Current 28G NanoCube / Distant 180G Tank Build

[phi delt reefer]

Originally Posted by Blom

Oh I agree it is overkill for the initial setup. But I plan on running more than one tank in the long term. This will allow me to upgrade without additional controllers, yes I will need additional input devices such as probes and extra cabling. I have not looked into the all in ones since I had a aqua control jr, but I know there is more versatility in a custom PLC, I plan on having my water changes done automatically through the use of a series of holding tanks, salinity and temp probes and actuated valving. Based on a set time or trigger a water change will happen before your eyes. I'm even considering finding some sort of bulk material holder for the salt and a scale and actuated trap door setup. This is again all in my head at this point, but only a matter of time till it ends up on paper.

all of this can be done with the neptune system. their break out box module will help satisfy your inner geek . Just plug the actuator valve into the EB8 and set it on a timer or event (ie. mix when salinity is low or whatever) and it'll do its business. You can hook up 255 modules (citing from memory but its about that high) so its going to do everything you want. There really isnt anything to optimize by using a PLC. Reef tanks are complex but there is only so many things you need to monitor/control. I believe you can control multiple tanks from a single Neptune controller as long as you are within your 255 module limit.

be very careful in relying on a salinty probe to make decisions. They require constant recalibration and drift regularly.

I would instead have it so it fills a container to a set volume, gets the temp up and just dumps a pre-measured scoop of salt (maybe use a koi feeder) on trigger.


what ever you decide - keep us posted. Looking forward to the geeky nuts and bones of the system when its up and running.

[Blom]

Doug you can easily pass some of the blame on to Kevin as well. As for the trouble... I really cant see anything not going smoothly. Haha did I really just say that. Oh well.

Phi, you almost had me convinced there. I started looking at the apex controllers and you are right, very expandable. Up to 240 modules, hundreds of probes, and thousands of controlled outlets according to the manufactures website. I just did a quick calc of what I think I am going to need and the price quickly jumped over the thousand dollar mark. For that cost I believe I would rather do it all myself. Its the journey not the destination . But again I will have to look at the issues and costs with doing the PLC over the coming months. I will keep everyone in the loop.