Originally Posted by mike31154 (Post 381695)

I find it amazing in the currently digitized world that there is a lack of software/hardware available that uses a common PC or Notebook computer. I doubt that there are many hobbyists out there that don't have a computer and yet in the aquarium trade, we're still being offered mainly 'additional' controllers! Few of these offer the option to interface with a PC. So you end up with more gear which uses proprietary parts and software that precludes any flexibility and future options.

Most of the controlling should be easily accomplished with sensors feeding a computer through an RS232 port or nowadays, USB2. It's surprising no one has taken the opportunity to exploit this market niche, or maybe they have and I'm just unaware.

As far as my own system is concerned, it's pretty basic and I'm able to get along using various timers to control the lighting and ATO. In a way I'm also guilty as charged though, since I have a VorTech pump which has it's own controller!