1200+ -SORTED- GREATEST TO LEAST
IF YOU FIND ANY TO ADD PLEASE LET ME KNOW
IP RATED FOR WET LOCATIONS IP65 IP67
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IP_code#Second_digit:_Liquid_ingress_protection

6	Dust-tight	No ingress of dust; complete protection against contact (dust-tight). A vacuum must be applied. Test duration of up to 8 hours based on airflow.

5	Water jets	Water projected by a nozzle (6.3 mm (0.25 in)) against enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.	Test duration: 1 minute per square meter for at least 3 minutes Water volume: 12.5 litres per minute Pressure: 30 kPa (4.4 psi) at distance of 3 meters (9.8 ft)

7	Immersion, up to 1 meter (3 ft 3 in) depth	Ingress of water in harmful quantity shall not be possible when the enclosure is immersed in water under defined conditions of pressure and time (up to 1 meter (3 ft 3 in) of submersion).	Test duration: 30 minutes.[7] Tested with the lowest point of the enclosure 1,000 mm (39 in) below the surface of the water, or the highest point 150 mm (5.9 in) below the surface, whichever is deeper.

Updates to LED Equipment for Use in Lighting Products - UL 8750: What you need to know

Updates to ANSI/UL 8750 supplement SF.

www.ul.com

UL8750
May 4, 2020


Revised from the original publish date of August 2019
As the standards development organization for ANSI/UL 8750, the Standard for Light Emitting Diode (LED) Equipment for Use in Lighting Products, we work to identify areas of development in the industry to make certain that related safety requirements are adequately addressed in the Standard. In 2016, we identified LED drivers with integral wired controls, e.g., 0-10 V, DALI, etc., as one such area. Wired controls affect the operation modes of the LED driver via signals from other parts of the LED lighting system. This work resulted in a set of requirements, which were published in UL 8750 as Supplement SF.
A new exception to clause SF3.1 has just achieved consensus through the CSDS process (April 6, 2020). This exception may offer your products an alternative design option in lieu of the required isolation criteria between the control circuit and output power circuit when:
a) The output power circuit is class 2.
b) The control circuit has been evaluated as a class 2 circuit, or it is intended for connection to an external class 2 supply.
Our objective was to identify specific construction and performance concerns and provide detailed information about required markings for wired control circuits in LED lighting. This work proved more challenging than expected. UL 8750 standards technical panel (STP) members were presented with multiple versions of the proposed requirements and a working group was created to resolve areas of concern for our STP members.
Supplement SF was published as part of ANSI/UL 8750 in July 2017. In September 2017, UL’s certification organization set up an industry file review for the adoption of this supplement with an effective date of Nov. 2, 2020. During this process, we have worked with UL customers that have current certifications under the LED driver categories to identify how their designs may need to be changed for compliance with Supplement SF; in this case, it’s for products they plan to market after the effective date.
While much of the construction and performance requirements in this supplement simply reference various sections of UL 8750, our field experience over the past 18 months has identified manufacturer concerns with clause SF3.1. This clause requires the control circuit be separated (isolated) from all other circuits of the LED driver. We have learned there is a lot of divergence in this area in the industry. Some manufacturers routinely integrate this feature into their designs, while others have traditionally utilized an isolated (Class 2) output as the source to drive their wired control circuit that it is integral to the LED driver. The new exception, noted above, leverages the Class 2 design feature described here.
With this new SF3.1 exception being added to the standard, UL has extended the IFR effective date to Nov. 2, 2020 by six months. We believe this approach will reduce possibilities of product availability disruptions without a negative effect on the safety of products covered under UL 8750. We would like to leverage the remaining time, until the effective date, to help you understand the requirements of Supplement SF (including the new exception) and apply them to those products that you plan to have available in the market after Nov. 2, 2020. If you have not already done so, this is a great time to get started. For more information, reach out to your UL Lighting expert at [email protected].
To learn more about this standard update, visit UL’s industry file review website.

Standard | IECEE

www.iecee.org

IEC 60950-1:2005​

Title

Information technology equipment - Safety - Part 1: General requirements

Abstract

Applicable to mains-powered or battery-powered information technology equipment, including electrical business equipment and associated equipment, with a RATED VOLTAGE not exceeding 600 V. Also applicable are components and subassemblies intended for incorporation in information technology equipment. It is not expected that such components and subassemblies comply with every aspect of the standard, provided that the complete information technology equipment, incorporating such components and subassemblies, does comply. The contents of the corrigenda of August 2006 and August 2013 have been included in this copy.

• list_60950_1_2nd_ed approved.pdf
• list_60950_1_2nd_ed approved.doc

THIS IS WHERE WE NEED THE IC COMMUNITY ENGINEERS ;D

list_60950_1_2nd_ed approved.pdf

drive.google.com

 

[acespicoli]

JUST SOME PRICES OF THE LATEST GREATEST DRIVERS FROM MW
FLOWER POWER

Datasheet Mfr Part # Mfr Description Price Series https://www.meanwellusa.com/upload/pdf/HVGC-1000/HVGC-1000-spec.pdf HVGC-1000A-H-AB MEAN WELL USA Inc. 1000W WIDE RANGE INPUT CONSTANT 385.7 HVGC-1000 (1000W) https://www.meanwellusa.com/upload/pdf/HVGC-1000/HVGC-1000-spec.pdf HVGC-1000A-M-AB MEAN WELL USA Inc. 1000W WIDE RANGE INPUT CONSTANT 385.7 HVGC-1000 (1000W) https://www.meanwellusa.com/upload/pdf/HVGC-1000/HVGC-1000-spec.pdf HVGC-1000A-L-AB MEAN WELL USA Inc. 1000W WIDE RANGE INPUT CONSTANT 385.7 HVGC-1000 (1000W) https://www.meanwellusa.com/upload/pdf/HVGC-650/HVGC-650-spec.pdf HVGC-650-U-AB MEAN WELL USA Inc. LED DRVR CP AC/DC 70V 11.2A 256.5 HVGC-650 (650W) https://www.meanwellusa.com/upload/pdf/HVGC-650/HVGC-650-spec.pdf HVGC-650-M-AB MEAN WELL USA Inc. LED DRVR CP AC/DC 160V 4.2A 261.5 HVGC-650 (650W) https://www.meanwellusa.com/upload/pdf/HVGC-650/HVGC-650-spec.pdf HVGC-650-L-AB MEAN WELL USA Inc. LED DRVR CP AC/DC 240V 2.8A 263.92 HVGC-650 (650W) https://www.meanwellusa.com/upload/pdf/HVGC-650/HVGC-650-spec.pdf HVGC-650-H-AB MEAN WELL USA Inc. LED DRVR CP AC/DC 120V 5.6A 263.92 HVGC-650 (650W)

