To Apex again, or not to Apex again?

[TheRealRuk]

My Apex started having some problems with the graphics on the display module, reconnecting to my home network, and then (worst of all) will drop to a temp reading of 19.3 degrees every 12 to 18 hours or so, kicking on my heaters! Luckily I'm in the middle of reseting up my tank after moving in July, and don't have any live stock in the tank yet.. I've reset the Apex by "Init All" which resolved the network connectivity and display module issues, but not the temp drop issue. I then updated the firmware to the latest version, but to no avail... Temp just dropped again to 19.3 degrees. Apex is 3+ years old... The temp probe is only 6 or so months old.

If I have to replace the base module for $225, is it worth it; or should I move to a DA Controller? (Reaching out to Neptune support at the same time as this post.)

matt

 

[oldimpala]

If I have to replace the base module for $225, is it worth it; or should I move to a DA Controller? (Reaching out to Neptune support at the same time as this post.)

matt

Matt-

I've owned earlier Neptunes, a DA Reefkeeper, an Aquatronica, and now the Apex. Although they all have their strengths and weaknesses, I'd have to say stay Neptune.

It's not perfect, but they seem to have the best support, and the most robust add-on segment out there. There are quite a few things I miss from my Aquatronica during the switch; but honestly, after dabbling in the major platforms out there, this seems to be where I'm sticking....

Of course your mileage may vary... I can't judge how they've interacted with you during the problems you've had, so...

-Andy

 

[TheRealRuk]

Matt-

I've owned earlier Neptunes, a DA Reefkeeper, an Aquatronica, and now the Apex. Although they all have their strengths and weaknesses, I'd have to say stay Neptune.

It's not perfect, but they seem to have the best support, and the most robust add-on segment out there. There are quite a few things I miss from my Aquatronica during the switch; but honestly, after dabbling in the major platforms out there, this seems to be where I'm sticking....

Of course your mileage may vary... I can't judge how they've interacted with you during the problems you've had, so...

-Andy

Thanks Andy.

They responded very quickly. It looks like they will RMA it to repair or replace. "Repair costs range from $50 to $180 depending on what we have to repair or replace."

Matt

 

[spinoleo]

had the same problem they said moisture gets into the unused ports and shorts the board

 

[davidpesce]

I've been using the apex for about a year and like it but it could be so much more if they weren't lazy. There is a new interface/firmware coming out that looks to improve some things. But it feels like it's from 1991.

They should invest in a ux/ui expert.

I love the concept of the reef angel and will be using it for a smaller reef setup at work.

 

[TheRealRuk]

had the same problem they said moisture gets into the unused ports and shorts the board

Did you stay with the Apex or move on?

 

[TheRealRuk]

I've been using the apex for about a year and like it but it could be so much more if they weren't lazy. There is a new interface/firmware coming out that looks to improve some things. But it feels like it's from 1991.

They should invest in a ux/ui expert.

I love the concept of the reef angel and will be using it for a smaller reef setup at work.

I totally agree, they could do a lot more with it. I downloaded the beta for the new firmware. It's better but nothing to get excited about. 1995-ish...

thx guys,

matt

 

[TheRealRuk]

FYI

The folks at Neptune responded to my emails promptly. The verdict was "An IC on the base unit was operating marginally, and has been repaired."

Cost -> $50.