Apex DOS DIY level switch?

[DeputyDog95]

It does, but it is not entirely accurate. For example, with my refrigerated mysis dosing, I back flush the tubing with DOS (it runs backward), but the volume tracking doesn't add that volume back into the container volume. So it thinks the container is emptying very fast and that is what the graphic shows. The sensor lets you know if the container is actually empty.

Also, you can program things based on the sensor (e.g. if empty, set email alarm or turn off DOS, etc.), but you can't refer to the volume in the container in the Apex code.

Lastly, the sensors can be used anywhere in your setup (e.g. ATO, sump overflow sensor, etc) and don't have to be tied into the DOS function even though they are using the port on the DOS. They basically provide two sensor ports as you would find on an FMM.

Interesting. That makes a lot of sense.

I've been using the Neptune magnetic optical sensor for my ATO reservoir, mixing station, etc, but I have no issue with submerging those.

The 5 liter Red Sea containers I dose out of have a "window", so I just visually take a peek at them on a regular basis to make sure they're on track with the "fake DDR" level reading.

 

[Mickey]

Many thanks to all who contributed to this thread. It's been great.

I'm going to set up the DDR volume tile on my Apex without the level sensors.

Sorry if this is a stupid question but I'm not well versed in electronics. Couldn't I just use a 150 ohm resistor covered in shrink wrap to protect the wires except for 1/2" on each end and then insert those ends into the 4 and 6 pin sockets/ports rather than buying a cable and cutting it and discarding the ends?

Molex connector with sockets:
Resistor:

 

[Mickey]

Not sure why my links aren't showing up, I've tried twice. If you search on Amazon for Molex Micro-Fit 3.0 Dual Row (6 circuits) you'll find it, or product B078Q5NL8H. Resistor is 150 ohm 1/4W 5%, product B00CVZ3WXE.

 

[e-sully]

You can really just use a jumper wire. You don't even need the resister. Many have done it without using one.

 

[Mickey]

Yes, I've seen that. But I've also noted that many folks (who I assume are more knowlegeable than I) have recommended the resistor for safety and I'd rather be safe than sorry.

 

[Psycho’Pat]

Also I think I have a way for you to enable fluid monitoring without the optical sensors too. So if you want to just enable the software feature but not have the low fluid sense switches its possible to do with just a resistor jumper between two pins to trick the DOS into thinking you have a DDR connected. Or a single optical sensor will do it too.

Hi, I would like to try this one. Could you please confirm the two pins to connect ?

 

[Mickey]

Assuming you're looking for the DDR tile and no actual level sensors, it's pins 4 and 6. Refer to post #285 and there's a video in post #373, or check out this thread https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/no-ddr-but-want-the-fusion-ddr-tile-no-problem.910828/

 

[Gotfrogs]

I have a few custom boards that allows you to attach two optical sensors to your DOS. If you want one, PM me.