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Good controller?

Discussion in 'General Discussion' started by waterfowler, Sep 4, 2010.

  1. waterfowler

    waterfowler

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    I have a 75g mix reef, 29g sump, 2 250w MH, 2 T-5s, 8 LED moon lights, Bubble Master 200, Tunze 6100, fuge light, Doser pumps, and 2 100w Stealth Pro heaters. Whats a good controller for my setup that you guys have and like. I know I want the control PH, Temp, lights and get online.
     
  2. AJ

    AJ Inactive User

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    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
     
  3. iaJim

    iaJim Inactive User

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

    AJ Inactive User

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    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
     
  5. iaJim

    iaJim Inactive User

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    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!
     
  6. waterfowler

    waterfowler

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    The AC3 looks good. I love cutting edge technology but never have the money for it. Do I need to buy any thing to get it online that doesn't come with it. I have a Black Berry so can I just go to a wedsite to view and or control the unit?
     
  7. AJ

    AJ Inactive User

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    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
     
  8. waterfowler

    waterfowler

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    I'm going with the Apex. After looking at a 3 it was a no brainier. I ordered the lab grade PH probe. Hope thats all I need to get it setup. This site looks like it should get me controlling and monitoring from the BB with some work.  http://www.kenargo.com/   [​IMG]

    Thanks for all the help! Josh
     
  9. AJ

    AJ Inactive User

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

    --AJ
     
  10. waterfowler

    waterfowler

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    AJ will I need a Direct Connect 4 or 8 to control my MH?
     
  11. AJ

    AJ Inactive User

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    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
     
  12. waterfowler

    waterfowler

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    2 250w mh
    skimmer .6amp?
    2 100w heaters
    2 12v fans 1 plug on transformer
    1 4" 120v fan .25
    1 Rio 20hf 60w
    1 Tunze 6100 15-45w
    fuge light 26w?
    maybe a MP10 or MP10w
    maxi jet 1200
    brs dosing pump
    Ok looks like I'm buying another Bar.
     
  13. AJ

    AJ Inactive User

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    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
     
  14. waterfowler

    waterfowler

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    Great idea I will put the heaters on one and fans on one. So MH,return pump, skimmer and dosing pump on the other five with one open. That will be fine for now. I have the singe controller for the Tunze with a feed timer and the 150 I wont spend on the bar can go for the mp10 or mp40 that may have been 86ed for the money. Is there much benefit to the wireless vortechs?
     
  15. waterfowler

    waterfowler

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    Well the Apex and MP10W ES are ordered! Went with the wireless just in case I get another one or update the Tunze with the MP40.
    Thanks for you time AJ! Hope you have/had a blast in Florida![​IMG]
    -Josh
     
  16. AJ

    AJ Inactive User

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    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
     

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