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Digital Aquatics ReefKeeper Elite vs Neptune Systems AquaController Apex

So I’m looking to purchase a controller and I was wondering what’s best out of these 3 controllers and differences between all of them. I would like to be able to link it to my cell phone and computer and be able to connect all other equipments like lights, chiller, temp and ext.
 
Digital Aquatics ReefKeeper Elite (Net) Controller


Digital Aquatics Rk Elite (Complete System W/Net)

The ReefKeeper Elite is true to its name, standing alone in the industry as the most innovative aquarium controller on the market. With the most intuitive interface and easy to use system controls, you'll find it will simplify all aspects of your aquarium system that it controls. There's also no need to find a power outlet near the head unit as there's no power cord needed; power is provided right from the bus. The compact and convenient design, multiple mounting options and great looks makes the ReefKeeper Elite right for almost any installation; and without any unsightly probe wires dangling about, the head unit will add a touch of class to any tank!

The ReefKeeper is the most expandable controller we know of, allowing the control of over 250 outlets. It has the capability of reading more probes and input devices than even the most demanding system will ever need. All this makes the RKE suitable for tanks from 1 to 10,000 gallons and beyond.

One of the biggest advantages of the RKE system is what it comes with! Other controllers leave you wanting and having to purchase add-ons just to get them to a usable level. The RKE system includes two PC4s; that's 8 outlets to control! You also get an SL1 that will allow you to monitor pH, ORP, temperature and two switches; not to mention a free temperature probe and pH probe. All this for hundreds of dollars less than other controllers that barely give you enough to get started.

Includes:
1 x ReefKeeper Elite Head Unit (GC1)
2 x RKM-PC4 (total of 8 outlets)
1 x RKM-SL1 (Inputs: pH, ORP, Temperature, 2 x Switch Ports)
1 x RKM-NET
1 x Temperature probe
1 x Digital Aquatics pH probe

Tech Specs:
Display: 128x64 Graphical w/RGB backlight
Backlight Colors: 30
Max Expansion: 63 Modules
Ethernet: Requires Optional RKM-NET module
Interface: 11 Button CapSense
Audible Feedback: Yes
Battery Backup: Yes
Data Logging: Yes
Data Graphing: Yes
Key Lock: Yes
Wavemaker: Yes
Sure-on Feature: Yes
Headunit Dimensions: 3.45" x 4.45" x 0.80"

Digital Aquatics ReefKeeper Elite (Plus) Controller

Digital Aquatics ReefKeeper Systems

With systems starting under $150 ReefKeeper control systems can handle tanks from 10-10000 gallons! Flexibility, expandability, style and function make Digital Aquatics controller a great addition to any tank!

The ReefKeeper Elite is true to its name, standing alone in the industry as the most innovative aquarium controller on the market. With the most intuitive interface and easy use system controls, you`ll find it will simplify all aspects of your aquarium system that it controls. There`s also no need to find a power outlet near the head unit as there`s no power cord needed; power is provided right from the bus. The compact and convenient design, multiple mounting options and great looks makes the ReefKeeper Elite right for almost any installation; and without any unsightly probe wires dangling about, the head unit will add a touch of class to any tank!

The ReefKeeper is the most expandable controller we know of, allowing the control of over 160 outlets. It has the capability of reading more probes and input devices than even the most demanding system will ever need. All this makes the RK Elite suitable for tanks from 1 to 10000 gallons and beyond.

One of the biggest advantages of the RK Elite system is what it comes with! With other controllers you`re left wanting and having to purchase add-ons just to get them to a usable level. The RK Elite system includes two PC4s; that`s 8 outlets to control! You also get an SL1 that will allow you to monitor pH, ORP, temperature and two micro switches. Not to mention a free temperature probe and pH probe. All this for hundreds of dollars less than other controllers that barely give you enough to get started.

System includes:
1 x ReefKeeper Elite Head Unit
1 x RKM-SL1 (pH, ORP, temperature, 2 micro switches)
2 x RKM-PC4 (total of 8 outlets)
1 x Programming Dongle
1 x pH Probe Kit
1 x Temperature Probe

Ethernet Capable
Because the ReefKeeper Elite is a modular system we have the ability to develop new features as time goes on. One feature that we`ve been defining is an Ethernet module that will allow users to take advantage of their home networks and the World Wide Web. Digital Aquatics is dedicated to producing quality products at great prices! This module is still under development and we`re working on every aspect of it to reduce cost to you and NOT compromise safety and functionality. More to come on this optional module.

Wireless Communication
While a USB connection for your ReefKeeper Elite is needed for updates to firmware, nobody wants an unsightly wire running from their ReefKeeper to their PC. This will offer a Zigbee like wireless network experience. While we`re not ready to release all the details, our wireless module will give you freedoms and abilities that other systems just can`t offer. More to come on this optional module.

Upgradeability
The RK Elite also has upgradeable firmware so your controller can grow with your system; and firmware updates are always free!

NEW - Advanced 11 button CapSense interface
By expanding from the traditional 3 button interfaces of the past we have given the user a more intuitive interface to navigate with. The RK Elite menu, programming, and viewing systems take full advantage of the new interface providing an all around easier experience.

