Aquarium Controller Internet connection?

[rmerrill]

Are there any Aquarium controllers that do not need a permanent wired Internet connection but connect via existing Wi-Fi?

 

[flamron]

Apex can be connected with a bridge.

It needs a hard wire to update firmware, though.

 

[4Hummer]

Any Controller can go wireless.

Use a Cheap Router and put it into Bridge mode. It than becomes your access point to your Wireless Network.

Or an Ethernet to Wireless adapter can be used if you don't have a cheap router kicking around

 

[FrostyChicken]

If you have an old router lying around that doesn't already support bridging see if you can re-flash it with DD-WRT (http://www.dd-wrt.com/site/index). Once that's complete you'll find your old router is significantly more useful and can do things like bridging. DD-WRT is built with old routers in mind and they do a good job documenting how to do everything from flash your old router with their software to configuring it once that's done. Just do your homework beforehand and know what you're getting yourself into when you start the flashing process.

 

[mcgyvr]

Are there any Aquarium controllers that do not need a permanent wired Internet connection but connect via existing Wi-Fi?

Anyone that says "Wi-Fi" enabled or has a "Wi-Fi" module for it.

More than likely ALL of the top ones do.

 

[rmerrill]

Thanks. Any recommendations? Looking at Neptune vs. Digital Aquatics.

 

[flamron]

Apex hands down.

They are working on releasing Fusion. It's a cloud based server that makes life simple. I'm beta testing now and it is fantastic!

 

[Timber77]

reef angel is wifi as well

 

[d2mini]

GHL Profilux if you can swing it.
It's top notch. Probably the easiest to set up, too. No need to learn any kind of language.

 

[SJReeferMadness]

Get the apex because Apex fusion is worth the wait, I am currently using it and boy does it make a difference. It truely is super easy to configure now, plus id you are using any of the supported light systems or wave maker units the wizards will simplify your life. I personally bought the radions and ecotexh pumps because of the whole controllability deal and the fusions connections to them really puts those products over the top. I only wish I waited 2 months because as soon as I bought the 2nd gen lights the 3rd gens were released. Womp womp.

 

[aquaenthusiast]

Would go for the apex , just have to have a bridge (of some sort) , and the apex community is very large , and you can find lots of help if you run into any trouble

 

[koidealer]

I would also go with Apex. Also beta testing Fusion and it is hands down a great platform.

 

[Shanet]

+1 for Profilux, just plug an old wireless router into it or buy a wifi module they make. Easy as.

 

[rmerrill]

Apex Lite + Lab grade pH probe?

Apex Lite + Lab grade pH probe?

I have an 8 yr old 210 gal tank. Running 3 X 250 W metal halides with 2 X T12 VHO Actinics. Float valve controlled Kalk top off plus metered DIY 2 part. Running 2 old style Vortech MP40W's with a BlowHole 1450 main pump.

Leaning toward getting an Apex Lite + Lab grade pH probe with 2 X 500W Deluxe Finnex Titanium heaters.

Any thoughts?

 

[Spyderturbo007]

Once you have an Apex, you won't know how you lived without one. I wouldn't trade mine for anything.

Nothing like being able to check in on my tank from work on my iPhone. Just the piece of mind knowing that I'll get an email if any of my parameters goes out of line is worth every penny.

My advice to anyone considering an Apex is to buy it, don't think, just buy it.

 

[JoelA7]

Upgrading wifi in house to 5G with range extender and linksys bridge. 1300 MB rate. Any idea if this will eliminate need for hard wire for software updates?

 

[Shanet]

Software updates (firmware) MUST be done via USB (or any other hardwire method your controller uses)

 

[bcunningham]

I've set up two Apex's now (a friends and then mine) using a Linksys RE1000. It's a wireless repeater with an Ethernet port on it. Very simple to setup, they run about $60 at Walmart.

And yes you must hard line for firmware update, use a laptop or run a temp cable to your tank. Don't risk bricking your apex.

 

[JoelA7]

What if the laptop is running on wifi the LAN to Apex? Would that work for firmware update?