VEG POWER

https://www.meanwellusa.com/upload/pdf/HVGC-480/HVGC-480-spec.pdf	HVGC-480-L-AB	MEAN WELL USA Inc.	LED POWER SUPPLIES 480W 137-343V	190	HVGC-480 (480W)
https://www.meanwellusa.com/upload/pdf/HVGC-480/HVGC-480-spec.pdf	HVGC-480-M-AB	MEAN WELL USA Inc.	LED POWER SUPPLIES 480W92-228.5V	190	HVGC-480 (480W)
https://www.meanwellusa.com/upload/pdf/HVGC-480/HVGC-480-spec.pdf	HVGC-480-H-AB	MEAN WELL USA Inc.	LED POWER SUPPLIES 480W68-171.5V	234.04	HVGC-480 (480W)

OF COUSE YOU COULD GO LOWER ON THIS BUT THIS WILL VEG A 4X4 OR 5X5 NICELY

ITS EASY TO SEE WHY THESE UNITS GET EXPENSIVE QUICKLY
HOPEFULLY SOMEONE WILL POINT OUT OTHERS

Mean Well HVGC-1000 LED Drivers

The HVGC-1000 series can operate with single phase 230V AC input or one phase 347V/380V AC distributed from three phase input, an advantage to horticultural lighting and stadium lighting applications.

www.meanwell-web.com

• Output voltage range 80~100% with Constant power mode
• Wide input range 180~528VAC
• IP67 design for outdoor/indoor application
• Class I design with active PFC function
• Support auxiliary power 12V @ 500mA
• Dimming options: 3 in 1 dimming / DALI2.0 / Smart timer dinning
• Protections: short circuit, over voltage, over temperature
• Surge protection with 8KV/ 4KV
• 5 years warranty

Mean Well HVGC-650 LED Drivers

HVGC-650 series can operate with single phase input or one phase distributed from three phase input, which is a great advantage to industrial environment lighting or horticultural lighting application. Furthermore, HVGC-650 series adopts constant power mode design and reaching high efficiency up...

www.meanwell-web.com

• Constant power mode
• Wide input range 180~528VAC
• IP67 waterproof /dustproof design
• Built-in active PFC function
• Auxiliary power 12V @ 200mA (optional)
• Protections: short circuit, over voltage, over temperature
• Surge protection with 8kV/ 4KV
• Dimensions(L x W x H): 280x144x48.5mm
• 5 years warranty

NOW WITH EASILY ACCESSIBLE COMPONENTS, REPAIRS ARE WITHIN REACH?
ITS CLEARER TO SEE WHY GROW LIGHT MANUFACTURERS STAY IN THE SAME PARAMETERS

 

[acespicoli]

War of the currents - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

The war of the currents was a series of events surrounding the introduction of competing electric power transmission systems in the late 1880s and early 1890s. It grew out of two lighting systems developed in the late 1870s and early 1880s; arc lamp street lighting running on high-voltage alternating current (AC), and large-scale low-voltage direct current (DC) indoor incandescent lighting being marketed by Thomas Edison's company.[1] In 1886, the Edison system was faced with new competition: an alternating current system initially introduced by George Westinghouse's company that used transformers to step down from a high voltage so AC could be used for indoor lighting. Using high voltage allowed an AC system to transmit power over longer distances from more efficient large central generating stations. As the use of AC spread rapidly with other companies deploying their own systems, the Edison Electric Light Company claimed in early 1888 that high voltages used in an alternating current system were hazardous, and that the design was inferior to, and infringed on the patents behind, their direct current system.

Electric power transmission - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

Electric power transmission is the bulk movement of electrical energy from a generating site, such as a power plant, to an electrical substation. The interconnected lines that facilitate this movement form a transmission network. This is distinct from the local wiring between high-voltage substations and customers, which is typically referred to as electric power distribution. The combined transmission and distribution network is part of electricity delivery, known as the electrical grid.

Overhead power line - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

Classification by operating voltage​

[edit]
High- and medium-voltage power lines in Łomża, Poland
Overhead power transmission lines are classified in the electrical power industry by the range of voltages:

• Low voltage (LV) – less than 1000 volts, used for connection between a residential or small commercial customer and the utility.
• Medium voltage (MV; distribution) – between 1000 volts (1 kV) and 69 kV, used for distribution in urban and rural areas.
• High voltage (HV; subtransmission less than 100 kV; subtransmission or transmission at voltages such as 115 kV and 138 kV), used for sub-transmission and transmission of bulk quantities of electric power and connection to very large consumers.
• Extra high voltage (EHV; transmission) – from 345 kV, up to about 800 kV,[2][page needed] used for long distance, very high power transmission.
• Ultra high voltage (UHV) – higher than 800 kV. The Financial Times reported UHV lines are a "game changer", making a global electricity grid potentially feasible. StateGrid said that compared to conventional lines, UHV enables the transmission of five times more power, over six times the

Efficient long-distance transmission of electric power requires high voltages. This reduces the losses produced by strong currents. Transmission lines use either alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC). The voltage level is changed with transformers. The voltage is stepped up for transmission, then reduced for local distribution.

A wide area synchronous grid, known as an interconnection in North America, directly connects generators delivering AC power with the same relative frequency to many consumers. North America has four major interconnections: Western, Eastern, Quebec and Texas. One grid connects most of continental Europe.

Historically, transmission and distribution lines were often owned by the same company, but starting in the 1990s, many countries liberalized the regulation of the electricity market in ways that led to separate companies handling transmission and distribution.[2]

Volt-ampere - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

The volt-ampere (SI symbol: VA,[1] sometimes V⋅A or V A) is the unit of measurement for apparent power in an electrical circuit. It is the product of the root mean square voltage (in volts) and the root mean square current (in amperes).[2] Volt-amperes are usually used for analyzing alternating current (AC) circuits. In direct current (DC) circuits, this product is equal to the real power, measured in watts.[3] The volt-ampere is dimensionally equivalent to the watt: in SI units, 1 V⋅A = 1 W. VA rating is most used for generators and transformers, and other power handling equipment, where loads may be reactive (inductive or capacitive).

