Controllers-need your advise

So I am looking into getting a controller and don't know which ones are better than others as far as functionality, ease of use etc.. OR if they are all that

I can get a Neptune Aquacontroller 3 w/ PX-1000 expansion module, PH and ORP probe, two temp probes, ethernet cables etc 325.00, it looks like it is around 525.00 new

I see the reefkeeper lite, level 1,2, and 3

also other Neptune lines;
Aqua Controllers Jr
Aqua Controllers III
Aqua Controllers III Pro
Aqua Controllers Apex

A little mind numbing with so many variations.

Can those who have one now or have used them in the past shed any light as to what features are important or, if there is something you don't like about a certain one and would have done something different had you known.

That one I can get seems like a great deal but if it is more than I need I'd rather spend the few dollars on something else.

Thanks for any help/suggestions

 

I have the AC JR b/c my set up is simple and dont care for the internet option, nor do I have any reactors.

I know its hard just to pick one controller over another. One person will tell you brand "X" is the best while someone else says brand "Y" is better. My advice is to read the reviews for all the ones that "meet" your needs, bank account and wants.


luna

 

I have the Apex which is my first controller. I was looking at Ac jr when i was researching them because of the nice price on em. the Apex has a price after getting the extra EB8 that is hard to swallow.... $650. But is well worth it because your arent limited to the number of outlets and pieces of equipment you can control. not to mention the technology that it commands.

Heres a thread that I started after I hooked up my Apex. Maybe it will give yous ome good insight on the Apex.
http://www.3reef.com/forums/general-reef-topics/neptunes-apex-ac-my-90-stoney-tank-78318.html

 

But does this not have all the bells and whistles the Apex has, for like 200+ less????

I can get a Neptune Aquacontroller 3 w/ PX-1000 expansion module, PH and ORP probe, two temp probes, ethernet cables etc 325.00, it looks like it is around 525.00 new

 

http://aquariumcontrollers.com/controllers.xls

Found this while playing around lately. Just to make things more confusing.

 

Thanks-my mind is not totally numb and sore from the last 2 hours of reading/research-;D

Just kidding, that looks like it will be VERY helpful.

I'm really leaning towards that package deal, it looks like it will have MORE than I need-Dunno

 

I just went through that entire debate myself and ended up selecting the AC Jr. with DC8 and pH Probe. My decision was based on the following: 1) It did everything I NEEDED. True, it did not have bells and whistles that I truly did not NEED. 2) Price. I found it hard to beat for the price. 3) Technology refresh. I figured the AC Jr would last me 1-3 years and then I'd update to the newest, coolest thing. What is cool today will be passe tomorrow. I plan to upgrade from my 55 gal to 250-300gal in 1-2 year. I'll buy the fancy one then.

I ended up feeling that I would not be making a "bad" choice between Apex and AC.

Mark

 

Really it does come down to what are your needs at this moment in time. And what do you see yourself using in the future.

My needs in this time would have made me not satisfied with the AC jr. the biggest thing was I wanted a controller that will have command of all equipment on my tank. which is more than 12 outlets. Plus I wanted the capability of remote acces for when I am at work or away for the weekend. So the Apex immediately fit those needs.

Theres a lot of good that comes with the Apex that is also with the AC jr.

 

Another cool thing about the apex. Is just now I did all the reprogramming to my outlets from my pc in my office. Instead of crouched on my knees pushing up and down buttons.
Did it all from the comfort of a keyboard and nice chair

 

Unless I am not seeing the right stuff the Neptune I posted does everything that the apex does- it allows the remote "tinkering-reporting/alarms etc. This is from their site;

Web Interface

When the AquaController III is connected to your local network by its ethernet port, the controllers status and configuration settings are available through a standard browser.

Notice that not only can the current status be access, but also any of the controlled devices can be manual turned on or off. Also available through the web interface are the ability, view/modify the current controller program, view the datalogs, set the clock, and view the seasonal table. If an internet connection (DSL or cable modem) is available where the AquaController is installed, then your system can be checked on in almost any location in the world. Of course all access to the controller is password protected to ensure security. Note that a PC is not required for the AquaController to serve web pages; the webserver is built into the AquaController III.

Computer Interface

The AquaController III can be optionally connected to PC or Macintosh via a standard RS-232 cable (available from Neptune Systems) or Ethernet cable. The computer interface allows you to download the datalog log as well as retrieve the current status of the monitored parameters and controlled devices in the aquarium. A computer is NOT required to program or operate the AquaController III.

In addition the III also supports a standard telnet server, so that the current status, datalogs, etc. are also available by a standard TCP/IP Ethernet connection.

Not being stubborn, I have this question posted n other sites and people keep saying APEX, I keep asking what does it do that this 325.00 package doesn't-


Thanks for the help everyone