Experience Controlling Tunze Streams via Apex

[Stolireef]

Does anyone locally have experience with this? I have three Tunze 6095 (love them) and would like to control their speed via the Apex. I know I will need a breakout box and the cables so the hardware seems pretty straight forward. However, I looked at the Apex manual and it looks like writing a nice wave program may take some skill. Is it difficult or does the wizard do a good job of walking you through the process?

Thanks.

 

[evolved]

I believe Jeff (jporter) uses Tunzes with his Apex.

I'm a Vortech + Apex user myself, so I can't offer direct experience, but I believe you shouldn't need a breakout box (which are simply for switches). Utilizing the variable speed ports (V1/V2, V3/V4) is what you should be using to provide a variable DC signal.

 

[zibba]

I have an Apex and 2 Tunze 6105s going right now, but simply haven't had time to sit down and write the program. I don't think you'll need a breakout box for anything -- just the variable speed cables. Here are a few links that I'm planning on using when I get back into town:

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2157925

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2170688

http://www.reeftronics.net/john-s/apex-program

http://www.kenargo.com/apexProgram/index.php

This post by tunze was helpful on what type of flow we should be targeting: http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showpost.php?p=21002691&postcount=24

Sorry I can't provide any more specifics, but that's the research I've done so far.

 

[Stolireef]

My bad on the breakout box. I didn't realize that the Apex head unit already has two VDM ports. Zibba, thanks for the links. I'll be sure to look at them. I wonder if anyplace locally sells the cables. I just got an order from MD and should have included the cables in the order. Now I'll have to pay shipping. Oh well.

 

[zibba]

I didn't even look locally -- figured it would cost more in gas. I picked them up from aquacave for ~ $25 (shipped). There are threads on DIY tunze/apex cables out there too if you're interested in going that route.

 

[Stolireef]

You're probably right. Frankly, I just like an excuse to browse in the stores plus there's that whole instant gratification thing.

 

[evolved]

You can easily make your own from an ethernet CAT5 (or 6) cable.

 

[Stolireef]

You can easily make your own from an ethernet CAT5 (or 6) cable.

Any time I see these words, I assume that I now have a project that will require two weeks of time and materials/tools that will cost me double what the commerical version would cost. Sounds like fun .

 

[jporter]

I am currently using MP40's controlled by the Apex. I did have good success with the Tunzes via the Apex. You will only need the cables to run them. I had to modify the cables as the end that plugs into the Tunze needs to have some of the rubber surround shaved off for a better connection into the plug in port. I can go over if you have any questions. JP

 

[zibba]

Yeah, the connection with the Apex cables is terrible. I'll try shaving it off. Thanks for the tip.

 

[z0777]

I run an apex with two 6095's....I just searched the forums and copied other peoples programs until I finally got some wave action. Its not a very good wave but I dont have time to tweak the program and I haven't got a clue what im doing anyway. One of these days I'll attempt to figure it out.

 

[jporter]

I am currently using MP40's controlled by the Apex. I did have good success with the Tunzes via the Apex. You will only need the cables to run them. I had to modify the cables as the end that plugs into the Tunze needs to have some of the rubber surround shaved off for a better connection into the plug in port. I can go over if you have any questions. JP

Here are a couple pics of my cable after I trimmed off some of the insulator on the connector. It makes for a way better connection and won't just fall off. JP

close up of connectors that plug into the Tunze box.

 

[zibba]

Thanks for the pics, J!