ATO for dummies.

[chrisv]

I have a very basic question regarding the functionality of the Apex system.

I would like to run the Apex as a controller for the ATO. Is there a way I can plug float switches directly into the Apex or do i need an additional piece of hardware (breakout box etc)

Ideally, I would have a float switch in the reservoir, and then two in the sump. Do i need additional hardware?

Which float switches are Apex-controllable?
Thanks in advance!

 

[swearint]

The short answer is yes, you will either need a Neptune BreakOut Box or build a DIY unit. The long answer can be found in the New Users Guide stickied at the top of the forum.

Todd

 

[chrisv]

Thanks-- I read the long answer version it looks like the PM1 is the right bit of hardware unless i want to DIY.

It's quite annoying that this very basic functionality is not integrated into the core system of what seems like an otherwise comprehensive unit. It seems like it would be so easy to satisfy so many common "wants"...like built in wifi capability...and float switches...Still a nice controller.

 

[swearint]

The point of the PM1 is to add another pH/ORP probe and temp probe and you would still need a way to connect to the port. So you don't need the PM1 just to get float inputs, the base unit has the same I/O port with 6 channels. The BreakoutBox is primarily a physical interface that makes it easy to attach bare wires. You could build a custom cable, but you end up with less flexibility if one of the floats fails.

Todd

 

[chrisv]

I guess I will have to prove that my thread title was an accurate one

I dont have the controller yet, and i am trying to buy all of my hardware at once to (maybe) save some money.

I read a lot of the manual posted in the sticky above, but im still not getting it.

I guess i still dont understand the role of the breakout box. Since I have not taken the LED plunge and when I invest in a high end circulation pump i will use a vortech, I have no other use for dim-able control or variable speed control. ... will the I/O ports on my hypothetical Apex base unit be enough to use for 4 float switches? (skimmer collection cup, 2 in sump and 1 in reservoir)

Also, are the I/O ports on the Apex unit 1/8th inch jcks or are they input for bare wire? how about the PM1? I gather the B/O box takes bare wire inputs.

I have no problem buying whatever hardware I need, but I would like to avoid buying the things i DONT need. I like having an independent ph controller for my Ca reactor, in case the tank controller goes down, so the on board pH and ORP probe on the apex should be plenty for my use.

 

[RussM]

Yes, the BoB take bare wire connections. The box in turn connects to the Apex base or a PMx module using a single mini DIN8 plug. You can connect up to 6 float switches to each BoB.

 

[chrisv]

I don't understand why I need th bob if there are six io ports on the apex base unit.

 

[swearint]

There is a single I/O female connector port that accepts six discreet signals. You can't jam a bunch of bare wires into it, therefore you need either a Breakout Box or a custom built cable with the proper mating connector.

Todd

 

[chrisv]

AHH the missing piece of the puzzle. I didnt understand the interface. Does the PM1 have breakout box function (or does it have the same i/o port configuration as the Apex unit) Is there no "apex version" of the breakout box yet?

 

[swearint]

The PM(1,2,3) all have the same mini-din8 connector and add six channels per unit. Not sure what you mean by an 'apex version'? The Breakout Box is not a module, it has no internal circuitry. It is just a means to convieniently hook up various types of switches, any thing that is a discreet ON/OFF. It can be used on any of the ACx/Apex/PMx units (not sure about the new Apex Jr).

Todd

 

[chrisv]

ahh I see. I guess the breakout box is what i need to order.

Thanks for your help!