. . . da RC Artsy-Cube project - - - Picture Intense
- Thread starter cerreta
- Start date
cerreta
Premium Member
Thanks Mike. . . that's me. :thumbsup:
I just recieved the new AI LED cable to interface the AI LED with the Profilux controller.
This thing is AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I just witnessed a thunderstorm, where the blue and white LEDs would randomly change intensity with the white LEDs flashing at rapid speeds at random intervals, thus simulating lighting.
the other really cool thing is now I can set rain showers, storms, and cloud probability. Which is probably the absolute best feature!!!
The cloud probability is set at 50%. The lights are set to come on at 7am and gradually increase to high levels at noon and decrease levels until 4:30 pm. the Cloud probabilty allows the lights to constantly change during the photoperiod, but it never exceeds the maximum setting for the current time of day.
In other words at 10am when the white LED is only at 35% and Blue at 50%, clouds come and go and the lights will change randomly and quickly (ramping up and down in about 5 seconds) from 0% to 35% for white and 0% to 50% for blue.
This feature is what LEDs are all about!!! This is why i am so excited about the new technology. most lighting systems come on and off. Some can do some basic dimming features. But only LEDs can SILENTLY offer lighting, clouds, dawn dusk, etc!
I plan to post a You Tube video in the next few days showing these effects.
I am so excited, that I just may buy another one to put on a Freshwater planted tank that i just setup at home. I wonder what kind of spectrum the white LEDs have? I wonder if they can support FW plant growth with a 6700k temp.
You know what's funny? Even though I am super thrilled with this unit, it is missing one really important thing. I think Profilux and AI should get together and offer an audio output with thunder, rain, wind, and storm sound effects. Yeah, that woudl make me happier. hehehehehe
I think I am going to run out and buy a storm CD for sound effects, although the timing of lighting will be off
Cheers,
Scott
I just recieved the new AI LED cable to interface the AI LED with the Profilux controller.
This thing is AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I just witnessed a thunderstorm, where the blue and white LEDs would randomly change intensity with the white LEDs flashing at rapid speeds at random intervals, thus simulating lighting.
the other really cool thing is now I can set rain showers, storms, and cloud probability. Which is probably the absolute best feature!!!
The cloud probability is set at 50%. The lights are set to come on at 7am and gradually increase to high levels at noon and decrease levels until 4:30 pm. the Cloud probabilty allows the lights to constantly change during the photoperiod, but it never exceeds the maximum setting for the current time of day.
In other words at 10am when the white LED is only at 35% and Blue at 50%, clouds come and go and the lights will change randomly and quickly (ramping up and down in about 5 seconds) from 0% to 35% for white and 0% to 50% for blue.
This feature is what LEDs are all about!!! This is why i am so excited about the new technology. most lighting systems come on and off. Some can do some basic dimming features. But only LEDs can SILENTLY offer lighting, clouds, dawn dusk, etc!
I plan to post a You Tube video in the next few days showing these effects.
I am so excited, that I just may buy another one to put on a Freshwater planted tank that i just setup at home. I wonder what kind of spectrum the white LEDs have? I wonder if they can support FW plant growth with a 6700k temp.
You know what's funny? Even though I am super thrilled with this unit, it is missing one really important thing. I think Profilux and AI should get together and offer an audio output with thunder, rain, wind, and storm sound effects. Yeah, that woudl make me happier. hehehehehe
I think I am going to run out and buy a storm CD for sound effects, although the timing of lighting will be off
Cheers,
Scott
cerreta
Premium Member
yeah, I know. Ha, yoiu should see the FW planted tank I just set up.
I converted the 20 gallon nano at home to a FW tank for the wife. She wanted to keep African Cichlids. She quickly learned the tank is too small, and we opted for a planted tank. Well, that uped teh cost considerably. Hell, I did not realize plants can cost as much as coral. I bought one plant for $20 Plus two $30 1" fish. Kinda like saltwater, but not quite as expensive.
I converted the 20 gallon nano at home to a FW tank for the wife. She wanted to keep African Cichlids. She quickly learned the tank is too small, and we opted for a planted tank. Well, that uped teh cost considerably. Hell, I did not realize plants can cost as much as coral. I bought one plant for $20
Plus two $30 1" fish. Kinda like saltwater, but not quite as expensive.
cerreta
Premium Member
Aqua Illumination and Profilux Controller â€"œ Tutorial/Review
I have been asked by several RC reefers to post current settings of the Profilux controller. In this documented tutorial, screenshots have been provided of current settings. I will describe each screen shot and some functions in use. A You Tube Video is in the works. It will be linked to this thread as soon as available.
Many people browsing this tutorial probably do not own a Profilux controller or Aqua Illumination LED module. Be forewarned, you may get the impression that these companies paid me lots of money to write this tutorial. I wish that were true :lol: but I am sad to report that I am just a hobbyist who likes to share information and personal experiences whether good or bad. I tell it like it is. If I don’t like, I explain why. For example, I did a recent review on a FishNeedIt metal halide system. Several design flaws were revealed that should result in a pass for most consumers. However, the cost is so cheap, that the budget minded aquarist can afford a metal halide system, which outperforms T5, VHO, and PC systems.
