Aquarium Controller

Hey all, Anyone using an apex controller or reef keeper Aquarium Controller? Just looking for some feedback on them.

Thanks
Stephen.

Hey Stephen

I have an Apex controller. So far very happy with it. It is an excellent piece of kit. I have quite a few modules. I got 3 power bards, breakout box, PM2, Display unit, Leak Detectors, 2 IceCaps for my gyres, pH, ORP, Conductivity and Temp probes, etc. Nothing has given me any trouble whatsoever.

I can't recommend aquarium controllers highly enough. They are really a must IMO for any aquarists but since you are considering them too I dont think I need to tell you about this.

It not only keeps an eye on your aquarium (on your behalf) you can also use it (and should) to automate things such as turning on/off pumps, heaters, chillers, lights, wave makers under certain situations like water level too low, temperature too high etc.

It can also send you alerts (via email or audible) in the event of again, certain event occurring in your tank such as temperature too high, pH too low, etc etc etc.

I will be uploading a review of the product soon (hopefully).

What are your expectations with the controller?

Also, I got mine from Seahorse, and they did look after me well although it took a few weeks for them to get all the stuff. However, with the pound being so low now I would recommend using places such as coralculture or fastlight (I use Coralculture quite often and find Nick very responsive and prices are quite competitive IMO). They will all need to go back to their resellers to get the bits you will be ordering as they normally dont have them in stock.

Thanks for the reply.

I'm planning my first marine tank at the min and want to do it the rite way from the beginning. I'm spending a lot of time reaching all the components starting with the basics like return pumps etc.

A controller seems the way to go, I love all the hi tech stuff and the functionally of the Apex system is rite up my street. Love the idea of it keeping an eye on my system while im away or at work and letting me know it there is a problem. Is it something you would recommend getting at the beginning or could i add it into my system 6 months or a year after setup?

Looking forward to reading your review.

Stephen

Hi Stephen

I suggest opening a new thread when you start the tank, you might want to have a look at mine as well so you can see my progress for the last 1-2 years. And mine is still on going!

The Apex basic package is pretty good, comes with a pH probe, temperature and salinity (if I am correct), a power bar, and that is more or less enough for most of the stuff I mentioned. Best thing about the Apex is that you can add modules such as extra power bars, or extra modules for extra functionality anytime. So you can start with the basic package and then add stuff as you go along.

Have a look at my thread in the marine section that will give you a good idea of what I did and what was going through my mind years ago lol

And feel free to ask as many questions as you want!

Will have a read of your thread when the boss goes home!

Stephen.