Digital Aquatics Archon Owners Thread

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skripo

New member
Just pre-ordered mine so I thought I would start this thread so we could share information. So lets start with some questions:

1) What modules are you getting and why? The unit seems pretty complete to me except for the power strip!

2) What probes are you getting?

3) What light controls are you hoping for?

I would love the PC4 but it is on sale, any probe I can, and I hope they come with a Kessil control capability because I bought the Kessil-DA cable today!

I am a little leery of buying a PC4 or other modules that are on sale. I am afraid they are clearing them out for new models. Any opinions? Should I get a PS4?
 
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You will need at least one PC4, PB4 or PB8 for the system to work. I would suggest at least 2 PC4's if you go with them. The head unit only option is for those of us who already have the RKL or RKE system and want to upgrade.

The PB version power bars have a higher current rated buss power supply. The power supply for the modules. They also have a suppression circuit built it to prevent the issue with low power pumps. The PC4 is the original power bar.
 
Unfortunately for me it's my first DA system so I have nothing to upgrade from.

Also there were no package deals but the good news is that the head unit is so feature packed that all I think I need is the power bar, the dosing pump, the DCI, and probes.

If I understand properly I will be able to use the 0-10V to control my Kessil, if and when, the software allows it. I bought a Kessil controller until such time as a) I actually take delivery of the Archon and B) It works with the Kessil.

It also looks like the DCI is plug compatible with the Gyre but again, software is needed. I hope they are serious about open source and release it soon. That is what is going to make this platform king.

post-3-0-77512400-1415109360_thumb.jpg
 
As Danny said you will want to get it with some form of power bar. They are not clearing out PC4's. They will still be selling RKL, RKE, Herpkeeper and Herpkeeper plus systems all of which require the use of a PC4 for controllable outlets. Pretty much all of the current modules will be compatible with the Archon system. After an initial firmware update they will be 100% compatible.
 
I'm not sure if the DC1 will be compatible with the gyre. The gyre is 36vdc and this is the DC1 description:
" The DCI is designed to integrate 2-24v Dc pumps that use round 3 pin connectors into your system.* for use with the Reef Keeper Family, the DCI requires the addition of the APC (Advanced Pump Control).* This interface can also be used on any controller that has 0-10v outputs."
Maybe in a modification or upgrade, but reading their description, not yet.
But then again, the APC is not needed when using the Archon, so maybe their literature is outdated.
 
I will be running 3 pc4's, SL2v2 with salinity probe. Dual pH (one for ca rx and one for sump), 2 temp probes, 6 float switches, 4 0-10v pump controls to start. most coming over from my RKE.

BTW, I noticed they are now missing from the Sponsor forums ??
 
Some of the people on the forum can be merciless. They were crucifying Hanna on a daily basis almost.
 
Hi guys. I am an owner of a RKE with the original SL2. I have been trying to exchange this defective module (SL2) since last month. There was an exchange program that was concealed inside the DA forum. When I discover it I tried to make the exchange but the program had ended. I am warning you of this type of warranty related problems that DA has. I have called multiple times to DA and I only get a voice mail. I have left my contact information and they do not return the calls. I am not the only one with this problem. No efforts were made by DA to contact owners of the SL2 module even when that modules were registered and they knew that less units were exchanged from the ones sold.

Also notice that Digital Aquatics is no longer a sponsor of Reef Central since 12/24/2014. This is a very critical move as it could signify that they have economic issues as they are limiting their expenses. Anyway, a company that does not honor their exchanges of a module that was defective is scary and you should be careful if planning to buy new technology from them. Buyer be aware!!!!!!!!!!

Costumer support is lacking and that should worry you too.
 
It seems like the haters and Apex fan boys are piling on the abuse today!

Jokes on them if the Archon is what DA claims it is.
 
I plan on running an Archon with 3-4 PC4s, an SL1, Temp & PH Probes, 2 Float Switches for my ATO.

The modules are all currently in use on my RKL unit.
 
Archon is going to be something if what advertised. Wireless, truely web based and open source code!! Give itto me
 
It is web based and wired or wireless. I have got to poke around a little on one via the internet. It looks good.
 
skripo said:
It seems like the haters and Apex fan boys are piling on the abuse today!

Jokes on them if the Archon is what DA claims it is.
Click to expand...

Good Luck, hopefully it doesn't follow their past product capability promises. (SL2 took several years to resolve and get working).

I'd also be worried that they are sticking with the I2C protocols of their past bus system.
 
Seems like Apex called some friends to Bash DA., must be really worried about being behind the times.

Just kidding!

Seriously though, can we please stop the Apex discussion and stick to the original subject?
 
I looked at reef angel but not in the mood for programming. I know there is an interface now but prefer DA hardware if they get it to work.
 
Vette.tech, ya, but i have RKE and all the aux boxes so all I need is the new control. But yes, reef angel is a great option as well
 
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