Help with buying the right ProfiLux

[stros]

I am interested in the ProfiLux controller. My question is with the app for the iPhone and iPad do you really need the Touch? Also can't all the same things be done on the computer?
The difference between the packages is what probe modules are directly installed on the main board ? Can you upgrade with the base unit all the way to the ultimate ? Is it better to have metal halides plugged into the six outlet or go with the two heavy outlets?
Thanks,
Mark

 

[BigAl2007]

I wouldn't say the TOUCH is needed in any situation but after having the pleasure of running one for a few weeks on my ProfiLux P3 I now know it's something I must have LOL!

Here is where one member installed his TOUCH and it looks AMAZING
http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2281656

Ask Dennis about his TOUCH and see what you think for yourself by his pictures.

Yes the most basic controller P3.1N (included in the Starter Pack) can be upgraded to any level you desire. You can go as slowly or quickly as you like and from the base model to the most decked out advanced unit you want without having to sell any existing component. You just add whatever you need/want to your unit.

I would suggest High Amp devices (MH ballasts, chiller etc) go on a HD outlets (15A) and this way if something goes wrong with a High Amp device it has zero effect on the rest of your system.

 

[d2mini]

The Touch is useful for me because i have it installed next to my tank, and my profilux is out in my garage. So being able to enter feed mode (shutting down pumps and skimmer) or quickly viewing probe readings is very convenient. Like BigAl says, The Touch is not a necessity, it's a luxury item.

Al, which outlets are the high amp ones? I just installed a chiller a couple weeks ago and didn't even think about that.

 

[BigAl2007]

It's a stand alone power-bar. GHL calls it "Expansion Socket" but it's a 15A 2-socket unit.

Look down at the bottom of this page
http://www.reefbytes.com/powerbar.html


GHL Part # PL-0384 is what you're looking for.

 

[d2mini]

Something else to buy. Yayyyyy..... <--- sarcasm.

 

[BigAl2007]

Dennis I don't know what GHL's "standard suggestion" for the High Amp devices is I just know I like to keep them off of my MAIN power-bar just in case. This way if something High Amp does trip the power-bar it's only those devices affected instead of everything on that device. It's just my own personal 2-cents. I'll be the first to admit I am the worlds worst for erring on the FAR side of caution LOL!

 

[crazzyreefer]

Do they have one for 220V 60hz? My chiller is a bit of a power hogand needs to be on a dedicated 220v line.

Hay Al you seem to know a bit more of this controller, is there a restart delay from one pump to another? I need one pump to strart up after a power outage then 5min later the the next pump to start, I can always go to a delay start relay, but it would be nice If I didn't have to DIY this...

 

[BigAl2007]

220V 60hz - I would imagine they may. We'll have to let Michael with AD chime in on that topic as I wouldn't want to lead you wrong.

I've had a ProfiLux for several years but with that being said I'm still running a very "simplistic" set-up.

Start Up Delay - I'm pretty sure a "Start Up Delay" is pretty simple with Programmable Logic with ProfiLux. Several people use a Start Up Delay on their skimmer after a restart so I don't see why you couldn't use a similar setting for one of your pumps.

 

[AQD_ottawa]

Do they have one for 220V 60hz? My chiller is a bit of a power hogand needs to be on a dedicated 220v line.

Hay Al you seem to know a bit more of this controller, is there a restart delay from one pump to another? I need one pump to strart up after a power outage then 5min later the the next pump to start, I can always go to a delay start relay, but it would be nice If I didn't have to DIY this...

The best option for 220v in North America is using the power hub seen here

You can hard wire 220v devices directly to it, no need for plugs.

Yes there is a black out delay built into the software.

 

[d2mini]

Ahhh... i always wondered what that powerhub was for.

 

[AQD_ottawa]

It can be used for 110v also.