New Controller - Apex Jr from Neptune Systems

lol

 

This unit is as expandable as the APEX controller for MOST reefers... you can add all the probes and controlled outlets you'll probably ever need.

To enter into a unit WITH a temp probe and four controlled outlets for $150 is a bargain, IMO. I was wanting to save up for an APEX, but I always found better ways to spend money... this puts a really good controller within reach really soon for me.

As far as programming via web server or head unit, I would greatly prefer web server. It would be nice to have wireless access, so I wouldn't have to run a cable, but that's not a problem either. I think if you set this up correctly on a local network, you don't NEED internet to run this, as your browser is just going to look at a local address, not a remotely hosted one.

Regarding having a button to control feedings, I would use the iphone app for this... this is what I think is really cool about it. Using my pocket computer to control my reef tank! I always thought the interface and display unit was a waste on the original APEX.

 

Personally, I think you would get a better deal, even with the Reef Angel. But there isn't currently as many additional features out...They could come out if people wrote the code for them though.

For $219 yo get the reef angel head module, 8 outlets, a temp probe, a ph probe, and 2 ato.

You can control the module from the display or on the PC.

 

I agree that the reef angel may be a better deal for the hardware, but I disagree regarding the software... the development just isn't there, and something turns me off about this... I think it's the "wait and see what programmers come up with" attitude and I don't want to become a computer programmer just to run my reef... plus there's no readily available iphone app. I REALLY want the iphone app. So, the reef angel is a no go for me.

 

Well they say there is a droid app and being able to sit in my office and see what my reef is doing or being on vacation and being able monitor your tank is way cool. I was going to order a temp alarm that was like 29.99 so for another 120.00 I will get email saying it was fixed but you had a problem. Come on guys you spend thousands of dollars on your reefs and your not sure you want something on your computer at home or work or your phone. Sign me up.

 

I am with you here...

 

Only if you want to check it from elsewhere. I know my RKL (along with any other server platform, including this one) is still accessible on the local network even if the internet goes down.

For example, my Comcast internet goes down occasionally. I can still go to my PC and access my RKL's NET module, and I can play System Link games on Xbox. I can stream a movie from my brother's PC to my PS3. The only thing I can't do is contact a computer somewhere on the wider internet.

Wireless is inherently unreliable compared to a wired connection. I wouldn't ever put something like a fish tank on wireless.

 

exactly what I was assuming above... it's on the local intranet, so as long as your computer hardware is working, then you're fine. Even without a connection to a computer, it will work, but you can't program or monitor anything...

 

Agree about wireless being unreliable... I can't tell you how many times I have to reset my apple airport wireless adapter each week for no apparent reason... (for apple haters, my old netgear router was no better either).

still, the controller should be able to function without this connection, so wireless would be fine as long as you aren't RELYING on alerts/ updates from the controller remotely.

 

hahahahaha