Watt - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

The watt (symbol: W) is the unit of power or radiant flux in the International System of Units (SI), equal to 1 joule per second or 1 kg⋅m2⋅s−3.[1][2][3] It is used to quantify the rate of energy transfer. The watt is named in honor of James Watt (1736–1819), an 18th-century Scottish inventor, mechanical engineer, and chemist who improved the Newcomen engine with his own steam engine in 1776. Watt's invention was fundamental for the Industrial Revolution.

Kilowatt-hour - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

A kilowatt-hour (unit symbol: kW⋅h or kW h; commonly written as kWh) is a non-SI unit of energy equal to 3.6 megajoules (MJ) in SI units which is the energy delivered by one kilowatt of power for one hour. Kilowatt-hours are a common billing unit for electrical energy supplied by electric utilities. Metric prefixes are used for multiples and submultiples of the basic unit, the watt-hour (3.6 kJ).

Distribution board - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

Fuse boxes​

A common design of fuse box that was featured in homes built from 1940 through 1965 was the 60-amp fuse box that included four plug fuses (i.e. the Edison base) for branch circuits and one or more fuse blocks containing cartridge fuses for purposes such as major appliance circuits.[3] After 1965, the more substantial 100 A panel with three-wire (230 V) service became common; a fuse box could have fuse blocks for the main shut-off and an electric range circuit plus a number of plug fuses (Edison base or Type S) for individual circuits.[4]


IN THE EU YOUR CONDITIONS CERTAINLY VARY AND ARE WELCOME TO BE DISCUSSED

Mains electricity - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

Standardization​

[edit]
Until 1987, mains voltage in large parts of Europe, including Germany, Austria and Switzerland, was 220±22 V while the UK used 240±14.4 V. Standard ISO IEC 60038:1983 defined the new standard European voltage to be 230±23 V. From 1987 onwards, a step-wise shift towards 230+13.8
−23 V was implemented. From 2009 on, the voltage is permitted to be 230±23 V.[8][9] No change in voltage was required by either the Central European or the UK system, as both 220 V and 240 V fall within the lower 230 V tolerance bands (230 V ±6%). Usually the voltage of 230V ±3% is maintained. Some areas of the UK still have 250 volts for legacy reasons, but these also fall within the 10% tolerance band of 230 volts. In practice, this allowed countries to have supplied the same voltage (220 or 240 V), at least until existing supply transformers are replaced. Equipment (with the exception of filament bulbs) used in these countries is designed to accept any voltage within the specified range.

In 2000, Australia converted to 230 V as the nominal standard with a tolerance of +10%/−6%,[10] this superseding the old 240 V standard, AS 2926-1987. The tolerance was increased in 2022 to ± 10% with the release of AS IEC 60038:2022.[11] The utilization voltage available at an appliance may be below this range, due to voltage drops within the customer installation. As in the UK, 240 V is within the allowable limits and "240 volt" is a synonym for mains in Australian and British English.

In the United States[12][13] and Canada,[14] national standards specify that the nominal voltage at the source should be 120 V and allow a range of 114 V to 126 V (RMS) (−5% to +5%). Historically, 110 V, 115 V and 117 V have been used at different times and places in North America.[citation needed] Mains power is sometimes spoken of as 110 V; however, 120 V is the nominal voltage.

In Japan, the electrical power supply to households is at 100 and 200 V. Eastern and northern parts of Honshū (including Tokyo) and Hokkaidō have a frequency of 50 Hz, whereas western Honshū (including Nagoya, Osaka, and Hiroshima), Shikoku, Kyūshū and Okinawa operate at 60 Hz. The boundary between the two regions contains four back-to-back high-voltage direct-current (HVDC) substations which interconnect the power between the two grid systems; these are Shin Shinano, Sakuma Dam, Minami-Fukumitsu, and the Higashi-Shimizu Frequency Converter. To accommodate the difference, frequency-sensitive appliances marketed in Japan can often be switched between the two frequencies.

Circuit breaker - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

Standard current ratings​

Time till trip versus current as multiple of nominal current
Circuit breakers are manufactured with standard ratings, using a system of preferred numbers to create a useful selection of ratings. A miniature circuit breaker has a fixed trip setting; changing the operating current value requires replacing the whole circuit breaker. Circuit breakers with higher ratings can have adjustable trip settings, allowing fewer standardized products to be used, adjusted to the applicable precise ratings when installed. For example, a circuit breaker with a 400 ampere frame size might have its over-current detection threshold set only 300 amperes where that rating is appropriate.

For low-voltage distribution circuit breakers an international standard, IEC 60898-1, defines rated current as the maximum current that a breaker is designed to carry continuously. The commonly available preferred values for rated current are 1 A, 2 A, 4 A, 6 A, 10 A, 13 A, 16 A, 20 A, 25 A, 32 A, 40 A, 50 A, 63 A, 80 A, 100 A,[6] and 125 A. The circuit breaker is labeled with the rated current in amperes prefixed by a letter, which indicates the instantaneous tripping current that causes the circuit breaker to trip without intentional time delay expressed in multiples of the rated current:

Type	Instantaneous tripping current
B	3–5 times rated current In, e.g. a nominally 10 A device will trip at 30–50 A
C	5–10 times In
D	10–20 times In
K	8–12 times In For the protection of loads that cause frequent short-duration (approximately 400 ms to 2 s) current peaks in normal operation
Z	2–3 times Infor durations on the order of tens of seconds. For the protection of loads such as semiconductor devices or measuring circuits using current transformers.

