having lighting issues

I plan on going to home depot or lowes and buying either an MH security light or several CFL's or both.

online descriptions of the security lights look dodgy at best;

how can you tell an MH bulb from a halogen bulb assuming it's un labeled or mis labeled?
where is the ballast in a security light?

Typically, a MH bulb will be in a traditional bulb form, and halogen's usually come in a tube shape.

You can always tell by the light of the MH because of it's blueish hue.

The ballast is usually housed within the light housing.

Just make sure it says Metal Halide on the box when you buy it, and you should be set.

~ooli~

For $85 you're getting a 100w MH security lamp. I would spend the extra $50 and get a 400w grow light.

$ is not a factor however
cash and local only

If cash isn't an issue. Go to a Hobby Fish/Aquarium store and get some good lights there.

If you have cash; go straight to your nearest hydro shop and lay down some coin on a proper set-up.

DM; that's an interesting point what kind of lighting should i look for; i thought most aquarium lights were fluros?