Basking Temperature Adjustment vs Probe

[EverydayThor]

Hi everybody,

Sorry for the many posts but I think it's easier to have separate threads for different topics. I'm having trouble to get the basking spot temperature just right.
I'm using a Microclimate B1 HT stat and an Arcadia 100W Halogen Basking Spot for my 5x2x2 viv. When I keep the probe on the viv wall about 4in above substrate level, the ambient temperature there is too low for the stat (range from 29-45°C), it's around 26C when the lamp is on 100% (and basking temperatures go up to >46C = 115F). If I put the probe close to the basking spot (big piece of slate), it might be moved away from the position when the animal roams around. On the slate I have to set the stat to a higher temperature but if the probe is moved off the slate and over the substrate, the output would be too high again...

I could attach the probe higher up in the viv but I was thinking that until the temperature gets up high there, the basking spot would be way too hot.
I could attach the probe to the basking slate for more immediate feedback but then it's in the animals way. Also I'm not sure what to use to attach it (good enough to keep it in position, loose enough to remove while cleaning and not toxic for the animal).

I'm getting my baby tomorrow and I can make it work as is but I'd like to have a more permanent solution without the risk of burning the baby while the viv is heating up.

How do you solve this'? Thanks everybody

[kingofnobbys]

If I put the probe close to the basking spot (big piece of slate), it might be moved away from the position when the animal roams around. On the slate I have to set the stat to a higher temperature but if the probe is moved off the slate and over the substrate, the output would be too high again...

Careful with natural slate as it tends to loose thin sharp shards .
If the slate surface is clean (dust free) , cloth tape should hold the probe in place pretty well.

When I keep the probe on the viv wall about 4in above substrate level, the ambient temperature there is too low for the stat (range from 29-45°C), it's around 26C when the lamp is on 100% (and basking temperatures go up to >46C = 115F).

This is air temperature in this configuration . I'd be setting up the probe for the t/stat on the basking surface or dangling so it's a few mm above the basking spot surface , bear in the mind the surface temperature of the basking spot will be a bit hotter than the air temperature at the surface directly under the basking lamp.
I could explain the reasons why ( involves radiant heat transfer , emissivity and convective heat transfer , and view factors ) but this will only confuse most people .

I have probes dangling from the roof of my rearing tubs and my bts tanks , and my dragons and skinks ignore them.

[EverydayThor]

Just realized that I did not say thank you for your help here yet. Was great advice and helped me solve the last mystery I needed to solve before Loki moved in.
Thank you!