This combination unit can drive up to 3 (small or medium) lights at a time. If you're running large panels, 2 at most.
The driver is made by the industry leader, Mean Well. The ELG200 model is strong and reliable. It's water proof and fanless. 12 Volt DC output. Standard 3 prong AC input from a wall socket.
The controller will handle on/off and the sunrise and sunset effects. It comes programmed with 11, 12, 13, and 14 hour light cycles. You can also install the editing software on your PC to create programs yourself. It's very easy to learn. Custom programming is available at no extra charge.
All my displays run on a 14 hour cycle, which starts at 6am and goes off at 8pm.
There are currently four light program profiles to choose from: "low", "medium" , "high" and "extra high", they all feature sunrise and sunset effects with a taper up and down from midday peak intensities.
- Low: peak midday intensity of 100% only lasts for 30 minutes. Insitu vivarium owners find this one useful, as well as low displays (under 18" tall)
- Medium: Peak intensity of 100% lasting for 2 hours at midday. Best for vivariums that are already grown in, or you prefer to have less light for the sake of the animals. Plants grow very well under these balanced conditions. Intended to most closely mimic solar cycles.
- High: Peak intensity of 100% lasting for 4 hours at midday, with more light on either side of that peak. Best for new vivariums and plant growth.
- Extra High: peak intensity of 100% lasting for 6 hours. Best for tall vivs (36 to 48") with the highest light requirements.
Dimensions: 11" x 9"
More detailed information can be found here.