Buying controller, what do I need extra?

[grom]

Ok so I have decided to invest in a neptune apex controller. It says it comes with a basic pH meter and a temperature meter (not sure if this is basic or not).

http://www.marinedepot.com/Neptune_...iums-Neptune_Systems-NS11411-FITEMOMI-vi.html

I know for sure, Im going to buy a lab grade ph meter, as this is what I really need right now.

What im using it for: Controlling my lights, heater, and AutoTopOff. What I would like it to monitor: pH, temperature, and something else (not sure, but what would be the best option for a third probe?)

It comes with 8 outlets so i believe im all set on that.

Do I need to buy sensors for the ATO, or does it come with them?
Does it come with ports built in plug in the ATO sensors?
Is there a better temperature probe I can buy, or is the one it comes with the best one? Is the temp probe calibrated?
What other monitor probe should I buy? (while im savin on shipping)

 

[unbreakable]

You should look at the break out box to hook up float switches. It will not come with float switches. You can make a break out box way cheaper yourself. Do a search in the sponsors section for a thread on making your own. No need to calibrate the temperature probe. There is a module to monitor salinity. I have not had an issue with the salinity probe, but it is expensive.

That's basically it, the break out box isn't too great, but if you don't want to spend the time making one yourself than this is something you can pick up and have ready to hook up switches. That and the PM2 and salinity probe for salinity

 

[unbreakable]

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1804031&highlight=diy+breakout+box

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1847474

 

[aleonn]

I'm gonna buy the Neptune Apex from MD soon as well. I'm gonna get the PM-2 conductivity (salinity) module, with the expensive conductivity probe (it's out of stock now though). The temperature probe does not need to be calibrated. I'm going to buy a second pH probe to use in the ORP slot. One pH probe will measure tank pH, the other will be for my calcium reactor.

As for ATO, I'm gonna read up on unbreakable's suggestion.

 

[grom]

Ok so i guess im fine with the temp probe and ph probe that come with it.

Im still confused as to how to do the ATO

Do i need to buy another little console addon?
Or do i just need to buy the float valves?
Also its pretty shitty that neptune doesnt sell any float valves....

 

[unbreakable]

Ok so i guess im fine with the temp probe and ph probe that come with it.

Im still confused as to how to do the ATO

Do i need to buy another little console addon?
Or do i just need to buy the float valves?
Also its pretty shitty that neptune doesnt sell any float valves....

You can use any float switch made for saltwater.. The Neptune breakout box is made for adding float switches. The breakout box connects to the base and you connect the switches to the breakout box..

 

[grom]

So the breakout box doesnt come with the 500$ controller?

also, can i add conductivity probe staight to the open probe slo? Or do i need some sort of adapter?

Id like to do ph, temp, and conductivity for the 3 probe slots i have

I dont know what the ORP is/does and i dont need a second ph right now

 

[unbreakable]

So the breakout box doesnt come with the 500$ controller?

also, can i add conductivity probe staight to the open probe slo? Or do i need some sort of adapter?

Id like to do ph, temp, and conductivity for the 3 probe slots i have

I dont know what the ORP is/does and i dont need a second ph right now

Yes probe goes straight to the PM2. The pm2 adds another slot for temperature and ph(and orp?) and another mindin connection to add more switches