Making a new veg light, wanted to show just how easy it can be. For the design of this light, I wanted to replace my 4-bulb 2’ T5HO veg light. I decided to use three SolStix (5000K) and a 120-watt dimmable driver (HLG-120H-24B). I probably could have replaced the lamp with two SolStips attached to baking sheet on an 80-watt driver for a lower price.
First thing first, I opened the box and had to split two of the strips. They are already scored, all you have to do is gently bend them back and forth a few times. Make sure you received everything in your order.
Next, use the included nylon screws to connect the strips to the heat sinks. No thermal compound is necessary, though you can certainly use it.
The aluminum angle iron was cut to length with a chop saw. Then the holes were measured and drilled for the heat sinks, (measure twice, drill once). Finally, I attached the heat sinks to the angle iron.
Next, I cut some lengths of 18-gauge thermostat wire. The ends were stripped and gently inserted into the connectors on the strip. These were run along the inside of the angle iron and connected in parallel with the lever connectors.
Finally, I connected the light to the driver. Using the lever connectors, I was able to connect a power cord and the dimmer to the driver. The driver was then connected to the strips for a test fire. Here she is all the way dimmed down.
All that’s left is to install the driver in my cabinet and hang the light.