frist look @ my new reef angel controller.

[tkeracer619]

Yes, but you cannot access it without having 90 days in the community and 50 meaningful posts. Sorry.

Not trying to hijack the thread but I also use a ReefAngel. As far as the comment that it is still a beta (beta means pre release but tested by people outside development). This is well beyond a beta. However it is open source and does have its own set of challenges. You should not plug your return pump into any controller. Some will argue with me about that but you are foolish to plug all flow creating devices into another electronic device that can fail. Fall back stuff is nice BUT they still fail. Anyone who says fallback eliminates failure just doesn't understand electronics.

I purchased my RA on black Friday with wifi. I love this thing. Almost unlimited in terms of uses and the perks just keep getting better. Constant development going on. At this rate RA will catch up with the big boys in no time if not surpass them. Right now the only reason I would recommend another controller over it is if you have the big bucks (profilux) or are completely useless when it comes to computers. I see some changes coming in the not so distant future that will help new users get going faster as well.

As for being unsure about the code aspect of the controller the RAGen program will create all general code for you. After that you can manipulate the code to suit your needs. The community is very helpful and the owner will bend over backwards to help you out should you run into trouble. Sometimes you will need your hand held while getting something done. There are plenty of people who are not afraid to do that.

I personally held out on recommending the unit for a while so I could get a good feel for it. I am horrible with code... I am now 100% sold on it, the customer support, and the community. If I needed another controller right now I wouldn't hesitate getting another RA.

RA has an actively updating banner. It updates every 3 minutes or so (you can change how often).


The new portal makes it easy to control and monitor things from anywhere you have internet access. This is a screenshot of the probe data log of my tank.


It will send you warnings via email and text if something goes wrong. This message was from the new roommate who left the windows open. Fish room was 45 degrees and the heaters couldn't keep up. I received warnings about the room temp well before having an issue with the tank and ended up having someone else drive to my house at 1am to shut the windows since the roommate would not answer his phone no matter how many times I called.

Water Temperature has fallen below the defined cold threshold of 75. The current temperature is: 74.8

If you have Vortechs it can control those as well if you get the RF module. I just got it but haven't set it up yet. Was very busy last time I was home.

Overall the system has been very stable except for when I had some stupid code errors. They were quickly resolved by the community.

One big thing I wanted was flow monitoring. While it is still very new and the sensors have no long term durability tests in saltwater my initial results are very promising. I took apart a sensor I have had in water for about 2 months and it was fine. All returns and reactors on my system have active flow monitoring in GPH. I would probably give it time before investing in the flow monitoring customization for some more long term results but my point is sky is the limit. This controller can practically do anything with enough determination. It will even send me a text if water touches the floor.

[mightymizz]

I just got my RA about a week ago. Although I have not personally been able to get the hang of where to start with actually uploading code and figuring out if there is an interface and how it works, I can say I have received quick communication when I have sent an email.

Im really hoping I can figure this out soon to start reaping the benefits that Ive heard these things can do.

[Devaji108]

Yes +10000 to what tkeracer619 said he is spot on, the sky is the limit!
yes it may be a bit scary at first b/c there is so much knowledge out there...but if you take it step by step (just like anything if reefing and life for that matter) you will get though it, have fun and get a great controller.

the RAgen I think is so cool. even though I have only played around with it a few times. supper busy with guest this week. I am sure it will make coding so much easier.

[Devaji108]

Originally Posted by RCERNA280

If you don't mind me asking how much did that whole setup cost you, and which model did you get?

I got the RA + $279
includes:
- Head Unit
- Relay Box
- Built-in Signal Booster
- HDDB15 Communication Cable
- PH Probe
- Waterproof Temperature Sensor
- 2x Float Switch
- USB-TTL converter cable

added the wifi $109
extra temp probe $9
extra float switch $5
LED dimming port wire $4

hope that helps.

[cordell]

I'm sold on the RA myself... Too many good things being said about it and I believe open source always makes things better because you're not tied down.

Also, being a computer science major, I look forward to some coding

Other than the code, has anybody had anything negative to say about the RA?

[RCERNA280]

Roughly $400 then? Thanks!

[Devaji108]

Originally Posted by RCERNA280

Roughly $400 then? Thanks!

yes sir you got it!

[Devaji108]

Originally Posted by cordell

I'm sold on the RA myself... Too many good things being said about it and I believe open source always makes things better because you're not tied down.

Also, being a computer science major, I look forward to some coding

Other than the code, has anybody had anything negative to say about the RA?

yeah you will love it. I am sure you will help out being a computer science Major and come up with some really cool things for the community.

