Another "Which reef controller" thread

triggreef

triggreef

New member
Sorry for this in advance as I see there are a ton of these threads already. But I have a fairly easy question that I can't seem to find a straight answer to.

My needs are very basic, since I've never used any of these controllers and I'm not looking for a ton of options here.

I only need it to control the lights, heater, and alternate a couple powerheads for me. I also am intrigued about getting an alarm via text message for temp control. That's all I need for now.

From what I'm gathering looking at the reef angel, apex, and RKL, none of these can do the text message alarm from the base model? Is that right?

If so which is the most cost effective option for my needs above? Also if it makes a difference I do have wifi at my house already.
 
Any of the Apex models can email out of box, and you can use that ability to text. You can setup an email text to your phone, like 401529xxxx@vtext.com for Verizon.

If you have a smart phone, you can use it to control your Alex junior over your wifi or even over a PC, and your phone would be the display since it lacks a display.
 
Since you are not looking to do a lot with the controller. Any controller with DC or EB8 can do the job.

You should do Apex JR. RKL only comes with 1 DC4. You need at least 8..
 
Yeah I have a smart phone so that should work. Also My lighting is DIY and has potentiometers so from what I gather I cant use the controller for dimming only on/off. I would be ok with 4 outlets I think one for the lighting, 2 for powerheads, one heater. I keep the moonlighting on constant, no need for that to turn off.

Thanks for quick responses!
 
Hands down Apex jr. I have owned the reef keeper and while it worked fine, I lost some fish and corals from my tank overheating due to ambient temps. I would have been able to save them with an email alarm sent by my apex and could have logged on via smartphone and alerted a family member to intervene.

Apex was built ground up for wireless control and has endless possibilities and easy to understand programming. My favorite auto top off system to date consists of DA float switch kit and the apex jr with breakaway box. My top off reservoir has a float to shut off the top off pump if the reservoir dries up and the tank side has two floats one to fill up and one to prevent overfilling. Just my opinion
 
gcirkel said:
+1 for the reef angel....
Click to expand...

+2
No programming required, everything you asked for is already set up on the basic unit. Just plug it in and set the times and temp right on the controller's display/joystick. Internet and smartphone control will require the net module and you'll need some sort of mount for the (included) float switches to use the ATO.
The advantage of going with the RA is that you'll never outgrow it. It is just as expandable as the full Apex but a lot less expensive.
 
Question on RA. Can you access the controls from the internet? Also, can you get email or text alerts of problems? I am in the market for a controller as well. I was thinking APEX was really the best way to go for a reliable system but I had not heard of RA and don't know much about it. There website is OK but not the best.

Thanks!
 
Patrick Cox said:
Question on RA. Can you access the controls from the internet? Also, can you get email or text alerts of problems? I am in the market for a controller as well. I was thinking APEX was really the best way to go for a reliable system but I had not heard of RA and don't know much about it. There website is OK but not the best.

Thanks!
Click to expand...

Yes everything is controllable by the web via smart phone or web browser if you purchase the wifi adapter. You can do anything you can do with an APEX and more because ,unlike and Apex, the RA can be programmed to do just about anything you want. Their support on their forum is outstanding by other RA owners and Roberto.
 
treetopflyn said:
Yes everything is controllable by the web via smart phone or web browser if you purchase the wifi adapter. You can do anything you can do with an APEX and more because ,unlike and Apex, the RA can be programmed to do just about anything you want. Their support on their forum is outstanding by other RA owners and Roberto.
Click to expand...

Thanks! I will give this a closer look!
 
You won't be disappointed. I did a lot research before I decided on the RA. Even though I have no plans on programming anything it's nice 2 know I can if I ever find the need to do so.
 
treetopflyn said:
Just got my reef angel and I LOVE it. It's less expensive and can be programmed to do just about anything you want.
Click to expand...

I'm looking on the reef angel site it is 219, and I cant even use the dimming feature. Apex is 149. Am I missing something about the price? Or maybe you mean adding on other tasks in the future is cheaper?
 
For $149 that is the apex jr and you don't get PH probe, ATO floats switches and only 4 outlets. Add up all the things that come with the basic reef angel then add up the Apex with all the same stuff (Controller, PH probe, Floats, 4 plug energy bar) and you will see the RA cheaper. PLUS it's programmable to do ANYTHING your heart desires the Apex is not
 
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