Aquarium Controllers
- Thread starter jamest0o0
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builderguy
New member
The only functions they lose are conductivity and disolved oxygen from the AC3Pro....any AC3 users didn't have that anyway...there was never a module for that...now there will be in the future.
In fact, I can't think of anything the Profilux does besides those two and the LED control that the Apex can't. Sure the programming languages are different, but you can still make the controller do anything you need it to...even if the programming might get tricky...and Curt's working to add more programming functionality after this release as well.
In fact, I can't think of anything the Profilux does besides those two and the LED control that the Apex can't. Sure the programming languages are different, but you can still make the controller do anything you need it to...even if the programming might get tricky...and Curt's working to add more programming functionality after this release as well.
James77
Team RC
The functions they will lose will be temporary, as the modules are in development. Almost all of their accessories are backwards compatible- the aquasurf, the DC outlets, IO breakout, etc.
I fully agree with you on the RKE, I own one, and I have been a bit disappointed in the way they have added new functions. They seem to have given priority to developing the RK "lites" and packages for them.
I am leaning towards Neptune currently. The Apex has just about everything I could use in a controller, and it will be adding more.
I have decided against Profilux for the most part, mostly due to cost. I will, however, be getting their stand-alone doser- it is a very good value. The cost for the Profilux controller adds up very quickly. Their SMS module, for emailing/texting, is by itself $500.
One other thing against them, IMO, is having everything tied directly into the controller- as opposed to having a separate display unit like the Apex and RKE have. I know they will be adding something to do with a touchscreen, but until further specs come out about it- namely price- I remain skeptical.
Maybe because I already own a Profilux and have seen, that I need my functions.
I can not see myself losing them, even if it was a temporary thing.
Also keep in mind, Apex release seem to be taking a long time.
Have they given any time frame for the new modules?
I would feel much better with Apex ,upon the release of that there were more modules released at the same time.
The current trend is release new controllers to secure market share then worry about the rest later.
Thats something I feel RKE did, and hope Apex does not follow that business model.
About the part that Profilux is more expensive?
It will depend what functions you want now and for the future.
BTW, Profilux has email messaging without the SMS Module.
I believe that module is added for more redundancy if anything happens to the controller.
They already have a remote screen available.
I can not see myself losing them, even if it was a temporary thing.
Also keep in mind, Apex release seem to be taking a long time.
Have they given any time frame for the new modules?
I would feel much better with Apex ,upon the release of that there were more modules released at the same time.
The current trend is release new controllers to secure market share then worry about the rest later.
Thats something I feel RKE did, and hope Apex does not follow that business model.
About the part that Profilux is more expensive?
It will depend what functions you want now and for the future.
BTW, Profilux has email messaging without the SMS Module.
I believe that module is added for more redundancy if anything happens to the controller.
They already have a remote screen available.
luther1200
Premium Member
How much is that remote screen? Its pretty nice.
James77
Team RC
I am hoping that Neptune stays concentrated on expanding the Apex. Right away, the Apex has alot more features and abilities than the RKE at a lower price- Email/text, computer programming, and Tunze control. I also like that everything so far is not some huge secret like Digital Aquatics seems to like to do.
I think the Profilux is a fantastic controller. I consider it higher end- most of the more common things like pH, ORP, Tunze, etc can be had in a cheaper controller. It does have alot of more unusual things- like the PTC heat/cool, LEDs, storm, light sticks, etc. I am looking forward to what they will offer with the Profilux III and their pricing. As I said, having a controllable display module is a MUST for me, and Id like to see what their touchscreen addition is capable of in the fall.
I think the Profilux is a fantastic controller. I consider it higher end- most of the more common things like pH, ORP, Tunze, etc can be had in a cheaper controller. It does have alot of more unusual things- like the PTC heat/cool, LEDs, storm, light sticks, etc. I am looking forward to what they will offer with the Profilux III and their pricing. As I said, having a controllable display module is a MUST for me, and Id like to see what their touchscreen addition is capable of in the fall.
builderguy
New member
Again Luis...you keep talking about all the things that Profilux can do today. And although that is true, each one of those functions requires an additional card or device, costing even more. Yes, those function aren't available yet in the APEX, but how many people need the LED control, or the specialty cooling fans, etc.
