Digital Aquatics Reef Keeper2

kj_yoda · 08-24-2006, 09:11 AM

Does anyone use one of these controllers? I just installed one last night and already like it. I just need to get a pH probe (any suggestions).

I love the customizable wavemaking settings and having all timers in one place (lights, etc.).

JayBeDriften · 08-24-2006, 10:12 AM

I've never used it but could you describe to me what it does? Any photographs of the unit would also be appreciated. :-)

kj_yoda · 08-24-2006, 10:29 AM

The Reefkeeper 2 is bascially a programable powerstrip that you can program each of the outlets do do something different and have them linked to temp and pH.

you have the options of:
Heater
Sump/Pump
Lights
Wavemaker (3 channels)
multi-timer (great for auto topoffs)
Chillers
Etc.

This is from the top of my head, but from one easy display, you can alwasy see your temp and what pumps are running. It has a night mode, that changes the timing of each of your pumps to re-create a more gentile environment, more similar to the ocean.

If you use MH lighting, you can set a temp cutoff so that the lights will turn off if the tank gets too hot, and it won't turn them back on until they have had enough time to cool.

There is also a standby feature, with one push of a button, can turn off your return pump or anything else that you want in order to make water changes and feeding much easier.

I will try to post some pictures tonight or tomorrow.

***Rob*** · 08-24-2006, 10:36 AM

i have been seriously considering this product or the AC Jr.

there was a thread a few weeks back about both of them, but i still cant really figure which ones better.. they both end up about the same cost when you add in the probes and such

kj_yoda · 08-24-2006, 10:42 AM

they are pricey, but elimintating timers is a wonderful thing, and decreases the draw on the electrical system of the house.

***Rob*** · 08-24-2006, 10:46 AM

yes, and that's exactly what i want...

second issue is i have a lot of things to control...
2 sets of 2 MH bulbs, 2 sets of actinic bulbs (have 2 tanks)

actually what im doing is the large tank gets 2 MH for the full photoperiod, but the smaller tank gets 1 MH, then halfway through switches to the other one. (the 250W bulbs are too much for the smaller tank)

any who, im just trying to figure out which ones better..

(btw, i moved this thread to the equipment forum)

JayBeDriften · 08-25-2006, 06:57 AM

I started doing some research into the Reef Keeper 2 and I'm definitely going to order one for the new tank setup I have going. It sucks that the expansion power outlets are about $50 bucks each.

***Rob*** · 08-25-2006, 10:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JayBeDriften

I started doing some research into the Reef Keeper 2 and I'm definitely going to order one for the new tank setup I have going. It sucks that the expansion power outlets are about $50 bucks each.

did you research any other controllers, like the AC Jr or anything?
if so what made you choose the RK2 over the others?

JayBeDriften · 08-25-2006, 10:34 AM

Rob, I have not looked at that particular controller. Could you provide me a link and I can compare the too and tell you which unit I will choose.

kj_yoda · 08-25-2006, 11:29 AM

http://www.neptunesys.com/aquaControllerJr.htm

**thesaent14** · 09-01-2006, 11:22 PM

wow i guess i am old fashion sorry kj_yoda i know is about the reef keeper but i use the octopus 4000 and most of my friend use it to i think the Reef Keeper 2 its a really good controller and it have lots in comment with the octopus system there's lots of tings that make it similar to the octopus in fact its a really good copy but don't get me wrong it works really good and for the money yes its good but i think the octopus system is more relaable and they have being in the business for really long time

wildeone · 09-02-2006, 12:43 AM

I have a AC Jr and I really like it. I put together acomparison on the two in this thread What temperature controller are you using?. If you have any questions, i may be ableto answer them for you.