110 - 120 VOLT SEEMS MOST COMMON IN HOMES IN THE USA
BREAKER PANELS ARE GOING TO BE 10, 15, AND 30 AMP IN MOST CASES
FLIP A BREAKER TO YOUR GROW AREA WITH A SWITCH TEST DEVICE
THEN YOU WILL KNOW WHATS ON THAT CIRCUIT CURRENTLY OPERATING

MAKE SURE IT HAS A TEST BUTTON TO TRIP THE BREAKER
THESE RUN USD LESS THAN $20
ALSO IF YOU CAN UNPLUG THAT AREA WHAT YOUR MAX ENERGY DRAW COULD SAFELY BE

 

[Rocket Soul]

JUST SOME PRICES OF THE LATEST GREATEST DRIVERS FROM MW
FLOWER POWER

Datasheet Mfr Part # Mfr Description Price Series https://www.meanwellusa.com/upload/pdf/HVGC-1000/HVGC-1000-spec.pdf HVGC-1000A-H-AB MEAN WELL USA Inc. 1000W WIDE RANGE INPUT CONSTANT 385.7 HVGC-1000 (1000W) https://www.meanwellusa.com/upload/pdf/HVGC-1000/HVGC-1000-spec.pdf HVGC-1000A-M-AB MEAN WELL USA Inc. 1000W WIDE RANGE INPUT CONSTANT 385.7 HVGC-1000 (1000W) https://www.meanwellusa.com/upload/pdf/HVGC-1000/HVGC-1000-spec.pdf HVGC-1000A-L-AB MEAN WELL USA Inc. 1000W WIDE RANGE INPUT CONSTANT 385.7 HVGC-1000 (1000W) https://www.meanwellusa.com/upload/pdf/HVGC-650/HVGC-650-spec.pdf HVGC-650-U-AB MEAN WELL USA Inc. LED DRVR CP AC/DC 70V 11.2A 256.5 HVGC-650 (650W) https://www.meanwellusa.com/upload/pdf/HVGC-650/HVGC-650-spec.pdf HVGC-650-M-AB MEAN WELL USA Inc. LED DRVR CP AC/DC 160V 4.2A 261.5 HVGC-650 (650W) https://www.meanwellusa.com/upload/pdf/HVGC-650/HVGC-650-spec.pdf HVGC-650-L-AB MEAN WELL USA Inc. LED DRVR CP AC/DC 240V 2.8A 263.92 HVGC-650 (650W) https://www.meanwellusa.com/upload/pdf/HVGC-650/HVGC-650-spec.pdf HVGC-650-H-AB MEAN WELL USA Inc. LED DRVR CP AC/DC 120V 5.6A 263.92 HVGC-650 (650W)

VEG POWER

https://www.meanwellusa.com/upload/pdf/HVGC-480/HVGC-480-spec.pdf	HVGC-480-L-AB	MEAN WELL USA Inc.	LED POWER SUPPLIES 480W 137-343V	190	HVGC-480 (480W)
https://www.meanwellusa.com/upload/pdf/HVGC-480/HVGC-480-spec.pdf	HVGC-480-M-AB	MEAN WELL USA Inc.	LED POWER SUPPLIES 480W92-228.5V	190	HVGC-480 (480W)
https://www.meanwellusa.com/upload/pdf/HVGC-480/HVGC-480-spec.pdf	HVGC-480-H-AB	MEAN WELL USA Inc.	LED POWER SUPPLIES 480W68-171.5V	234.04	HVGC-480 (480W)

OF COUSE YOU COULD GO LOWER ON THIS BUT THIS WILL VEG A 4X4 OR 5X5 NICELY

ITS EASY TO SEE WHY THESE UNITS GET EXPENSIVE QUICKLY
HOPEFULLY SOMEONE WILL POINT OUT OTHERS

Mean Well HVGC-1000 LED Drivers

The HVGC-1000 series can operate with single phase 230V AC input or one phase 347V/380V AC distributed from three phase input, an advantage to horticultural lighting and stadium lighting applications.

www.meanwell-web.com

• Output voltage range 80~100% with Constant power mode
• Wide input range 180~528VAC
• IP67 design for outdoor/indoor application
• Class I design with active PFC function
• Support auxiliary power 12V @ 500mA
• Dimming options: 3 in 1 dimming / DALI2.0 / Smart timer dinning
• Protections: short circuit, over voltage, over temperature
• Surge protection with 8KV/ 4KV
• 5 years warranty

Mean Well HVGC-650 LED Drivers

HVGC-650 series can operate with single phase input or one phase distributed from three phase input, which is a great advantage to industrial environment lighting or horticultural lighting application. Furthermore, HVGC-650 series adopts constant power mode design and reaching high efficiency up...

www.meanwell-web.com

• Constant power mode
• Wide input range 180~528VAC
• IP67 waterproof /dustproof design
• Built-in active PFC function
• Auxiliary power 12V @ 200mA (optional)
• Protections: short circuit, over voltage, over temperature
• Surge protection with 8kV/ 4KV
• Dimensions(L x W x H): 280x144x48.5mm
• 5 years warranty

NOW WITH EASILY ACCESSIBLE COMPONENTS, REPAIRS ARE WITHIN REACH?
ITS CLEARER TO SEE WHY GROW LIGHT MANUFACTURERS STAY IN THE SAME PARAMETERS

This is meanwells horticulture/stadium lighting driver range. Its very good and efficient with constant power function; you can get full power and high efficiency even if voltage of your chip/strip is up to 20% lower than rated voltage out. This makes them quite flexible; you can work with many different components in one build if you want strips and boards in corners; its just a very nice variation in ranges in spec so you could do any build you like.
Main thing is to marry the right driver to the right boards/strips or string of both of them. You do this by comparing rated dc voltage output to forward voltage of the led chip/board/cob. You can also place components in series, say one board and one strip or more, and build with this as your basic unit over your space.

They also look a bit better enclosed than the xlgs that ran very hot on us. These come with 5 year warranty.
They are so pricey nowadays, used to be half of that. You can get cheaper from other places by searching from octopart web
you do find cheaper on alibaba aswell but with shipping and stuff its many times a wash, and china drivers most dont have an ironclad actionable warranty; sending a broken driver back to china on own dime to get new one sent out is not doable. Always best to get from someone who takes good care of your specific area.
Apart from meanwell theres inventronics - they also have good drivers with similar specs.

For anyone thinking to do a build you can likely find the best driver match in this HVGC range

 

[acespicoli]

ADDED HLG C SERIES TO THE SPREADSHEET PREVIOUSLY POSTED, THIS IS STANDALONE PG
SORTED BY POWER OUTPUT WATTS

HERES THE KEY TO THE AB SUFFIX USUALLY A DIMMER FUNCTION

THIS IS FOR WIRING YOUR PLUG/DIMMERS WIRES IN/OUT
IF YOUR SO INCLINED
OTHERWISE ITS A GOOD SHOPPING PRIMER ON -
QUALITY PARTS/FUNCTION FOR A PRE ASSEMBLED UNIT

HLG-C SPECS

https://www.meanwellusa.com/upload/pdf/HLG-480H-C/HLG-480H-C-spec.pdf

YOU CAN READ THE SPECS, FOR GREENHOUSE ETC WITH A 7 YEAR WARRANTY
95% EFFICIENCY

 

[acespicoli]

Keep the bigger picture in mind – using intense light for medicinal cannabis cultivation​

Light is crucial to increasing cannabis crop yields but intensifying light levels alone won’t increase yields indefinitely.
Growers need to keep a wide range of factors in mind and be aware of the limitations of their own facility, and the influence this has on the cultivation.
Light is crucial to increasing cannabis crop yields—that much is clear. But the matter is a little more complicated than that. Contrary to a widespread assumption in the industry, intensifying light levels alone won’t increase yields indefinitely. Data from research and commercial prospects shows balancing all other growing factors like irrigation, humidity control and temperature is key to get the maximum out of your lights to optimize production. It is certain that the genetics of cultivars (phenotypes) do have a determining impact on production as well.