I am curious though, what functions do you currently have with your Profilux that you feel aren't available with other controllers that you use today?
I wanted to get the Profilux...I was all decided. But then I started thinking about what functions I would need. I don't need variable speed pump control, I've got a closed loop with an Oceans Motion. I don't need LED control...the technology still needs to develop and the other controllers will have those modules by then.
What I do need/want is the ability to control 16 or more outlets. The ability to have advanced programming options. Multiple switch inputs will be great (Apex has 6 standard). The ability to have LAN/WEB networking/monitoring/control. From a control standpoint this means programming - as it's easier to do in software than to do by menus. In fact I'm an old programmer so Neptune's programming language style is intuitive to me - complete with remark statements. I did have some reservations about Neptune's programming language, but after a discussion with Curt on the enhancements the Apex will have I feel comfortable with it, and the enhancements that will be out before year's end will make it awesome.
I also think it's great that Curt (Neptune Systems) will spend time on the phone and personal email to answer questions, help with programming, etc. The fact that he's in NorCal where I live is an added bonus.
Once I thought about how my old AC2 has been bulletproof even though lacking in functionality, the personal attention I've gotten from Curt, and the feature/benefit/cost evaluation on the Apex it wasn't much of a contest.
I realize I'd have to wait for those added functions that the Profilux can do now (for an added cost)...but I don't need them now...the only thing I'd like to have in the future that I can think of now is Conductivity and LED control. I don't have an LED system and won't until they improve, and it's not so hard to use a refractometer - so I can live with out conductivity.
I am curious though, what functions do you currently have with your Profilux that you feel aren't available with other controllers that you use today?
I wanted to get the Profilux...I was all decided. But then I started thinking about what functions I would need. I don't need variable speed pump control, I've got a closed loop with an Oceans Motion. I don't need LED control...the technology still needs to develop and the other controllers will have those modules by then.
What I do need/want is the ability to control 16 or more outlets. The ability to have advanced programming options. Multiple switch inputs will be great (Apex has 6 standard). The ability to have LAN/WEB networking/monitoring/control. From a control standpoint this means programming - as it's easier to do in software than to do by menus. In fact I'm an old programmer so Neptune's programming language style is intuitive to me - complete with remark statements. I did have some reservations about Neptune's programming language, but after a discussion with Curt on the enhancements the Apex will have I feel comfortable with it, and the enhancements that will be out before year's end will make it awesome.
I also think it's great that Curt (Neptune Systems) will spend time on the phone and personal email to answer questions, help with programming, etc. The fact that he's in NorCal where I live is an added bonus.
Once I thought about how my old AC2 has been bulletproof even though lacking in functionality, the personal attention I've gotten from Curt, and the feature/benefit/cost evaluation on the Apex it wasn't much of a contest.
I realize I'd have to wait for those added functions that the Profilux can do now (for an added cost)...but I don't need them now...the only thing I'd like to have in the future that I can think of now is Conductivity and LED control. I don't have an LED system and won't until they improve, and it's not so hard to use a refractometer - so I can live with out conductivity.
1) Reliability and Quality, I only feel there is only 1 or 2 manufactures that meet my standards, and GHL is one of them.
2) To be able to use any analyzing probes on the market, including industrial ones. Profilux is the only controller with this feature, thank to the input card they release for us.
3) The ability to connect a Quantum PAR Sensor to the controller.
4) I need about 6 1-10 vdc outputs with full illumination support functions for my DIY LED system that I am currently doing (over 100 3 watt LED, with full dimming) and also using one of the outs to power the PAR sensor.
Please note: Each Profilux analog output has built in relay power on/off contact switch, to power off the lights, you do not need to waste a power outlet for this function. No other controller has this built in, function or hardware wise.
5) Non-contact water sensor for level control.
6) WEB Control for software programming, maintenance control, and just normal monitoring.
Please note: My wireless laptop controls my controller, from anywhere in my house. I turn anything off or on, or check for alarm interlocks, or just to plain maintenance, I never need to touch the controller, BTW I do not have wireless LAN card on the Profilux, my router is wireless.
