Thinking about adding a controller

[Oblivionis]

I've just set up a new tank and I'm thinking about adding a controller. I've never used a controller before so I don't know too much about them.
I'm thinking of buying this combo:
1 - Apex Base Unit
1 - Apex Display
1 - EnergyBar 8 Power Strip
1 - Temperature Probe
1 - PH Probe

I also want to use the controller as an ATO. What do I need besides the above and a couple of float switches to make an ATO? What switches are recommended?

 

[aquamanic]

You need the I/O Breakout Box (or DIY something, plenty of threads on that) and the float switches. AquaHub makes them, so does Autotopoff.com.

 

[Oblivionis]

I would also like to have the Apex turn on/off a fan based on a humidity reading in the fishroom. If I get the I/O Breakout Box and this humidistat can I get that to work?:

http://media.xspond.com/media/63/93/E2_product_sheet.pdf

 

[aquamanic]

I don't think so. That one looks like it applies voltage to the various contacts. You need a 'dry-contact' (dry = no voltage) humidity sensor. Have you looked at this:

http://www.smarthome.com/7156/Humidity-Sensor-HA-1-1190/p.aspx

Seems like it has the appropriate NO/NC dry contacts if you look at the manual.

 

[Oblivionis]

I was hoping to get one with a digital humidity display but I guess I can just have a separate sensor for that. Thanks.

One more question, how many IO Breakout Box modules can be added to the Apex?

 

[aquamanic]

A bunch.

More than you will ever need.

Almost every expansion module except the new WXM module can handle one and you can put dozens of expansion modules on the system.

 

[Cajun Reefer]

Do you plan on using Tunze pumps in your tank? If not, you may want to save some money and get the Apex Lite which is just missing Tunze control.

 

[Oblivionis]

Good point... I have a Vortex and I don't plan to use Tunzes in my tank. Apex Lite might just be enough for me.

I'm reading aquamanic's The Unofficial Apex New User Guide and I'm really learning a lot. Thanks.

 

[Steve175]

I don't think so. That one looks like it applies voltage to the various contacts. You need a 'dry-contact' (dry = no voltage) humidity sensor. Have you looked at this:

http://www.smarthome.com/7156/Humidity-Sensor-HA-1-1190/p.aspx

Seems like it has the appropriate NO/NC dry contacts if you look at the manual.

Did either of you ever do this? Did it work? Also very interested in doing this/thanks for the thread!!!

 

[aquamanic]

look back in the threads, yesterday or the day before. Ken posted a link to a dry contact humidistat he has used.