DIY LED questions

[brizzo]

Neptune Jr + RapidLED Retrofit is a great solution.

I am very very happy with mine

[kien]

Do you need a controller with those LEDs? Couldn't you just put them on a timer for on/off cycle? No bells and whistles there :-)

[Wayne]

Originally Posted by kien

Do you need a controller with those LEDs? Couldn't you just put them on a timer for on/off cycle? No bells and whistles there :-)

I just noticed that the non-dimmable version mentions no controller and the dimmable version requires controller and 10V adaptor. So my next question is with the dimmable can you modify the colour/brightness? Will the Apex Jr allow sunrise/sunset?

[brizzo]

apex jr controller $230, apex vdm module $105

the vdm module has 4 variable outputs that use 0-10vdc. ie; you could control 2 or 3 led drivers and a tunze pump.

Yes you can create fading sunrise and sunset by defining a 'ramp profile' in the apex web interface. It uses a scripting language to define the logic of each port or outlet, it's really fun.

It all adds up, but at the end of the day a controller is a really nice luxury to have. Temp control (can do seasonal tables), feeding mode, ato, data logging, and one and on it goes.

[banditpowdercoat]

Ya, I LOVE my Apex!! And you can log in remotely, I can access via my phone in town, or when I'm in camp and check temps etc, It also emails alarms and txt them to you

[Wayne]

How does it compare to the Reef Keeper Lite?

[brizzo]

Originally Posted by Wayne

How does it compare to the Reef Keeper Lite?

Personally I don't think they are in the same league to compare.

There is also a major update being released for all apex controllers, which was announced at MACNA -- http://reefbuilders.com/2013/08/30/a...g-integration/

[Wayne]

What all is required to connect the Apex Jr to the LED's? Did you get the pwm version or the 1-10V analog?