I need help trying to get oscillating waves using my two tunze turbelle controllers.

[annacat1331]

I have two tunze turbelle nanostream pumps/controllers that I want to use for this. I also have an apex classic but I am not sure if I need to use the apex for this or if I should just have the “outlet” on full time in order to let the pump controllers do the work. I broke my post down into questions because it’s easier to read. This also means you can easily respond to specific questions instead of feeling like you have to answer everything. So here are my questions I need answered :

1) Do I need to use the apex to make oscillation happen or are these controllers able to do it (depending on the mode set)

2) If I do need to use the apex for this can someone help me with what lines of code I need.

3) If I can just leave it up to the controller to make the waves what mode (pulse 2-10, auto adjust, wave ok,external control) should I use?

3a) How does the auto adjust work? I read it automatically senses and determines the ideal wave for your own personal bank. If that’s true and the controller can “sense” the ideal waves can someone explain how thats possible?I don’t understand how it is possible technically. Is there some kind of hidden sensor to help with this?

4) How would you do this? Meaning would you use only the apex , apex and the controller or just the controller in order to accomplish this? Are there any up or downsides to doing it a particular way?

5) What would be good set up for this in my 90 gallon mixed reef. As in how should I adjust the controller or code for the apex? Should the controller be on pulse, auto adjust, wave ok, or external control?

6 I have seen many people implement ramp up/down periods or periods where the pumps are running on partial power. I have even seen many examples of having the pumps programmed to stop running for certain amounts of time(often in the night). Why would you want to have this variation instead of just running the circulation pump 24/7?

I appreciate all the assistance I can get. If you want to reply please make it understandable for someone who is terminally challenged with technology. I have had my circulation pumps running for months. I just wanted to change the water movement, don’t worry my tank is thriving.

 

[Kooma]

I’m going to go against the current and say, the oscillating waves put stress on seams and don’t do much for you moving waste.

I wouldn’t recommend

 

[rvitko Verified Sponsor]

What model pump and what controller? Older pumps came with 7090.500 which is completely manual, pumps made in the last couple years include 7020.150 which is configured on Tunze HUB. Both can make a wave but set up is very different. It is not automatic, you need to watch the tank and stop and lock in the frequency when you see a wave. You will want the two pumps to run opposite each other in inverse mode down the length of the tank with a minimum of obstacles.

 

[rvitko Verified Sponsor]

I’m going to go against the current and say, the oscillating waves put stress on seams and don’t do much for you moving waste.

I wouldn’t recommend

It is true that a standing wave stresses seams, it will generally reduce tank life by 10-15% assuming a well made tank that has not been unduly stressed, i.e. it is not a known problematic brand, a budget tank or purchased used or moved numerous times. In practical terms we would expect a basic glass box that no corners were cut on undersized glass or poorly adhered panes to last 20+ years, usually they are replaced for cosmetic reasons or to upgrade well before we are in the danger zone. It is not true that it is not effective, it is very effective, it lifts and suspends debris from the sand and rock, but it does not transport it so you do need a directional current but both together will be extremely effective.