Controller question

[Bblinks]

Originally Posted by Reef Pilot

I don't own a controller yet, but want to get one eventually. Not sure just what all they can do, but here is a situation that would be desirable for me.

Can you program these controllers, so that your skimmer comes on after a delay (eg 5 minutes, instead of immediately) after a power outage?

I live in the south Langley area, and we seem to have more power outages here than anyone else. Even this last little snowfall here, had a 2 hour power outage.

When the power goes out, my sump fills higher, as the display tank drains down a bit. That elevates the water level where my skimmer is, and when it first starts up, it will overflow the cup, because of the high water level. Once the return pump runs for a few minutes, everything is back to the correct levels (after my auto top off does it job, too).

Most of the times, I have been home to unplug my skimmer for a few minutes before the power comes on. But if I am not it will overflow.

Is this something that a controller can be programmed to handle?

You will be able to do it with profilux, I never tried with my apex cause I never had a need for it.

[sphelps]

You can put blackout delays on every device with profilux and set the time interval to whatever you want. This a standard feature and doesn't require any advanced programming, when you add a device simply type in a number in the blackout delay field. It's a good feature as well so everything doesn't turn back on at the same time which can cause breakers to trip.

[Reef Pilot]

Does the Apex have this capability, too?

[syncro]

Originally Posted by Reef Pilot

Does the Apex have this capability, too?

Yes, but will require a programming statement to do it (there isn't a blackout option you can click).

[Bblinks]

Originally Posted by syncro

Yes, but will require a programming statement to do it (there isn't a blackout option you can click).

By the way, the original apex guide that comes with the controller is not very straight forward but you can download another instruction guide below which helped me tremendously. http://reeftech.webs.com/Apex%20New%20User%20Guide.pdf

All apex user must check this unofficial guide out.

[Reef Pilot]

And if I could get a controller that would ensure all my pumps always restarted (one of my Mag pumps doesn't sometimes) after a power outage, then I would be really impressed...

[Parker]

Originally Posted by Reef Pilot

And if I could get a controller that would ensure all my pumps always restarted (one of my Mag pumps doesn't sometimes) after a power outage, then I would be really impressed...

I don't believe the Apex can do that natively, but you could probably find a way to monitor the amp draw or at least monitor the amp draw via one of the phone aps.

[sphelps]

Originally Posted by Reef Pilot

And if I could get a controller that would ensure all my pumps always restarted (one of my Mag pumps doesn't sometimes) after a power outage, then I would be really impressed...

A couple ways, if it's s sump pump a float switch could be used with some simple logic to insure it turns back on after power outage, if it does not it can set alarm and send email. I believe you can also get current sensing power bars for a price that should be able to determine whether a pump is running properly or not. There's also many options for digital inputs but I don't know that much about it but realistically you could do it you wanted but it might be cheaper to buy better pumps .

You can also get notifications after power outages by email/text message and then check you system through web access, provided you have it all setup. Remote access would also allow you to turn off and on pumps to attempt remote restart.

[BigAl07]

For those who are quoting pricing for ProfiLux etc you may want to revisit some website to verify pricing. So far most all of the prices I've seen quoted are "Fat" to say the leas especially on the "Package" prices etc.

One other thing to consider... most of the packages for ProfiLux other than the basic beginner package come with a helping of probes, sensors, and powerbars. If you start looking in the $1600 range (as previously noted) you're doing a lot more than "just getting started" with your controller. For that kind of money you're probably talking 18 outlets, ATO control, Salinity, Orp, pH, Temp and a whole lot more.

[syncro]

Another useful link for Apex users: this site will notify you if you have an extended power outage (since your controller, router and cable modem will probably be out as well):

http://www.reeftronics.net/