[00Warpig00]

I have been delaying. Not 100% sure of everything I want a controller to do. I would love to be able to monitor/control multiple tanks with one controller. have the controller module near my QT tanks/computer room and control/monitor both of my QT tanks and my DT that is in another room 20 feet away. Can you employ multiple power relay boxes like the RKE can? I'd need to use at least 2 probably 3. How many temp probes can you use. I'd love to have 4 or 5 in two different rooms/three different tanks. Salinity Probes? Love to have 3. control my DIY LED Setup on my DT? Sunrise/sunset control (provided LED drivers are capable). Modular like RKE? I wouldnt want to have to run multiple wires for probes etc from room to room. Single data cable or databuss over ethernet/wifi would be ideal.
Just a few thoughts on what my dream controller would have.
I don't mind coding. I'm sure I'm good enough at it to accomplish most things, and if not one of my best friends is a pro coder.
My concern is mostly with ability/expandability/flexibility of hardware/modules.
I have already committed to spending a minimum of $500 on a controller that meets my needs.

Nick

[JasonBJones]

I run an RA as well and love it. I echo everything tkeracer619 said. A really great controller for a low cost. The coding is really not that difficult.

[Devaji108]

Originally Posted by 00Warpig00

I have been delaying. Not 100% sure of everything I want a controller to do. I would love to be able to monitor/control multiple tanks with one controller. have the controller module near my QT tanks/computer room and control/monitor both of my QT tanks and my DT that is in another room 20 feet away. Can you employ multiple power relay boxes like the RKE can? I'd need to use at least 2 probably 3. How many temp probes can you use. I'd love to have 4 or 5 in two different rooms/three different tanks. Salinity Probes? Love to have 3. control my DIY LED Setup on my DT? Sunrise/sunset control (provided LED drivers are capable). Modular like RKE? I wouldnt want to have to run multiple wires for probes etc from room to room. Single data cable or databuss over ethernet/wifi would be ideal.
Just a few thoughts on what my dream controller would have.
I don't mind coding. I'm sure I'm good enough at it to accomplish most things, and if not one of my best friends is a pro coder.
My concern is mostly with ability/expandability/flexibility of hardware/modules.
I have already committed to spending a minimum of $500 on a controller that meets my needs.

Nick

I am by no means no expert here so maybe some of the other guys that have had there RA longer and more experience with it will chime in.
but yes you can run a lot of relay boxs..
from there website:
This relay expansion module allows you to expand your system with other relay boxes.

Up to 8 relay expansion modules can be connected simultaneously, for a total of 72 individually controlled sockets.
the salinity probe is a custom made to order. you have to connect Roberto for that.
the controller has 2 built in poets of your leds if you need more get this:
This PWM expansion module allows you to expand your system with 6 more PWM channels.

Up to 8 PWM expansion modules can be connected simultaneously, for a total of 50 individually controlled channels.

Each channel has its own booster and outputs 0-10VDC PWM as standard signal.
that is if you are doing PWn dimming. I am running MW eln 60-48D so I got the analog RA not sure if the expansion module would work or not??
I am very new to RA but hope that helps.

[Reefmedic79]

I think this post has sold me on getting one of my own, now to convince the wife on the expense.

Has anyone set-up a light acclimation code say for when your adding corals and want to start the lights at a lower intensity and have it gradually increase over a week or two. Something that will work with one click and not something you'd have to adjust every day or so?

[tkeracer619]

Originally Posted by Reefmedic79

Has anyone set-up a light acclimation code say for when your adding corals and want to start the lights at a lower intensity and have it gradually increase over a week or two. Something that will work with one click and not something you'd have to adjust every day or so?

I am sure it would be possible to do that. Probably wouldn't be that hard either.

Originally Posted by 00Warpig00

I have been delaying. Not 100% sure of everything I want a controller to do. I would love to be able to monitor/control multiple tanks with one controller. have the controller module near my QT tanks/computer room and control/monitor both of my QT tanks and my DT that is in another room 20 feet away. Can you employ multiple power relay boxes like the RKE can? I'd need to use at least 2 probably 3. How many temp probes can you use. I'd love to have 4 or 5 in two different rooms/three different tanks. Salinity Probes? Love to have 3. control my DIY LED Setup on my DT? Sunrise/sunset control (provided LED drivers are capable). Modular like RKE? I wouldnt want to have to run multiple wires for probes etc from room to room. Single data cable or databuss over ethernet/wifi would be ideal.
Just a few thoughts on what my dream controller would have.
I don't mind coding. I'm sure I'm good enough at it to accomplish most things, and if not one of my best friends is a pro coder.
My concern is mostly with ability/expandability/flexibility of hardware/modules.
I have already committed to spending a minimum of $500 on a controller that meets my needs.

