There is 2 main brands of thermostats which are readily available from most shops and websites which are 'Habistat' and 'Microclimate'. As to which one you choose is down to personal chioce.
Types of stats:
Mat Stat: This is a basic stat that is used to control heat mats upto 100w. It is known as a on/off stat. Not suitable for bulbs.
Temperature Stat: This is basically the same as a mat stat but can control upto 300w. Not suitable for bulbs.
Twin Channel Stat: This is 2 temperature stats in one unit. Not suitable for bulbs.
Pulse Proportional Stat: This is a stat that can control upto a maximum of 600w and is ideal for ceramic heaters but can be used on other heat sources aswell. It works by emiting pluses of electricity in to the heat source to maintain a constant accurate temperature.
Dimming stats: This is a stat specificaly designed for light bulbs as heat sources but can be used on any other heat source, but does require a minimum of 40w but has a maximum of 600w. it is one of the most accurate stats you can get. It works similar to the pulse prop stat, but instead of by supplying pulses of power, it supplys a continuous variable supply of power to heat souce. so it is constantly running but not at full power.
All of the above minimum and maximum wattages are based on the 'Habistat' range.
I would add that as there is no minimal load for a PP stat they will also keep the most accurate temperature for heatmats which is useful for incubators.
Also, whilst the Habistat thermostats are named nice and simply, the Microclimate ones have names like:
Ministat (Mat Stat) B1 (Dimming Stat) B2 (Pulse Proportional Stat) B1ME (Dimming Stat with Magic Eye - Senses the light change at night and changes the temperature to a pre-defined level) B2ME (as above for PP)
thanks for this... really useful info... I am hoping they sell stat's at Rodbaston on Sunday... decided to go have alooksee ... need one for the gorgeous little hoggie I bought last Saturday who's just now digging in his sandpit sat right next to me on the bookcase!! bless
Topic Locked
Posted - 12/11/2008 : 19:14:10
