Integrated ATO for Apex?

[ReeferReefer]

I am getting an Apex and need a reliable ATO. I would prefer to not use float switches as the primary sensor. I have narrowed it down to a couple of options.

1. Avast ATO to Apex ($150 with pump) - Has a connector that replaces the Break Out Box and then the pump gets plugged into the PowerBar

2. Avast ATO to Break Out Box ($190 with pump) - Bare wires connect directly to ATO and Break Out Box and I need to buy the Break Out Box too. This would allow me to add more float switches as I need them for backups and skimmer cups. Pump still plugs into the PowerBar.

3. DIY ATO to Break Out Box (Cost???) - I can use standard float valves or potentially even a pressure sensor like the Avast with my own pump plugged into the PowerBar.

4. Standalone ATO - Could be the Avast or other ATO. Can not communicate directly with Apex but can be put on a powerstrip to save space on the PowerBar. ATO can be used on tanks without Apex but is not expandable and controllable.

What do you guys use?

 

[Waters]

I use a Tunze ATO plugged directly into my energy bar so that I can run additional safety checks against the salinity of the tank. So much easier than building one yourself with the breakout box and float switches. Plus, if you haven't researched ATOs yet, the Tunze has both an optical switch and a back up float switch. Those two along with the control of the Apex makes them pretty bulletproof.

 

[Salt It Away]

+1 on the Tunze. Working flawlessly.

 

[ReeferReefer]

Hm. Good to know. Maybe I am overthinking it then. I guess integration isn't that important?

 

[hybridazn]

Word on the street is that neptune is going to release optical sensors first half of this year. So essentially you can make your own tunze ato with the OS and a backup float switch.

 

[cmcoker]

I don't have apex but have had the avast ATO in use for a couple years with a Tom's aqualifter. Very happy with it. No maintenance, no worries. I have one on my 120g and one on my biocube