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UVB lamps: What is the meaning of Flood, Spot and Mini
We are often asked what the difference is between the 70 Watt Flood and the 70 Watt Spot. Is it the brightness? What does PAR mean anyway?
Here is the answer:
It is simply different reflector sizes or spotlight sizes. These glass reflectors are standardised and bear designations such as PAR 38, PAR 30 or PAR 20.
PAR stands for "parabolic aluminized reflector" and the number behind it indicates the size. The most common reflector sizes in the terrarium are PAR 38 = Flood, PAR 30 = Spot and PAR 20 = Mini.
A larger reflector (e.g.: Flood / PAR 38) has a larger diffusing glass-lens and a wider beam angle. Therefore the illuminated area is larger at the same distance - that is the main reason why this type of construction is used.
The Spot or PAR 30 is the standard size and sells best. The Mini or PAR 20 is very small and is especially suitable for breeding or if you have little space due to a low height of the terrarium.
The size has no influence on the brightness - it is determined by the wattage and the distance.
The socket is the same for all sizes - the standard E27 socket.