Thoughts on AquaController 3?

ScubaTC · 04-09-2007, 07:52 PM

I'm thinking about getting an AC3 and wondering if anyone is using one in the club and how they like it.

Does the AC3 or Pro come with the basic set of probes (ph, temp, orp) or do you have to buy them separately? If separate, this raises the cost substantially! It looks like they are not included, but some provide the temp probe on the AC3.

The Pro can also measure conductivity and DO. I read on "the other forum" a thread indicating some users were having big problems with this probe. I want to measure salinity while out of town to ensure nothing is going wrong with the skimmer / auto-top off.

In addition to the primary functions of a decent controller, one key feature I want is the ability to upload data to a web server, which the AC3 can do.

Thanks!

Lageo04 · 04-09-2007, 09:08 PM

The AC3 is the only controller I've owned so I have no way to compare to any other brand. I'm totally happy with it. There's so many different ways to buy the unit as far as accessories.
When I got mine I purchased the controller plus, Ph probe, orp probe, and Direct connect 8. It comes with temp probe. I also purchased the software Aqua Notes.
You can do some much as far as programming. It pretty much takes care of everything and I've got mine set to text message my cell phone if something goes a muck. I can then just use any computer that's handy and access thru a webpage and change program or turn things on or off.
You won't be sorry with this controller. Pretty pricey but worth it.

ScubaTC · 04-09-2007, 09:24 PM

Thanks for the info.

Have you ever used or considered the conductivity probe?

Are you running MHs on the DC8? If so, how many and what wattage? My dual 400 watt PFO is running off a 15amp breaker without any problems. Was thinking I may not need a DC4 20amp since I don't have a chiller or anything right now running off more than 15 amp breakers.

ScubaTC · 04-09-2007, 10:10 PM

Just came across this, very interesting....
http://thereeftank.com/forums/showthread.php?t=49500

Site: http://www.bytality.com/wrrc/

I would like to find out more about the 1-wire sensors mentioned and the interface needed to connect and "read" data from the various probes we use. If an inexpensive interface is available, this could be a nice project to create a web-enabled .NET application to use as a reef contoller.

ScubaTC · 04-09-2007, 11:17 PM

Hmm, making a little progress with the research:

.NET SDK for 1-wire devices
http://www.maxim-ic.com/products/ibu...are/windowsdk/

Also found a few sites that sell 1-wire interfaces for RS232 serial and ethernet (http support).

I need to find some info on interfacing with standard BNC probes.

Just thinking out loud. Hold off on the AC3. I'll go back to my research and be quiet for now.

Ocnreef · 04-10-2007, 08:13 AM

This site might help you decide........I went with the AC3 but I am still waiting for it to ship so I can not comment on the use yet. If you want to measure salinity, you'll have to go with the PRO.

Hope this site helps.

http://www.aquariumcontrollers.com/

ScubaTC · 04-10-2007, 08:41 AM

Thanks, I looked over that spreadsheet as well. Lots of good info for comparisons!