Needing some input. My Elos stand will be thrown in the trash when I move, making way for a custom made 1" tubing stand. My original thoughts were to keep it looking like a stock Elos stand, but as I add more components (Apex controller, Apex modules, MP controller, power bars, power supplies, Apex DOS units, ATO, wifi router, etc.) I am running out of room and between all the electronics and wiring everything is getting cluttered and dangerous with electricity and water.
So here are my thoughts:
-Stand needs to keep the modern/sleek Elos look.
-I want all three sides completely opened and accessible when doing maintenance
-I want to keep foot print of stand relatively stock. I really don't like the look of a larger stand than the display nor do I want to add an additional fixture for components.
-I want to create a water proof housing for electronics.
-Finally, hide wires!
Here is what I am thinking:
-1" tubing stand powder coated piano finish gloss white (stand will be exposed around edges). Adjustable leveling feet are a must!
-Build 3 skinny waterproof boxes that will house components with dark mocha or expresso sides and tops and either color matched to stand doors (piano finish gloss white). These will all be inserted into the stand like the panels in the pictures.
-Each box will house like components.
--FRONT-- will be controls; Apex controller display, iPad mount, MP controllers, DC pump controllers etc.
--LEFT-- will be modules from the Apex Gold System, ATO module, EB8 pair, wifi router, etc.
--RIGHT-- will be my housing for the 2 DOS units, ATO diaphragm pump, ect.
-Figure out how to make these three panels completely open like doors. Might have to mount them so they only inset into the framing a 1/2" to avoid scraping the stand. These open and close via dual push magnets, and be connected to magnetic switches that will control LED stand lights.
-Finally hide all the wiring/tubing. A false wall within each box would be ideal or just a partial false wall in some cases due to the depth of some of the components to be able to keep boxes as skinny as possible.
-Run all wiring/tubing from each box to PVC pipes to sump.
-Finally, yes I'm probably going to have to reconsider this after much research, but my goal is to have 2 single power cords for EB8s coming from back of stand to plug in. Everything within stand my goal is to be controlled via Apex. I know some will advise against this
Thoughts? Input? I have a few builders contacted already, just waiting for my final plans.
Below are pictures for inspirations
This is the stand that has given me inspiration. You can see how the stand will be exposed, and instead of just panel inserts, i will insert boxes that will stick out roughly 3-4".
This shot shows the fully accessible stand, much easier for tank maintenance!
Adjustable feet are a must!
Changing sock filters and media will be a breeze!
All plumbing both for water lines and running cable will be color matched.
This is an example of the boxes for housing the electronics. Material thickness will be key!
