Am I missing something?

[mikesommers]

I have been reading on the Apex controllers. I cant seem to figure out the difference between the Apex Lite and the Apex. I have made up my mind to go with Neptune Systems. Just confused on the difference between the 2. Anyone know? It looks to me that I could do plenty with the lite. I need the ability to add up to 3 PH probes, 8 outlets (witch both come with) , web access (both come with), I/0 breakout box, and integrate Vortecs in with it. I know I can do all this with the regular Apex, but what stops you from adding this stuff on to the lite??? Any input would be great.

Mike

 

[rbredding]

main difference is that the lite doesn't have the tunze controller built in..
you have to purchase a network module for that..

it also will only handle a single PH probe, whereas the elite model will handle 2 ph (or 1ph/1orp).

 

[mikesommers]

Rbredding;547579 wrote: main difference is that the lite doesn't have the tunze controller built in..
you have to purchase a network module for that..

it also will only handle a single PH probe, whereas the elite model will handle 2 ph (or 1ph/1orp).

I think your talking about the Reef Keeper (Digital Aquatics). I was actually looking at Apex. There is an Apex Lite and an Apex. From what i have read both have built in web interface and both support PM1,PM2,PM3. This is were it gets confusing. What is missing from the lite??? If they both support all the same features whats lite about it?:lol2:

 

[brianjfinn]

The Lite doesn't have:

<span style="font-family: verdana">Built-in Variable speed pump control
ORP monitoring
4 integrated variable speed ports

</span>

 

[brianjfinn]

I just went to

 

[mikesommers]

brianjfinn;547702 wrote: The Lite doesn't have:

<span style="font-family: verdana">Built-in Variable speed pump control
ORP monitoring
4 integrated variable speed ports

</span>

brianjfinn;547704 wrote: I just went to http://www.neptunesys.com">www.neptunesys.com</a> and opened two tabs side by side to compare the two products.[/QUOTE]

Thank you sir :up: I should have thought of that.:doh: Sounds as if the lite will work fine for what i need!

 

[brianjfinn]

Yeah, for the money you save, it's really about the same system. The only problem I see is that you won't have the ability to have 3 pH probes like you want. You'll need the regular Apex for that.

 

[mikesommers]

brianjfinn;547714 wrote: Yeah, for the money you save, it's really about the same system. The only problem I see is that you won't have the ability to have 3 pH probes like you want. You'll need the regular Apex for that.

You can add Probe Module's.

Expandability

Most expandable Controller.
Up to 240 modules, hundreds of probes, and thousands of controlled outlets.
Simple menu driven Configuration
No program language knowledge required.

add 2 PM1 module's and you have 3 PH probes counting the on on the controller. My only reasoning for wanting that ability is for kalk control and Calcium reactor control. You can add the I/O box and have top off control. 1 EB8 should be plenty I would think I still need to draw everything out.

 

[brianjfinn]

mikesommers;547737 wrote: You can add Probe Module's.

Expandability

Most expandable Controller.
Up to 240 modules, hundreds of probes, and thousands of controlled outlets.
Simple menu driven Configuration
No program language knowledge required.

add 2 PM1 module's and you have 3 PH probes counting the on on the controller. My only reasoning for wanting that ability is for kalk control and Calcium reactor control. You can add the I/O box and have top off control. 1 EB8 should be plenty I would think I still need to draw everything out.

:doh: Duh, I even read that three or four times.

 

[rbredding]

mikesommers;547650 wrote: I think your talking about the Reef Keeper (Digital Aquatics). I was actually looking at Apex. There is an Apex Lite and an Apex. From what i have read both have built in web interface and both support PM1,PM2,PM3. This is were it gets confusing. What is missing from the lite??? If they both support all the same features whats lite about it?:lol2:

I was speaking about the apex controllers (I've got the Elite)

you CAN get the three probes you want with your lite system, however you'll have to purchase TWO of the PM-1's to get there (where you'll only need 1 PM to get there with the Elite base unit) or you'll have to purchase the PX1000 probe expansion module (it is capable of adding two PH probes by itself)... I'm not sure what the limitations of the PX1000 are with regards to the data logging or graphing with the Apex Lite (if any) as it connects to the base unit by the I/O connector, not an aquabus..

in your case, you'll have to daisy chain the PX1000 through the Breakout Box to the Base unit..


I am uncertain whether the variable speed outputs on the Apex Elite will work with the Vortech's you want.. (I only know that they work with the Tunze powerheads for certain)

 

[mikesommers]

Rbredding;547853 wrote: I was speaking about the apex controllers (I've got the Elite)

you CAN get the three probes you want with your lite system, however you'll have to purchase TWO of the PM-1's to get there (where you'll only need 1 PM to get there with the Elite base unit) or you'll have to purchase the PX1000 probe expansion module (it is capable of adding two PH probes by itself)... I'm not sure what the limitations of the PX1000 are with regards to the data logging or graphing with the Apex Lite (if any) as it connects to the base unit by the I/O connector, not an aquabus..

in your case, you'll have to daisy chain the PX1000 through the Breakout Box to the Base unit..