My intent with this tutorial/review is to reach two audiences: Those considering the purchase of an AI LED system or a Profilux controller. The other audience is reefers, who own an AI light, or a Profilux controller, but not both. These two devices simply belong together. If you already own one of them, you are REALLY missing out on a unique experience.
I am known to be very wordy with reviews and tutorials. So if you want the direct conclusion now. GO BUY THE AI LED system and Profilux controller, RIGHT NOW!!!
If you choose to read on, try not to doze.
The objectives of this tutorial are to provide practical information about the controller and illustrate actual effects on the reef. Hey, if you are thinking about buying one of these devices, then you have probably already been on the Profilux forum page asking questions, or on their website downloading the manuals and reading everything page by page. I did that for about three weeks before buying the Profilux. Point is, that manual is written by Europeans
and you think I am wordy. :lol: Furthermore, manuals do not provide real life scenarios or observations. This tutorial is intended to bridge the gap between reading the manual and observing actual effects on a reef system.
OBJECTIVES:
1. Describe the system and equipment in use . . . da Artsy Cube
2. Describe the functions and limitations of the Aqua Illumination LED module
3. Describe the functions of the highly advanced Profilux Controller
4. Discuss how the equipment behaves based on current settings â€"œ Screen Shots
5. Initiate discussion about these two devices. If you have specific scenarios you wish to try, ask. I will try it out and provide feedback for you. This is the beauty of Reef Central.
OBJECTIVE 1: EQUIPMENT OVERVIEW
You can read the full description and build thread of . . . da Artsy Cube, by clicking on this link:
http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1379150
I have been asked by several RC reefers to post current settings of the Profilux controller. In this documented tutorial, screenshots have been provided of current settings. I will describe each screen shot and some functions in use. A You Tube Video is in the works. It will be linked to this thread as soon as available.
Many people browsing this tutorial probably do not own a Profilux controller or Aqua Illumination LED module. Be forewarned, you may get the impression that these companies paid me lots of money to write this tutorial. I wish that were true :lol: but I am sad to report that I am just a hobbyist who likes to share information and personal experiences whether good or bad. I tell it like it is. If I don’t like, I explain why. For example, I did a recent review on a FishNeedIt metal halide system. Several design flaws were revealed that should result in a pass for most consumers. However, the cost is so cheap, that the budget minded aquarist can afford a metal halide system, which outperforms T5, VHO, and PC systems.
My intent with this tutorial/review is to reach two audiences: Those considering the purchase of an AI LED system or a Profilux controller. The other audience is reefers, who own an AI light, or a Profilux controller, but not both. These two devices simply belong together. If you already own one of them, you are REALLY missing out on a unique experience.
I am known to be very wordy with reviews and tutorials. So if you want the direct conclusion now. GO BUY THE AI LED system and Profilux controller, RIGHT NOW!!!
If you choose to read on, try not to doze.
The objectives of this tutorial are to provide practical information about the controller and illustrate actual effects on the reef. Hey, if you are thinking about buying one of these devices, then you have probably already been on the Profilux forum page asking questions, or on their website downloading the manuals and reading everything page by page. I did that for about three weeks before buying the Profilux. Point is, that manual is written by Europeans
and you think I am wordy. :lol: Furthermore, manuals do not provide real life scenarios or observations. This tutorial is intended to bridge the gap between reading the manual and observing actual effects on a reef system.OBJECTIVES:
1. Describe the system and equipment in use . . . da Artsy Cube
2. Describe the functions and limitations of the Aqua Illumination LED module
3. Describe the functions of the highly advanced Profilux Controller
4. Discuss how the equipment behaves based on current settings â€"œ Screen Shots
5. Initiate discussion about these two devices. If you have specific scenarios you wish to try, ask. I will try it out and provide feedback for you. This is the beauty of Reef Central.
OBJECTIVE 1: EQUIPMENT OVERVIEW
You can read the full description and build thread of . . . da Artsy Cube, by clicking on this link:
http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1379150
cerreta
Premium Member
Essentially, this is a custom built nano tank designed to be a work of art. Geometric shapes are the theme. Since this is as much a piece of art as it is an aquarium, two absolute priorities are to use the most advanced pieces of technology available and hide everything! No wires or pumps are visible.
The integrated sump is 4 inches taller than the main body of water. Inside is a standpipe. It is not used to drain water. The pipe rises above the water surface. Therefore, it connects air above the water surface to air below the tank via a bulkhead drilled through the bottom of the sump section. This is where all the cables, probes, sensors, media, skimmer, heater, etc. are located. Pretty cool huh. Tons of photos can be seen in the build thread.
