Profilux vs Apex

Aquattro · #1 12-30-2010, 02:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by phi delt reefer

Rus - can you control the Tunze adjustable pumps directly with the APEX out of the box or do you need an additional module? This is the selling point for me - i can get mp10es' for $185 US shipped so if i am spending $400-$500 for two pumps and an add on module the APEX isnt as attractive as an option for me.

I was told that the full unit would do this out of the box with a simple additional cable (to control two pumps)

Rus · #2 12-30-2010, 02:59 PM

That is correct Brad. With my AQ3 I had to purchase the aquasurf module to do this.

phi delt reefer · #3 12-30-2010, 03:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rus

That is correct Brad. With my AQ3 I had to purchase the aquasurf module to do this.

do you guys know if you throw the korila controllable pumps on the apex controllable output made for the tunze?

tunze pumps are $210 - Koraila is like $30-$50

i am going to guess the answer is no but does anyone know why? any electrical experts know of a work around?

cwatkins · #4 12-30-2010, 05:53 PM

I just literally setup my new Apex (Lite) yesterday. It's smooth and easy to program and assemble.

I really like the web interface for setup and programming. The programming language is simple, and there are a ton of examples out there to use. The iPhone App is sweet as well. And the display head unit has the best look on the market I think if you're going to have it in an everyday visible area (mine is Velcro'ed to my hood).

I ordered the Lite regular priced for $339 USD as an Xmas present to myself from my wife

I will soon be adding the Vortech WXM module ($120) so that I can control my Vortechs. Then I'll be adding another vortech after that.

The Full Apex can control Tunze with the cables I believe. But because I don't use anything variable and have no interest in monitoring ORP, I decided to go for the cheaper Lite version (exact same but missing ORP and variable ports). Hopefully I don't kick myself for not getting variable ports if I ever go LED.

Cheers.

Aquattro · #5 12-30-2010, 05:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cwatkins

The Full Apex can control Tunze with the cables I believe. But because I don't use anything variable and have no interest in monitoring ORP, I decided to go for the cheaper Lite version (exact same but missing ORP and variable ports). Hopefully I don't kick myself for not getting variable ports if I ever go LED.

Cheers.

Since I have controllable Streams, I need the full version, although I can then sell my 7095 multi controller and that mostly pays the difference.

fencer · #6 12-31-2010, 09:45 PM

tunze right out of the box just need the cables
Calibrating ORP for apex is harder than the other units but it happens to be the correct way of doing it. wish Neptune would have internal self calibration.

amoreira · #7 12-31-2010, 10:11 PM

Wish the apex would connect to my Osmollator ATOF. Sometimes the feed pump would fail and I've no alarm for low level in the sump. I will make my next project to put in a level float contact for low level.

The Apex also has a wireless I/F to the Vortech MP40. I've that on my list too.

Snappy · #8 01-02-2011, 08:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by amoreira

Wish the apex would connect to my Osmollator ATOF. Sometimes the feed pump would fail and I've no alarm for low level in the sump. I will make my next project to put in a level float contact for low level.

In my opinion the Osmolator is really only reliable for smaller systems because it will only run for 10 minutes max and then shuts down with no reset. Once the 10 minute cycle ends & the light goes red & you need to reset it manually by unplugging it. A royal pain for a larger system, I only use mine as a back up unit.

amoreira · #9 01-02-2011, 07:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Snappy

In my opinion the Osmolator is really only reliable for smaller systems because it will only run for 10 minutes max and then shuts down with no reset. Once the 10 minute cycle ends & the light goes red & you need to reset it manually by unplugging it. A royal pain for a larger system, I only use mine as a back up unit.

Yeah, it's a pain in the rear end and the pump is not that reliable. I've had to replace 2 that burnt out. I also made the mistake of unplugging it 1 too many times from the plug in to the unit (not the wall) and it's loosely connected to the unit often failing to give it power.

I'm thinking of switching to s a simple float switch and a proper top off pump.

Snappy · #10 01-02-2011, 08:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by amoreira

Yeah, it's a pain in the rear end and the pump is not that reliable. I've had to replace 2 that burnt out. I also made the mistake of unplugging it 1 too many times from the plug in to the unit (not the wall) and it's loosely connected to the unit often failing to give it power.

I'm thinking of switching to s a simple float switch and a proper top off pump.

That's what I did except I just use an old powerhead to kickstart the flow after I empty my fresh water holding tank doing salt mix for a water change, once I get the flow running again I unplug the powerhead and just let it syphon through it, works quite well.
I don't remember the brand name but I bought from Marine Aquaria in Edmonton.