Controllers recommended besides Neptune apex?
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Crabs McJones
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A friend of mine recently switched to GHL, but the ReefKeeper is also another good option.
jd371
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ReefKeeper if you want to keep the cost down, but the parent company is phasing it out so getting support will be a problem. I have a ReefKeeper on my 75g to control some basic functions and didn't need or want to spend a lot on a controller so that's why I went with a used Reefkeeper. If I had the money and need I would go with the GHL if Neptune isn't an option.
chipmunkofdoom2
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Agreed with @jd371 I have a Reefkeeper and I love it because of the simplicity, but the support for it is definitely going away. My next controller is going to be a Raspberry Pi controller based on Reef-Pi by @Ranjib. If you're comfortable doing some wiring, it's a great and cost-effective option.
ReefKeeper was what I was originally going to buy, but trying to find it is pretty tough now and knowing that it is discontinued definitely discourages me. Anyone know whether there will be an updated product from the company in the future?
I want the Neptune Apex, but the cost (I don't want the Jr if I spend the money, I want the system) and the complexity of setup for a newb that is just learning concerns me a bit.
I will look into the GHL and Raspberry Pi controllers. Hadn't heard of these until this thread.
Would also be open to opinions on whether a newbie should be spending the cash on a Neptune Apex system as well...
I want the Neptune Apex, but the cost (I don't want the Jr if I spend the money, I want the system) and the complexity of setup for a newb that is just learning concerns me a bit.
I will look into the GHL and Raspberry Pi controllers. Hadn't heard of these until this thread.
Would also be open to opinions on whether a newbie should be spending the cash on a Neptune Apex system as well...
jd371
Valuable Member
I highly doubt it. I believe the parent company makes instruments for aeronautics and is dropping the reef controller side of the business. Take a look at eKoral, they are the new kid on the block for controllers.
GHL is the other option for you. Wide product line with good US tech support.
Raspberry Pi is a fun idea for someone who wants to play with the computers but you are your own tech support in this situation. So unless you feel compy due software debugging and electrical design I wouldn't try it. I have been doing PLC control work for over 30 years on industrial equipment. I use GHL and Apex mostly GHL nowadays. don't need the hassle at both work and at home.
Raspberry Pi is a fun idea for someone who wants to play with the computers but you are your own tech support in this situation. So unless you feel compy due software debugging and electrical design I wouldn't try it. I have been doing PLC control work for over 30 years on industrial equipment. I use GHL and Apex mostly GHL nowadays. don't need the hassle at both work and at home.
ReefWithCare
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I would go with a used apex classic or junior if you want to save money. Reefkeeper is pretty much dead at this point [emoji29]
None. I know that this is a flip answer, but they are not necessary for anything. You can always get going without one. I wrote a mac Mini based J2EE controller once and I stopped it after a year. It did not do anything for me but add another butt to wipe and something else to go wrong.
U
User1
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2000 I was using Neptune with their X10. Worked well until my young GSD thought it was a chew toy... Later picked up a Reef Angel that has been running strong the past 7 years. Zero complaints. Recently upgraded so purchased a new Apex and again like what it offers. Here is my question because recommendations are somewhat biased from us who reply.
1. Do you want a closed system off the shelf or are you open to open source?
2. Do you have basic coding abilities,willing to learn, and some handy dandy DIY skills?
3. Or...do you just want something to plug and play with auto config wizards?
Reason why I ask is because if you are open to open source, DIY, and have some basic coding skills something like the Reef Angle or Pi will probably fit your needs. On the other hand if you want more polished over the counter stuff then you are looking at Neptune or GHL. Having both a Apex and a Reef Angel I can say the RA still does some things 100 times better than the Apex or even what I know about the GHL. On the other hand I will say the Apex and the GHL are more refined and polished product with a better build quality in the end.
Really up to you. If you do say go with a Reef Angle or other open source make sure to read their forums for a bit to see activity and current trends. I know the RA just came out recently with a new version, Star, and it has had a few issues. Roberto is amazing in support and managing issues.
1. Do you want a closed system off the shelf or are you open to open source?
2. Do you have basic coding abilities,willing to learn, and some handy dandy DIY skills?
3. Or...do you just want something to plug and play with auto config wizards?
Reason why I ask is because if you are open to open source, DIY, and have some basic coding skills something like the Reef Angle or Pi will probably fit your needs. On the other hand if you want more polished over the counter stuff then you are looking at Neptune or GHL. Having both a Apex and a Reef Angel I can say the RA still does some things 100 times better than the Apex or even what I know about the GHL. On the other hand I will say the Apex and the GHL are more refined and polished product with a better build quality in the end.
Really up to you. If you do say go with a Reef Angle or other open source make sure to read their forums for a bit to see activity and current trends. I know the RA just came out recently with a new version, Star, and it has had a few issues. Roberto is amazing in support and managing issues.