CIRCULATION provided by 2 Tunze Nano Stream 6055 controllable pumps. They operate in wave box mode. I do not use Tunze wave boxes. The internal sump is designed to be that box. Pumps are located in the two bottom holes connecting the main body of water and the sump area. Three upper holes act as intake. Tunze screens are used to keep fish out of the sump, while providing aesthetics. The separating wall is made of glass. Black foam has been sprayed on the glass to prevent seeing into the sump area from the main display.
LEVEL CONTROL provided by Profilux standard float valve and float hanging system. ATO pump is an Eheim 1060 (I think).
SKIMMER provided by Tunze Nano Skimmer with custom built StevieT collection cup
HEATER provided by stainless steel immersion heater controlled by Profilux
LIGHTING provided by Aqua Illumination LED module
CONTROLLER provided by Profilux Plus II Beginner with USB module, Tunze cables, level float switch and holder, pH probe, and temperature probe.
OBJECTIVE 2: AQUA ILLUMINATION LIMITATIONS
The major limitation with the AI LED system is the standard controller. Quite frankly, it is lame! The AI controller is too basic to really appreciate the LED technology used in the AI system. This limitation is the sole purpose of this review/tutorial. :thumbsup:
The AI controller provides sunrise, sunset, and lunar control. That’s about it. In 2002 I owned a SOLAR 1000 light dimmer (cost about the same as a Profilux ha!), with VHO lamps and an IceCap ballast. It provides those dimming capabilities described above. Currently on the market today you can find dimmable T5 and MH systems that offer the basic sunrise and sunset operation. Add a lunar LED and you get a nice little complete system.
I have fielded a couple skeptical hits from fellow reefers about the cost of LED technology. Their argument is that a $700 AI LED system is too much for unproven technology when you can just buy a “$200 MH system.†I wish to clarify a few misconceptions. First, most quality MH units cost WAY more than $200. This argument is frustrating. :mad2: This reefer wants to compare a high end LED system to an entry level MH system. That is like comparing Ranier cherries to Bing cherries. No comparison! (It’s cherry season, yeah). To be fair, let’s compare the LED AI system to a Giesmann or Elos 250watt MH system. You won’t find these MH units for $200, try $400 for simple MH fixture. The Giesmann Infinity 1 with MH and four T5 lamps runs $900. It is the best of its class. So is the Aqua Illumination. Let’s make equal comparisons.
Second, you cannot call this a complete “systemâ€Â. Many people buy additional lighting devices to meet lunar and actinic effects. Because of heat transfer you may even have to purchase additional chillers, fans, or other devices to complete the “system.†You will be surprised when you add up all the costs of a true “MH system.†The actual cost of a “MH system†is closer to the price of an Aqua Illumination LED system then you may realize.
I recognize that the common aquarist struggles to pay that large initial fee. Or, you simply think that all you need is one thing, later learning that you need other equipment. I often do it this way too. I would buy the MH system. Then, the heat issues prevailed. I bought $100 worth of fans. No luck, then a chiller. Hey, I don’t like the color. My friends tank looks better. Next, comes the actinic and lunar supplements. Sound familiar. Well, go back and total up those receipts that you were hiding from your spouse and I bet it will add up to more than $700.
But, hey there is a hitch here too. Once you buy the $700 AI LED system, you will soon realize after this review, that you NEED a $500 Profilux upgrade. :lol: Not my fault. This hobby is run by the evil empire :strooper:
Plus, MH systems consume more electricity, require annual lamp replacement, and more maintenance. The AI LED system is truly a complete system in one small convenient package. I do not find the need to add any additional equipment to my reef when using the AI LED system. And yes, I have owned larger reef systems that required several MH fixtures, a chiller, fans, actinics, and lunar lights. Those days are over with the arrival of LED technology!
However, one important issue still remains. LED must support coral growth, especially sps corals. If it proves to support coral growth (preliminary findings are yes, but more extensive use of the technology is needed) and propagation, then you will see a shift in the industry towards this technology. Like everything else, the price will come down as the technology advances and competition in the market develops. Think, DVD, Blu-Ray, HD TV, etc.
If you own an AI LED system (like I did for 4 months) without a Profilux controller, you own a very expensive, very impressive piece of cutting-edge NEW technology and guess what, you are wasting it! Sure, it produces very low heat. Sure, it consumes less energy. Sure, you don’t need to replace lamps once a year. Sure, you don’t need to purchase a chiller. But, you are missing out on an experience like no other technology in the aquarium industry can match. The ability to manipulate the hell out of this lighting system, silently!
I urge you to replace that lame AI controller and you will unleash the beast within that LED system. Imagine having clouds pass over your reef. What about the occasional rainy days, and lightning storms? You can have it with a Profilux. You also earn the ability to set multiple lighting periods throughout the photoperiod. A major drawback of other lighting systems (and the AI with a standard controller) is limitation of modes. You can program sunrise and sunset schemes, but the rest of the day your lights shine at 100%. In nature, the light intensity changes throughout the day. The Profilux delivers. Da Artsy Cube reef experiences a unique sunrise, then from sunrise to noon, LEDs increase to maximum intensity. Then, just like nature, the light intensity gradually decreases until sunset. So does my reef. It is way cool. And, with the addition of cloud probability, storms, and rainy days. . . everyday is different!
