Help Requested: Replace Current USA Marine Orbit RampTimer (And make it Controllable)

[kenman345]

Hi Guys (and Gals),

I have a Current USA Orbit Marine fixture on my tank and quite enjoy it's small size and disbursement over my tank environment. It does a great job up to the point that I use a Reefkeeper Elite with tons of controlled items on my tank, but yet I am currently unable to control my Light fixture.

This got me thinking, why do I need to stick with the stock timer for the light fixture? Surely their is another way. I know the Reefkeeper can use a module (ALC) that allows control of ballasts and light fixtures through 0-10V signals. I was hoping to get your help in finding the right dimmer/driver for the job.

The Orbit Marine has two Channels, (1 White, 1 Blue) and the Ramp Timer Specs are as follows:
Voltage: 12-24VDC
Max.Wattage: 120 watts @ 24VDC / 60 watts @ 12VDC
Max.Watts per channel:60w@24VDC/30w@12VDC
Dimensions: 3.5" x 3.5" x 0.5"
Cable Length: 12"
Dimming Type: PWM
Connector: DC Plug 2.5mm x 5mm
Channels: 2

I will have to figure out the connector plugs issue (need stripped cords with proper connectors) when I know it's worth spending the time on (might just buy a different timer or parts to scrap them and still preserve the original items intact).

So I hope this is something one of the people with experience in this department can help me with. I have found a few different drivers but really unsure if they will work or if I would be ordering the right one (and where the heck do I get them (source) ).

Thanks for your time and I appreciate any help you guys (and girls) can provide me as I try to integrate a so far non-integrated aspect of my tank into my Aquarium Controller

 

[DgenR8]

<i>This thread has been moved to the current forum.</i>

 

[kenman345]

<i>This thread has been moved to the current forum.</i>

Thanks for this.

In the time that's passed, I think I might have found a solution. I see that a similar light fixture from Current USA which is compatible with my timer can be controlled with a Meanwell ELN-60-24D and the Reefkeeper ALC Module.

Can anyone help me confirm this idea and take a look over everything? I do not really know enough about the stuff besides what I have been able to research in the last two days.

Also, I am trying to figure out where to get the connectors for all this. I think I may have to buy two inline dimmers for the TrueLumen Pro lights that will give me a way to cheaply ge the plugs and have the right wiring for them since the inside of the plastic shell should have some stuff exposed I can tell which of the two wires is for + and -.

 

[DgenR8]

I hate to see you talking to yourself here with no other input. I have no experience to draw from on this subject, and can't help.
If this thread doesn't go anywhere, a local club forum may be the next best place to look. What's your location?

 

[kenman345]

I hate to see you talking to yourself here with no other input. I have no experience to draw from on this subject, and can't help.
If this thread doesn't go anywhere, a local club forum may be the next best place to look. What's your location?

I am actually from Long Island, NY as well.

I emailed Current USA and they said the Meanwell ELN-60-24D would in fact work, but was not the intended method of control of this fixture. They advised that I would have greater success with a 0-10V to PWM converter, so I am now trying to find such a device that seems compatible with my needs. I see steve's LED has one perfect except I do not understand how power gets through it or if it'll work. I am going to email them later in the day about it, maybe they have a recommendation of their own.

If anyone can help me with this project, I would greatly appreciate it. I know the ALC module on the Reefkeeper has trouble with Meanwell drivers in storm mode, so a 0-10V to PWM would be ideal as it may allow for proper storm mode to take place.