What's the best controller?

john37 · 03/07/2006, 11:15 PM

thinking of getting one.
What are your opinions on the Reefkeeper 2, Neptunes, or Aquatronica?
I need a easy to use, and simple yet quality controller.
thanks

Purple Haze · 03/07/2006, 11:52 PM

depends on what features you're desiring in a controller.

All serve a function. How many fucntions do you want?

cmhollis · 03/08/2006, 12:13 AM

I have had an ACIII for about 2 weeks and I absolutely love it. Wouldn't be without one from here on out. Built in ethernet and webserver were an absolute must have for me, and the alarm e-mail function is a nice feature to have as well.

Mike

Entropy · 03/08/2006, 12:22 AM

I would say the ACIII as well. Way out of my price range, but it you want it all in one unit that is it. I have a ReefKeeper and it works pretty well for my application. It is basically a glorified dual stage temp controller in my case.

john37 · 03/08/2006, 01:13 AM

what about the AC junior? i think all that computer stuff will just confuse me.

i just need to monitor my ph, temp and control my lights.
it says that it's recommended for use w/icecap ballasts, but i have bluewaves will it be ok?

compulou · 03/08/2006, 07:06 AM

John,

Then for what your looking for look at the Reefkeeper 2. It does everything your looking for plus control PH. Not too bad for the price. I have one on it's way to me now.

scottjj · 03/08/2006, 07:19 AM

aren't the reefkeeper 2 and the ac jr very, very close in functionality ? and very close in price at most on-line places ?

john37 · 03/08/2006, 09:20 AM

but doesnt the reefkeeper 2 come w/a DC 8?
they are similar inrice but the reefkeeper2 comes w/a ph probe.
are the lab grade ph probes worth the extra? i dont think the reefkeeper offers a labgrade ph probe. Can i use a neptune labgrade ph probe w/the reefkeeper?

john37 · 03/08/2006, 09:45 AM

nvm, the reefkeeper 2 does NOT come w/a ph probe.

scottjj · 03/08/2006, 11:19 AM

correct, the pH probes are an extra $$ for both of them ...

horkn · 03/08/2006, 11:35 PM

i will be running an allen bradley plc for my tank when i get a bigger tank (aka move)

i can get the microlgix1100 for 430 dollars at our cost

cmhollis · 03/09/2006, 01:55 AM

You say all that computer stuff will just confuse you. Sure the ACIII is more than what I really need, but at least I won't have to upgrade for awhile. Plus, it is nice to be able to login from work and check the status of things.

Larry Waughon · 03/09/2006, 06:10 AM

I have a reefkeeper and have been very happy with it. They are easy to use and a very nice product for the money. I think you would be very happy with a reefkeeper 2.

want2reef · 03/09/2006, 07:47 AM

I ordered the the RK2 to control my tank, hopefully it works out fine.

Only paid $240 online.

scottjj · 03/09/2006, 07:58 AM

that is an excellent price, i have not seen it that low ...where did you find it ?

ErikS · 03/09/2006, 08:49 AM

The best controller is the one that does everything you need it to & nothing that you don't.

Finding that one is the challenge

Andy O · 03/09/2006, 09:35 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by john37
what about the AC junior? i think all that computer stuff will just confuse me.

i just need to monitor my ph, temp and control my lights.
it says that it's recommended for use w/icecap ballasts, but i have bluewaves will it be ok?

I have an AC Jr. and love it. You do need to take some time to sit down and read and program the unit. If you run into any problems, Curt at Neptuen Systems is very helpful and responds quickly to questions. I had a million questinos at first about programming my commands and he was very patient and walked me through it.

john37 · 03/09/2006, 10:09 AM

i think the reefkeeper 2 looks cooler than the neptune. haha
but seriously, there is a waitlist for the reefkeeper 2 and i think marine depot's package w/the DC8 and jr. is one of the best prices i could find. i also dont have to wait, or pay shipping bc marine depot is local and i can do will call.
So, i'm leaning towards the neptune jr w/DC8.

i do need the DC8 to control lights, and fans right?

cmhollis · 03/09/2006, 10:43 AM

You don't need the DC8, you can just buy x10 modules instead. But if the DC8 is included with the Jr, then I don't see how you can go wrong.

