Hi Confrused,

Please have a look at my web site from Australia.
It answers all of your questions, and shows you how to construct your own system, make your own nutrients, etc.
There are also hints for success and an FAQ section.

If you "Save As" every page as its own name, all in the one directory, you can click from one page to another, just like as if you were on-line, when you are off-line.

If you get stuck, there is an email address so you can contact me directly.

Cheers,
Jimr007
Australia.

Here is a link that might be useful: Simple Sand Hydroponics

Your climate will affect drip rate. There is a good post on the following link  read HankÂs post.

http://forums.gardenweb.com/forums/load/hydro/msg060011117417.html

There are growers who use soil based fertilizers and swear by them, but grow and bloom hydro nutrients are usually recommended. Strawberries are more difficult, and should have a higher quality nutrient.

You should also search this site for the crops you are growing & for tips for growing in heat. Nutrient and foliage will need to be cooled, algae will probably be an issue, and tomatoes will be susceptible to blossom end rot.