[sonic1634]

I'm just getting started this is a hobbie that I have always been fascinated with, but just recently become able to afford. I need to know the basic things first. Things like lighting, LR, crush coral, do's and dont's. I am most interested in the mechinal setup of the tank, how a sump and protein skimmer work and what the functions are and nessacary parts that are needed. If anyone could post a diagram on how to build or break down on how these things work I learn better through a visual. Thank you! Sonic1634

p.s. really anything that would be of use (facts) would be greatly apperacited

[jvharding]

This Says it all. We will be happy to answer your questions!


http://www.reefbuilders.com/forums/g...aquairums.html

[WorkinMan]

A few more good reads:
Top 10 common mistakes. Read this daily untill you can reapeat word for word in your sleep! It will save you a lot of future headaches. Pay special attention to mistakes 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9, and 10, but the closest attention should be given to mistakes 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9, and 10:
Most Common Mistakes Made by Saltwater Aquarists

This one gives a good breakdown on set-up, and helps you to recognize the areas you need to research more. It was here that my 8 or 9 months (maybe more) of research really began before I even thought of begenning my set-up. Every step brought more questions, and the research for the answers brought more, and that research......:
10 Easy Aquarium Set Up Steps

What a sump is and a few different designs:
What is a Sump and Do You Need One for a Saltwater Aquarium?

A good description of how a counter-current skimmer (one of the many different kinds of skimmer) works, and how a skimmer removes the disolved organics from the water column.
Skimmer Design 101

More on skimmers:
Protein Skimming - What Is It and How Does It Work in a Saltwater or Reef Aquarium?

Good luck, and happy researching!

[volitan_fa]

Kudos to WorkinMan...those are some great reads!

[sonic1634]

thank you for the read they help me out a bunch