thanks for the quick reply!
This is my first serious grow, although i've done LOTS of research. I guess the one area i missed in all that research is the advantage of a remote ballast.
i guess if it becomes a problem i can either get a new one or see if i can modify the light, adding a length of cord between the ballast and the fixture and move the ballast elsewhere. I'm usually pretty handy with electronics...but we'll have to see.
thanks again.
Skeet