DIY ATO Question?

Chickenfrog · Jul 31, 2018

Has or is it possible to make an ATO using this circuit board? See link....

Look at this on eBay
https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https://www.ebay.com/ulk/itm/332287066433

Thanks

Robert McCreary · Jul 31, 2018

i've never seen rover.ebay.com before so im not clicking the link... so whats the name/model number
im following along

Chickenfrog · Jul 31, 2018

Liquid Level Controller Module Water Level Detection Sensor

Chickenfrog · Jul 31, 2018

Here is a picture.

joeyhatch11 · Jul 31, 2018

Basic float switch.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/New-Hot-Sa...or+Float+Switch+for+Aquarium+&_from=R40&rt=nc

Aqua lifter pump
https://www.ebay.com/itm/AQUA-LIFTE...70.l1313.TR1.TRC0.A0.H0.Xaqualifter+pump.TRS0

All-in-all, $22. Float switch runs in line with either wire coming off the pump. Done and done. Switch can handle more current than the pump puts out from turning on/off so 100% safe and doesn't get any easier than that.

Chickenfrog · Jul 31, 2018

Yeah, I've seen some videos using just those. But I was curious if i could get this to work also?

joeyhatch11 · Jul 31, 2018

Chickenfrog said:
Yeah, I've seen some videos using just those. But I was curious if i could get this to work also?

That I couldnt tell you as Ive always ran my DIY float switch versions. Too simple and easy to look else where for anything different. Plus with the one you posted to have to make sure the leads are long enough if placing within the stand so it doesnt rust or get covered in salt creep.

Chickenfrog · Jul 31, 2018

Gotcha. In the details it sounds like it's similar to an ATO. I just want for sure how to make it function as we use them?

Rockit · Aug 9, 2018

Did you try this? I've been running a diy ato for 6 months with the standard float switch. I would be interested in something additional as a back up/failsafe.

Chickenfrog · Aug 9, 2018

Sorry, I haven't found much guidance on building it yet. If I do figure it out I'll post it.

doughboy · Aug 9, 2018

is the sensor a circuit board that you dip into water?
wouldn't it contain copper which can harm inverts?

Chickenfrog · Aug 9, 2018

I was thinking if I removed the sensor and replaced it with a float switch. Or see if the sensor would work on the outside of the glass instead of in the water.