So I have all this equip, what about home network?

HighChiefKC · May 14, 2020

I’m a little overwhelmed after being out of the tank hobby for many years. So I’m in the slow build process of a 225g. So far, equipment I have is a couple of Atlantik v4 Gen 1 lights with their gateway. Then I have Echotech MP40s and an L2 and M2 return pumps. But don’t have their gateway or whatever they call it. And I also have a new Apex.

So I haven’t even looked into these yet, cause I’m not that far along yet, but do these run on WiFi, or do I have to have each one of these hardwired? If hardwired, help me with some networking. I have a hub or router upstairs. It’s full already in terms of plug ins. But I think I have something downstairs that’s hardwired into it and it’s not used anymore. I think it was tv or directv. My question is, if I have that wire downstairs, where tank is, can I get another hub or whatever it’s called, plug that wire into it, then hardwire all these controllers into that hub?

Hope that makes sense?

SuncrestReef · May 14, 2020

Yes, you can purchase a "network switch" to connect to that network cable downstairs, then connect multiple network devices into the switch. You can get switches ranging from 4 ports for a small network to hundreds of ports for large corporate networks. You can find basic switches at local office supply stores (OfficeDepot), home electronic stores (BestBuy), or online. Here's an inexpensive example: TP-Link 5 Port Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch

SuncrestReef · May 14, 2020

In addition to my above comment, I wanted to point out I do not have any experience with the Atlankik lights or the Ecotech pumps, so I'm not sure if they can be connected to a network switch. However, I highly recommend connecting your Apex with a network cable rather than just relying on WiFi. So even if you do not buy a network switch, you should still connect the Apex to the downstairs network cable if possible.

HighChiefKC · May 14, 2020

So the Atlantik V4’s require the gateway to be hardwired and the lights connect WiFi and control with an app. I tested them today and opened up the boxes. I found that I already had a 4 port switch in the basement so I connected the gateway to that and the lights worked from across the room and I controlled it through an app. Neat stuff.
Now if I move the lights to above the tank and the still work from the other side of a wall remains to be seen.
That might be a project for another day. Moving the switch from the finished side of the basement to the fish room on the other side of the wall.

n2585722 · May 17, 2020

The EcoTech Reeflink can be hooked up via wifi or hardwired to you network. It doesn't have to be in the same room as the tank. The Ecotech pumps require the wireless versions or you will have to add the wireless module to them if they are not to have them talk with the Reeflink.

HighChiefKC · May 17, 2020

n2585722 said:
The EcoTech Reeflink can be hooked up via wifi or hardwired to you network. It doesn't have to be in the same room as the tank. The Ecotech pumps require the wireless versions or you will have to add the wireless module to them if they are not to have them talk with the Reeflink.

Yea I’m gonna get a Reeflink soon as I can find one in stock somewhere