The integrated sump is 4 inches taller than the main body of water. Inside is a standpipe. It is not used to drain water. The pipe rises above the water surface. Therefore, it connects air above the water surface to air below the tank via a bulkhead drilled through the bottom of the sump section. This is where all the cables, probes, sensors, media, skimmer, heater, etc. are located. Pretty cool huh. Tons of photos can be seen in the build thread.
CIRCULATION provided by 2 Tunze Nano Stream 6055 controllable pumps. They operate in wave box mode. I do not use Tunze wave boxes. The internal sump is designed to be that box. Pumps are located in the two bottom holes connecting the main body of water and the sump area. Three upper holes act as intake. Tunze screens are used to keep fish out of the sump, while providing aesthetics. The separating wall is made of glass. Black foam has been sprayed on the glass to prevent seeing into the sump area from the main display.
LEVEL CONTROL provided by Profilux standard float valve and float hanging system. ATO pump is an Eheim 1060 (I think).
SKIMMER provided by Tunze Nano Skimmer with custom built StevieT collection cup
HEATER provided by stainless steel immersion heater controlled by Profilux
LIGHTING provided by Aqua Illumination LED module
CONTROLLER provided by Profilux Plus II Beginner with USB module, Tunze cables, level float switch and holder, pH probe, and temperature probe.
OBJECTIVE 2: AQUA ILLUMINATION LIMITATIONS
The major limitation with the AI LED system is the standard controller. Quite frankly, it is lame! The AI controller is too basic to really appreciate the LED technology used in the AI system. This limitation is the sole purpose of this review/tutorial. :thumbsup:
The AI controller provides sunrise, sunset, and lunar control. That’s about it. In 2002 I owned a SOLAR 1000 light dimmer (cost about the same as a Profilux ha!), with VHO lamps and an IceCap ballast. It provides those dimming capabilities described above. Currently on the market today you can find dimmable T5 and MH systems that offer the basic sunrise and sunset operation. Add a lunar LED and you get a nice little complete system.
I have fielded a couple skeptical hits from fellow reefers about the cost of LED technology. Their argument is that a $700 AI LED system is too much for unproven technology when you can just buy a “$200 MH system.†I wish to clarify a few misconceptions. First, most quality MH units cost WAY more than $200. This argument is frustrating. :mad2: This reefer wants to compare a high end LED system to an entry level MH system. That is like comparing Ranier cherries to Bing cherries. No comparison! (It’s cherry season, yeah). To be fair, let’s compare the LED AI system to a Giesmann or Elos 250watt MH system. You won’t find these MH units for $200, try $400 for simple MH fixture. The Giesmann Infinity 1 with MH and four T5 lamps runs $900. It is the best of its class. So is the Aqua Illumination. Let’s make equal comparisons.
Second, you cannot call this a complete “systemâ€Â. Many people buy additional lighting devices to meet lunar and actinic effects. Because of heat transfer you may even have to purchase additional chillers, fans, or other devices to complete the “system.†You will be surprised when you add up all the costs of a true “MH system.†The actual cost of a “MH system†is closer to the price of an Aqua Illumination LED system then you may realize.
I recognize that the common aquarist struggles to pay that large initial fee. Or, you simply think that all you need is one thing, later learning that you need other equipment. I often do it this way too. I would buy the MH system. Then, the heat issues prevailed. I bought $100 worth of fans. No luck, then a chiller. Hey, I don’t like the color. My friends tank looks better. Next, comes the actinic and lunar supplements. Sound familiar.
Well, go back and total up those receipts that you were hiding from your spouse and I bet it will add up to more than $700. But, hey there is a hitch here too. Once you buy the $700 AI LED system, you will soon realize after this review, that you NEED a $500 Profilux upgrade. :lol: Not my fault. This hobby is run by the evil empire :strooper:
Plus, MH systems consume more electricity, require annual lamp replacement, and more maintenance. The AI LED system is truly a complete system in one small convenient package. I do not find the need to add any additional equipment to my reef when using the AI LED system. And yes, I have owned larger reef systems that required several MH fixtures, a chiller, fans, actinics, and lunar lights. Those days are over with the arrival of LED technology!
However, one important issue still remains. LED must support coral growth, especially sps corals. If it proves to support coral growth (preliminary findings are yes, but more extensive use of the technology is needed) and propagation, then you will see a shift in the industry towards this technology. Like everything else, the price will come down as the technology advances and competition in the market develops. Think, DVD, Blu-Ray, HD TV, etc.
If you own an AI LED system (like I did for 4 months) without a Profilux controller, you own a very expensive, very impressive piece of cutting-edge NEW technology and guess what, you are wasting it! Sure, it produces very low heat. Sure, it consumes less energy. Sure, you don’t need to replace lamps once a year. Sure, you don’t need to purchase a chiller. But, you are missing out on an experience like no other technology in the aquarium industry can match. The ability to manipulate the hell out of this lighting system, silently!