Wide variation in yields​

Research involving trials both internally and at Signify customers shows that in many cases yields do indeed rise in tandem with light intensity. However, in some trials the yield did not increase proportionally to the light level. Upon analysis, it became apparent that this was due to other growth parameters such as improper temperatures or faulty irrigation. Increasing light intensity was more effective only when other growing conditions are adjusted to the light level. In cases where such factors did make themselves present, the yield curve flattened out at 900 g/m2, even though light levels rose from 800 to 1200 μmol/m2/s.
Production is strongly related to genetics, and we see that many hybrid varieties are performing in the medium production range. That, combined with legacy knowledge, creates the notion of 500g/m2 as a target benchmark independently of the intensity of light used. Results on data show that production in the range between 800 to 900 gram/m2 (dry flower weight) can be reached at the range of PPFD 700 to 850, as long as you steer the other factors according to the needs of the cultivar. The lack of control of other factors, and often also the choice of poor performing cultivars, results in a high production variation within any given light intensity. For example, at 750 PPFD the right cultivar with appropriate steering can breach the 800g/m2 production mark, yet poor performing cultivars or faulty steering will result in as little as 300g/m2. intensity medical marijuana plants are exposed to during the daytime, they will flower if they receive at least 12 hours of full darkness.

How to maximize yield on light intensity. Results from 140 data points over full flower cycle.
The visual above shows the relation of production and light intensity. This can be converted finally into efficiency numbers calculated in gram/Mol. The visual is based on research trials (2018 to 2021) and commercial data of more than 140 data points of full growing cycles.
Choosing high performing genetics can boost your production potential up to 900+ gram/m2 dry flower weight. Most growers could reach the maximum production between 800 and 1000 PPFD. Over 1000 PPFD we experience a diminishing return on the input of light, which almost feels as a plateau on increasing production. This is exactly the point where we see that the level of crop growth steering is not easily in line any more with the intensified light level. Between 700 to 1000 PPFD the optimal climate condition can be maintained. Currently, higher PPFDs result in facilities struggling to balance climate and irrigation with their PPFD level.
Signify’s research has taught us that light use efficiency is an important metric for growers. For example, at 700 PPFD we experienced high light use efficiency, where every mol of light given was converted in 0.45g of dry flower product. From PPFD 800 to 1000, production can be maintained where the efficiency reduces from 0.42 to 0.35g/mol. After 1000 PPFD the production and efficiency decrease rapidly. To put it into perspective, each percentage of light given, with the right cultivar and climate and irrigation steering, could be providing a grower double the production when compared to the current benchmark of 500g/m2. All of that at a PPFD as low as 800-1000.

Higher light levels come with a more challenging growth process​

Light, as important as it is, isn’t a cure-all and it can’t fix everything. And not only that: an over-reliance on light to the exclusion of other factors can even create environmental problems that suppress yield. Results have shown that around 1000 μmol/m2/s and beyond, the yield curve starts to diminish, because intense light creates its own complications. It may increase humidity levels due to higher transpiration of plants which often stimulate outbreaks of disease, for example. Cultivation with even higher light levels such as 1500 μmol/m2/s is like running the Olympics: if the factors are not perfect, it will cause injuries. That’s yet more testimony to the fact that growers shouldn’t put their faith exclusively in boosting grow light intensities. Rather, they should use just enough light, while also paying close attention to other factors that can affect yield. See the visual below for an overview of these factors.

The guideline settings for optimal flower production.
The bottom line is that light, whilst extremely important, is but one aspect in a wide range of factors. Growers need to keep the bigger picture in mind and be aware of the limitations of their own facility, and the influence this has on the cultivation.
Learn more about how our horticultural LED lighting can benefit growers around the world and visit our webpages.

Sabrina Carvalho is a Plant Specialist for the biobased segment at Signify Horticulture LED Solutions. She has a background in academic plant research, and she now applies that knowledge to translate scientific information and research performed at Signify into value for growers. She has collaborated with researchers, innovators and growers, not only to develop and improve Philips LED lighting technologies, but also to find new and innovative ways to study plants.
Share this page

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Increasing medical cannabis yields with LED lighting​

As medical cannabis or medical marijuana becomes legalized in more regions around the world, this represents an exciting new market for growers.
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Enhancing the rooting of stem cuttings with LED light recipes​

Uniformity of the plants and predictability of the crop are key factors for successful production of medicinal cannabis.
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For further information, please contact:​

Global Marcom Manager Horticulture at Signify
Daniela Damoiseaux
Tel: +31 6 31 65 29 69
E-mail: [email protected]
www.philips.com/horti

Using intense light for medicinal cannabis cultivation | Philips lighting

Light is crucial to increasing cannabis crop yields but intensifying light levels alone won’t increase yields indefinitely.

www.usa.lighting.philips.com

 

[acespicoli]

Can you increase yields for medical cannabis with LED lighting?​

As medical cannabis or medical marijuana becomes legalized in more regions around the world, this represents an exciting new market for growers. But how do you get the best results when growing this crop in a greenhouse under LED lighting? Signify Plant Specialist Sabrina Carvalho has carried out several trials with research partners. In this blog, she answers the question based on research in collaboration with Wageningen University & Research: Can you increase yields for medical cannabis with LED lighting?

Significant results: higher yields and faster growth cycles​

There were several significant results from the trials I carried out over a number of months. First, the results show that if you grow medical marijuana crops in a greenhouse under LED lighting it’s possible to achieve higher yields and faster growth cycles for the plants. Second, the results show that growing medical cannabis in a greenhouse optimized for LED grow lights enables you to shorten the overall growth phases considerably as well. But how?

