Aquarium Controllers Guidance

[KenMedic]

With the abundance of controllers on the market and varying price ranges for them, a good reefer is bound to find just the right one that will meet their needs -- if they know what they are looking for. However, since I am new at reefing, I don't know what to look for in a controller. I've visited the comparison chart to see what each controller will do, but I'm not sure what I need to start with. With a basic reef starting with LR, some fish, a few inverts, and a good cleaning crew, what should I look for in a controller?

[CarmieJo]

Hey Ken,

My Solaris fixture controls all the lighting functions and other than that I only have a dual phase temperature controller. I've though about buying a more elaborate multi controller but have decided it is not a good use of my money at this time because I don't really need to control anything else.

[poppin_fresh]

KenMedic, I would get the most controller you can afford.

The basic ones will control lighting, temp and more if you buy optional modules. The more advanced will allow you to check the status of your tank from anywhere on the planet.

[wildeone]

I was in a similar situation and I settled for the AquaController since I could scale it for my system. I purchased the unit with a single power strip (each outlet in the strip can be controlled ) and a temp and PH probe. Later I can add more strips if need be and an ORP probe. I find the lighting and temperature control the most important aspect though.

[NaClFinatic]

You're going to have to evaluate based on your needs and budget. FWIW, I am considering one and have narrowed it down to the reefkeeper 2, if I get one. I think it was slightly cheaper than the aquacontroller jr (basicaly the same features) but the reefkeeper software for computer connection is also free which is something I would definitely try out. They also have a new fancy one coming on their website. It costs more but sounds like a good deal for the features. Digital Aquatics 2008 (http://www.digitalaquatics.com/)

[Reefbaby]

I have the IKS Aquastar controller (http://www.iks-aqua.com/html/engl/aquastar.php)
http://www.iks-aqua.com/html/images/aquastar_computer.jpg

I love it. At the moment, I'm controlling the lights, pH, temp, return and closed-loop pumps, and osmolarity.

Here's some details from the website:

THE BASIC SYSTEM IKS AQUASTAR (ART.-NR. 1000) PROVIDES:

connections for up to eight measuring modules in any combination
connections for up to 16 switch sockets (4x4)
availability of sockets with variable output (dimmable)
a readings memory for 2000 chains of readings, buffered by storage battery
a PC interface for data analysis on the PC
an update facility via Flash-memory technology
automatic sensor recognition and sensor test
day/night simulation
lunar-phase simulation
high-tide/low-tide simulation
currents simulation
timer functions
interval functions
nocturnal reduction
illuminated LC-display
a real-time clock
acoustic, visual and external alarms
a five-year guarantee

AVAILABLE MEASURING AND REGULATION MODULES:

pH
redox potential
conductivity
temperature
water level
oxygen
air pressure


You can also have an SMS sent to your cell phone if any of the alarms are triggered. I'm quite happy with the system. The only things I don't control on there are my Tunze streams, just because it's easier to use the already designed controller for these pumps. but, even they could be programmed into the IKS system and waves, tides, etc. could be simulated.

[Sheol]

I have the IKS Aquastar controller (http://www.iks-aqua.com/html/engl/aquastar.php)

Why does it seem to be so difficult to find a price on that?

Edit: N/M I found one (http://www.deltecusa.us/aquastar/index.php).