Question about ACJR and AC3

[vietcu]

Alright I am going to take the plunge and build myself a Calcium reactor. I need a little help on the controllers though as I have never used them before. I know a lot of you guys have them so please chim in and help a fella out .

1. Can a AcJr control a calcium reactor?
2. What is the big difference between Acjr and the Ac3
3. Do I need to get that dc8 when purchasing these controllers?
4. Which ever one I need to get, what add-ons do I have to get in order to control most needed things?

Sorry I have never used this unit so would like to get all the needed accessories so I don't have to order twice. Thanks .

And does anyone have a used one for sale, these things are freaking expensive.

 

[Tswifty]

http://www.aquariumcontrollers.com/aquarium-equipment-comparisons.php#controllerchart

 

[vietcu]

Only one more question I think. If I buy either unit, do I need that DC8 in order to say. Control my powerhead, lights? Sounds pretty obvious, but just making sure first.

 

[Esquare]

You can do it with x10 devices but the dc8 is easier and more reliable. That being said, I use both dc8 and multiple x10 with no problems.

 

[sohal1025]

I am running a JR. and am very happy with especially for the cost. It does not E-mail though(I did not need that) but it lacks a dual ph input. I already had a ph monitor for the tank already so the jr. monitors and controls the ph. in the reactor to tell it when to turn it on/off. Everything else it is great..
The jr. can run a dc-8 and a dc-4 with a total of 12 outlets.

 

[vietcu]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14027091#post14027091 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Esquare
You can do it with x10 devices but the dc8 is easier and more reliable. That being said, I use both dc8 and multiple x10 with no problems.

Do I need to get 1 x10 for each power source? IE, 1 x10 for one powerhead and so forth? I see how the dc8 works, but not quite sure how the x10 work, for controlling my powerhead and lights.

 

[Esquare]

Yes, you will need an x10 device for each item you wish to control. Check out smarthome.com, it's a great resource for home automation.

 

[serpentman]

I would limit the x10 controls for non-critical functions such as aux lighting, maybe powerheads, etc. Personally, its worth having the DC8 in order to have lighting, heat and return pump hard wired.