I am trying to do all my homework and make sure I have the right tools the first time for my first BP. I have decided that a tub setup will be best for me and my soon to be snake, with this in mind I have begun the hunt for my gear, after reading alot of threads am left with a few questions.

1: Thermostat - I need the thermostat to control my UTH, there is such a wide variety available, since this is for a single tank set up I have been looking at the Herpstat 1 and the Vivarium VE 100. Between those two can anyone give me some pros and cons?

2: UTH, I have been trying to compare the Ultraherm heat pads and the heat tape available from Reptile Basics. Again, what are some of the pros and cons of each, the tub I will be starting with is 15 qt.

3. Thermometer and hygrometer: I looked at all the sticky's regarding tank and tub set up and saw the use of the acurite thermometer/hygrometer combination. My understanding is that this thermometer is to monitor my ambient temps, and then humidity. With this in mind, I am thinking I would also need an infared handheld thermometer for testing/maintaining the surface temp of the hot side of the tub. Is this overkill? What is the best option for keeping track of my ambient temps and humidity?

Thanks for all the help everyone! Anxiously awaiting becoming a more active part of this community.