Achieve up to 1 more cycle per year with LED
As shown above, results from the trials show that the vegetative phase, for example, can be shortened by 5 days to a total of 9 days with LED lighting, because during this phase the most intense and vigorous growth occurs. The flowering phase was shown to be even 13 days shorter with LED lighting compared to HPS (high pressure sodium) lighting. This means that with LED grow lights you can complete the total crop cycle in just 72 days, compared to 85 days with HPS lighting, allowing you to harvest an average of one more crop per year with LED lighting. Besides being able to harvest an extra crop per year, the trials show that crops grown under LED lighting also produced a 40% higher yield*.

A shorter growth cycle, yet 40% higher yield with LED

A different way of growing​

It is important to mention that it’s crucial to adapt the climate of the greenhouse specifically for LED grow lights and to steer the climate in a different way, meaning that you will have to make some adjustments compared to growing with HPS lighting. With HPS for example, you can’t reach the same light intensity as with LED without causing temperature problems. With LED you get much more PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) light for the same amount of energy compared to HPS. LED lighting also produces much less radiant heat, so your temperature set-point could be several degrees Celsius higher, for example. All in all, when growing medical marijuana with LED you must steer the climate in a different way. It really is a different way of growing.

Set-up of trials​

The trials compared results of medical cannabis crops grown under HPS and LED lighting in a greenhouse. First, a crop was grown under HPS lighting. After this crop was harvested, another crop was grown under LED lighting under the same conditions and in the same trial area. This set-up was repeated several times under HPS and the LED set-up was run a total of 3 times in that same compartment. Afterwards, the two cycles and crops were compared.

Follow our research to find more answers​

In our long-term research collaboration with Wageningen University & Research (WUR), we are investigating how LED grow lights can influence compound production, quality and plant characteristics of cannabis crops grown for medical purposes. The research results will support growers in creating the ideal growing conditions for medical cannabis. Read more about the scope of the research in our press release and follow the Horti blogs from Signify to read results as they become available.
*These results are based on the specific characteristics of these trials. We can estimate yields of 50-100 grams per plant, depending on the variety, planted at a density of 9-10 plants per square meter. The LED light intensity used was a medium intensity of 800 µmols/m2/s.

Sabrina Carvalho is a Plant Specialist for the biobased segment at Signify Horticulture LED Solutions. She has a background in academic plant research, and she now applies that knowledge to translate scientific information and research performed at Signify into value for growers. She has collaborated with researchers, innovators and growers, not only to develop and improve Philips LED lighting technologies, but also to find new and innovative ways to study plants.
Share this page

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Using intense light for medicinal cannabis cultivation​

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Will medical cannabis flower with LED lighting?​

How do you get the best results when growing this crop in a greenhouse under LED lighting?
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Why grow with LED?​

High sustainable production​

Growing your cannabis with the use of LED will generate higher yield per square meter compared to growing with other light sources. The right light optimizes photosynthesis and flower production and improves your numbers. Furthermore it uses the lowest possible energy input with a maximum production per Watt, a minimal use of water and nutrients, and a great working environment.
Choose your most suitable light

Raise the quality and predictability of your cannabis crop.​

By using LED light, the climate in your greenhouse or sole source facility can be controlled more easily. LED light comes with hardly any heat; thus the climate can be steered more easily. This results in consistent quality with the right composition of compounds; the same quantity year-round to simplify logistical planning and guarantee reliable manufacturing.
By using a dedicated light recipe for cannabis, plant characteristics can be steered. You can steer certain specific compounds meeting your customers requirement and differentiate yourself in the market.
Learn more by reading our additional blog posts

Increasing medical cannabis yields with LED lighting | Philips lighting

As medical cannabis or medical marijuana becomes legalized in more regions around the world, this represents an exciting new market for growers.

www.usa.lighting.philips.com

 

[acespicoli]

PHILLIPS MAKES SOME GREAT COMMERCIAL LIGHTS
High Output Static and Dimmable 277V — 400V

Cannabis | Philips lighting

Growing your cannabis with the use of LED will generate higher yield per square meter compared to growing with other light sources.

www.usa.lighting.philips.com

When we started looking at LEDs the best in class that we found was really Philips… the measure of the efficacy was one of the highest in the industry.

Chad Zaki - Chief Cannabis Officer

Why choose LED over HPS?​

Control heat and light separately​

High levels of radiant heat can stress or even burn the plants. With LED lighting you can control heat and light separately. You can apply higher levels of light to plants with 67% less radiant heat than HPS lighting. A lower crop temperature means you will have to raise the ambient temperature in your greenhouse and manage the related change in humidity.

More light, less radiant heat​

One important aspect is understanding how to grow your crops with LED lighting. When comparing the energy balance of LED lighting versus HPS lighting, the conversion of electricity into light and heat is different. Using the same amount of energy, LED-modules deliver more light and less radiant heat. This does call for new growth strategies for high-wire crops

JUST A LOOK AT WHAT PRO MED GROWERS ARE WORKING WITH
PROFESSIONAL LIGHT PRO RESULTS, LARGE ELECTRIC BILLS...

WITH A ELECTRICIAN AND A DEDICATED FUSE PANEL/ BREAKER BOX
ITS A OPTION FOR SERIOUS GROWERS /
FEED VOLTAGE BEING THE OBSTACLE FOR HOME GROWERS

 

[acespicoli]

WELL I CAME INTO THIS THREAD WITH NO PRE-CONCEIVED NOTIONS
ITS BEEN A ENLIGHTENING JOURNEY SO FAR, MUCH LEFT TO DO IN LED COMPARISONS

PHILIPS vs ILLUMITEX LED GROW OFF WEEK 1 TO HARVEST! |TRUE SIDE BY SIDE COMPARISON| UNSKEWED RESULTS​

Old School Growing

Indoor Grow | Successfully Growing Cannabis with all LED Lights | Commercial Cannabis Lighting |​

Old School Growing

How to maximize a commercial grow room | Commercial Cannabis Lighting Vertical Farming |Grow Rebates​

Old School Growing

Maximizing Cannabis Yields with Dr Bruce Bugbee​

Apogee Instruments Inc.

Virtual HortiCann delivers on plant physiology to LED performance (MAGAZINE)

Our HortiCann Light + Tech event featured insight on AI to plant physiology to the limits of LED efficiency, reports MAURY WRIGHT, and SSL has an increasingly bright future in...

www.ledsmagazine.com

FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO CARE NOT FOR YOUTUBE THE VIDEO IS PRICELESS!!!

AND MUCH MORE!

