Profilux vs Apex

[cwatkins]

Originally Posted by Aquattro

For those using the full Apex, what can it NOT do?

I have read that the Apex can run and monitor multiple tanks (I.E. a main display tank and also a frag tank, etc), and you can even setup multiple displays (one per tank, etc). Just keep daisy-chaining your devices together with the USB (a.k.a. AquaBus).

Edit: Regardless of which Controller, as long as it's one of the top 3 (Apex/RKE/Profilux) and has network access, you can add a cool signature (see below)

[Aquattro]

Originally Posted by cwatkins

Edit: Regardless of which Controller, as long as it's one of the top 3 (Apex/RKE/Profilux) and has network access, you can add a cool signature (see below)

Yes, just read that thread

[StirCrazy]

I was just looking at the APEX.. for the price thats what I would buy. I like the proflux but think the prices of there products are a rip off.

Apex has internet/email warnings and embedded webpage controle out of the box. but doesn't have pump controls for dosing (the only thing I would want that it doesn't have) but there are stand alone units for stuff like that.

Steve

[Aquattro]

Originally Posted by StirCrazy

I was just looking at the APEX.. for the price thats what I would buy. I like the proflux but think the prices of there products are a rip off.

Apex has internet/email warnings and embedded webpage controle out of the box. but doesn't have pump controls for dosing (the only thing I would want that it doesn't have) but there are stand alone units for stuff like that.

Steve

Ya, I think that's my line of thinking also. And I don't need dosing, so all else being equal, the Profilux is sexier, but not something that would make me pay almost double.

[Jason McK]

Not a lot of Profilux supporters. Yes I have to admit that they are expensive (I got mine used)
I'll admit I know nothing about other controllers, but to point out some of the high lights of the Profilux unit
1) simple to use PC interface
2) Online Support Profilux Support Forum that is top notch
3) Unending expandability
4) 3rd party manufactures of lights, pumps, anything really have been integrated to be driven by Profilux

J

[Aquattro]

Originally Posted by Jason McK

Not a lot of Profilux supporters.

I'm not sure that's accurate. I support that it's a great product, and support has a good reputation. I would buy one today, BUT....for the basics to manage what I need comes in around $1400 after taxes. The Apex unit, which has a good reputation and good support as well, comes in at under $800 for the same functionality I require.
So far the only function the Apex apparently can't do(within my reqs) is create lightning effects...not something I desire on my setup.
Now if the Profilux was even close in price, I would buy it for sure, based on reputation, functionality and curb appeal. But for a difference of 600 bucks, I have to look at the Apex to fill my needs.

[Jason McK]

I just meant not a lot of the supports had posted in this thread. Then I noticed Tom and rjengen posts

[amoreira]

>So far the only function the Apex apparently can't do(within my reqs) is create lightning effects...not something I desire on my setup.

I've got an LED AquaIllumination system on order (Xmas present, drool, drool) and Apex has a module that will interface to the AI system. It does support weather events, clouds and lightning. Anyways, I don't think that's so important, as the moon cycles and sunrise/sunset simulations.

[Snappy]

I have a Profilux controller but have not taken the time to figure it all out yet. Although that said I personally find their instructions rather "user unfriendly" but I'm not a computer buff. I just use mine for dosing, ph & temp measurements at the moment but plan to expand in the near future. I'll take a look at the link Jason sent, maybe with some help I can start utilizing it better.

[cwatkins]

Originally Posted by StirCrazy

Apex has internet/email warnings and embedded webpage controle out of the box. but doesn't have pump controls for dosing (the only thing I would want that it doesn't have) but there are stand alone units for stuff like that.

For sure the Apex can handle dosing right out of the box. My brand new $339 Apex Lite was dosing just a few minutes ago! You just need to program your Alk and Calc outlets to dose for x minuts using whatever interval you desire.

The trick is that low wattage devices must use the "Relay" ports on the EB8 (which are plugs 4 and 8) instead of using the Triac plugs. An Energy Bar 8 has 6 triac and 2 relay plugs standard. If you use low wattage devices on a triac plug, it may not turn them off correctly, and this is an issue with triac technology not the Apex.

I'm really happy with my Apex so far and I only set it up on Tuesday. I'm about to setup a feed cycle to turn off my return pump and skimmer for 10 minutes while I feed. Additionally it controls my cooling fans based on water temperature.

Happy with it considering how little it cost.

P.S. I'm using it with two BRS dosers that I bought on Black Friday (and Randy's two-part).