first BP, need help with setup

[The Serpent Merchant]

ok that is basically the same bulb I already have(just different brand). I'll order one of those thermostats right away. so you recommend keeping the cage at the same temp all the time? I thought it's supposed to be a bit cooler at night which Is why I hooked up the bulb through a timer

It's actually better to provide a thermal gradient (hot side/cool side) in the cage that is constant so the snake can decide what temperature it wants to be in.

The only time dropping the temperature at night is really necessary is breeding, and even that is debatable.