Best Controller?

[MattDiaz]

I'd like to automate my system as much as possible, since I am gone a lot. Price excluded, which is the best controller out there that can monitor and control all parameters in my reef?

 

[jamesdawson]

Profilux hands down!

 

[MattDiaz]

Thanks, I'll look into it. Any reason why you say that?

 

[e46slc]

Profilux hands down!

+1. Best controller if money was no object!

 

[pmrossetti1]

Apex

 

[Jeff000]

Siemens S7 and a nice HMI will give you the most control over automation and possibilities.
But looking in the ~$10,000 range buying used to get it up and running and doing some good things, but if it can automate multi-million dollar fabrication plants then I am sure a fish tank will be no problem.

A custom PLC will have the most control, but needs a level of knowledge and learning.

Profilux is good for simplicity and can still do a lot, but you are paying for it, a PLC like the Siemens Logo will be cheaper and do just as much or more.

 

[jamesdawson]

Profilux P3 has by far the most capability and options and is rock solid reliable.

 

[aleonn]

Love my Apex controller, very dynamic and easy to write the code for whatever you want to do!

 

[OneReef]

Most people go with either Digital Aquatics or Neptune. They are comparable and you will find lovers and haters of each. They are equivelant.

 

[James77]

Profilux and Neptune are the best. Profilux is higher end and more expensive, but you get a bug free system and high quality hardware. Neptune Apex is great bang for your buck wit great quality and fantastic support. Digital Aquatics has lagged in the past on customer service and they are extremely slow in getting out modules and features that the other 2 I listed have had for years. Both Profilux and Neptune have been able to control Vortechs for quite some time, Digital Aquatics won't even comment on the subject. Just be warned, although the DA is a decent controller, many are frustrated wtih it.

 

[snorvich]

+1 with the above.

 

[psyrob]

Or take the road less traveled, be a rebel and get a ReefAngel! open source provides a challenge for the bored reefer to program exactly what they want, keeps your brain active, and there are dedicated people writing programs for it all the time.....you get 8 outlets, temp probe, ph probe, two switches all for 219, and a wireless module for only 109 more...

 

[moonpod]

Problem with reefangel is that it's super early in evolution. No redox. No conductivity. I have an IKS aqua star which I love but it's very old school and has virtually no US support. But its rock solid and has never failed me. Also doesn't have all the nice remote access stuff possible with the Profilux and Apex. I am tempted by the Profilux as a replacement but it seems somewhat cost prohibitive versus the Apex

 

[bamf25]

I have an Apex, and can not imagin doing a tank without a controller. Call me spoiled.

 

[ReefRockerLive]

Profilux, the most reliable and expandable controller in the hobby. Nobody wants their controller failing while your away from the reef.

 

[luisagos]

Profilux is the best, hands down.

I am a Siemens guy and still went with a Profilux.
I actually have a 1200 PLC and color HMI that I won from Portal Event.

 

[sunilp]

I have a profilux and very pleased with it. Controlling it from laptop via ethernet and have the doser and just ordered the ecotech interface.

 

[Just2Many]

+1 Reef Keeper