PAR values for planted tanks

[Serpae Surfer]

I'm trying to wrap my head around PAR values and would like to know if anyone can tell me if I have an LED light which has an output at the bottom of my tank of 30 micromols and I added a second identical LED light to the aquarium could I then expect the combined output to be 60 micromols?

Thank you!

[exv152]

I'm trying to wrap my head around PAR values and would like to know if anyone can tell me if I have an LED light which has an output at the bottom of my tank of 30 micromols and I added a second identical LED light to the aquarium could I then expect the combined output to be 60 micromols?

Thank you!

Not really double the PAR because the fixtures are side by side, and the distance between them will create overlap.  Directly under the lights you might have double. But it'll taper off very quickly as you get away from being directly under the centre of the bulb. How are you measuring PAR, do you have a PAR meter?

[Serpae Surfer]

I don't have a PAR meter although I would like one.  I'm just wondering about the theory as far as using two light fixtures which might not have enough power to do the job on their own but together would work well.

[wolfiewill]

What are the brand names of the lights, and how deep is the tank (light to substrate)?

[Serpae Surfer]

I was interested in the Current USA Satellite LED plus lights to shine about 20 inches to the substrate but the question was more about PAR. Does it double (or close to) by doubling the number of lights?

[charlie]

Not sure about the original question if 2 fixtures will double par, but here is a great thread on LED par
http://www.plantedtank.net/forums/showthread.php?t=160396
Regards

[exv152]

There's aslo this thread on the plantedtank that speak directly to your question - whether or not PAR is additive...http://www.plantedtank.net/forums/showthread.php?t=326010

[Serpae Surfer]

Not sure about the original question if 2 fixtures will double par, but here is a great thread on LED par
http://www.plantedtank.net/forums/showthread.php?t=160396
Regards

I was surprised at the level of PAR this post lists as being a high light level. Is it accurate in your opinion Charlie?

Thank you everyone for your input!