Aquacontroller Apex Lite
By: Brandon Klaus
Neptune Systems Aquacontroller Apex Lite
Neptune Systems, the creator of the famous Aquacontroller line of aquarium automation devices, is making the Aquacontroller Apex more affordable by introducing the Apex Lite. On the surface, this setup looks identical to the original Apex. The head unit, where the user will interface with the controller, is identical. The differences occur with a new base unit and obviously a new price tag. The Apex Lite base unit is somewhat smaller than the original Apex base unit, and for marketing purposes includes the wording “Apex Lite”. The price on the new system is about $370, or $130 less than the Aquacontroller Apex. But where does the $130 in savings come from? What gets cut out? According to Neptune Systems, the only differences between the two setups is the Apex Lite lacks the second pH/ORP connector and the 4 integrated variable speed ports, which are used to control Tunze pumps or dim ballasts. But all of the other features stay in place, making this controller very robust.
Features:
Connectivity:
- Ethernet Interface
- Embedded Web Server
- Only controller with web browser Monitoring, Control & Configuration.
- Email Alarms
Expandability:
- Most expandable Controller.
- Up to 240 modules, hundreds of probes, and thousands of controlled outlets.
- Simple menu driven Configuration
- No program language knowledge required.
Robust Timers:
- Simulates Sunrise/sunset
- Simulates moon cycle
- Wave Maker and Random timed cycles
- Still water feed mode (multiple modes)
Ultimate Control:
- Monitor/Control Temperature, pH
- Digital Calibration on all probes
- Seasonal temp & lighting control
- Flexible Control Options
3 Responses to “Aquacontroller Apex Lite”
You didnt give us your official rating for it or if you would prefer this over others if you were a.new to hobby b. veteran hobbyist.
The pic above, the left is full controller and right is the lite version correct? How do you interface with the lite, must it be connected via Ethernet (would make sense for email alerts, but what if someone didn't care about that part)?
i can't rate it as i've not gotten a chance to play with one. in fact, these controllers are not even available to hobbyists yet. but these devices are typically geared toward the veteran hobbyist. new hobbyists usually don't have calcium reactors, orp generators, or other stuff to control, so they typically don't use controllers. but as people progress in their hobby they seek automation and controllers are a great way to do so.
in the picture, the item on left is the display unit. it's not actually the controller. it just acts as the interface between the user and the controller. the apex has the same display unit as the apex lite. the picture on the right is the base unit, or the unit that does all of the controlling. the head unit and the base unit work together as a controller. both pictures at the top of the article are of different parts of the apex lite.
Thanks for the clarification. Ive looked at a few of the marketed controllers and can honestly say that I did not know they shared the same display unit. With that being said I would go with the 'Lite' over other model. If the owner didnt use Tunze pumps might as well save a few $.
Thanks for the reply!
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