Good morning, reefers! I'm getting closer (slowly) to getting my first build together, and a used Apex is still on my shopping list. The problem is that I simply cannot keep straight which parts/modules come standard, which don't, which are necessary, and which are extra fun add-ons that I could live without for a while. For example, on an Apex Classic, it looks like the head unit contains a pH/ORP probe port, so why would a PM1 module be necessary? Same with a PM2 module- doesn't the head unit already have a salinity and temperature port? Is a breakout box just an add-on for extra ports and stuff if you have more than one tank, or is it something that should be standard? If I have Ecotech Radions and Maxspect Gyre pumps, I don't need the VDM module, but I do need the WXM for the radions, and some other connecting module if I want to control the gyres via apex? And if I get an Apex Classic, do I need a Reeflink for...something? Even if I already have a wireless router? I can look at each individual description of all the modules on BRS, but as someone who has done all her learning online and has very little hands-on/eyes-on experience, I can't get the big picture in my head. I want to understand, so I don't waste money buying parts I don't need, but I also don't want to find out too late that I'm missing something critical. Such is the fun of buying used equipment- sometimes packages don't include everything you might need.
Just in case it matters (does it?), the plan is for a 120g, with Maxspect Gyres (is there a thingy to control via apex, or does their new advanced controller work better?), Radions (G2s) and T5 retrofit kit for lighting, and Jebao DCT8000 as a return pump. Outside of lights and pumps, I just need the basic Apex functions for now: temperature, pH, salinity, ability to control feed modes, lights, pumps, etc. I have a Tunze Osmolator ATO, which I think controls itself, so I don't think I need any ATO functions on the Apex. So, if someone can help me understand which does what, I can then figure out what I actually NEED. Thanks, and sorry for the long-winded post!
Just in case it matters (does it?), the plan is for a 120g, with Maxspect Gyres (is there a thingy to control via apex, or does their new advanced controller work better?), Radions (G2s) and T5 retrofit kit for lighting, and Jebao DCT8000 as a return pump. Outside of lights and pumps, I just need the basic Apex functions for now: temperature, pH, salinity, ability to control feed modes, lights, pumps, etc. I have a Tunze Osmolator ATO, which I think controls itself, so I don't think I need any ATO functions on the Apex. So, if someone can help me understand which does what, I can then figure out what I actually NEED. Thanks, and sorry for the long-winded post!