Mike

moonpod · 03/09/2006, 11:09 AM

Depends on what is important to you. If you need a built in server then you have two options--the lighthouse or the ACIII.

If you want rock solid stability and reliability then I would vote IKS as having the best track record, however it is extremely expensive and for remote access you need to dedicate a computer (ACII style)

For a budget, the AC jr is prolly the best "bang" out there, but is relatively limited.

If expandability is important than the Aquatronica.

Other players out there include the ELOS Biotopus (sp?) which is intriguing.

PLCs are prolly the way to go for true tech geeks.

john37 · 03/09/2006, 11:16 AM

one more question, Do i need to buy the ph calibration fluid or can i just buy DI water from the supermarket since the ph of that should be 7?
thanks for your help guys.

Rtankster · 03/09/2006, 12:09 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by john37
i think the reefkeeper 2 looks cooler than the neptune. haha
but seriously, there is a waitlist for the reefkeeper 2 and i think marine depot's package w/the DC8 and jr. is one of the best prices i could find. i also dont have to wait, or pay shipping bc marine depot is local and i can do will call.
So, i'm leaning towards the neptune jr w/DC8.

i do need the DC8 to control lights, and fans right?

Did you see this group buy pricing?

http://www.thereefstop.com/catalog/p...534d0d2fc677b0

Fliger · 03/09/2006, 12:23 PM

I just got the Lighthouse yesterday and for $339 with the ph probe I'm thrilled with it. I need one networking part, but I should have everything online soon. Here is a link and a good thread.

http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merch...e=othercontrol

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/sh...hreadid=633739

john37 · 03/09/2006, 12:23 PM

man, 1 hour late.
i'm talking to the guys at marine depot to see if they can price match it.

raskal311 · 03/09/2006, 12:34 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by john37
i think the reefkeeper 2 looks cooler than the neptune. haha
but seriously, there is a waitlist for the reefkeeper 2 and i think marine depot's package w/the DC8 and jr. is one of the best prices i could find. i also dont have to wait, or pay shipping bc marine depot is local and i can do will call.
So, i'm leaning towards the neptune jr w/DC8.

i do need the DC8 to control lights, and fans right?

Buy the package from the manufacturers website its $25 or so less the MD.

About $250 w/ base unit, temp probe, and DC8; MD price is $273.95 for the same package. Or you can get them to price match.

03/07/2006, 11:15 PM	#1
john37 Super Rad Member Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: 92867, 90240 Posts: 2,772	What's the best controller? thinking of getting one. What are your opinions on the Reefkeeper 2, Neptunes, or Aquatronica? I need a easy to use, and simple yet quality controller. thanks __________________ Romans 10:9 Current Tank Info: ange!

03/08/2006, 12:13 AM	#3
cmhollis Registered Member Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Ledyard, CT Posts: 1,226	I have had an ACIII for about 2 weeks and I absolutely love it. Wouldn't be without one from here on out. Built in ethernet and webserver were an absolute must have for me, and the alarm e-mail function is a nice feature to have as well. Mike __________________ "These mist covered mountains, are a home now for me, but my home is the lowlands, and always will be." - Dire Straits Yes Amy, I am on the national marrow registry. Current Tank Info: 120g In-wall, MR3 skimmer w/ Blueline HD70, ACIII controller, CR3 calcium reactor, Sequence 5800 CLS via OM 4-way, Sequence 3200 return, 2 - 250W 10K MH, 1 - 150W 20K MH, 4 - 110W VHO Actinics