I am uncertain whether the variable speed outputs on the Apex Elite will work with the Vortech's you want.. (I only know that they work with the Tunze powerheads for certain)

If you read I believe there are 240 modules that can be connected to any one controller. I am confused when you say Elite due to Reef Keeper Elite. As far as Neptune Systems goes I only see an Apex System or Apex Lite System. I was not aware of an Apex Elite.

The Wireless Expansion module (shown above) allows for truely flexible control of Ecotech Marines Vortech and EcoSmart wireless pumps. The WXM features are:

Wirelessly controls any of Ecotech's wireless pumps (WWD or EcoSmart).
11 Independent channels to support 11 pumps.
Supports Ecotech's Constant, Reef Crest, Lagoon Random, Nutrient Transport Mode*, Tidal Swell Mode*, Pulse, Sync and Anti-Sync modes.
Modes of operation can be changed through the day.
Plug and Play. Automatically recognized when installed into the system.
Pumps can be dynamically added/removed from the system.
Two AquaBus connectors for flexible expansion via AquaBus.
Comes with 3' AquaBus cable.
Fully upgradeable.
WXM firmware and pump firmware can be updated for feature enhancement.
Led Status indicator and wireless status indicator.
Compatible with Apex and Apex Lite systems.

* Only supported on Ecosmart pumps.


This will take care of the Vortech's. I have found the difference in the Apex Lite System and the Apex System. The Apex lite System will more than enough for me. I spoke with them directly and have a solid plan. All the modules can be added via Aquabus. As far as the I/O box your speaking of that is for input and output for items like ATO and electronic control of RODI filter. They have me pretty well set up. I just have to draw it out and tie up the loose ends. My plans are to have full ATO control witch will be decided via PH probes and top off switches. I will be able to 1 dose kalk or 2 dose regular rodi. Control the time of day this happens, Set up seasonal changes, monitor and control a Calcium reactor, take care of light cycles and have the web interface. Not to bad for the price. 369.00 for the base Apex Lite, add some modules and have a tight plan. Neptune was really helpful and there support I believe will be very nice. To top it off I don't know if you know Simon great guy and WOW can he make the an Apex Lite or Apex rock.



Apex Lite Base Module
The Apex Lite System delivers a professional quality controller at hobbyist prices.
Built-in Ethernet
Integrated Ethernet port
Most advanced web server available
Interactive flash graphing application in the web server
Interfaces with AquaNotes iPhone application
Compatible with all Major web browsers (Internet Explorer, Firefox, and Safari)
Only aquarium controller with web server monitoring, control, and configuration
Compatible with wireless bridges or game adapters (802.11x) so that wireless network communication is possible
Email or text message alarms
Email alarms or audible alarms when Energy Bar power fails
Interactive flash graphing application in the web server
Interfaces with AquaNotes iPhone application
RSS and XML Support
Very simple menu driven configuration
Menus to easily setup pumps, lights, heater, chiller, co2, etc
No programming required for configuration
Can name the outlets (unlike competing products)
Can be configured through LCD Display or a standard web browser
In advanced mode an enhanced AquaController programming language is available
Sophisticated non standard control available
Virtual Outlets allow even more complex control options
Monitor/Control - pH, and Temp
The base unit includes software which is capable of monitoring pH, and temperature. The monitored data is continuously displayed on the large LCD display and also logged into the internal nonvolatile memory for later retrieval. All probes support digital calibration. Additional probes can always be added later with our probe modules (PM1, PM2, and PM3)
Galvanic isolation on probes
Galvanic isolation on the probes results much more reliable and accurate probe readings. While these features increase costs we feel that probe accuracy is absolutely critical for monitoring/controlling your tank, unlike many competing aquarium controllers.
State of the Art Electronics Integration
Only 32 bit processor on an Aquarium controller
Over 16 times more code space & 5X faster than competitive controllers
The huge code space means that future expandability is ensured
Over 16 times data storage memory than the competition
1 year’s worth of data logs can be stored internally
New Enhanced Control Functionality
Day of Week functionality
Sub minute control added on EnergyBar controlled devices
Default outlet state for all EnergyBar outlets
Second resolution control
Sunrise and Sunset Simulation
The Apex has a special control function which can be used to simulate the varying lengths of days throughout the year. This feature is used to make the length of daylight hours longer in the summer than in the winter. This results in a more realistic simulation of natural lighting variations.
Moon Cycle Simulation
The Apex has another special control function which can be used to simulate the moon cycle in your tank. The lunar simulator is used for this feature and is capable of varying the intensity of light emitted from its LEDs. The intensity variations are controlled by the Apex which is preprogrammed with correct intensity values for each day of the moon cycle. The Apex automatically updates the intensity value depending upon the current setting of the Apex's clock. With this artificial moon cycle, it is possible to induce corals and fish to spawn.
WaveMaker
Each pump to be controlled can either have a random or fixed time period. Both the on and off times are fully programmable and can range from 1 minute to 4 hours in 1 minute increments. Up to 20 pumps can be controlled by one base unit. A variable length feed timer cycle can be initiated with the press of a button and will disable some or all of the pumps in the system (programmed by the user).
6 Digital Inputs
The Apex comes equipped with 2 TTL level external inputs which can be used to activate/deactivate equipment in response to an external stimulus. Applications for these inputs include connection to water level float switches, water pressure and flow sensors, and water on the floor sensors. The Apex can be configured to signal alarms or turn on/off appliances in the event of external switch open or closure.
Virtually unlimited expandability – The most expandable controller
Add up to 240 Modules
Add optional module to monitor Hundreds of Probes
Add additional EnergyBars to control thousands of outlets
Probe modules available (or in development) for additional Temperature, pH, ORP, Conductivity, and dissolved oxygen probes
Modular Expansion through AquaBus
High reliability protocol with robust error correction
Plug and Play – AquaBus modules are automatically recognized and configured
Cable lengths over 200 feet
Expandable to 240 AquaBus modules
Hundreds of monitored probes/digital inputs
Thousands of controlled outlets
All AquaBus modules allow for easy firmware updates
New features can be added to modules
Module firmware updates done through AquaBus. No need to disassemble controller, and individually update modules
Backward Compatibility
All AquaController 3 accessories work with the AquaController Apex. One major design consideration was to maintain backwards compatibility to protect existing customer’s investment in AquaController compatible equipment.
I/O port expansion backwards compatible with PX 1000
Compatible with the breakout box
Integrated control port - All control port accessories (DC8, DC4, DC4HD, AquaSurf, Lunar Sim)

