Apex and LED Question

[stacy22]

I understand that to run dimmable LEDs with an Apex one must use the VDM module. My question is does the VDM module have to be used for LEDs that are not dimmable? Can they simply be plugged into the EB8? Sorry folks but I am techno-stupid.

TIA and Happy Reefing
Stace

 

[redstang]

No need for VDM if you don't want to dim.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[lilrobb]

Yup,

just plug them in, the VDM only controls dimming, nothing else

 

[no1bubba]

What is a VDM? Where do I purchase one? How much does it cost.
If I purchased dimmable APEX for $75 extra shouldn't I have received a dimmer control? Thanks, Bubba

 

[jef4y]

The VDM is used solely for dimmable LED's (or other varying voltage appliances). But you can achieve the same effect via a cable using a variable command (Ramp? or something like that). I forget the exact command/setup, but you can control a variable output without using the VDM if you want.

Other than that, you're golden with using an outlet on the EB8 as an on/off.

 

[no1bubba]

Ok, where do I buy one and what exactly do I ask for? Any one in the club sell them?

 

[redstang]

no1bubba;756786 wrote: Ok, where do I buy one and what exactly do I ask for? Any one in the club sell them?

What version of the Apex do you have?

 

[stacy22]

Thanks guys. I am going to try and hook up my Apex this weekend. I bought it brand new last summer and just got it out of the box the other day.

 

[redstang]

stacy22;756816 wrote: Thanks guys. I am going to try and hook up my Apex this weekend. I bought it brand new last summer and just got it out of the box the other day.

You are either incredibly busy, incredibly patient, or both!!!! No way I could have waited that long!

 

[jef4y]

Stacy, one thing you're going to want to do before you hook it up is to update the firmware. You can check with the Neptune site or on the Neptune forum on RC. It changes quite regularly.

 

[realfish]

JeF4y;756830 wrote: Stacy, one thing you're going to want to do before you hook it up is to update the firmware. You can check with the Neptune site or on the Neptune forum on RC. It changes quite regularly.

Yes, and when you do, make certain that both your PC and your Apex are hard wired into your router or the file has a very good chance of being corrupted.

 

[stacy22]

I have downloaded the Unofficial Guide. I am hoping I can accomplish getting my ph and temp probes running and getting lights programmed. I am a bio geek not a tech geek unfortunately

 

[schwaggs]

no1bubba;756779 wrote: What is a VDM? Where do I purchase one? How much does it cost.
If I purchased dimmable APEX for $75 extra shouldn't I have received a dimmer control? Thanks, Bubba

Yes, the full Apex has 4 variable voltage ports that can be used to dim LEDs or control Tunze pumps.