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I dont really know what the advantages are. i dont need anything too fancy... i just want enough light to grow about a half pound of dank buds every 3-4 months.
Is a digital ballast more energy efficient or something? Im kind of new to this.
I also thought about inline fans, but i dont think they will be enough to push air through my future carbon filter.
Digital ballasts are only moderately more expensive and they offer increased light output over magnetic ballasts with the same bulb. In addition to more light output, they last longer, typically have longer warranties, are more energy efficient (cheaper to run), and make your bulbs last longer.
HTG has a few nice digital ballast 600w systems for around $250-300, so not much more $ :)
As for the inline fans, they're a plus. They are very efficient as well as quiet. You can buy a cheapy 6" rated around 250CFM for about $30. The more expensive ones can run you a few hundred dollars but you typically get what you pay for.
They will definitely push (or better, pull) enough air to use with a carbon filter. Just remember that if you are using a carbon filter, the bigger the filter, the better (it will flow more air, more easily). Also, make sure you add 25-30% more CFM than you want to account for the drag of the filter.
Also digital ballasts run way cooler. A regular ballast can add as much as 10% to the grow room temps. A huge consideration when running HID lighting. Temperature issues are really something to think hard about in the design stage. Always overestimate the ventilation you'll need.
And you can use carbon filters with inline fans. I know I do.
I just purchased a 600w digital HPS/MH from HTG for only 200$ plus shipping. Should work nicely for now.:thumbsup:
Plan on heading to Home depot soon to check for two 4-inch inline duct fans. Hopefully they will be enough to vent my room.. its kinda large (bout' 850 cubic feet)... should they be enough?
Congrats. Yet another advantage of a digital ballast is they will run both MH and HPS if you use a conversion bulb. At least all the ones I looked at did.
I don't think I ever saw inline fans at home depot, but while you are there pick up some ducting that is straight duct pipe, and not the coily clothes dryer stuff. It wil make a world of difference in the amount of air that can be sucked/blown through. Also minimize turns or corners as much as possible. They really cut down on the air flow.