T5 Unit Take Smaller Wattage Tubes?

[kevinjames]

I have the chance of a second hand 54w t5 light unit for a good price but 46" tubes are too big for my set up. Could this unit power smaller tubes just as well?

 

[techen]

I wouldn't as smaller tubes take less voltage and that unit pumps out 54w it would blow anything below that wattage.

 

[Byron]

I agree.  Though I am wondering from your question if you mean shorter tubes, or lower wattage?
 
The only tubes that will fit this fixture will be the 48-inch (I think this is what you mean by 46).  And unless things have changed, the tubes will be 54 watts.  Fluorescent tubes come in basic wattages for the tube length.
 
But having said that, this is presumably T5 HO (high output) at 54w.  You might be able to use NO (normal output) T5 tubes.  I have read both that this works and that it doesn't, so check into this.
 
T5 HO is very bright light.
 
Byron.