PM2 or BB

[cromedogg33]

I'm looking to start programming my apex to work as an ATO as well. I originally thought of purchasing the breakout box but have been reading and it looks as though the PM2 will also control float switches.

The plan is to use an aqualifter as the pump from a reservoir when water is needed.

If I'm reading correctly the PM2 acts as the breakout box but also allows for the conductivity probe to be present as another potential failsafe or failure. I don't want the probe to be my deciding factor on adding water as WAY to many variables could take place. It would be the last backup on the backup of the backup.


So...will the PM2 be suffice for an ATO or will the BB be the ultimate piece I have to get. I will say I do want the conductivity probe for monitoring purposes anyway.

Thanks in advance.

 

[PotRoast]

You will need a BB for the PM2. The PM2 has a port which essentially allows you to add six more switches.....but they must first connect through a BB. The BB connects to the PM2.

 

[aquamanic]

The base module, PM1, PM2, PM3 all require a BB or a DIY equivalent to connect floats or other switches. Easy to DIY something.

 

[schwaggs]

As Alan mentioned, you do not need to add a PM2 to get switch inputs, you already have 6 inputs on the Apex Based module. However, each Probe Module (PM) adds 6 more switch inputs. Adding a PM can be convinient for larger systems as it allows you to add the switch inputs on the other side of the room, for example.

Also, buying a Breakout Box is not manditory as you can build one yourself or simply use a DIN 8 cable (available on Amazon and Ebay or the like). There are many threads on here with directions to create your own breakout box.

 

[cm11599ps]

Yep, you still need the BB. I have one BB connected to my base module by my tank for float switches and leak sensors. I also have another in my garage attached to a PM2 for the same purposes.

I've read the DIY posts and it appears you can make your own BB for about $15-$20. I ended up getting the real deal direct from Neptune for $40. A $20 savings just wasn't enough for me to piece something together in the hopes that it would work.

 

[cromedogg33]

Thanks everyone for the comments. It clears it up nicely.

My ultimate goal is to provide ATO to my system. My dilema is using a tunze osmolator vs an apex BB. I'm debating on not using the apex as a "just in case" failure that is one system I don't want to fail if everything else on the apex fails.

I know I run the risk just the same with a tunze, but I guess I could the two together in some sort of way to protect myself in a "worst case" scenario.

 

[swearint]

You could run the osmolator off of an Apex outlet. Then install a high level float as a failsafe. When the float is triggered it cuts off power to the osmolator. Additionally, you could install a float at nominal level and use it to monitor, with no control function.

Todd

 

[cromedogg33]

Swearint:

Thanks for the reply. My entire objective is to have it on a seperate system with some sort of failsafe. I know the Tunze has a fail safe but if I plug the tunze into the apex, if the apex were to ever to down or any number of things happen, the tunze would still operate.

I think I'm just trying to backup the backup, and it's really ultimately not going to work. I'm not sure I could provide 2 power sources to one pump in case one fails to either continue the source or to remove it.

Just thinking out loud

 

[Jake007]

Similar thought: wire up your ATO using relay /level switches /aqualifter etc. Then plug into the APEX. You can then use other parameters (depending on your concerns) to control when filling can occur.

I set my ATO up with one control level switch and a backup level switch 1" higher. I test the operation of the switches weekly when I add top off water to the storage bin. Since I also use Kalk in my top off water, I am concerned of a malfunction (double switch fail, tank leak /etc) dumping too much kalk via the ATO. I added logic so my pH reading will override the power to the ATO system. The override kicks in almost daily. I have an upper limit set to 8.31 on the pH and get an alarm on my phone so I know there is an issue. The other benefit is I can decide to override the pH permissive if I want (even remotely from my phone). Also, by keeping the ATO system separate, if I have a controller failure, I just plug in the ATO to power and I still maintain an ATO function.