Nick

You can control anything from anywhere with an android or iphone. You can also do it anywhere you have access to the internet. If you wanted screens mounted to the walls I am sure a couple cheap android tablets would do what you want. Salinity probes are no problem and no problem on the LED control. The cables are USB. You would really need to ask the rest of the questions on the RA forums to get answers about run lengths but if its possible I am sure Roberto will do what it takes to make it happen. That is really the beauty of it all. If you can come up with something they haven't done yet and they are able to pull it off it only helps strengthen the final product.

[Rsummerville]

A light acclimation mode would be pretty sweet. If anyone finds it could they post it up here to save it for future reference?

[00Warpig00]

Thanks for the info.

Sounds very promising. Will have to spend the weekend on their website.

Nick

[r.d.m]

i would just caution people to read tkeracer619's post and take heed,as i said mine shut my tank down some time in the night after 48hrs ,the screen was frozen and not responsive to any input,the support was good and my questions were answered but no solution to my problem was offered,the unit was returned to them at my cost and they refunded my money minus a "restocking fee" i am $200 worse of and feel ripped off,i must say at no time was i offered a replacement unit

in conclusion i would say dont put your heater,return pump or circulation pumps on it,reading through the forums it seems only a matter of time before it runs into a glitch,in reef angels defence it almost certainly an arduino or nokia problem that shut mine down,their response to my problem was however not what i expected,being from a country with a small market they probably dont care

[Devaji108]

Humm sorry you had a bad experience with it. so far the customer service has been top notch the owner Roberto even spent time walking me through it and answering all my questions via PM most of the time with in min. even did a live chatt session.
I think there is so much untapped potential of this controller.
every one in the community is so eager to help and share for example I needed/would like a ipnone app that would work on the older 3g phone wolfador the member on RC and Reef angel how makes the iphone app heard that I would like an app ans is looking in to make one... it's like a personal app just for me...I know others might use it too now that is a supportive community, and one that I am enjoying being part of!

in the end I guess it not for everyone just like anything in Reefing you must decide for your self. but so far everything has been great. there is a learning curve so If you do decide to get one know that you will have to spend so time learning about it, but that is part of the fun right...and I bet it's the same with any controller out there. ( can't say for sure as this is my 1st one.)

[Shmoopy]

What made you choose the ra over and apex? They are almost the same cost and one is proven. I just ask because im torn between the two

[reefnewbie83177]

Originally Posted by Shmoopy

What made you choose the ra over and apex? They are almost the same cost and one is proven. I just ask because im torn between the two

Open Source, so the sky is the limit. Also, if you DIY your LED's and use the 60-48p drivers you cannot control your LED's with the APEX or RK. RA has versions to allow you to control regardless if p or d. Roberto is awesome and will hold your hand through the set up process. Also, if you get the standard RA the total price comes to around 300$ with a wifi attachment.

[tkeracer619]

When I said do not plug return pumps into controllers it was not specific to RA. This includes all controllers including profilux.

If you like your tank. Don't trust your entire life support system to a single electronic device.

[emilypres]

Any recent updates to this system? It does sound great, however, i was hoping to keep my price in the $250 and below range. However, this sounds great from reading this post so far. I also have an iphone which would be sweet to integrate with this.

I am trying to decide between an Apex Jr and the ReefAngel. It looks like i can get so much more at a lower cost with the reefangel, but the Apex brand is a proven system. Anyone else got pics or information on this? Would love to hear some.

[ScootsComputes]

I've had my RA for 3 mos now. Not 1 issue ever. I got the basic plus another relay box for a total of 16 controlled outlets. I think it cost me $360. Worth every penny IMO.

[symon_say]

Originally Posted by emilypres

Any recent updates to this system? It does sound great, however, i was hoping to keep my price in the $250 and below range. However, this sounds great from reading this post so far. I also have an iphone which would be sweet to integrate with this.

I am trying to decide between an Apex Jr and the ReefAngel. It looks like i can get so much more at a lower cost with the reefangel, but the Apex brand is a proven system. Anyone else got pics or information on this? Would love to hear some.

Do yourself a favor and get the RA, I have mine for almost a year now without almost any problem, the only problem i have is with the wifi that don't connet every few month and i have to reset the wifi, but is not a big deal.