Good controller?

I would strongly recommend the Neptune Systems Apex controller. It's modular so new functionality is being added all the time via new modules (such as those for conductivity, Vortech control, and soon, AquaIlluminations LED control, etc). It has apps for iPhone and Android phones, it's managed via a web interface so it doesn't matter if you're a PC or Mac user, wizard type interface for new users, and it's stable. I'm here at MACNA right now and I spoke with Curt yesterday and he was saying that the AC3 line is at end of life. No new development or firmware will be created for it. If you're looking for a good, cost effective controller that will handle most needs, the AC3 is a great option...but if you're looking to control more of the cutting edge technology like variable intensity LEDs and changing modes on your Vortech pumps, the Apex is my preferred option.

Let me know if you have specific questions about the Apex.

--AJ

 

Is there any plan for the Apex to control Tunze controllable pumps?

 

That been built into the full version since day 1. With the Apex, there's no need to the AquaSurf module. It's got 4 variable speed ports that can also be used for other custom purposes, not just Tunze pumps. I've thought about doing a custom LED moonlight setup with some dimmable Meanwell ballasts, but the complexity of a DIY project scares me a little.

If you start with the "Lite" version, you can add the variable speed ports with the new variable control module that starts shipping next month. It's the same module that also controls the AquaIllumination LEDs and is going to go for around $100.

Let me know if you have any other questions.

--AJ

 

That's tempting. I have an AC Jr. right now. I suppose there will be another purchase in my future. I have the Aquaillumination LEDs ordered, and having one controller do everything is enticing.

Thanks!

 

The AC3 is a nice controller. It's very stable. The main components of the AC3 are probes, power supply, head unit, connector cables (4 wire telephone line) and your controllable outlets. Make sure that you get all this with your purchase. There's a web interface that runs the AC3 is decent, but I'm not aware of a Blackberry app for it...but that could just be my ignorance since I don't have a Blackberry.

--AJ

 

Good choice. If you got the $$, the Apex is great. Check out http://reeftech.webs.com/ for more good resources.

--AJ

 

If you're going Apex, use the Energy Bars (as they are the same price and monitor power consumption). What kind of power consumption are you looking at? 2 or 3 250watt units or 2 or 3 400 watt units? I'm guessing that if you're not really using a lot of power, that the EB8 is going to be your best option, but let me know about your power consumption first.

--AJ

 

EB8s would be just fine. Also, consider some of these items you may not need to control right away...like your skimmer and return pump...you may wish to keep them on all the time and can just plug them into regular outlets until you have more $$ to buy another EB8 or the desire for a greater level of control. Also, I don't put my MP40ws on my controlled outlets, I just use the feed mode on the EcoTech controller vs the Apex. Maybe in time, but I don't have the extra $130 right now to buy the Apex WXM module to have them integrated. Other things can be grouped together on the same adapter by using outlet splitters. I have two heaters and I put them both on the same outlet using a heavy duty splitter (I use these http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10228&cs_id=1022808&p_id=5309&seq=1&format=2). Fans could be handled the same. If you get creative, I bet you can get by with just one for now.

Good luck!

--AJ

 

Sounds good. Let me know if you have any questions when setting it up. I think you'll find a controller is one of the best investments you can make for your tank...but I would love to hear your opinions after you get it set up.

--AJ