DIY 2 part titrating

xradikalx · Nov 12, 2025

Hey all,

I am playing around with automating my dosing of calcium, alk, and mag. I have a trident integrated with the system to measure these parameters daily, and I have mixed up CaCl, NA2CO3, and MgSo4/MgCl into 1 gallon containers. I created the following script and wanted to run it by the forum to see if it will work how I think it should:

Fallback OFF
Set OFF
OSC 000:00/000:02/029:58 Then ON
If Cax19 > 450 Then OFF
OSC 010:00/000:02/029:58 Then ON
If Cax19 > 400 Then OFF
OSC 020:00/000:02/029:58 Then ON
If Cax19 > 500 Then OFF

Essentially, if the Ca is under 400, then every half hour, the peristaltic pump will run for 2 seconds 3 times. If it's 400-450, then it will run twice every 30 minutes. If between 450 and 500, it will run once every 30 minutes. And if over 500, it's off.

This relies on the ON/OFF command being the one that counts. Do you think this should work?

thanks!

bubbgee · Nov 14, 2025

I would really consider using the Neptune DOS for dosing instead of doing it this way, since you're already invested in their ecosystem. The method you're describing works best for Kalkwasser or calcium reactor dosing. The DOS allows for trident-controlled dosing and will dose accordingly to what the latest results of your Alk and Cal without much intervention.

xradikalx · Nov 14, 2025

I mean, certainly it would be easier to use the DOS.

But I like to have these little DIY projects to keep me interested in the hobby. For instance I built my own auto filter roll out of acrylic , optical sensors on the apex, and a timed 12v dc motor.

I use kalkwasser this way as well for myntop off but the only logic is just based on the pH, so its either all on or all off.

Thanks!

bubbgee · Nov 14, 2025

There's probably a lot more safer DIY projects (such as 3d printing) that is less risky to the water chemistry than the one you're proposing. if you want to proceed, add more testing in the trident schedule like set it up for 12 tests and adjust the code to your tank's consumption and then reduce the testing when you see it stable.