reef keeper 2

Pescador · #1 03-25-2009, 07:41 PM

Sure I'll try to give it a shot.
First I guess you have to update your firmware to 2.5 if you haven't already and run the driver file.
http://www.forum.digitalaquatics.com....php?f=37&t=33
You have to use the serial adapter and the 3' cord that was included with your RK2.

Then I used the splitter from DA so you can use the serial connection and the temp probe at the same time.
It looks the same as a regular RJ12 splitter buts it's wired differently.
If by chance your computer is within 50 feet of your RK2 you can hardwire it with a data cord.

Mine was too far so I used the IOGear serial to Bluetooth adapter from Dell.

There are a few threads on RC using the same one so that's the one I used.
My computer already had a Logitech mouse and keyboard and it worked fine with the adapter.

If your still game at this point, I have to know if you have a router what kind it is and who your ISP is. I'm on Shaw and they use a Dynamic IP which changes occasionally so you would lose your connection. To get around that there is a free service that lets you create a domain name so you can run the server without having a static IP.
This page explains some of the setup.(It looks more complicated than it is)

After that it's just setting up your router and software. If I haven't scared you off yet.
End of part 1

Note: Make sure the myreef software runs ok on your PC. Check that you can enter info into the file and email fields on the setup page. The PC I was originally going to use would not work properly.

digital-audiophile · #2 03-25-2009, 07:45 PM

That does not seem to bad. I was really baffled as what to use to get the RK2 to communicate with my computer. I've a wireless network set up as my Modem is on the main floor, my PC is on the top floor and my xbox is in the basement

I am on Shaw so I guess I would have the same issue.

One question I just thought of.. when I hook up the bluetooth can I flash the RK2 wireless or do I need to plug into my PC.. I am sure I can but better to ask than assume.

Pescador · #3 03-25-2009, 08:05 PM

I was wondering that myself but DA says you have to use the short cord and nothing longer for the flash so I assumed you couldn't use the Bluetooth. I'm not sure if you could get a connection until the firmware is updated. There are a few threads on RC I have bookmarked I'll see if I can find out.

digital-audiophile · #4 03-25-2009, 08:08 PM

hmm I'll have to do some hunting myself. I really should have thought about the firmware upgrade before I installed the unit. I can do it with the cord, it's just a pain as I would have to unplug all the gear, enscrew the head unit and powerbar from the wall and run and do the upgrade while everything is down are plug everything into a temp powerbar.

Maybe I am just being lazy LOL

Pescador · #5 03-25-2009, 08:26 PM

I asked the question on the DA forum I'm curious myself.
I moved my old PC to the to flash the RK2 it was easier to move than the controller. It was the one I was going to use to run myreef so it was in the fishroom anyway. I just couldn't get it to work so I had to go the Bluetooth route to a different PC.

But who knew you could run Windows XP on a 486 with 128m of ram.

Pescador · #6 03-26-2009, 12:10 AM

From DA

Quote:

We do not support updating over anything other than the 3' cable that comes with the RK2. If the load fails you will need to send in the unit for service.

digital-audiophile · #7 03-26-2009, 01:10 AM

Good to know. Weekend project for me.. at least to upgrade the firmware.