Controllers for Beginners

[vertigo01]

I have ppwer to the tank, just wanted to be sure that I dont have to plug the controller into an ethernet cable.
A power box isn't bad, but if I had to buy all of the extra probes as well as jump boxes or the like, it may be cheaper to get the whole shebang at once?

 

[Ryengoth]

The network connection on all of the controllers is ethernet. You will need to use an extender/bridge to connect to wifi.
You must use a cable to upgrade the firmware, otherwise you could corrupt the controller if the wifi signal fails or hiccups.
The Jr comes with a quad power outlet in the controller itself. You would need to add an EB8 to it to get 12.

You'll get 4 additional outlets if you go with the Jr and add the PM1, PH probe and Energy Bar 8 (EB8). You will have 5 "module" slots left, plus the display module. ~$530, same price as the "standard" Apex kit which has 8 outlets in the controller and has 240 possible module slots. The slots are basically pre-assigned addresses in the controller for communications. If you add a quad to the standard kit it'll be around $645 or another 8 for around $685.

http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/aquar...ors/neptune-systems-aquarium-controllers.html

 

[TheEngineer]

The network connection on all of the controllers is ethernet. You will need to use an extender/bridge to connect to wifi.
You must use a cable to upgrade the firmware, otherwise you could corrupt the controller if the wifi signal fails or hiccups.
The Jr comes with a quad power outlet in the controller itself. You would need to add an EB8 to it to get 12.

You'll get 4 additional outlets if you go with the Jr and add the PM1, PH probe and Energy Bar 8 (EB8). You will have 5 "module" slots left, plus the display module. ~$530, same price as the "standard" Apex kit which has 8 outlets in the controller and has 240 possible module slots. The slots are basically pre-assigned addresses in the controller for communications. If you add a quad to the standard kit it'll be around $645 or another 8 for around $685.

http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/aquar...ors/neptune-systems-aquarium-controllers.html

To be specific, you are only referring to Apex controllers.

 

[Ryengoth]

I have 2 temp probes, one is plugged into the controller as the main heater control and is in the overflow box. The other is in the pump chamber of the sump by the PH probe. plugged into the PH module. The heater is in the farthest chamber. The sump constantly runs 1.5F higher than the DT overflow, which means I have a decent amount of heat loss being frameless and open, which can affect the probe's reading. Something to keep in mind as far as monitoring options.

 

[glb]

Do

I don't know of any that have 10 plugs without buying extras. Wireless in this case is for controlling it from your phone. Not wireless power.

do you have to buy that wireless add-on to use it on your phone?

 

[TheEngineer]

Do

do you have to buy that wireless add-on to use it on your phone?

In the case of the Reef Angel, yes it is an add-on you have to buy. I couldn't say for the others.

 

[glb]

I

In the case of the Reef Angel, yes it is an add-on you have to buy. I couldn't say for the others.

. I think it's the same for apex. That's a real negative IMO for a feature that most people need, then have to spend more money buying.

 

[Harry_Y]

I've never been a fan of using wireless for critical items.

I simply do not trust it.

 

[TheEngineer]

The only thing that is wireless is one method of interacting with the controller. All of the action is taking place between the controller CPU and the hardwired components. Wireless control just means you can peak in on vitals and turn things on/off if you need to. It's an extra, not a critical path item.

 

[glb]

The only thing that is wireless is one method of interacting with the controller. All of the action is taking place between the controller CPU and the hardwired components. Wireless control just means you can peak in on vitals and turn things on/off if you need to. It's an extra, not a critical path item.

Oh I know. But I don't have a computer near my tanks so that's a downside for me.

 

[Winschuc]

You can buy a network adapter to plug in near your apex and run a cat5 to the unit. It doesn't have wireless capabilities built in. There is a section in the apex manual that walks you through it.

Reef angel sells an expansion that you can use to get the controller on wireless.

Apex can update through a wired connection to the modem, RA needs to be connected to your computer via a comms cable that they provide.

 

[n2585722]

The Archon has WiFi built in no need for extra converters

 

[Harry_Y]

The Archon has WiFi built in no need for extra converters

Danny, are you still part of Team DA (Digital Aquatics)?

 

[n2585722]

Yes, I am a Team DA member and also a beta tester, but I am not an employee and do not get paid. The Team DA membership is volunteer. We are here to help with issues that users have with setting up and programming their equipment. Yes I do have the Archon and have used it in wireless mode since day 1. Even the setup was done with the Archon as it's own wireless hotspot. Once setup it connects to your wifi router. I was just replying to a statement made that all controllers were wired.

 

[cdancidhe]

I have Apex too and recomend it, but no exporience with any other controllers.

Regarding the ethernet connection, there are these powerline devices that allow you to extend your ethernet using the powerline outlets. Go in Amazon and look for TP-LINK AV500 Nano Powerline Adapter Starter Kit. It is $29.

It is what I use to connect my Apex. The only caviat is that the device has to be plugged directly into the electric outlet, you can not use a power strip.

 

[Harry_Y]

I have Apex too and recomend it, but no exporience with any other controllers.

Regarding the ethernet connection, there are these powerline devices that allow you to extend your ethernet
using the powerline outlets. Go in Amazon and look for TP-LINK AV500 Nano Powerline Adapter Starter Kit. It is $29.

It is what I use to connect my Apex. The only caviat is that the device has to be plugged directly into the electric outlet, you can not use a power strip.

That's look interesting, the price certainly is reasonable.

(AKA I many need to loosen up and try one)

 

[SaltMan]

I have the Apex and have been very happy with it, the forum support has been awesome as well. I have two 8 outlets and one 4 outlet, the 4 outlet is connected to a UPS incase of power-loss. I have most of the package, pH, ORP, Salinity, Temp probes, leak detection, wireless VorTech control and a break-out-box for added DIY controls like ATO float sensors and cabinet lighting, and a Wi-Fi camera that is viewable on the Apex dashboard. I'm sure there are some pretty good controllers out there but I only have experience with the Apex. It really depends on what looks good to you, dashboard, programming wizard and advanced programming options, remote control, the modules that are available for your needs and your budget. I also don't have an Ethernet option at my system so I use a D-Link powerline module that uses my home's wiring for connection.

 

[revhtree]

Any new info for beginners that can be added?

 

[Allan318]

I use a Reef Angel on my tank. It is open source so you can program it to do whatever you want. The support is great in my experience. I've had the controller for 6 years, if memory serves.

Purchased a used reef angel controller with multiple modules. No clue on how to use it. Any advice would help. Thanks

 

[Winschuc]

There is (or was) a reef angel forum. Lots of great information there. Also, you might want to consider going to their home page and looking at support docs. There used to be reference to a reef angel wizard that would help walk you through the settings on the controller. Good Luck!