2020 V-Slot Aquarium Tank Mount — Instruction Manual

End-Mount System for 2020 V-Slot Aquarium Light Rails

Manufacturer: MnN Proto-Lab
Document reference: IM-VSTM-001-REV2
Date: September 2026

1. Product Purpose

The 2020 V-Slot Tank Mount is supplied as a pair of tank-side end mounts that support a separately sourced 2020 V-slot aluminium rail across an aquarium. When used with the MnN Proto-Lab Ai Blade Mount Bracket for 2020 V-Slot, the rail forms an adjustable over-tank mounting system for Ai Blade reef aquarium lights.

The 2020 V-slot rail and Ai Blade light brackets are not included.

2. Select the Correct Variant

Glass Thickness

Select the mount that matches the aquarium glass thickness: 6 mm, 8 mm, 10 mm or 12 mm. Do not fit a mount intended for a different glass thickness.

Mount Height

Available heights are 100 mm, 120 mm, 140 mm, 160 mm, 180 mm and 200 mm. The selected height determines how far the rail sits above the aquarium glass rim.

Important: The 100 mm version can position the light at or slightly below the top of the glass depending on the bracket angle. Use 120 mm or higher where a high water level could expose the light or mounting system to splashing.

Material and Colour

• Black: PETG-CF carbon-fibre reinforced PETG.
• White: PETG-GF glass-fibre reinforced PETG.

Both PETG-CF and PETG-GF provide good UV resistance and durability for aquarium environments.

3. Determine the Rail Length

1. Measure the outside span of the aquarium where the two end mounts will sit.
2. Use this outside measurement to determine the required 2020 V-slot rail length.
3. Confirm that the rail ends are cut square and free from sharp burrs before assembly.

4. Before Installation

1. Confirm that both end mounts are the same height and glass-thickness variant.
2. Have all required Ai Blade brackets ready before fitting the second end mount. The brackets must slide onto the open rail end and cannot be installed after both end mounts are in place.
3. Inspect the aquarium glass where the mounts will sit. Do not install over chipped, cracked or damaged glass.
4. Clean and dry the glass contact areas.
5. Confirm the rail is straight and the mounting area is clear of lids, plumbing, cables and other equipment.
6. Remove the aquarium lights from the work area while assembling the rail system.

5. Assemble the Rail System

1. Place one end of the 2020 V-slot rail into the rail socket of the first tank mount.
2. Push the first end mount firmly onto the rail. If required, tap it gently and evenly until it stops moving.
3. Slide every required Ai Blade bracket onto the free end of the rail before fitting the second end mount.
4. Move the brackets along the rail to approximately where the lights will be positioned.
5. Fit the second end mount to the free rail end and push or gently tap it on until it stops moving.
6. Confirm both end mounts are aligned in the same direction and fully seated.
7. If permanent rail retention is required, use the provided optional screw hole to secure each end mount to the rail. Select suitable hardware for the rail and do not distort the printed mount.

Important: Once both end mounts are fitted, the Ai Blade brackets cannot slide onto the rail. If a bracket was missed, carefully wiggle one end mount back and forth while pulling it away from the rail until it comes off. Do not lever the mount sideways or force it sharply.

6. Fit the Assembly to the Aquarium

1. With the rail supported at both ends, align each mount with the aquarium glass.
2. Lower the assembly carefully until both mounts are fully seated on the glass rim.
3. Confirm the rail is level and each mount sits squarely without rocking or twisting.
4. Check clearance from the water, lids, plumbing, cables and surrounding equipment.
5. Adjust the pre-installed Ai Blade brackets to their final positions.
6. Attach the lights only after the rail assembly is stable and correctly positioned.

7. Operating Guidance

• The rail must be supported by a matched mount at each end.
• Do not suspend the rail from one end or use a single mount.
• Do not use the mount as a handle for moving the aquarium.
• Keep the mounting system clear of direct splashing and salt accumulation.
• Recheck the assembly after changing light position, bracket angle or rail equipment.

8. Removal and Care

1. Remove the lights before lifting the rail assembly from the aquarium.
2. Lift the rail evenly so neither mount twists against the glass.
3. If an end mount must be removed from the rail, carefully wiggle it back and forth while pulling it away from the rail until it comes off.
4. Do not use a lever, strike the mount sharply or twist it aggressively during removal.
5. Clean with a wet or damp soft cloth, then dry before refitting.
6. Remove salt deposits before they harden.

9. Inspection

Periodically inspect both mounts, the rail connection and aquarium glass contact areas. Remove the system from service if a mount becomes cracked, distorted or loose, if the rail no longer seats securely, or if the supporting glass is damaged.

10. Installation Checklist

• Correct glass-thickness and height variants selected
• Matched pair of end mounts used
• Rail length based on the aquarium outside span
• First end mount fitted before adding brackets
• All Ai Blade brackets slid onto the rail before fitting the second end mount
• Rail fully seated in both end mounts
• Both mounts seated squarely on undamaged glass
• Rail level and clear of water, lids, plumbing and cables
• Lights attached only after the support system is stable