7) Dosing, Profilux has one of the best if not the best one on the market, I do not have this now, but I will later this year.
8) Analog Input Card 0-10 vdc. Only controller to have this. Just about every equipment in the world uses this to send its data, its a industrial standard for signal sharing. You be able to connect with any sensor out there, it doesn't have to be a Aquarium related product. When I mean anything, I mean everything,
Flow meters, PAR Sensors, CO2 pressure Sensors, voltage/current sensors, VFD the list goes on.
Conductivity is a big thing for me, that was turn me off on the RKE right off the bat, and seeing Apex not releasing it when its new flagship controller is release boggles my mind.
Profilux little secrets here and there will add up, it does equal a better value, but you really do need to use them.
Profilux is a controller for the power aquariumist that wants complete control, with full confidence, peace of mind.
2) To be able to use any analyzing probes on the market, including industrial ones. Profilux is the only controller with this feature, thank to the input card they release for us.
3) The ability to connect a Quantum PAR Sensor to the controller.
4) I need about 6 1-10 vdc outputs with full illumination support functions for my DIY LED system that I am currently doing (over 100 3 watt LED, with full dimming) and also using one of the outs to power the PAR sensor.
Please note: Each Profilux analog output has built in relay power on/off contact switch, to power off the lights, you do not need to waste a power outlet for this function. No other controller has this built in, function or hardware wise.
5) Non-contact water sensor for level control.
6) WEB Control for software programming, maintenance control, and just normal monitoring.
Please note: My wireless laptop controls my controller, from anywhere in my house. I turn anything off or on, or check for alarm interlocks, or just to plain maintenance, I never need to touch the controller, BTW I do not have wireless LAN card on the Profilux, my router is wireless.
7) Dosing, Profilux has one of the best if not the best one on the market, I do not have this now, but I will later this year.
8) Analog Input Card 0-10 vdc. Only controller to have this. Just about every equipment in the world uses this to send its data, its a industrial standard for signal sharing. You be able to connect with any sensor out there, it doesn't have to be a Aquarium related product. When I mean anything, I mean everything,
Flow meters, PAR Sensors, CO2 pressure Sensors, voltage/current sensors, VFD the list goes on.
Conductivity is a big thing for me, that was turn me off on the RKE right off the bat, and seeing Apex not releasing it when its new flagship controller is release boggles my mind.
Profilux little secrets here and there will add up, it does equal a better value, but you really do need to use them.
Profilux is a controller for the power aquariumist that wants complete control, with full confidence, peace of mind.
fernandokng
New member
This came from Neptune Sys website:
4 Integrated Variable Speed Ports
0 to 10V output interface
Can directly control up to 4 Tunze stream pumps (like AquaSurf)
Can dim ballasts with 0 to 10V interfaces (life some T5 ballasts)
If the LEDs have 0-10v dimming, then you can control it no?
4 Integrated Variable Speed Ports
0 to 10V output interface
Can directly control up to 4 Tunze stream pumps (like AquaSurf)
Can dim ballasts with 0 to 10V interfaces (life some T5 ballasts)
If the LEDs have 0-10v dimming, then you can control it no?
Depends on the functions assign to it. RKE has them and still can not control Tunze Pumps.
ProfiLux can control 8 tunzes and also a wavebox
Apex can only control 4 and unlikely a wavebox
I have no idea how Apex is assigning their outputs.
With Profilux I have full control. I went over this earlier, I will copy and paste it again.
What it does have its built in features that you the user can define on what 1-10v outs do.
One example is defining voltage range to 0-100% range.
You can define the voltage range with any combination.
Examples;
Low scale to 1volt = 0%; High scale to 5v to 100%
Low scale to 8volt = 0%; High scale to 10v to 100%
For Tunze Pumps, you need to set the range to 3v to 8v to order to control them.
You must be able to define how you want to control that output.
Like ramping, pulsing, deceleration, acceleration, and timing circuits.
You also have full illumination functions, for example; Clouds, Lightening, Sunrise/Sunset, Lunar cycle all these functions can be assign to the 1-10 outs.
