Nerdy ghetto LED light grow idea

okay so here is the idea i have it just an idea and an experiment..its all theory and i want to try to put it to a reality.
if it has already be done id like to be directed to the thread and i will delete this one

okay so my plan is to do a grow comparison with the newest of the new technology and see if its possible to get even slightly good real world results with a system that someone who is very nerdy could make to grow something if an apocalypse was to happen, and just so happened to have a bunch of electronics around. and compare it to something professionally built

with that being said..sounds a bit loopy i know...

the basic idea ive have figured out thanks to the people on this forum that what is required to get a CREE CXA to run is
- pc power supply
- 40V 1.5A buck
-heatsink/fan
-wiring molex, connectors, soldering gun,thermal paste/glue
-a frame to mount the stuff on

if there are more parts that are absolutely essential to making the light turn on and run id like to know.

Sooooo i must have missed something...what are you comparing the CXA too? A ready made company panel?

Bucks need a higher voltage than the conversion by about 3V. You wouldn't be able to run a buck for a Cree off a 12V PSU.

I'm not familiar with the vf of the chinese COBs you mentioned wanting to use. I doubt they are under 9.8 volts though (average PC PSU seems to be about 12.8 volts). If the PC PSU you have is quad rail (and we are in a post apocolyptic world with no other options), you could series those outputs to sum them and it may work. I would advise against this however.

Can you find a cheap 48V PSU to go with those bucks? I know efficiency isn't key since you do not pay for your hydro. Also, do you have the datasheet to those bucks so we can see if they are suitable?

No offence, but I can't help but think you need to do a bit more reading. If you are concerned with the initial cost of acquiring your lights, LEDs simply aren't the best option - especially when you don't have a return on investment as far as hydro savings are concerned.

If you have a small closet to fill with light and want worthwhile medication for yourself, I think it could be done for a 3 - 4 hundred, but not for 50$.