http://www.coralvue.com/icecap-y-module-cable is the link for the cable. This link will help with programming with APEX.
Reef Octopus VarioS-6 Controllable DC Pump (1720 GPH)
- Thread starter pelphrey
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SaltMan
Active Member
@helldiver Yep, what @Highgrade said is true. I have the Apex classic and there are two Variable Speed control ports V1 and V2. I am using the V1 port to control two pumps. You only need the one cable as it is split to control two controllers, it just plugs right into the controller - check out the video above.
I'm thinking about going with the Varios Skimmer. Anyone have any experience? I know there is a recent post regarding preferred Skimmer Brands. Seems like Reef Octopus is at the top of the list.
Jeremy@CoralVue
Active Member
I have been using the Reef Octopus DC pump for 3 years now and have been working with Reef Octopus on the Controller for nearly 2 years. I absolutely love the simple things like the integrated float switch and universal control I have with my 3rd party system controller. I have even went as far as allowing the skimmer to skim less at night and more during the day by increasing and decreasing the speed of the pump. The Reef Octopus DC pump is as reliable as they come and super efficient. Dealing with a variety of skimmer pumps over the years, I can not say enough good things about the pump. Here is the beast that filters my 220gal
pirate2876
Valuable Member
Great looking controller but, I are the pumps just re-branded Jebao motor blocks?
Jeremy@CoralVue
Active Member
The Reef Octopus RODC and VarioS DC pumps are not Jebao. Reef Octopus makes these pump like their Bubble Blaster and Aquatrance. Many of the cooling concepts and rotor design for the of the Water Blaster/Bubble Blaster is found in the VarioS line of variable speed pumps.
SaltMan
Active Member
I was previously using the Reef Octopus DC 250EXT. The original pump failed in about a year but was covered by warranty and replaced with this new version, it ran another 2 years flawlessly but now sits empty. My system configuration has changed to the Red Sea 250 and I am now using the Reef Octopus Regal 200 SSS spacesaver that is powered by the VarioS-4S pump and I am very happy with it. It runs smooth and is fairly quiet for the amount of water and air it pushes through it. Mine is setup and controlled by Apex, runs at 100% full time and has a 10 minute restart ramp up time in the event of a power fail to prevent overflow into the collection cup. I know it is probably overkill for my system but I have always had good results skimming. I'm not sure if I like the float for the collection cup as the sensor needs to be disconnected from the controller bringing the sensor wire along with the lid to the sink for cleaning but it is an included option. I liked it so much I am also using the VarioS-6S pump for my return pump and the matching controllers just look nice.
Jeremy@CoralVue
Active Member
Awesome setup. I really like how organized you are with all your equipment. I would suggest relocating your electronics. These skimmers draw a good amount of air which pushes up through the holes in the lid of the skimmer which may result in corrosion of the outlet strip and other modules.I was previously using the Reef Octopus DC 250EXT. The original pump failed in about a year but was covered by warranty and replaced with this new version, it ran another 2 years flawlessly but now sits empty. My system configuration has changed to the Red Sea 250 and I am now using the Reef Octopus Regal 200 SSS spacesaver that is powered by the VarioS-4S pump and I am very happy with it. It runs smooth and is fairly quiet for the amount of water and air it pushes through it. Mine is setup and controlled by Apex, runs at 100% full time and has a 10 minute restart ramp up time in the event of a power fail to prevent overflow into the collection cup. I know it is probably overkill for my system but I have always had good results skimming. I'm not sure if I like the float for the collection cup as the sensor needs to be disconnected from the controller bringing the sensor wire along with the lid to the sink for cleaning but it is an included option. I liked it so much I am also using the VarioS-6S pump for my return pump and the matching controllers just look nice.
SaltMan
Active Member
Yes, I agree. I should have put them on the other side.
mfinn
likes zoanthids
I am considering the VarioS-4 pump for a return pump on my 50 gallon tank, but I am also considering a Vectra M1.
I know how quiet the M1's are.
Of all the specs I look at for pumps, the noise level is the highest priority.
Be102
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I was originally interested in a vectra
Glad to hear that, which model do you have? What size tank?
Be102
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Was looking to implement a manifold with some reactors running off of it, along with possibly upgrading to a larger tank in the future. I originally was looking at the L1 even for the increased strength. I have a tendency to go larger than I need to justify the need for an upgrade
