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View Full Version : DC8 Vs. Heavy Duty DC4

africangrey
05/01/2007, 11:22 AM
Wondering what are the differences between both?

Would I be able to plug in 2x400watt Blueline eballast, 1x220watt Ice Cap 430, 2x 250watt heaters and CO2 solenoid valve on it without any problem?
Bri Guy
05/01/2007, 10:08 PM
I know DC8's are the only ones with the soft start. But I don't know if thats overload or not. sorry
dougchambers
05/01/2007, 10:52 PM
I think you would be too close to the 15Amp limit.

Not including any in-rush current during ballast startup you would be looking at;

2x400/120 = 6.667Amps (Closer to 8A realistically)
1x220/120 = 1.83Amps (Call it 2A but it could be more)
2x250/120 = 4.16Amps (Round to 5A)
Solenoid is small, but you really wouldn't have much overhead on a single DC8.

The DC8 uses a DAC to control the outlet. The DC4HD uses relays.

-Doug
clp
05/02/2007, 10:23 AM
The icecap 430 and 660 have a very poor power factor so they draw much more current than expected. For example the current draw of the 430 w/ 220W bulbs will draw 220/120/.6 (power factor)/.9 (efficiency) ~ 3.4 Amps.
MH ballasts can draw more than expected as well. Take a look at Sanjay's lighting website, and see how much current your ballast/bulb combination actually draw. http://www.reeflightinginfo.arvixe.com/

Curt
africangrey
05/02/2007, 11:05 AM
should I get another DC4 on top of the DC8 then.
africangrey
05/02/2007, 11:10 AM
But that is assuming all the devises will be kicked start at exactly the same time, right. If my assumsion is wrong, should I get another DC4 on top of a DC8?
I just placed an order through reefgeek, please respond quickly before they ship the item out before 2pm PDT, thanks.
dougchambers
05/02/2007, 11:25 AM
Which controller are you using? If you are using an ACJr, then get the DC4 or DC4HD and max out your 12 devices. If you are running the ACIII or ACIII Pro, you could consider the DC8 and spread out your loads.
clp
05/02/2007, 11:27 AM
You could get a socket expansion box or a DC4 to reduce the load on the DC8. I'd get one or the other as you are very close or over the 15 Amp DC8 limit.

Curt
africangrey
05/02/2007, 11:40 AM
Thanks Curt for your quick response, what would be the least expensive option for my given situation, I just don't want spend another $120 to just use 2 out of the 4 sockets.
clp
05/02/2007, 11:49 AM
The socket expansion is definitely the least expensive ($40).

Curt