I urge you to replace that lame AI controller and you will unleash the beast within that LED system. Imagine having clouds pass over your reef. What about the occasional rainy days, and lightning storms? You can have it with a Profilux. You also earn the ability to set multiple lighting periods throughout the photoperiod. A major drawback of other lighting systems (and the AI with a standard controller) is limitation of modes. You can program sunrise and sunset schemes, but the rest of the day your lights shine at 100%. In nature, the light intensity changes throughout the day. The Profilux delivers. Da Artsy Cube reef experiences a unique sunrise, then from sunrise to noon, LEDs increase to maximum intensity. Then, just like nature, the light intensity gradually decreases until sunset. So does my reef. It is way cool. And, with the addition of cloud probability, storms, and rainy days. . . everyday is different!
cerreta
Premium Member
OBJECTIVE 3 and 4 FUNCTION AND BEHAVIOR OF AI / PROFILUX MARRIAGE
General
Set clock, location, and alarm options.
Illumination I
AI White LEDs are connected to channel 1. Profilux permits up to 8 dimmable points per channel. Here you can see 7 dimmable points selected. White lights produce most of the PAR for AI. Each array has 3 LEDs, 2 white and 1 blue. 16 arrays total. White lights gradually increase from sunrise to noon. Then, they decrease intensity until sunset. This creates a natural effect. Only LED technology is capable of such a complex photoperiod.
Illumination II
AI Blue LEDs are connected to channel 2. A major advantage of LED technology is that one light system can meet all your aquarium needs including lunar cycles. Other systems usually require a combination of MH, T5 actinics, and LED lunar lights for moon cycle. The AI LED system does it all.
The Blue LEDs provide lunar light with a maximum of 8% during the night. Intensity is dependant upon the lunar cycle. Therefore, blue LEDs auto-adjust between 0% and 8% depending on the moon phase. Blue LEDs are scheduled to start at 7am and rapidly hit 100% at 8am. Then it holds this intensity throughout the photoperiod. At sunset, the blue light is predominant over white, until the lunar phase begins. It looks very cool to have this distinctly blue sunset.
Simulation
Cloud probability is set at 20%. This means 20% of the time, lights will not be at the maximum level. LEDs decrease intensity by 40% as programmed. This simulates a cloud passing over the reef. Clouds will stay over the reef anywhere from 3s to 45s as programmed. This is by far, my favorite feature of the Profilux controller. This allows your reef to look different all day long.
Moon phase is set to occur from 5pm to 7am. Only blue LEDs will operate as selected. The moon photograph changes according to the lunar phase from new moon to full moon.
Rainy days occur on the day(s) of the week selected. Darkening is set for 70%. This makes sense. Cloud darkening is set at 40% and rainy days produce darker skies than cloudy days. During a rainy day, the reef will look 70% dimmer than a normal day. This is great for natural retardation of algae growth. Clouds still occur on rainy days. Only white LEDs are to be dimmed on rainy days, as selected. This gives the tank a nice blue color. I am a blue freak, but dimming both blue and white LEDs provides a more natural appearance. The reef will appear gray in color like a true rainy day.
Thunderstorm
Begin by selecting which days of the week storms occur. Then select how many times a day storms appear, followed by time of day and duration. This is an area where the Profilux could use some improvement. Storms occur randomly in nature. Why do I have to watch a storm occur on the same day at the same time for the same duration? Borinnnnnggggg.
Mix it up and allow random storms.
Storm intensity is set from 1 to 10. I chose the maximum intensity with cloud darkening of 90%. This is a logical pattern. Clouds darken 40%, rainy days are set at 70%, and stormy days produce 90% darkness. Clouds still pass over, thus making each storm unique. You can manually start a storm to show off my second favorite feature, lightning!
This is another place for improvement, although it is more of a fantasy. “lol: Profilux should add an audio output connecting to speakers capable of producing on-cue thunder, wind, and rain sound effects. :thumbsup: That would be something eh?! :lol:
General
Set clock, location, and alarm options.
Illumination I
AI White LEDs are connected to channel 1. Profilux permits up to 8 dimmable points per channel. Here you can see 7 dimmable points selected. White lights produce most of the PAR for AI. Each array has 3 LEDs, 2 white and 1 blue. 16 arrays total. White lights gradually increase from sunrise to noon. Then, they decrease intensity until sunset. This creates a natural effect. Only LED technology is capable of such a complex photoperiod.
Illumination II
AI Blue LEDs are connected to channel 2. A major advantage of LED technology is that one light system can meet all your aquarium needs including lunar cycles. Other systems usually require a combination of MH, T5 actinics, and LED lunar lights for moon cycle. The AI LED system does it all.
The Blue LEDs provide lunar light with a maximum of 8% during the night. Intensity is dependant upon the lunar cycle. Therefore, blue LEDs auto-adjust between 0% and 8% depending on the moon phase. Blue LEDs are scheduled to start at 7am and rapidly hit 100% at 8am. Then it holds this intensity throughout the photoperiod. At sunset, the blue light is predominant over white, until the lunar phase begins. It looks very cool to have this distinctly blue sunset.
