Is it just me?

[xxjt2oxx]

So I just got my new tank set up, and decided to go with an Apex Pro. I've never used any reef computers or controllers in the past...

I swear, as a web development/UI person, this has to be the most counter-intuitive, cluttered and confusing interface I've interacted with in the last 10 years and I'm already regretting buying this thing... is this a me problem?

 

[EnterName]

I think this might be a Reef Computer thing. I use GHL and am very happy with their products, but their user interface could definitely be a bit better. Just fiddle around until you get the hang of it. After a while you know where to find what you are looking for

 

[Matt L]

So I just got my new tank set up, and decided to go with an Apex Pro. I've never used any reef computers or controllers in the past...

I swear, as a web development/UI person, this has to be the most counter-intuitive, cluttered and confusing interface I've interacted with in the last 10 years and I'm already regretting buying this thing... is this a me problem?

Took me three months to get comfortable with it. Here’s a guide to help get you going if you want custom schedules, etc.

Neptune Apex Programming Tutorials Part 1

The first in a series of articles about programming Neptune Apex Controllers for your reef aquarium.

www.reef2reef.com

 

[n2585722]

So I just got my new tank set up, and decided to go with an Apex Pro. I've never used any reef computers or controllers in the past...

I swear, as a web development/UI person, this has to be the most counter-intuitive, cluttered and confusing interface I've interacted with in the last 10 years and I'm already regretting buying this thing... is this a me problem?

Any of them will take some getting used to. I have no experience with Apex. I have quite a bit with Digital Aquatics although it has been a while. I now use Hydros controllers. I am very happy with them but it was an easy switch between the Digital Aquatics and the Hydros.

 

[areefer01]

So I just got my new tank set up, and decided to go with an Apex Pro. I've never used any reef computers or controllers in the past...

I swear, as a web development/UI person, this has to be the most counter-intuitive, cluttered and confusing interface I've interacted with in the last 10 years and I'm already regretting buying this thing... is this a me problem?

No need to swear. But one could argue it is a user thing. I find it rather easy to use and both ui/wizard to code or advanced mode it is pretty straight forward.

I've used DIY controllers, Reef Angel, and that was pretty complex.

I've also used a tiny bit of Hydros, their Wave Engine, and I felt the way you do about the Fusion dashboard. Hydros made zero sense to me. Reached out a few times and got some quick help from their support which was nice.

Tunze portal, not very intuitive to me. Both web and ORCA app. Out of everything I've listed it frustrates me the most.

 

[rtparty]

Takes time to get used to any software and design. It’s extremely easy IMO. GHL and Hydros are ten fold worse

 

[Tangdora]

Like other other have mention you will surprising pick it up quick. Also would say it took 2 weeks to a month to master and like 2-3 reeds through apex doc. Biggest to to take away is out side the min, defer, fallback commands, you read all other lines as independent line items, and just need to understand that the very last TRUE line is always selected. If multiple lines evaluate a true, then it will always pick the last which is why you always put your priority order backwards.

 

[xxjt2oxx]

I guess I expected the UI to be a bit more intuitive? For home automation I use the Hubitat and while the UI is clunky, its super logical.

After playing with it for a few hours I kinda figured it out - I haven't gotten in too deep yet but I'm monitoring/logging vitals and running heaters, ATO, lights etc

 

[christinna77]

Dev here too. I really don't like Hydros UI, especially for anyone who's watching my tank while I'm away. I just connected to its backend and built my own thing.

I also setup some advanced conditions and alerts with clear steps on how to fix each, which is something Hydros doesn't have either.

er

 

[Gumbies R Us]

The apex OS is a bit of a learning curve. However, it works well once you get it down. I suggest reading the post that Matt sent above, which should help sort out some confusion

 

[Krux]

To be fair, it is a 10 year old UI so that checks out.