The list is long, on what you can define for that Output channel.
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aqualab
In Memoriam
How does the Elos controller compare to the profilux, neptune, aquacontroller, etc.....? Obviously it is very expensive, the most expensive by far of any of the controllers I am aware of. Why? Visually I think it has all the others beat (personal opinion), but that is allot of money for aesthetics alone if the other controllers can perform all the same functions. I also like the ability to install the Elos flush into the cabinet's door or wall. Profilux needs a shelf, neptune and aqua can be mounted on a surface. how about the Elos controller's reliability? I may be able to buy a used Elos Biotopus II controller with pH probe, temp sensor, 6 outlet device, and associated cables for several hundred dollars less than new advertised price of $1895. Just trying to justify its purchase to myself and my banker (wife).
cnaegler
New member
So... Can the new Apex still control what my AC2 currently controls? I'm happy with my AC2 but i want total control via the internet. Should i stick with trying to get an AC3 or will the new Apex handle this for me? The cost is the same so controlability is key for me. I basically want to "unplug" my AC2 and "plug " in an AC3 or Apex. I do not want to have to purchase extra stuff for these. Can someone enlighten me on this?
Aqualab,
I think it lacks any real web control or monitoring?
You may want to look into it.
For that price, I would buy the Profilux 2 and upgrade to the Profilux 3 and get the Remote Touch Screen when it comes later this year.
That touch Screen is going to be super nice!
I think it lacks any real web control or monitoring?
You may want to look into it.
For that price, I would buy the Profilux 2 and upgrade to the Profilux 3 and get the Remote Touch Screen when it comes later this year.
That touch Screen is going to be super nice!
luther1200
Premium Member
Hey, Luis did you ever wind up making those DIY LED's? And if so do you like them? And if not what are you running instead?
I was thinking of making a DIY LED light on my next tank, but that won't be for at least 6 months maybe more. Or I was thinking of setting up my Nano again and making a little LED light for that.
How long has your tank been up and running with the Profilux controlling everything? And if you don't mind, what is it controlling and how much money do you have invested in it to do what its doing?
I was thinking of making a DIY LED light on my next tank, but that won't be for at least 6 months maybe more. Or I was thinking of setting up my Nano again and making a little LED light for that.
How long has your tank been up and running with the Profilux controlling everything? And if you don't mind, what is it controlling and how much money do you have invested in it to do what its doing?
I am still waiting for the freaking parts.
I promise, I will have 100% DIY thread with pic and instructions.
I am using 8.5 x 28 inch heat sinks, I will have two of these for my 6ft tank.
http://www.heatsinkusa.com/
Profilux will have to control 4 banks of LEDs and 1 extra bank for moon lights.
I will have two channels of blue, one each for side.
Two channels of white, one each for side.
1 channel for the moon lights.
I am also connecting all this to the PAR sensor, for full dimming control for the proper par levels and data logging.
Sounds complex? Trust me its not, the hardest part is going to be the drilling and tapping of over 300 holes for the LED mounting, lol.
I got the parts from a group buy that Evil started on Nano Reef site, he is still waiting for the drivers to be shipped.
PM me your Email Address if you have problems finding the site.
I promise, I will have 100% DIY thread with pic and instructions.
I am using 8.5 x 28 inch heat sinks, I will have two of these for my 6ft tank.
http://www.heatsinkusa.com/
Profilux will have to control 4 banks of LEDs and 1 extra bank for moon lights.
I will have two channels of blue, one each for side.
Two channels of white, one each for side.
1 channel for the moon lights.
I am also connecting all this to the PAR sensor, for full dimming control for the proper par levels and data logging.
Sounds complex? Trust me its not, the hardest part is going to be the drilling and tapping of over 300 holes for the LED mounting, lol.
I got the parts from a group buy that Evil started on Nano Reef site, he is still waiting for the drivers to be shipped.
PM me your Email Address if you have problems finding the site.
luther1200
Premium Member
I am really starting to like the idea of the DIY LED lights. So many people seem to like them, they must be working. I think I might do a test run on my nano first.