Simulation
Cloud probability is set at 20%. This means 20% of the time, lights will not be at the maximum level. LEDs decrease intensity by 40% as programmed. This simulates a cloud passing over the reef. Clouds will stay over the reef anywhere from 3s to 45s as programmed. This is by far, my favorite feature of the Profilux controller. This allows your reef to look different all day long.
Moon phase is set to occur from 5pm to 7am. Only blue LEDs will operate as selected. The moon photograph changes according to the lunar phase from new moon to full moon.
Rainy days occur on the day(s) of the week selected. Darkening is set for 70%. This makes sense. Cloud darkening is set at 40% and rainy days produce darker skies than cloudy days. During a rainy day, the reef will look 70% dimmer than a normal day. This is great for natural retardation of algae growth. Clouds still occur on rainy days. Only white LEDs are to be dimmed on rainy days, as selected. This gives the tank a nice blue color. I am a blue freak, but dimming both blue and white LEDs provides a more natural appearance. The reef will appear gray in color like a true rainy day.
Thunderstorm
Begin by selecting which days of the week storms occur. Then select how many times a day storms appear, followed by time of day and duration. This is an area where the Profilux could use some improvement. Storms occur randomly in nature. Why do I have to watch a storm occur on the same day at the same time for the same duration? Borinnnnnggggg.
Mix it up and allow random storms. Storm intensity is set from 1 to 10. I chose the maximum intensity with cloud darkening of 90%. This is a logical pattern. Clouds darken 40%, rainy days are set at 70%, and stormy days produce 90% darkness. Clouds still pass over, thus making each storm unique. You can manually start a storm to show off my second favorite feature, lightning!
This is another place for improvement, although it is more of a fantasy. “lol: Profilux should add an audio output connecting to speakers capable of producing on-cue thunder, wind, and rain sound effects. :thumbsup: That would be something eh?! :lol:
cerreta
Premium Member
Light Scenarios
This screen is fun to observe. Sometimes clouds passing over the reef are subtle. The lightmixer digitally reveals what you are observing. Let’s say it’s noon. W100, B100. As a cloud passes over the reef, both lights will dim up to 40% as selected for 3s to 45s. By watching the lightmixer, you can see the exact LED intensity as the cloud passes above.
Checking the manual override activates a few features. This is more for playing than anything else. But, I like it a lot. Synchronal allows you to see what the reef looks like with both LED intensities the same value from 0% to 100% in ¼ increments. This is useful when performing PAR measurements.
Crossfade is another cool feature. First, select the time duration for crossfade. I have 10s selected. Lights will fade from W0 to W100 precisely when blue fades from B100 to B0. Great for playing.
Illumination Overview
This overview graphs all the lights in use. Very complex photoperiods can be viewed together. The all-in-one AI LED system keeps it simple. Only 2 channels are used. Therefore, Illumination 1 are white LEDs. It is represented by the black line. Illumination 2 are blue LEDs. The red line. A very useful tool here is activating “Test Light Scenes.†This allows the user to instantly view the reef lighting scheme for that time of day. Simply activate and slide the bar to the time of day you wish to observe. The exact clock time is displayed. It’s very useful for fine tuning lighting effects throughout the photoperiod.
Special Lamp
For Aqua Illumination only. Self explanatory here. Select the channel for White and Blue LED control. Flash intensity is for lightning flashes. I use the maximum level. Baseline temperature is an AI feature to control fan speed based on unit temperature. The AI unit produces no detectable heat. I’m not sure it really even needs a fan. The fans just seem to make noise. In fact, very little air is pushed through those puny fans.
Pumps
Another major advantage of using a Profilux is full integration with Tunze controllable pumps. I received one of the first Tunze 7096 controllers released into the US. The Profilux does more than the Tunze. Two Tunze 6055 pumps are setup to produce waves. The internal sump acts as the wave box. I do not like the Tunze 7096 night time operation. If you select that option, it turns the wave box off at night. This resulted in only one pump setup in wave box mode and the other set in pulse mode. Then during night, one pump was off and the other had reduced flow. The Profilux does it the right way. Wave box action is preserved at night and the intensity of waves is reduced to 20%. Does the ocean stop making waves at night? Tunze seems to think so. The answer is no. Wave intensity is reduced, not turned off.
FEED MODE is set for 5 minutes. Press escape on the Profilux panel and feed your reef.
NOCTURNAL DECREASE enabled from 7pm to 5am. Pumps are dimmed to a programmed level of 20%. You can make it whatever you want. Day time waves are about ¾†and night time waves are about 3/8â€Â.
