electronic or magnetic ballast

[jhoff]

I was looking into buying a belize sun HQI metal halide T5 fixture what is the difference between the electronic or magnetic ballast what do you get for the $30.00 more for the electronic.

Thanks

[Dholmblad]

I believe electronic ballasts can run any type of bulb. Someone correct me if i am wrong.

[detroit_fan]

This may help-

http://archive.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=201570

[Skeptic_07]

i think electronic ballasts are more energy efficient

[PaulErik]

Both the electronic and magnetic ballast will operate any DE (Double-Ended) lamp. The electronic ballast will use less power than the magnetic ballast. Some lamps operate better and provide more light output on magnetic ballasts but also use more power. DE metal halide lamps are generally designed to ANSI M80 specification. Even though the magnetic ballast uses more power the lamp is still operated at spec.

[jhoff]

Thanks guy's

Jimbo.