Basic DIY aquarium controller - where to start?

[DPRoberts]

I'm setting up a small desktop aquarium at work, and I'd like to automate it as much as possible (the general idea is that I'm supposed to be working instead of messing with an aquarium. Go figure.)

I've been reading through a variety of threads on this topic, & there seem to be myriad ways to accomplish this - Raspberry Pi, Arduino, and several others.

I've built my own PCs, but never learned any programming. I really only have 4 basic needs:

1. Cheap
2. Super reliable (can't burn the office down)
3. Heater controller (on/off)
4. Canopy cooling fan controller (on/off)

Wants:
1. Kessil dimmer
2. Variable speeds on the fan controller


I don't mind learning whatever I need to learn to make this, but I really don't want to spend a month learning one system only to discover that there's an easier, better, or cheaper way. Any suggestions on where to start?

 

[RandysReefTank]

I am tagging along as I want to learn/do the same type of thing.

 

[mcgyvr]

If you want "DIY" then hard to beat something like an ESP8266/EPS32 and a few proto boards with some temp sensors/relays(relay driver)/0-10V transistor driver..
Cobble it as fancy as you want..


If you want more out of the box but still kind of neat there is..
Heater controller..
https://sonoff.itead.cc/en/products/sonoff/sonoff-th

For fan controller/cabinet ventillation check out the AC Infinity series of products on Amazon.. Not too pricey really and such a professional look/fit/finish
https://www.amazon.com/stores/node/...e-bin=AC Infinity&ref_=bl_dp_s_web_6796564011

 

[oreo57]

Yea, sounds simple but it's a huge rabbit hole..
From a DIY standpoint it's fairly easy as "modules"
Like building this and hooking it to a relay for on/off control.
http://electronics-diy.com/electronic_schematic.php?id=1036

 

[DPRoberts]

Thanks to all for the replies. That AC Infinity controller looks particularly nice, but it doesn't look like it can control a heater too. I'll have to look into that more.

 

[oreo57]

https://fragtasticreef.com/finnex-max-300-digital-heater-controller/
There are dozens of like controllers..

Want to go crazy..

https://www.ferduino.com/

 

[mcgyvr]

Thanks to all for the replies. That AC Infinity controller looks particularly nice, but it doesn't look like it can control a heater too. I'll have to look into that more.

I just suggested a few individual devices to accomplish your goal.. Not a one shoe fits all.. The Sonoff device above that link would take care of your heater

There is also PLCs (Click plc from automation direct,etc... )if you want to learn PLC logic


And of course tons of cheap temperature controllers on Amazon,etc.. for as little as like $10-15 a piece ..Grab 2 of them and on/off for both heater and fans is done..

Tons of directions you "could" take depending on how deep you want to get into it and if you want to go learn programming vs plug-play,etc...

 

[Crooked Reef]

Not sure what your price range is but just keep an eye on the classifieds. I have recently seen Reef keepers and apex jr’s for $150 or so. When you add up all the parts it may be worthwhile to go for them. If you can wait a bit the apex trident is in its second phase of testing and is expected to be released this year. It doesn’t work with the older apex models so they may wind up in the classified areas for cheap.

 

[perkint]

I'd go full DIY. As Mcgyvr says, something like an ESP8266, some SSRs/relays, temp probes, box to put it in and mount the sockets for switching. Total cost could be less than $20. So long as you have network connectivity, that should be able to do your needs and wants

Tim

 

[IowaReefer]

I made one out of an Inkbird controller, but the temp sensor crapped out on me in a year or so. They sent me a new one for free, but cost me a couple fish and coral from multiple days of 68 degree water before I figured out what was wrong.

https://www.amazon.com/Inkbird-All-...ocphy=9021468&hvtargid=pla-307270368428&psc=1

 

[EMeyer]

If all you really need is temperature control over a fan and heater, its hard to beat this for cheap and reliable
https://www.amazon.com/Elitech-STC-1000-Temperature-Controller-Centigrade/dp/B00Y8T9YZG
obviously its limited to just that function, but it does that really well

 

[d0ughb0y]

your best bet is to get a used older model controller or dedicated temp controller. otherwise, you will be replacing one problem with another problem. diy your own controller will suck up a lot of your time.

 

[reefling]

There are many options. Just good Lee Arduino.

I would suggest to look at reef angel. They are an open source controller. You can highly customize.

You are almost asking us if you should build your own computer operating system? Would it not make more sense to start with Lenox and modify it to fit your needs.

Starting from scratch is daunting and will probably never get done.

Sent from my XT1710-02 using Tapatalk