PUMP COUNT GROUP 1 is set for 2 pumps. Wave action in a small tank requires Permanent mode with short right-angled waves. Next, select resonance frequency. This is one section where the Tunze 7096 outperforms the Profilux. Tunze allows time adjustments by one hundredths. Profilux by tenths. The Tunze controller resonance frequency for . . . da Artsy Cube is 0.33s. The Profilux only goes down to 0.4s. When I first discovered this I freaked. :eek 1: In actuality, 0.6s for the Profilux produces good results for this reef. This difference identifies that the internal clocks for each device vary. However, I wish the time on the Profilux could be tweaked more finely. The true resonance frequency for da Artsy Cube is somewhere between 0.6s and 0.7s. Wave cancellation can be observed in the middle of the wave pattern with a setting of 0.6s.
A status bar reveals instantaneous pump intensities. Another unique feature is random wave reduction. 40% is selected. During the day, waves fluctuate from 60% to 100% randomly. I can honestly tell you that I do not notice a difference in wave action.
Maintenance
This is a perfect feature for routine water changes or any other maintenance chore. Everything if turned off during maintenance. All 6 sockets and the 2 pumps (1-10v interphases). Determine the time needed, click the button, and press save. Proceed with maintenance activity. This is a handy feature that took me awhile to learn. I tried performing water changes by starting a feed cycle. That sucked. The level control remains active during a feed cycle. When draining the tank, the ATO would activate. As a consequence, I began unplugging the ATO pump during this activity. The maintenance feature, if you know about it, :embarrassed: is wonderful.
This screen is fun to observe. Sometimes clouds passing over the reef are subtle. The lightmixer digitally reveals what you are observing. Let’s say it’s noon. W100, B100. As a cloud passes over the reef, both lights will dim up to 40% as selected for 3s to 45s. By watching the lightmixer, you can see the exact LED intensity as the cloud passes above.
Checking the manual override activates a few features. This is more for playing than anything else. But, I like it a lot. Synchronal allows you to see what the reef looks like with both LED intensities the same value from 0% to 100% in ¼ increments. This is useful when performing PAR measurements.
Crossfade is another cool feature. First, select the time duration for crossfade. I have 10s selected. Lights will fade from W0 to W100 precisely when blue fades from B100 to B0. Great for playing.
Illumination Overview
This overview graphs all the lights in use. Very complex photoperiods can be viewed together. The all-in-one AI LED system keeps it simple. Only 2 channels are used. Therefore, Illumination 1 are white LEDs. It is represented by the black line. Illumination 2 are blue LEDs. The red line. A very useful tool here is activating “Test Light Scenes.†This allows the user to instantly view the reef lighting scheme for that time of day. Simply activate and slide the bar to the time of day you wish to observe. The exact clock time is displayed. It’s very useful for fine tuning lighting effects throughout the photoperiod.
Special Lamp
For Aqua Illumination only. Self explanatory here. Select the channel for White and Blue LED control. Flash intensity is for lightning flashes. I use the maximum level. Baseline temperature is an AI feature to control fan speed based on unit temperature. The AI unit produces no detectable heat. I’m not sure it really even needs a fan. The fans just seem to make noise. In fact, very little air is pushed through those puny fans.
Pumps
Another major advantage of using a Profilux is full integration with Tunze controllable pumps. I received one of the first Tunze 7096 controllers released into the US. The Profilux does more than the Tunze. Two Tunze 6055 pumps are setup to produce waves. The internal sump acts as the wave box. I do not like the Tunze 7096 night time operation. If you select that option, it turns the wave box off at night. This resulted in only one pump setup in wave box mode and the other set in pulse mode. Then during night, one pump was off and the other had reduced flow. The Profilux does it the right way. Wave box action is preserved at night and the intensity of waves is reduced to 20%. Does the ocean stop making waves at night? Tunze seems to think so.
The answer is no. Wave intensity is reduced, not turned off. FEED MODE is set for 5 minutes. Press escape on the Profilux panel and feed your reef.
NOCTURNAL DECREASE enabled from 7pm to 5am. Pumps are dimmed to a programmed level of 20%. You can make it whatever you want. Day time waves are about ¾†and night time waves are about 3/8â€Â.
PUMP COUNT GROUP 1 is set for 2 pumps. Wave action in a small tank requires Permanent mode with short right-angled waves. Next, select resonance frequency. This is one section where the Tunze 7096 outperforms the Profilux. Tunze allows time adjustments by one hundredths. Profilux by tenths. The Tunze controller resonance frequency for . . . da Artsy Cube is 0.33s. The Profilux only goes down to 0.4s. When I first discovered this I freaked. :eek 1: In actuality, 0.6s for the Profilux produces good results for this reef. This difference identifies that the internal clocks for each device vary. However, I wish the time on the Profilux could be tweaked more finely. The true resonance frequency for da Artsy Cube is somewhere between 0.6s and 0.7s. Wave cancellation can be observed in the middle of the wave pattern with a setting of 0.6s.
A status bar reveals instantaneous pump intensities. Another unique feature is random wave reduction. 40% is selected. During the day, waves fluctuate from 60% to 100% randomly. I can honestly tell you that I do not notice a difference in wave action.
