Same question, different day

[FreakinReefin]

I really really need to invest in a controller/monitor and have been looking at the Reef Keeper Elite for a while now. Everything put together is about $574 and I am just wondering if I am getting the best one. I know there is the Aqua Controller/Neptune Controller...I just can't decide! If you had all the controllers ever made right there in front of you and you can choose one...price aside...what one would be the best?

 

[DolphinLVR]

When I was looking into them as I was putting together all of the pieces for the build, I was going to go with the Neptune as it was more or less a complete package ready to go as to where the reef keeper you had to buy additional modules.

At this point in time I am not using a controller as I have controllers for pretty much everything anyways and didnt see the need to lay out that money and used the money saved towards my lighting.

I hope that helps!

Jeff

 

[jrgilles]

Never used the reefkeeper elite. I have the neptune APEX aquacontroller, and I really like it.

I like the seasonal tables. The days in the tank get longer and shorter with the seasons, moon rises and sets to simulate the actual moon's schedule, temp changes where the tank is a bit hotter in the summer, cooler in the winter, etc.

I also like the way I can program all the outlets and have them linked, and the ability to expand the system indefinately (ie. the brain could control 1000 outlets if I wanted it to)

But, I have no RKE for comparison

 

[NWDiver]

I chose the Neptune Apex.
I like the built in web server and iPhone client, email and text if there is a problem.
The BIG difference for me is the ability to actually affect the controller remotely.
As I understand it (at least for now) with the Reefkeeper you can see your stats if you have the module, but you can't make changes remotely.
That may not be of value to everyone.
I have made changes in the evening, got to work and noticed that the lights were not on, oop's. Hit the web page and fixed it from here.
Other than that and the built in tunze wavemaker I think they are pretty close.

 

[slim_jim989]

the Apex is also working with Ecotech to wirelessly control the Vortech. Just fYI
http://www.neptunesys.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=55&Itemid=2

 

[FreakinReefin]

I chose the Neptune Apex.
I like the built in web server and iPhone client, email and text if there is a problem.
The BIG difference for me is the ability to actually affect the controller remotely.
As I understand it (at least for now) with the Reefkeeper you can see your stats if you have the module, but you can't make changes remotely.
That may not be of value to everyone.
I have made changes in the evening, got to work and noticed that the lights were not on, oop's. Hit the web page and fixed it from here.
Other than that and the built in tunze wavemaker I think they are pretty close.

the Apex is also working with Ecotech to wirelessly control the Vortech. Just fYI
http://www.neptunesys.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=55&Itemid=2

Both very good points since I have an iPhone and am using Vortech. BUT doesn't the RKE come with more stuff right out of the box? Probes, powerstrips and the like seem to be more provided in the RKE packages. Am I seeing this correctly?

 

[lmn420]

you might wanna get on this group buy before it ends.
http://www.nano-reef.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=232950
Save you about $100.

 

[NWDiver]

I'm not sure, when I bought mine there seemed to be more extras required for the RKE.
The link that Imn420 provided has the usual stuff, and a great price!

 

[FreakinReefin]

you might wanna get on this group buy before it ends.
http://www.nano-reef.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=232950
Save you about $100.

Dude, you are the man for pointing this out to me. I got in on the group buy and, if I am adding this right, am getting the Apex with an extra EB8(powerstrip) for $525-ish. Now does anyone have this controller who can teach me how to use it!!? haha

 

[NWDiver]

Get the unofficial Apex new users guide here: http://reeftech.webs.com/
If you have any questions give me a shout.
The basics are pretty easy

 

[lmn420]

Dude, you are the man for pointing this out to me. I got in on the group buy and, if I am adding this right, am getting the Apex with an extra EB8(powerstrip) for $525-ish. Now does anyone have this controller who can teach me how to use it!!? haha

I just wish I had the extra cash at the moment to get in on the deal also. I feel better at least knowing someone that will benefit.

 

[jrgilles]

Hmm, I could use an extra EB8. Can I buy just that on the group buy?

Check out the official and unofficial user guide, I can also try to help out with questions if you have any.

rob

 

[FreakinReefin]

Hmm, I could use an extra EB8. Can I buy just that on the group buy?

Check out the official and unofficial user guide, I can also try to help out with questions if you have any.

rob

I believe you can do that...and if you do we can combine shipping!! Although it's only $12...

 

[NWDiver]

Great idea jrgilles, I too could use another EB8.

 

[jrgilles]

looked at the link, but didn't see a price for just an EB8. Maybe I'll email them. I don't really need it yet, but I will someday. Could also wait for a used one, dunno.

 

[FreakinReefin]

looked at the link, but didn't see a price for just an EB8. Maybe I'll email them. I don't really need it yet, but I will someday. Could also wait for a used one, dunno.

I think the EB8 is $125 as opposed to $149...I could be wrong about this.

 

[burning2nd]

from what ive gather'ed they both require extra money to make talk 2 your router (but) once they are connected to your home network, you can get an app for you phone to access it anywhere in the world, IN YOUR POCKET!

 

[NWDiver]

Not with the Apex, it is ready to go out of the box. You need a network cable and a few minutes to setup. If you want to reach it from outside your own network you have to setup a domain etc. No extra hardware though. The iPhone app is neat, and there are apps available for Win mobile as well.

 

[FreakinReefin]

Not with the Apex, it is ready to go out of the box. You need a network cable and a few minutes to setup. If you want to reach it from outside your own network you have to setup a domain etc. No extra hardware though. The iPhone app is neat, and there are apps available for Win mobile as well.

Hey wait, there is a iPhone app for the apex? How hard would it be to setup this domain? I plan to have my apex plugged into a dedicated desktop computer which is directly plugged into the internet 24/7. I am hoping that I can fifure out a way to control lights, heaters, auto feeders, whatever from wherever I go. Any input? I have an iPhone that I would LOVE to be able to use for this control.

 

[jrgilles]

Domain is free. There are detailed directions on how to set it up in the user guide.

If you want email alerts from the apex, you'll have to direct it to your ISP's SMTP server. Which I still haven't got set up. I should call quest and see what it is....