reef-pi :: An opensource reef tank controller based on Raspberry Pi.

[Erica-Renee]

In other news Pi 3A+ was just announced. Its more compact than Pi 3B+, same CPU power, less memory, and cheaper (25$)
https://www.raspberrypi.org/blog/new-product-raspberry-pi-3-model-a/

Just had a look at this. For 10.00 unless you really need smaller form . not sure its worth it.. More cpu is good but less ram makes me thing its not a good trade off for a smaller package..
I do need another pi 3 ..

Thoughts ?

 

[Diamond1]

Just had a look at this. For 10.00 unless you really need smaller form . not sure its worth it.. More cpu is good but less ram makes me thing its not a good trade off for a smaller package..
I do need another pi 3 ..

Thoughts ?

Looks like a step up from a pi0. I would think it would be good for a small form factor module like a stand alone ph module but the smaller amount of RAM would keep me from using it for an AIO.
A big plus for me is it's ability to run raspbian and GUI.
I might have given it a try but I just bought another PI3 yesterday before this one came out.

 

[LionHeart2017]

I think if it was £20 it would be correct, pi3b+ I paid £32

 

[Kampo]

is there an alternate way to build the ATO circuit with a more traditional float switch instead of an optical?

 

[Diamond1]

is there an alternate way to build the ATO circuit with a more traditional float switch instead of an optical?

This is the circuit for a mechanical switch.

 

[Kampo]

This is the circuit for a mechanical switch.

thanks. trying to keep the order cheaper. I notice there are no 1k ohm resistors from adafruit. would a 2.2k work?

 

[Diamond1]

thanks. trying to keep the order cheaper. I notice there are no 1k ohm resistors from adafruit. would a 2.2k work?

I'm not sure if the 2.2k would work or not.
I got one of these from amazon. I don't think I'll be running out of resistors any time soon.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0792M83JH/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

 

[Ranjib]

Is there a reason to use 12v supplies when you can get 5v supplies?

Context? I use 12V supply only when I need 12V power as well for some component (like peristaltic pump). Go with the highest required voltage, and then use LM2596 to step down and generate any other low voltage required.

 

[Ranjib]

Just had a look at this. For 10.00 unless you really need smaller form . not sure its worth it.. More cpu is good but less ram makes me thing its not a good trade off for a smaller package..
I do need another pi 3 ..

Thoughts ?

you are right, its only relevant if space or form factor is an issue. I am yet to hit the memory limit with my builds, but thats mostly because I dont run GUI. More than that, theres fewer USB ports, so users wont be able to to plug both keyboard and mouse at the same time, directly to pi. It's just more option for us, so if you are not using GUI and want some more CPU for pi zero builds, or could really use some real estate on pi 3 builds, may go for this.

 

[Ranjib]

I'm not sure if the 2.2k would work or not.
I got one of these from amazon. I don't think I'll be running out of resistors any time soon.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0792M83JH/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Strongly recommend this. I also got one of this type of resistor pack (I think mine one is from elgoo), and that pretty much covered my resistor needs for all project till now (like in 2 years).

 

[Ranjib]

Hi to all Q to Ranjib would like to know this is enough or i need to buy more something:https://www.atlas-scientific.com/product_pages/components/tentacle-t3.html
Thank you.That is for PH

You need an additional EZO ph circuit as well. Probe and calibration medium is separate . Unless you plan to add other Ezo circuit (like EC and /or ORP) go for just single electrically isolated EZO carrier board , the one linked in the adafruit guide.

 

[Diamond1]

thanks. trying to keep the order cheaper. I notice there are no 1k ohm resistors from adafruit. would a 2.2k work?

If you are looking for parts for your reef pi build that are a bit cheaper than adafruit or amazon this place has good prices and free overnight shipping. The optical water sensor is about 1/2 the rice of amazon.
https://www.arrow.com/en/products/sen0205/dfrobot

 

[Kampo]

If you are looking for parts for your reef pi build that are a bit cheaper than adafruit or amazon this place has good prices and free overnight shipping. The optical water sensor is about 1/2 the rice of amazon.
https://www.arrow.com/en/products/sen0205/dfrobot

Nice thanks


How are you guys mounting your ato sensors in the sump?

 

[Diamond1]

here's how I did mine.

 

[janos]

Thank you Ranjib,looking that adafruit guide

 

[b4tn]

If you are looking for parts for your reef pi build that are a bit cheaper than adafruit or amazon this place has good prices and free overnight shipping. The optical water sensor is about 1/2 the rice of amazon.
https://www.arrow.com/en/products/sen0205/dfrobot

Perfect timing! I needed to place an order today and this just saved me a few $$ and gave me something to do this weekend.

 

[COCOBBALL]

Sorry total newbie here.

I started ny build list using the guide on adafruit
https://learn.adafruit.com/reef-pi-power-controller/parts

It ask for an 18 pin ic socket. When i add to cart it adds a 20 pin and i cant find 18 pin on that page.

https://www.adafruit.com/product/2204

Is it the same thing?

 

[Ranjib]

Sorry total newbie here.

I started ny build list using the guide on adafruit
https://learn.adafruit.com/reef-pi-power-controller/parts

It ask for an 18 pin ic socket. When i add to cart it adds a 20 pin and i cant find 18 pin on that page.

https://www.adafruit.com/product/2204

Is it the same thing?

Hi, thank you for considering a reef-pi build. They are not the same things, but the one linked will work just fine. I had to link that as adafruit didn't had 18 pin IC sockets

 

[Nicolas Sabrun]

Is it possible to use a standard 2 wire float switch for the ATO instead of the photoelectric sensor?

I am thinking about using 2 float if possible. One in the sump to refill evap water and one in tje ago reservoir to protect the pump from runing dry.

If yes, how would you wire it? It would be great if I can use my spare float switches instead of buying new parts.

I am also wprried that my refugium ligjt would mess up the photoelectric sensor since my ato reservoir is close by under the cabinet.

Thank you.

 

[Ranjib]

Nice thanks


How are you guys mounting your ato sensors in the sump?

I have nano tanks , no sump . I hang them with the same clip that I use firnsoaing tube , against a wall in backchamber. For pico tanks I don’t use any clips, they are stuck between heater and aqua hob filter. There’s a drip loop between the sensor and housing