 

[Frosty Nuggets]

Remember, you Bugbee you get stung.

 

[JKD]

I have never managed to fathom out this graph. I just gave in to googling it, and google didn't know either. Anyone?

Explanation via ChatGPT:

This graph illustrates the relationship between Net Carbon Exchange Rate (NCER) and Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density (PPFD) under two different light conditions: low light and high light.

Key Components of the Graph:

1. X-axis (PPFD, \mu mol \cdot m^{-2} \cdot s^{-1}):
• This represents the light intensity measured as the number of photons that reach the plant surface per second per square meter.
• The PPFD values range from 0 to 2000 \mu mol \cdot m^{-2} \cdot s^{-1}, which covers a spectrum from very low to very high light intensity.
2. Y-axis (NCER, \mu mol \text{CO}_2 \cdot m^{-2} \cdot s^{-1}):
• This represents the Net Carbon Exchange Rate, which is a measure of the rate at which a plant absorbs carbon dioxide (CO₂) through photosynthesis minus the rate of CO₂ release via respiration.
• The NCER values are given in \mu mol \text{CO}_2 \cdot m^{-2} \cdot s^{-1}, showing the net uptake of CO₂ per square meter per second.
3. Data Curves:
• Low light condition (black circles): The curve shows the relationship between PPFD and NCER under low light conditions.
• As PPFD increases, NCER initially increases but plateaus around 14.7 \mu mol \text{CO}_2 \cdot m^{-2} \cdot s^{-1}.
• The equation associated with this curve is Y = 14.7 - 15.0e^{-0.00544X} , indicating the NCER’s exponential response to increasing light under low light conditions.
• High light condition (blue squares): The curve under high light conditions shows a similar pattern but at a higher maximum NCER value.
• NCER increases significantly as PPFD increases and reaches a maximum near 30.1 \mu mol \text{CO}_2 \cdot m^{-2} \cdot s^{-1}.
• The equation for this curve is Y = 30.1 - 32.3e^{-0.00221X} , representing the higher potential for photosynthesis under high light conditions.

Interpretation:

• Effect of Light Intensity on Photosynthesis:
• The graph shows that both low and high light intensities lead to an increase in the NCER up to a certain point, after which the rate of increase diminishes and eventually plateaus.
• Under low light, the maximum NCER is around 14.7 \mu mol \text{CO}_2 \cdot m^{-2} \cdot s^{-1}, while under high light, it reaches about 30.1 \mu mol \text{CO}_2 \cdot m^{-2} \cdot s^{-1}. This indicates that plants under high light conditions have a higher capacity for photosynthesis.
• Light Saturation Point:
• For both conditions, there is a point where further increases in light intensity (PPFD) do not result in a significant increase in NCER. This saturation point is reached at a lower PPFD under low light conditions compared to high light conditions.
• Exponential Decay in Growth:
• The equations indicate that the initial rapid increase in NCER with increasing light levels is followed by a slower increase as it approaches the maximum value, modeled by the exponential decay function.

Summary:

This graph demonstrates that light intensity significantly impacts the photosynthesis rate, with plants under higher light achieving greater carbon exchange rates. However, there is a saturation point where increases in light do not further enhance photosynthesis, reflecting the limitations of the photosynthetic machinery under different light conditions.

——-

Follow up question/answer:

The graph illustrates how plants’ photosynthetic efficiency varies depending on prior exposure to light conditions. In a low light setting, plants reach their photosynthetic capacity (saturation) at lower PPFD levels, while in a high light setting, they continue to increase photosynthesis to higher PPFD levels before saturation occurs. This shows the plant’s ability to acclimate to different light environments, thereby optimizing its photosynthetic activity.

—-

And then:

For plants that are naturally adapted to or require high light for optimal growth, starting them under high light conditions can be highly beneficial, leading to stronger, faster-growing plants that are better acclimated to their environment.

 

[Ca++]

That's interesting. Mostly repeating what has been said, but it did back a position in the follow up section. That veg wasn't at 425ppfd, but it feels there were two veg levels.

Obviously a weakly grown plant, can't transform into a strong one, in the transition time we give them indoors. Which is zero.
A plant needs to be settled in and healthy before that 12/12 switch. At which point it's no longer finding it's way, it must get flowering straight away.
I have been looking at this myself again. 3 phases of life. Long days of veg, where getting bigger and staying adaptable matters. Then shortening days indicates it's time to fix on what it has, and toughen up. Then short days are flower. Indoor, we miss a stage. Especially if we move from a slow veg area where they were dormant, to a 12/12 room. Upon which, we reshape them through training methods. It's a bad situation. Flowering slow weak plants, that just had there growing tips reprioritised.

I myself find the best thing to do, is a faster veg, even if it means cutting back often. Then they need a week after any training, before bloom. That week lets them establish the main buds, and grow in a manner to support them.

I have been thinking about a different approach. Longer days in early bloom, to slow the transition, so as to integrate the needed establishment, into the bloom cycle. Not have a week or two veg in the bloom area. It's just thoughts though.

 

[Rocket Soul]

That's interesting. Mostly repeating what has been said, but it did back a position in the follow up section. That veg wasn't at 425ppfd, but it feels there were two veg levels.

Obviously a weakly grown plant, can't transform into a strong one, in the transition time we give them indoors. Which is zero.
A plant needs to be settled in and healthy before that 12/12 switch. At which point it's no longer finding it's way, it must get flowering straight away.
I have been looking at this myself again. 3 phases of life. Long days of veg, where getting bigger and staying adaptable matters. Then shortening days indicates it's time to fix on what it has, and toughen up. Then short days are flower. Indoor, we miss a stage. Especially if we move from a slow veg area where they were dormant, to a 12/12 room. Upon which, we reshape them through training methods. It's a bad situation. Flowering slow weak plants, that just had there growing tips reprioritised.

I myself find the best thing to do, is a faster veg, even if it means cutting back often. Then they need a week after any training, before bloom. That week lets them establish the main buds, and grow in a manner to support them.

I have been thinking about a different approach. Longer days in early bloom, to slow the transition, so as to integrate the needed establishment, into the bloom cycle. Not have a week or two veg in the bloom area. It's just thoughts though.