03/08/2006, 12:22 AM	#4
Entropy Texas Reefer Join Date: May 2003 Location: Round Rock, TX Posts: 13,656	I would say the ACIII as well. Way out of my price range, but it you want it all in one unit that is it. I have a ReefKeeper and it works pretty well for my application. It is basically a glorified dual stage temp controller in my case. __________________ Rich Overton 150G cube FOWLR, 30g sump, ReefKeeperII, 3x Koralia 1400's, QuiteOne 3000, Reef Octopus DNWB150, 4x 30w Par38 LED. Current Tank Info: 36x36x27 150g

03/08/2006, 01:13 AM	#5
john37 Super Rad Member Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: 92867, 90240 Posts: 2,772	what about the AC junior? i think all that computer stuff will just confuse me. i just need to monitor my ph, temp and control my lights. it says that it's recommended for use w/icecap ballasts, but i have bluewaves will it be ok? __________________ Romans 10:9 Current Tank Info: ange!

03/08/2006, 07:19 AM	#7
scottjj Registered Member Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: North Richland Hills, Tx Posts: 9	controller aren't the reefkeeper 2 and the ac jr very, very close in functionality ? and very close in price at most on-line places ? __________________ 215g reef in work Current Tank Info: 215g reef in work

03/07/2006, 11:52 PM	#2
Purple Haze Registered Member Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: TX Posts: 1,156	depends on what features you're desiring in a controller. All serve a function. How many fucntions do you want?

03/08/2006, 07:06 AM	#6
compulou Moved On Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Miami, FL Posts: 951	John, Then for what your looking for look at the Reefkeeper 2. It does everything your looking for plus control PH. Not too bad for the price. I have one on it's way to me now.

03/08/2006, 09:20 AM	#8
john37 Super Rad Member Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: 92867, 90240 Posts: 2,772	but doesnt the reefkeeper 2 come w/a DC 8? they are similar inrice but the reefkeeper2 comes w/a ph probe. are the lab grade ph probes worth the extra? i dont think the reefkeeper offers a labgrade ph probe. Can i use a neptune labgrade ph probe w/the reefkeeper? __________________ Romans 10:9 Current Tank Info: ange! Last edited by john37; 03/08/2006 at 09:36 AM.

03/08/2006, 09:45 AM	#9
john37 Super Rad Member Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: 92867, 90240 Posts: 2,772	nvm, the reefkeeper 2 does NOT come w/a ph probe. __________________ Romans 10:9 Current Tank Info: ange!

03/08/2006, 11:19 AM	#10
scottjj Registered Member Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: North Richland Hills, Tx Posts: 9	correct, the pH probes are an extra $$ for both of them ... __________________ 215g reef in work Current Tank Info: 215g reef in work

03/08/2006, 11:35 PM	#11
horkn Registered Member Join Date: May 2004 Location: milwaukee wisconsin Posts: 4,125	i will be running an allen bradley plc for my tank when i get a bigger tank (aka move) i can get the microlgix1100 for 430 dollars at our cost __________________ people write stupid things in this space Current Tank Info: 200g DIY wood reef, 2x 250w SE 10k MH 2x80 t5ho, 75g sump, Geo Ca RX, ASD 6" recirc skimmer

03/09/2006, 01:55 AM	#12
cmhollis Registered Member Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Ledyard, CT Posts: 1,226	You say all that computer stuff will just confuse you. Sure the ACIII is more than what I really need, but at least I won't have to upgrade for awhile. Plus, it is nice to be able to login from work and check the status of things. __________________ "These mist covered mountains, are a home now for me, but my home is the lowlands, and always will be." - Dire Straits Yes Amy, I am on the national marrow registry. Current Tank Info: 120g In-wall, MR3 skimmer w/ Blueline HD70, ACIII controller, CR3 calcium reactor, Sequence 5800 CLS via OM 4-way, Sequence 3200 return, 2 - 250W 10K MH, 1 - 150W 20K MH, 4 - 110W VHO Actinics

03/09/2006, 06:10 AM	#13
Larry Waughon Registered Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Pingree Grove, IL Posts: 1,872	I have a reefkeeper and have been very happy with it. They are easy to use and a very nice product for the money. I think you would be very happy with a reefkeeper 2.

