Not sure if anyone is still reading this thread or not; I'm a new member of this forum and I always check out a forums DIY posts. Thought I'd post a couple of sources for the lamp sockets in case you live in the middle of no-where, or the local hardware store doesn't carry much in the way of lamp fixtures.
Source URL:
Double Lamp Sockets
part number: (LMP) 425-72PLC16 double socket, hole mount $3 ea
part number: (LMP) 567-201-12 single socket, surface mount $1 ea
If you are going CF because you already have the tubes:
Source URL:
Compact Fluorescent : Light Bulbs at Bulbman.
Compact Fluorescent sockets. Not cheap when compared to 1st source however this web site has bulbs out the waahzoo, it might be the better choice for those who perfer 1 stop shopping.
FOr those who need a light box and don't wanna fool around with individual pieces
http://www.apexelectronic.com/ search for light box. 20.00. very cool.
Source URL:
http://www.pfolighting.com/ProductList-41-0-Fulham.Electronic.html
By shopping around, you can purchase the following items for a substanial savings over the bulbman.com web site. These are the ballast units for fluorescent bulbs.
WH3-120-L Fulham
WH5-120-L Fulham
Bulbman does have the 4 pin in-line sockets common on CF tubes. I purchased a complete 24inch light for 50.00 with new bulbs in it. The ballast wires ended in individual pin sockets which in my mind is just sloppy. I'll be replacing those with the sockets.
Well, hope this helps those who are wanting to spend less on lights, or who need custom lighting for their tanks.
Ed