I've seen this video before and it gives quite definitive proof that it does work. However, I am not a fan of laying buds on screens to dry them, I would much rather hang them up. Furthermore, I prefer long stalks on the buds to ensure a longer dry out period. The chlorophyll needs time to break down so the ganja doesn't end up smelling like hay so I like to leave them hanging for at least 7 days then put them in brown paper bags, then glass jars.
It seems to me that you would have to break your buds down to use this method of trimming, which wouldn't allow me to take advantage of the previously mentioned pros that I so enjoy.
I appreciate the feedback on the lights issue and I'm leaning towards exactly what you've suggested, T5's or T8's. Ill know more on Tuesday.
Now, about the Aardvark - You're saying you cant save the trim for hash making? Why? I know the cutting action coupled with the suction of the vacuum would obviously disturb the trichs, but does it destroy them altogether? I would like to keep the trim for hash and if the Aardvark doesn't allow for this, I will need to think of another method of auto trimming (that still allows me to keep the buds on the stalks for hang drying)