I've learned a lot from this forum and I am getting my first ball python (a male Mojave) in July from a breeder when he is ready after a few meals. I am buying everything now and I have a few questions..

As of now I have..

-A Ultratherm heat pad
-2 Reptile Basic hides (identical)
-Cypress mulch
-10 gallon tank with locking lid and blacked out on back and sides
-Hydrofarm thermostat coming from amazon
-Accurite thermometer with probe
-Lamp fixture with 50 watt red night bulb
-cut plexiglass for one side of the lid to keep heat and humidity in

Now my question is how do I set up the heat mat with the hydrofarm? Do I tape the mat to the bottom of the tank with the thermostat probe in the middle? What kind of tape should I use? I am aiming for a 78-80 cool side and 90 degree warm side.

Thanks your help is appreciated.