The transition stage is somewhat overlooked as you say. What to do there dependa on the full system and genetics of cultivar. Stretchy plants and plants that stretch less should have a slightly different treatment in this stage. The way we do it at ours is that veg is long and weak intensity, with intensity rising in final month of veg. Once in flowerroom/transition stage its medium to low; not giving all the light it can take in temransotion phase to somewhat limit stretch and retain compactness and then in midflower give it all the light it can handle without too much white tops, the pullback a little in the last weeks in coordination with flush. Too much light in transition and we get too large plants and fluffier buds. Main punch of light from weeks 3-4 to 5-7 depending on flower cycles length (7 to 9 weeks total).

Also important to note that there are also possibly (hopefully!) some spectrum change between veg and full flower, adapting to those take time aswell. Our way of dealing with this, in a plant that has a decent amount of growth in transition: only leave growth tips when flipping to flower. That means that almost all new leaves the plant use are brand new, grown under your flowering spectrum so they are adapted to both spectrum and intensity.
If growing in low light veg another thing important is to have one eye on your veg spectrum: low light conditions favour the plant to produce one chlorophyll (cant remember if it was a or b, but i thinknit was b) in veg over the other. You can put in some thought and custom your veg spectrum accordingly.

 

[Rocket Soul]

Keep the bigger picture in mind – using intense light for medicinal cannabis cultivation​

Light is crucial to increasing cannabis crop yields but intensifying light levels alone won’t increase yields indefinitely.
Growers need to keep a wide range of factors in mind and be aware of the limitations of their own facility, and the influence this has on the cultivation.
Light is crucial to increasing cannabis crop yields—that much is clear. But the matter is a little more complicated than that. Contrary to a widespread assumption in the industry, intensifying light levels alone won’t increase yields indefinitely. Data from research and commercial prospects shows balancing all other growing factors like irrigation, humidity control and temperature is key to get the maximum out of your lights to optimize production. It is certain that the genetics of cultivars (phenotypes) do have a determining impact on production as well.

Wide variation in yields​

Research involving trials both internally and at Signify customers shows that in many cases yields do indeed rise in tandem with light intensity. However, in some trials the yield did not increase proportionally to the light level. Upon analysis, it became apparent that this was due to other growth parameters such as improper temperatures or faulty irrigation. Increasing light intensity was more effective only when other growing conditions are adjusted to the light level. In cases where such factors did make themselves present, the yield curve flattened out at 900 g/m2, even though light levels rose from 800 to 1200 μmol/m2/s.
Production is strongly related to genetics, and we see that many hybrid varieties are performing in the medium production range. That, combined with legacy knowledge, creates the notion of 500g/m2 as a target benchmark independently of the intensity of light used. Results on data show that production in the range between 800 to 900 gram/m2 (dry flower weight) can be reached at the range of PPFD 700 to 850, as long as you steer the other factors according to the needs of the cultivar. The lack of control of other factors, and often also the choice of poor performing cultivars, results in a high production variation within any given light intensity. For example, at 750 PPFD the right cultivar with appropriate steering can breach the 800g/m2 production mark, yet poor performing cultivars or faulty steering will result in as little as 300g/m2. intensity medical marijuana plants are exposed to during the daytime, they will flower if they receive at least 12 hours of full darkness.
View attachment 19055312
How to maximize yield on light intensity. Results from 140 data points over full flower cycle.
The visual above shows the relation of production and light intensity. This can be converted finally into efficiency numbers calculated in gram/Mol. The visual is based on research trials (2018 to 2021) and commercial data of more than 140 data points of full growing cycles.
Choosing high performing genetics can boost your production potential up to 900+ gram/m2 dry flower weight. Most growers could reach the maximum production between 800 and 1000 PPFD. Over 1000 PPFD we experience a diminishing return on the input of light, which almost feels as a plateau on increasing production. This is exactly the point where we see that the level of crop growth steering is not easily in line any more with the intensified light level. Between 700 to 1000 PPFD the optimal climate condition can be maintained. Currently, higher PPFDs result in facilities struggling to balance climate and irrigation with their PPFD level.
Signify’s research has taught us that light use efficiency is an important metric for growers. For example, at 700 PPFD we experienced high light use efficiency, where every mol of light given was converted in 0.45g of dry flower product. From PPFD 800 to 1000, production can be maintained where the efficiency reduces from 0.42 to 0.35g/mol. After 1000 PPFD the production and efficiency decrease rapidly. To put it into perspective, each percentage of light given, with the right cultivar and climate and irrigation steering, could be providing a grower double the production when compared to the current benchmark of 500g/m2. All of that at a PPFD as low as 800-1000.

Higher light levels come with a more challenging growth process​

Light, as important as it is, isn’t a cure-all and it can’t fix everything. And not only that: an over-reliance on light to the exclusion of other factors can even create environmental problems that suppress yield. Results have shown that around 1000 μmol/m2/s and beyond, the yield curve starts to diminish, because intense light creates its own complications. It may increase humidity levels due to higher transpiration of plants which often stimulate outbreaks of disease, for example. Cultivation with even higher light levels such as 1500 μmol/m2/s is like running the Olympics: if the factors are not perfect, it will cause injuries. That’s yet more testimony to the fact that growers shouldn’t put their faith exclusively in boosting grow light intensities. Rather, they should use just enough light, while also paying close attention to other factors that can affect yield. See the visual below for an overview of these factors.
View attachment 19055313
The guideline settings for optimal flower production.
The bottom line is that light, whilst extremely important, is but one aspect in a wide range of factors. Growers need to keep the bigger picture in mind and be aware of the limitations of their own facility, and the influence this has on the cultivation.
Learn more about how our horticultural LED lighting can benefit growers around the world and visit our webpages.

Sabrina Carvalho is a Plant Specialist for the biobased segment at Signify Horticulture LED Solutions. She has a background in academic plant research, and she now applies that knowledge to translate scientific information and research performed at Signify into value for growers. She has collaborated with researchers, innovators and growers, not only to develop and improve Philips LED lighting technologies, but also to find new and innovative ways to study plants.
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For further information, please contact:​

Global Marcom Manager Horticulture at Signify
Daniela Damoiseaux
Tel: +31 6 31 65 29 69
E-mail: [email protected]
www.philips.com/horti

Using intense light for medicinal cannabis cultivation | Philips lighting

Light is crucial to increasing cannabis crop yields but intensifying light levels alone won’t increase yields indefinitely.

www.usa.lighting.philips.com

Will look into this one: they are studying on results which are closely aligned with progrowers; likely more applicable than the previous article we discussed
Very nice.
They also factor in total cycle time; the attention to details important for a grower (and not scientist!) shows to me that they do very relevant research for someone who is looking to max out both yield and quality.