Reefkeeper Light basic.

[MeTaLMaN1375]

I need someone with some experience using the reefkeeper light cause I got a couple questions.

I know that it comes with 1 PC4 with 4 outlets I want to know if you can add more and if so how many more can you add to it.

I got a couple more questions but Ill start off with that one.

 

[tobyte1]

You can use up to 4 modules on the RKL.

 

[MeTaLMaN1375]

So the PC4 outlet is considered a module?
Also wanted to know if it could be connected and programmed through the computer like the elite?

 

[DaveMorris]

Yes a PC4 is considered one module.

The RKL uses the same myReef program on the computer as the Elite does. The only difference between the RKE and the RKL is the head unit itself. All of the modules are compatible with both head units.

 

[Dave Thebrewguy]

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2172327
I just looked onto this in the last couple days (see link above). I need 8 outlets, a PWM or analog LED control, Temp and ATO to start off. Later on, I'm sure I'll want to add more PWM or analog channels and net interface. I also expect a decent wavemaker function and a pH probe.
I found that the RKL would be maxed out long before I got everything I needed
That 4 module limit doesn't allow for two PC4s, a SL1, 2 or 3 ALCs and a RKM-net. You may not need, or want, as many modules as I do, but think about what you might want down the road and plan accordingly.

 

[MeTaLMaN1375]

Unfortunately I have to plan with what I can afford lol but if any case if I need to add more which I prob will want to I might just get another RKL.

 

[McLoki]

My RKL controls my heaters, fans and ATO. (I actually have the PH probe for it, but it is not hooked up currently - I do use the temp probe though)

for the price, I chose to just use my existing $30 lighting dual timer - power strip to control my lights. It works great and while I did purchase the more expensive version of the RKL (came with 2 power modules, the PH Probe, Temp Probe, etc) and I do wish I would have purchased the $99 cheaper version of the same module (it just comes with less stuff).

Like you said - be aware of what you want to use it for before you purchase and be just as aware of overbuying more than you need as you are of underbuying and getting less than you want.

 

[Dave Thebrewguy]

I ordered the Reef Angel last night, It comes with 8 outlets, 2 PWM channels, temp and pH probes and float switches. The basic RKL plus a 2nd PC4 comes to $195 and that only buys you the 8 outlets and a temp probe. I would have needed the RKL level 3 plus an ALC to get what I need to start with, that would have been $360.
I ordered the Reef Angel last night. It should do everything that the $360 RKL setup does but it's only $219. If you can swing the extra $25 (compared to the base RKL+2nd PC4 that it appears you need), it might be worth considering.

 

[James77]

Can you deal with no display unit and use a smartphone or just your computer?

ApexJr does all that the RKL basic does plus it offers PC/internet programming and emails, plus can have 5 additional modules added to it. Far more popular and better reviews than any of the ReefKeepers.