what is compatible with the Reefkeeper lite?

[Isaacs55]

Hey guys it's isaac,
I'm kinda jumping into this purchase of a controller. I don't know how they all work but I'll figure it out. I was reading somewhere though that some pumps etc...aren't interchangeable between controllers? So like if I bought a jabao RW8 and I have a reefkeeper, then they won't work together? I'm just in need of some help before 8 purchase a controller. I want the reefkeeper lite because it is affordable and I can grow with it and add what I need to. And then there's the apex Neptune systems that I have no idea about. So looking for some advice on what works with what. I'm hoping to go reefkeeper though. This will be going on my 40 breeder reef build.
Thanks guys

 

[ryeguyy84]

Id really recommend the apex, I had the reefkeeper for a while and the apex is so much better.

There's the apex jr.

That said there are certain pumps that can be controlled by different controllers. I think the jabao can be controlled by both as they both have dc modules that can be added

 

[firebirdude]

I've got a full ReefKeeper system.

AFAIK, anything is compatible with any controller. Maybe unless you're using it to dim certain LED lights or something? Or using it as a wavemaker or something? Honestly, I really don't think any of that would be an issue either. You're just plugging in the power into a power strip, then using the software to get it to turn on/off according to the criteria you've set (time, switch positions, alarms, detected temps, etc). It has no clue what the item actually is. It just turns on/off socket 2, for example.

As for ReefKeeper vs Apex..... its been beat to death AND THEN SOME on here. Search search search. Each have their own forums too. Check em out.

My 2 cents, because it might be valuable..... if I had to buy it again..... I'd probably give Apex a try. Though my RK has been working well for a couple years, it hasn't all been gravy. I'm sure the Apex has its problems too. Well I've had enough that I'd be willing to give the competitor a chance at bat. Small hiccups here and there with the RK, but the software/useability of it isn't top notch either. And that might be putting it nicely depending on who you ask.

 

[Isaacs55]

For sure thanks guys. I'll do some research on the Apex. I've watched a couple videos on the Apex already and let me tell you...i m leaning g towards the Apex already lol I'll do some more research though. Thanks again

 

[BillNye]

Apex all day. I have an apex gold and am so happy with it. I went with the gold because it came with all the probes I'd ever need with the option to upgrade (plus it was on sale :bounce3.

I would get the regular or the gold because you'll be set. The Jr. also has a limited number of modules and probes it can use plus it is more expensive to upgrade along the way.

 

[Isaacs55]

Apex all day. I have an apex gold and am so happy with it. I went with the gold because it came with all the probes I'd ever need with the option to upgrade (plus it was on sale :bounce3.

I would get the regular or the gold because you'll be set. The Jr. also has a limited number of modules and probes it can use plus it is more expensive to upgrade along the way.

Thanks for the info Bill Nye!! (If that's your real name) :lolspin:
I think I'm going to go with the Apex but since I'm kinda doing a budget build I want to stay close to affordable lol I was trying to see if you can buy the apex aqua controller by itself without the display module only because it's wireless. So if I'm using my phone, tablet or computer I won't need the display at all. But, unfortunately I haven't had any luck. The aqua controller only comes with the display which is the junior for starting prices.

 

[ryeguyy84]

I'm not sure when or why they stopped offering it without the display. I got my apex jr back when you could buy just the apex jr and add to it.

 

[Isaacs55]

Yea I figured that. That's alright I've already made up my mind. I'm going to go with the Apex jr which comes with the temp probe and display now. I'm excited for it cuz they have the Apex fusion now so everything is integrated in the dashboard! I also bought a foscam WiFi Webcam that will stream live through the dashboard so I can see exactly what's going on in my tank via live webcam from work or while I'm on the beach drinking a Corona while im on vacation lol! I'm super excited for it! I can also stream live through the foscam App if i dont want to use my laptop!