AC Infinity IONBEAM U4

The IONBEAM U4 is a set of four 27.9 centimetre UV strips with diodes at 365 and 395 nanometres. Meant for larger tents, with the same controller as the smaller set.

Working under UV asks something of you, not of the plant

Four UV strips at full power over a 150 by 150 tent put more ultraviolet into the room than two. For the plant that is the point. For you it is reason to check your own habits, because this is the one lamp in a grow room where that counts.

AC Infinity put it among their manual's warnings for good reason: wear eye protection when working with ultraviolet lighting. UVA at 365 nanometres is barely visible, which is why you do not squint against it the way you do against bright white light. Ordinary sunglasses are not reliable here; you need eyewear blocking UV to 400 nanometres.

The practical answer is simpler than protective clothing. Put the UV strips on a schedule of their own so they are off when you are in the tent, say a block at midday while you water in the morning. The controller has a schedule mode for it, and a UIS controller folds it into the rest of your automation. Then you are never underneath them while they run.

For the plant the advice is the same as for the smaller set: flowering only, and build up rather than running the whole cycle straight away.

Technical Specifications:

• Model: AC-NEU11-4
• Contents: 4 UV strips, controller, 4 steel mounting bars, power adapter
• Diodes: 365 nm and 395 nm, twelve per strip
• Size per strip: 27.9 x 2.75 cm
• Coverage: 120 x 120 cm and 150 x 150 cm at level 10
• Hanging height: 30 cm above the crop
• Use: flowering stage only
• Controller: ten levels, modes OFF, ON and SCHEDULE
• Mounting: magnetic, with steel bars for tent fabric
• Connection: UIS, links to AC Infinity controllers
• Warranty: 2 year manufacturer warranty

Frequently asked questions

What eye protection do I need?
Eyewear that blocks UV to 400 nanometres. Ordinary sunglasses are not made for it.

Can I have them switch off while I am in the tent?
Yes. Put them on a schedule of their own that does not coincide with your tending times.

Is UV harmful to the plant?
Not at these intensities and in flowering only. Do build up rather than running the whole cycle at once.

Why is no wattage listed?
The figures in circulation contradict one another. Wavelength and coverage decide what this set does.