I started this controller back in 2014 before I could find any information on ReefPi. This project has undergone many versions and form factors along the way. However, doing searches recently it looks like ReefPi is a pretty awesome setup and I'd probably go that route if I were just starting out. Thought I would post a couple pictures of mine since I am pretty happy with it. Couple of lessons I learned along the way - it seems cheap to build your own controller - but everything adds up so FAST! Just wanted to share since I'm excited that it is finally at a stable point again and reading multiple pH probe readings.
My wish list basically involved:
- Temp Controlled actions. So if a temp probe read > 78F the outlet would turn off, and < 77 it would turn on
- Support Multiple PH Probes along with actions so I can control the C02 Solenoid based on a probe in the CaRx reactor and the pH probe in the tank can turn off the Solenoid
- Ability to setup time based actions to turn outlets on/off
- Web based to control from my phone
- View historical data
- Be able to easily be removed from my equipment cabinet without having to rewire it (Quick disconnects)
- Spend years of my life coding all of the parts and assembling electronics
For those that are interested in the rough cost aspect:
Base Setup (Temp probes and controller base: $72)
Arduino Mega: $14.99
Temp Probes (5 pack): $12.99
Voltage Regulator: $9
Raspberry Pi 3 B: $35
Relay Setup (To control 4 outlets: ~$16)
Outlets (4x): $6.00
High Voltage Box: ~$3
4 Relay Switch: $7
PH Monitoring Setup (Dual Probe: $229) (Single would be $100 cheaper)
Ph Circuit (2x @$40): $80
Voltage Isolator (2x @$26): $52
Serial Expander: $15
PH Probes (2x @41): $82
Grand Total: ~$316
My wish list basically involved:
- Temp Controlled actions. So if a temp probe read > 78F the outlet would turn off, and < 77 it would turn on
- Support Multiple PH Probes along with actions so I can control the C02 Solenoid based on a probe in the CaRx reactor and the pH probe in the tank can turn off the Solenoid
- Ability to setup time based actions to turn outlets on/off
- Web based to control from my phone
- View historical data
- Be able to easily be removed from my equipment cabinet without having to rewire it (Quick disconnects)
- Spend years of my life coding all of the parts and assembling electronics
For those that are interested in the rough cost aspect:
Base Setup (Temp probes and controller base: $72)
Arduino Mega: $14.99
Temp Probes (5 pack): $12.99
Voltage Regulator: $9
Raspberry Pi 3 B: $35
Relay Setup (To control 4 outlets: ~$16)
Outlets (4x): $6.00
High Voltage Box: ~$3
4 Relay Switch: $7
PH Monitoring Setup (Dual Probe: $229) (Single would be $100 cheaper)
Ph Circuit (2x @$40): $80
Voltage Isolator (2x @$26): $52
Serial Expander: $15
PH Probes (2x @41): $82
Grand Total: ~$316
