Dual Gyre XF 250 Kit and Apex Controller System

[james stanford]

Hi, I'm setting up 160gal mixed reef tank and I'm looking to get 2 Gyre 250s, the Icecap Interface Module, and the full Apex Controller System (retails $799). The question I have is whether I need (or might want) the Gyre Controller. I'd either get 2 individual 250s to save some money, or just get Dual 250 Kit with controller.

My goal would be to take full advantage of the Gyres' control and programming capabilities. However, one of my primary goals in getting Apex is to try to centralize as much control as reasonably practicable without losing features of non-Neptune products.

Any input would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Bmasculine]

Hi, I'm setting up 160gal mixed reef tank and I'm looking to get 2 Gyre 250s, the Icecap Interface Module, and the full Apex Controller System (retails $799). The question I have is whether I need (or might want) the Gyre Controller. I'd either get 2 individual 250s to save some money, or just get Dual 250 Kit with controller.

My goal would be to take full advantage of the Gyres' control and programming capabilities. However, one of my primary goals in getting Apex is to try to centralize as much control as reasonably practicable without losing features of non-Neptune products.

Any input would be greatly appreciated!

I think you need to have an icecap module for each pump. I have two xf230’s with the controller that I use to run preset schedules, it is plugged into my apex so it’ll shut down when I hit feed or maintenance modes but not controlled by the apex. I know there’s a BRS video where they did this I believe only because they wanted longer intervals than what the gyre controller offered. For me the gyre controller is easier. If I had a bigger tank I might spend the money on modules and try to program my own flow patterns.

 

[james stanford]

I think you need to have an icecap module for each pump. I have two xf230’s with the controller that I use to run preset schedules, it is plugged into my apex so it’ll shut down when I hit feed or maintenance modes but not controlled by the apex. I know there’s a BRS video where they did this I believe only because they wanted longer intervals than what the gyre controller offered. For me the gyre controller is easier. If I had a bigger tank I might spend the money on modules and try to program my own flow patterns.

Thanks! I'll check it out.

 

[Mark Gray]

I only have one Grye on my Apex but the controlability is great, i would buy it again

 

[james stanford]

I only have one Grye on my Apex but the controlability is great, i would buy it again

Thanks!

 

[D_Reep1106]

@Mark Gray are you using the icecap interface module to control it? and can I control 2 XF 250's with one interface controller?

 

[Bmasculine]

@Mark Gray are you using the icecap interface module to control it? and can I control 2 XF 250's with one interface controller?

If I’m not mistaken each powerhead needs the interface. However mine isn’t set up this way so I can’t say for sure.

 

[Bmasculine]

I wasn’t mistaken it says right here

 

[Mark Gray]

@Mark Gray are you using the icecap interface module to control it? and can I control 2 XF 250's with one interface controller?

I am only running 1 Gyre you for sure have to have 2 Icecap modules but I think 1 VDM will run 2 modules

 

[Kyl]

There is a bit more to this than just a simple answer for you. Currently, the only method to control the gyres via an Apex is through the third party Icecap module for each pump. This also requires a power supply for each gyre. You can run two gyres off a single VDM port, but they will only function for speed, not direction. I'm of the opinion that running the gyres in reverse just brings about more wear on the motor housing and is quite useless given the paddles are optimized for forward flow, but others may not.

So that leaves you with a list of this to currently go gyre + apex:
Any Apex
2x XF250 gyres
2x XF250 gyre power supplies
2x Icecap modules

1x Included Y connection cable for speed control only (1 VDM port)
or
2x Alternate gyre mode modified cables for speed and direction control (2 VDM ports)

--------------------------------------

Now, here's where the complicating factor comes in, and how big of a leap of faith you're willing to put into both Maxspect and Neptune. Currently the advanced controller does not function via IOT-A with the new generation of Apex units ("2016" / EL), but it does function with another Maxspect module, the ICV6 control hub. This hub is used to drive their lighting system integration via the Syna-G phone app, and in the past number of months control functionality has also been extended to support gyres.

Given that gyres are now fully supported on the ICV6, and that we know Maxspect is working with Neptune to implement IOT-A for at least the lighting portion of the ICV6 hub, I personally feel it isn't that much of a leap to believe the gyres will also eventually be supported for Apex control in time. If this does happen, then you would need the following:

Apex 2016/EL
1x XF250 advanced gyre controller, pump & power supply
1x XF250 gyre only
1x Maxspect ICV6 control hub

As stated, this does require some faith in things to execute, and nothing concrete has been stated by either company. If the Icecap module wasn't so overpriced I would have no hesitation in using them, but given the fact they are required for every pump, as well as a power supply, and an open VDM port, if you're running multiple gyres the costs can scale rather quickly.

* I should add that if things line up, you also still have the advanced controller to fall back on should something happen to your apex, or can bring about more value if trying to re-sell. Again, those are ifs, but every part of this has an associated cost or benefit that may influence the ultimate decision.

 

[mitch91175]

Would be nice for the Apex to be able to control the Gyres without the need for all the extra crap.