Maintenance
This is a perfect feature for routine water changes or any other maintenance chore. Everything if turned off during maintenance. All 6 sockets and the 2 pumps (1-10v interphases). Determine the time needed, click the button, and press save. Proceed with maintenance activity. This is a handy feature that took me awhile to learn. I tried performing water changes by starting a feed cycle. That sucked. The level control remains active during a feed cycle. When draining the tank, the ATO would activate. As a consequence, I began unplugging the ATO pump during this activity. The maintenance feature, if you know about it, :embarrassed: is wonderful.
cerreta
Premium Member
pH Value 1
Complicated. Set it once and leave it alone. It is capable of controlling calcium and kalk reactors.
Temperature 1
Complicated. Set it once and forget it.
Level
Awesome device and well built feature. Previously, I used a Reef Fanatic ATO controller. Several floats failed and mishaps led to tank flooding. The Profilux has been faultless. Da Artsy Cube uses one standard float valve in ATO configuration. The Profilux can be programmed to do much more, like water change, min/max, control 3 sensors, etc. The float holder device is extremely well built. I did replace suction cups with epoxy-sealed magnets. Works great.
Another great safety feature is the alarm and pump time-out operation. 2m30s is selected. When the reservoir water level gets too low, the pump shuts off after 2m30s to prevent the pump from running dry and failing. An alarm will be activated. The user MUST select “reset errors†before the ATO can operate again. This tricky little safety feature took me a few hair-pulling days to figure out.
45 - Socket Functions
Another section that leads to confusion. The manual does a poor job of defing the difference between sockets and Interfaces. Sockets refer to the devices plugged into the socket bar. You must program these before they will operate.
46 - 1-10v Interfaces
These refer to the controllable pumps, lights, and other low voltage accessories that are connected to the L ports on Profilux controller. Sometimes, specials cables are required, like the Tunze cables and splitters. Before operation, each L port must be programmed. Do it once and forget it. These are difficult and frustrating to program,
even after reading the manual three times. I had to get help to figure this one out. :embarrassed:
CONCLUSION:
I refer to the combination of the Aqua Illumination LED system and the Profilux controller as a marriage. These two devices belong together! If you own an AI system with standard controller, treat yourself to the Profilux. These are the two best pieces of reef gear I have ever owned, hands down. :thumbsup:
Complicated. Set it once and leave it alone. It is capable of controlling calcium and kalk reactors.
Temperature 1
Complicated. Set it once and forget it.
Level
Awesome device and well built feature. Previously, I used a Reef Fanatic ATO controller. Several floats failed and mishaps led to tank flooding. The Profilux has been faultless. Da Artsy Cube uses one standard float valve in ATO configuration. The Profilux can be programmed to do much more, like water change, min/max, control 3 sensors, etc. The float holder device is extremely well built. I did replace suction cups with epoxy-sealed magnets. Works great.
Another great safety feature is the alarm and pump time-out operation. 2m30s is selected. When the reservoir water level gets too low, the pump shuts off after 2m30s to prevent the pump from running dry and failing. An alarm will be activated. The user MUST select “reset errors†before the ATO can operate again. This tricky little safety feature took me a few hair-pulling days to figure out.
45 - Socket Functions
Another section that leads to confusion. The manual does a poor job of defing the difference between sockets and Interfaces. Sockets refer to the devices plugged into the socket bar. You must program these before they will operate.
46 - 1-10v Interfaces
These refer to the controllable pumps, lights, and other low voltage accessories that are connected to the L ports on Profilux controller. Sometimes, specials cables are required, like the Tunze cables and splitters. Before operation, each L port must be programmed. Do it once and forget it. These are difficult and frustrating to program,
even after reading the manual three times. I had to get help to figure this one out. :embarrassed:
CONCLUSION:
I refer to the combination of the Aqua Illumination LED system and the Profilux controller as a marriage. These two devices belong together! If you own an AI system with standard controller, treat yourself to the Profilux. These are the two best pieces of reef gear I have ever owned, hands down. :thumbsup:
cerreta
Premium Member
Finally, the You Tube Videos are going through. Wow, that was hard and takes forever to load.
More videos will be posted ASAP.
Aqua Illumination â€"œ Profilux Controller Part I of VII
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b4qPb6iPc-Y
More videos will be posted ASAP.
Aqua Illumination â€"œ Profilux Controller Part I of VII
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b4qPb6iPc-Y
cerreta
Premium Member
You Tube Video
Aqua Illumination â€"œ Profilux Controller Part II of VII
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bCDtFAQv-q8
Aqua Illumination â€"œ Profilux Controller Part II of VII
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bCDtFAQv-q8
cerreta
Premium Member
You Tube Video
Aqua Illumination â€"œ Profilux Controller Part III of VII
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfY9Evbjo8I
Aqua Illumination â€"œ Profilux Controller Part III of VII
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfY9Evbjo8I
cerreta
Premium Member
You Tube Video
Aqua Illumination â€"œ Profilux Controller Part IV of VII
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQ_j8VSmZKQ
Aqua Illumination â€"œ Profilux Controller Part IV of VII
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQ_j8VSmZKQ
