HIGH END Controller

[tcmike64]

I have a few questions regarding controllers. I have been trying to do a lot of research on this, as I am coming from a computer background. Anyone know of a high end controller that can be hooked up and programmed from a computer interface. I'm trying to figure out the best way to go about setting up a fully automated system that can be used through a computer, any and all help is much appreciated. And if anyone would be interested in testing this out I would love to work with you. thanks

 

[Hitsnorth]

The aquacontroller II has a programming language in it and has an rs-232 interface. I believe the RK II also has the interface but they havent published an API to interact with it other then through their software.

http://www.aquariumcontrollers.com/ has a list of all the controllers and their websites.

 

[Deanos]

Aquarium Controller Comparison

 

[cali_reef]

:lol2: Dean is off by a minuet

 

[Hitsnorth]

yeah hes slipping!

 

[PalmTree]

wow that is some chart!!!

 

[PalmTree]

I have the Reef Keeper II and I love it. It does not have an option in which you can control your settings from a computer though. The firmware is periodically updated and you can upgrade it using the supplied serial cable.

 

[Hitsnorth]

You might want to check out this project:
http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=484912&perpage=25&pagenumber=1

 

[Wes]

i think this is one is about as high end as it gets at the moment...A computer guy would really get excited over this i imagine.

http://elosusa.com/

Biotopus II is a new idea: the application of a new echnology.

Elegant and flexible, it uses the latest technology available to provide a new concept in aquarium automation. Unlike other products on the market, the ELOS Biotopus II is the only open-source open-source aquarium computer available.

Besides the standard features such as monitoring and controlling the following: PH, Temperature, Redox, Conductivity, Salinity, Light timers, Light Intensity (Dimmer control), Heaters, Chillers, Moon lights and phases, Circulation pumps, Dosing pumps, the Biotopus II also allows the control of a further 10 auxiliary devices connected to the controller and allows remote user control via GSM and SMS messaging from your cell phone. (photo)

The controller has an easy to read 4 line graphic LCD display, (photo) a serial port to connect the controller to a personal computer or cell phone, an infra-red sensor and DX-1 port to allow control of a further 512 devices or appliances using standard home automation technology.(photo)

The BIOLINK SMS module will add complete remote monitoring and management capability through SMS messaging on your cell phone.


HIGHLIGHTS

Reproduction of the natural biotope conditions of any part of the world
43 programmable events
Alarm notification via SMS, phone or fax
Remote monitoring and programming via SMS messaging
Infra red port
12 programmable power outlets, expandable to 512
Direct connectivity to PH, Redox, Temperature, Water level and Light probes
Direct connectivity to dimmable ballasts for dawn and dusk effects
Serial PC Interface
Lunar phases
Easy setup program
Temperature probe included

OPTIONALS:

Biolink SMS: Remote management via a GMS cell phone
Multiplug: Controllable power strips. Up to 2 power strips, each having 6 individually controllable outlets can be connected directly to the controller(photo)
PH Probes: 2 separate PH probes can be connected to the controller
Redox Probe
Currently in development:

DX1 Module: Remote management of other home automation devices (not necessarily related to the aquarium)

New release:


Multiplug 2: Second multiplug for the control of dosing pumps, circulation pumps and home automation timers
Conductivity probe
Professional conductivity module: allows direct readings for conductivity, density and salinity
Lux probe: probe to monitor the lumen output of the system

Available versions:

BIOTOPUS II CONTROL: Includes Multiplug (5 outlets + Osmocontroller)
BIOTOPUS II KIT SMS: Includes Multiplug (5 outlets + Osmocontroller) + BIOLINK SMS and free PH probe

 

[PVsPlayhouse]

[FONT=Arial,sans-serif]I have the two and I hook it right into my computer. The III you can hook right to your computer and it has a nice interface so you can control it anywhere you can get your hands on a computer. My friend used it to mess with his wife by turning on and off his lights when he was at works.[/FONT] :scratchch

The aquacontroller II has a programming language in it and has an rs-232 interface. I believe the RK II also has the interface but they havent published an API to interact with it other then through their software.

http://www.aquariumcontrollers.com/ has a list of all the controllers and their websites.

 

[lfsmarineguy]

There is a new company I have been in talks with as a possible supplier maybe even distributor for the northeast. They come from a robotics background and have developed a full spectrum system that can monitor all levels (alk, temp, water level, orp, etc..) from your computer, from my computer(as a service provider) and by their computer (kind of like ADT alarms). They can send us alerts should anything happen (say a spike in PH that could be deadly or a severe drop in water level like a leak at any time of day). They can log tank trends and even control such things as a water change or top off or feedings remotely if the system is setup for it.

 

[Tonyscoots84]

There is a new company I have been in talks with as a possible supplier maybe even distributor for the northeast. They come from a robotics background and have developed a full spectrum system that can monitor all levels (alk, temp, water level, orp, etc..) from your computer, from my computer(as a service provider) and by their computer (kind of like ADT alarms). They can send us alerts should anything happen (say a spike in PH that could be deadly or a severe drop in water level like a leak at any time of day). They can log tank trends and even control such things as a water change or top off or feedings remotely if the system is setup for it.

for only 39.99 a month :lol2: sounds like a good idea....

 

[PVsPlayhouse]

One of my friends just got a new one that is really good. Im going to try and get him to reply to this thread.
PV

 

[Irisservice]

I'm using the aquatronica now.
I have had the Aquacontroller 2 and Aquacontroller 3pro... honestly all three are great, just depends on the features you want.
I went with the aquatronica because of it module interface..

http://www.aquatronica.com/