Digital Aquatics ReefKeeper Elite

[mikedawg8898]

Anybody have the ReefKeeper Elite aquarium controller? If so, what do you like about it and what do you not like about it? I'm thinking about possibly getting one soon

 

[ElementalJ]

I like mine. But if I had it to do all over again, I'd probably get the archon.

 

[MJNTWise]

I started off with the elite and now I have the Archon....Here is the link to there forums, If you have any questions.....
http://www.forum.digitalaquatics.com/index.php

Matt

 

[mikedawg8898]

From your experience what do you think was better, the elite, or the archon, and why?

 

[n2585722]

The Archon is now the top of the line controller for Digital Aquatics. Most of the modules are compatible between them. The major difference is the Archon is completely web based and can be accessed by most devices with a browser. It also has several ports within the head unit. The RKE has no ports within the head unit. They are all on seperate modules. Ports included within the Archon head unit are 2 pH or ORP ports, 4 0-10v ports, 2 PWM ports, 4 Switch input ports. 3 buss ports and a iTemp port. On the RKE you would have to have the SLX, AVC or APC with ALC, NET and another SL or SW5 module to get the 4 switch, 4 0-10v and pH/ORP ports.

 

[mikedawg8898]

Does the archon come with any probes like the Elite does? I've never had a controller so that would be a big plus for me

 

[n2585722]

You can get it three ways. The controller only package is for someone upgrading from a RKL or RKE. The difference between the other two is the type of power bar. Either 2 bars with 4 outputs or 1 bar with 8 outputs. Either way you get 8 controllable 120v outputs.

Contents of Packages:

Controller only

1 x Archon Controller (with flash drive)
1 x 9v power supply
2 x mounting Screws

Archon System - Level 1

1 x Archon Controller (with flash drive)
1 x 9v power supply
2 x PB4 Power bars
1 x DA pH probe
1 x iTemp temperature probe
1 x 6' Bus cable
1 x 3' Bus cable
1 x 5' Ethernet Cable
6 x mounting screws

Archon System - Level 2

1 x Archon Controller (with flash drive)
1 x 9v power supply
1 x PB8 Power bar
1 x DA pH probe
1 x iTemp temperature probe
1 x 6' Bus cable
1 x 5' Ethernet Cable
6 x mounting screws

 

[fraggin corals]

I am presently using the Elite and it works well for my needs. No complaints. I may upgrade to the Archon later but the Elite is doing what I need it to.

 

[ElementalJ]

Here's a good question. Can I use a remote display with the archon like the lite and elite?

 

[MJNTWise]

Here's a good question. Can I use a remote display with the archon like the lite and elite?

I use my pc, Tablet, phone....

 

[ElementalJ]

I use my pc, Tablet, phone....

You misunderstand. I mean a dedicated control pad and screen.

I appreciate the input.

J

 

[n2585722]

You misunderstand. I mean a dedicated control pad and screen.

I appreciate the input.

J

Not at this time. DA hopes to have firmware to make the RKE/RKL head units into remote displays. I don't think it is one of the priority projects. I am not sure why you would need one. I use my iPad and take it to the tank or the garage where the rest of the controller modules are. If I do a lot of programmin I do it in the living room while watching TV.

 

[ElementalJ]

It's a matter of convenience. What was interesting was that the newer apex has a control panel you can add as an option. Sorry to see DA not putting priority on these projects.

 

[n2585722]

I thought I would miss it, but I don't in the least. I can check things without ever going into the room where the tank is. I guess we keep asking for other things that are keeping them busy instead.

 

[ElementalJ]

I thought I would miss it, but I don't in the least. I can check things without ever going into the room where the tank is. I guess we keep asking for other things that are keeping them busy instead.

Perhaps [emoji6]

 

[n2585722]

I know a few have installed tablets at the tank instead. An old smartphone may work also as a makeshift display.

 

[89Foxbody]

I had one a few years ago and I liked it. I liked having the parameters at a glance. If i could do it again I would probably get an Apex. I have a ReefKeeper 2 now and it works fine as a controller. I only have it because it came with the tank.