03/09/2006, 07:47 AM	#14
want2reef Registered Member Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Tracy CA. Posts: 1,353	I ordered the the RK2 to control my tank, hopefully it works out fine. Only paid $240 online. __________________ Kevin The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese. Current Tank Info: CADlights Artison II 165g, 50g sump,Aquamaxx Q-3 Skimmer, AI Hydra 26 HD.

03/09/2006, 07:58 AM	#15
scottjj Registered Member Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: North Richland Hills, Tx Posts: 9	that is an excellent price, i have not seen it that low ...where did you find it ? __________________ 215g reef in work Current Tank Info: 215g reef in work

03/09/2006, 08:49 AM	#16
ErikS Registered Member Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: VA Posts: 2,199	The best controller is the one that does everything you need it to & nothing that you don't. Finding that one is the challenge __________________ It's just my opinion & it's worth exactly what you paid for it

03/09/2006, 10:09 AM	#18
john37 Super Rad Member Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: 92867, 90240 Posts: 2,772	i think the reefkeeper 2 looks cooler than the neptune. haha but seriously, there is a waitlist for the reefkeeper 2 and i think marine depot's package w/the DC8 and jr. is one of the best prices i could find. i also dont have to wait, or pay shipping bc marine depot is local and i can do will call. So, i'm leaning towards the neptune jr w/DC8. i do need the DC8 to control lights, and fans right? __________________ Romans 10:9 Current Tank Info: ange!

03/09/2006, 10:43 AM	#19
cmhollis Registered Member Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Ledyard, CT Posts: 1,226	You don't need the DC8, you can just buy x10 modules instead. But if the DC8 is included with the Jr, then I don't see how you can go wrong. Mike __________________ "These mist covered mountains, are a home now for me, but my home is the lowlands, and always will be." - Dire Straits Yes Amy, I am on the national marrow registry. Current Tank Info: 120g In-wall, MR3 skimmer w/ Blueline HD70, ACIII controller, CR3 calcium reactor, Sequence 5800 CLS via OM 4-way, Sequence 3200 return, 2 - 250W 10K MH, 1 - 150W 20K MH, 4 - 110W VHO Actinics

03/09/2006, 11:09 AM	#20
moonpod Premium Member Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: B.H., Los Angeles Posts: 13,053	Depends on what is important to you. If you need a built in server then you have two options--the lighthouse or the ACIII. If you want rock solid stability and reliability then I would vote IKS as having the best track record, however it is extremely expensive and for remote access you need to dedicate a computer (ACII style) For a budget, the AC jr is prolly the best "bang" out there, but is relatively limited. If expandability is important than the Aquatronica. Other players out there include the ELOS Biotopus (sp?) which is intriguing. PLCs are prolly the way to go for true tech geeks. __________________ Excuses are just the nails for the house of failure. Current Tank Info: 32" Leemar starfire cube now empty and not quite so stinky

03/09/2006, 11:16 AM	#21
john37 Super Rad Member Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: 92867, 90240 Posts: 2,772	one more question, Do i need to buy the ph calibration fluid or can i just buy DI water from the supermarket since the ph of that should be 7? thanks for your help guys. __________________ Romans 10:9 Current Tank Info: ange!

03/09/2006, 12:23 PM	#23
Fliger Registered Member Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Chandler, AZ Posts: 8,642	I just got the Lighthouse yesterday and for $339 with the ph probe I'm thrilled with it. I need one networking part, but I should have everything online soon. Here is a link and a good thread. http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merch...e=othercontrol http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/sh...hreadid=633739 __________________ Growing old is mandatory, growing up is optional. Closed minds should come with closed mouths. When life hands you lemons, add vodka! Current Tank Info: Current: 210G Elos System, 2x400W + 6x54W Photon w/Aquaconnects, H&S skimmer, Deltec FR509/ROWAphos+Elos Carbon, 6101's and 6201's, Ocean GEOtronic 900 Chiller/Heater, Biotopus II Controller w/SMS. Elos System 70.