AquaBus
Two AquaBus connectors for easy expansion, and flexible cabling options
Plug and Plug bus allows for modular expansion.
Updateable Firmware
Firmware updates via Ethernet
Flash memory so new features can be easily added
All AquaBus modules allow for easy firmware updates
No need to unplug/rewire devices to perform the firmware update (unlike the competition)
Alternate power port on Apex Lite Base Unit
In power failure situations Alarm emails can still be sent
Can detect power failures in EnergyBars
Internal rechargeable backup battery retains clock
Graph probe/device data on the LCD display

 

[mikesommers]

brianjfinn;547829 wrote: :doh: Duh, I even read that three or four times.

No worries! I looked at there site for weeks and did not see the difference between the two.:lol2:

Thanks for the help!!

 

[rbredding]

yes, I'm sorry, didn't mean to type the word 'elite'... I apologize for the confusion..

with regards to the I/O ports.. everything on the website says that's how the breakout box connects to the apex unless Curt has changed the 'PX1000' and the 'Breakout Box' they both use the "old" connection system - the 9pin din connector.

my only point is that your options for using a total of 3 PH probes are limited with the apex lite (you can do it, but you'll have to purchase additional modules for each PH probe over 1).. the apex base module has two BNC probe connectors (one for ph, and one that will do PH or ORP)... at the time, I didn't know the cost of the PM1 ($74) so I wasn't sure whether it was cheaper to buy two of them, a PX1000($175), or upgrade to the Apex ($140)....

looks like it'll be cheaper for you to just buy two PM1's..

 

[schwaggs]

Don't get a PX-1000 for an Apex, that is a legacy device designed for the ACIII. It will work with an Apex but you will get much more cabling flexibility with the PM1.

The variable speed ports on the Apex (not on the LITE) can control Tunze pumps or variable ballasts. It can dim ballasts that have a 0 - 10V dimming input.

As for digital inputs (for float switches and such), the both the Apex and Apex Lite base module has a Mini DIN 8 connector that supports up to 6 inputs. The PM1, PM2, PM3 also have this same input connector each supporting another 6 inputs. You can get the Neptune Breakout Box to make connecting the inputs easy but it is not required if you are handy with a soldering iron and can splce some wires.

 

[mikesommers]

Schwaggs;547912 wrote: Don't get a PX-1000 for an Apex, that is a legacy device designed for the ACIII. It will work with an Apex but you will get much more cabling flexibility with the PM1.

The variable speed ports on the Apex (not on the LITE) can control Tunze pumps or variable ballasts. It can dim ballasts that have a 0 - 10V dimming input.

As for digital inputs (for float switches and such), the both the Apex and Apex Lite base module has a Mini DIN 8 connector that supports up to 6 inputs. The PM1, PM2, PM3 also have this same input connector each supporting another 6 inputs. You can get the Neptune Breakout Box to make connecting the inputs easy but it is not required if you are handy with a soldering iron and can splce some wires.

Thanks for the info!!! Cool!!