Quote:
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Originally Posted by ksarauer
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Having a webserver is a huge step in controllers. Neptune still charges way too much for how restrictive their features are. (IE: only 4 inputs & 4 dedicated outputs) It's not a platform for true automation & reef intelligence but instead just an expensive data logger & wavemaker/timer with limited controlling functionallity.
Gotta plug the opensource DIY solution I'm working on.
The
Wireless
Recycled
Reef
Controller (WRRC)
www.bytality.com/wrrc/
Built from a linksys wireless WRT54g router with 1-wire sensors (Industry standard I/O devices commonly used in weather monitoring stations). Opensouce software completely runs the unit.
Features:
-Builtin Webserver
-
**Wireless** "G" access (or wired networking also)
-Telnet server
-Statistical tank parameter data logging
-Standard serial interface
-x10 capable w/serial controller
-You can also add an LCD of up to 80 chars for display of current data.
Monitor & Control:
-basically anything you want
-Temp
-pH
-ORP (under development)
-Conductivity (planned)
-unlimited # of "1-wire" inputs (Ex: thermometers, probes, level sensors, alarms)
-unlimited # of "1-wire" outputs (Ex: Relay control of nearly anything)
-built on a stable linux platform
-Linux shell scripting language can access all I/O & data on unit
-Completely custom schedules, alarms, and actions w/shell scripts
-email or txt message event notification
This baby will have the power to truly "control" an aquarium. You'll be able to build scripts to take "evasive actions" when disasters strike BEFORE you notice the problem and it's too late. I also don't think mostly automated water chages w/premixed SW are too far off with this thing either.
I haven't been able to fully focus on this project yet b/c my goal has been to get the 75G up and running. Dispite that, there's been some really good progress and I don't intend to quit with this project until I have a controller. You don't need to know hardcore PCL & IC chip electronics to build this controller as most DIY solutions. It's meant to be for the less electronically-genius'ed DIYer with basic soldering skills and at least a bit of programming if you want it custom. If you don't know any programming, I'm also going to try and work on a basic pre-built fuctionality so you don't need to look at much/any code.
Biggest difference between WRRC & ACIII: Mine is a DIY solution for someone with some basic computer knowledge, a desire to learn & truly automate their reef "chores" whereas the ACIII is for someone with too much money to burn.
[b]VERY rough Estimated DIY cost of WRRC:[/u]
WRT54g router (aka the "brains") = $60
PH/ORP probes = $75
1-wire interface = $60
misc. 1-wire parts/sensors = $30
x10 controller (optional) = $25
80 Char backlit LCD display & controller (optional) = $30
Way more functionallity/flexability = Free
Est Base Total :$280
That's just a rough guess cost somewhat overestimated to be safe. You can build the 1-wire interface from components yourself for less if you have the soldering skills, and there's lots of ways to spend more/less depending on what you want. Heck, the manufacture of 1-wire chips will even send you free sample sensor units to "test". Compare that to the closest featured ACIII Pro:
ACIII Pro:
Base ACIII Unit = $799
PH/ORP probes pkg = $99
x10 controller pkg = $72
Aquanotes/cable pkg = $152
Base total: $1083 (special pkg pricing saves ~$40 from above costs)
I rest my case
(no intention of bashing, I'm just eager to see some results, lol)
