Actual T5 bulb measurements

[chopsuey]

I have a 4' long tank (48in.) and I want to install T5s under the canopy.

I was wondering if the bulbs are actually 48in. or would a "48inch" bulb and end caps fit length wise under a true 48 inch canopy?

Or would I need to get the 36in. bulbs and stagger them?

[DarG]

Backside of end cap to backside of end cap is actually closer to 46", just a little over 46" in fact. So yes, if you had 48" INTERNAL width inside your canopy, the 48" lamps will fit with room to spare.

[chopsuey]

Thanks DarG :D