NEW - 128 x 64 Graphical display (w/RGB backlight and 30 background colors)
The RK Elite utilizes a graphical display that allows us to display status icons, data graphs, and a variety of information in a way that has not been possible before.

NEW - More then 250 Programmable Channels
One of the highlights of the RK Elite system is its ability to control over 250 outlets. While most people will never need that many outlets, some will. Our goal is to be forward thinking and give your new system the freedom to grow.

Multiple Mounting Options
Like the RK1 and RK2 the RK Elite provides for multiple mounting options like flush mount and surface mount. While other controllers are big and awkward to mount needing unstable Velcro or unsightly restraints the RKE will add a touch of class to your system. Let face it, we all work hard to keep our tanks looking good and the RKE will be a great addition!

NEW - Home Screen (w/easy to read icons and data)
The new Home Screen provides you with quick information that is well laid out and easy to read. Icons provide you the current state of your system while you can quickly scroll through all the data for your tank with the touch of a button. Keeping tabs on your tank has never been easier!

Simple menu system for easy configuration
We`ve worked hard to try and make the interface as simple and intuitive as possible for the RK Elite. With the advantage of the new interface we`re able to really produce a one of a kind experience.

Night Mode - Independently Programmable
Our Night Mode feature allows the RK Elite to change depending on the time of day. In Night Mode the RK Elite can activate your Moon Light Controller, dim your display, transitioning your tank into a calm state.

NEW - 64 Alarms
With 64 alarms and an audible and visual alert you`ll know when any of your critical system parameters are out of range.

NEW - Data Logging
The RK Elite has onboard data logging for up to 32 probes/device with over 1000 data points each. NEW - Data Graphing
With our new graphical head unit comes the ability to really display historic data the right way. Our dynamic graphing will help you track the performance of your system over time allowing you to quickly see when and where things are happening.

Metal Halide control with "Sure-On"
Just like the RK1 and RK2 the RK Elite system will make sure your Metal Halide bulbs come back on after a power interruption. Sure-On is a 15 minute delay that gives these expensive and sensitive bulbs time to cool which insures safe, continuing usage over time.

NEW - Light Timer with Weekday/Weekend schedules and safety temp cut off
New to the light timer is the ability to set different lighting modes for weekdays and weekends. This gives you the option of setting a lighting cycle that caters to your viewing schedule as it changes throughout the week. You still have our safety cut off temp that will shut your lights down if your tank gets above some set point.

Moon Light Controller (optional)
With the optional MLC the RK Elite system can simulate a true lunar cycle. Read more on the RKM-MLC in that section.

NEW - Multi-timer function
The multi-timer is all new. You`re now able to stack up to four unique timers to create any on/off cycles you would like. This is great for dosing and other scheduled tasks that don`t happen on a regular interval or for creating your own special cycle based on your needs.

NEW - 64 Dedicated Timers
Ther are 64 advanced timers you can program, and with the Multi-timer you can mix and match them in any fashion you`d like to get even more complexed function.

NEW - 2 Standby/Feed/Service modes
The RK Elite also sports two user settable standby functions. This gives you the flexibility to configure multiple service modes for activities like feeding, water changes, and other maintenance.

Control Functions
The new "Controller" function can take any probe input and act on it with a user settable hysteresis. This includes pH, ORP, temperature and micro switches just for starters. You can also take action based on current draw or load on any PC4 and you`ll be able use any future probes that are added to the system!

Sumps/Skimmers pump control
You can program the sump pump and skimmer pump functions to be off in standby and even have a standby delay just to make sure your system doesn`t overflow or over skim food after a feeding.

Wavemaker A/B and C/D pump control
We`ve expanded our old wavemaker control to include a "D" mode. Now you can set up multiple pairs of power heads to get all the turbulent flow you need!

NEW - Top-off pump control
Use this setting to control a pump based on a micro switch for top-off and many other features.

NEW - Key Lock
Lock out unwanted and accidental usage of your RK Elite. With a simple lock, you can make sure the kids, your friends or anyone else doesn`t mess with your controller.

Battery Backup
The battery in the RK Elite is user serviceable. If it ever goes dead it can be replaced without the need for service.

NEW - Audible Feedback
Also new to the RK Elite is audible feedback. You can turn this feature on or off depending on your preference.

Splash-proof Faceplate
Wet fingers aren`t a problem with our full covering face plate.

Upgradeable Firmware
Like the RK2 before it the RK Elite has upgradeable firmware. This will help you maintain your investment over time and allow you it grow as we release more and more expandability!

Neptune Systems AquaController Apex Base Unit w/ Standard Grade pH Probe

Neptune Systems AquaController Apex System w/ pH Probe

Introducing the AquaController Apex. The professional equipment your reef deserves is now within reach.

System Includes:
1 - Apex Base Unit
1 - Apex Display
1 - EnergyBar 8 Power Strip
1 - Temperature Probe
1 - Standard Grade pH Probe
CONNECTIVITY
• Ethernet Interface
• Embedded Web Server
• Only controller with web browser Monitoring, Control & Configuration.
• Email Alarms
EXPANDABILITY
• Most expandable Controller (Up to 240 modules, hundreds of probes, and thousands of controlled outlets).
• Simple menu driven Configuration: No program language knowledge required.
ROBUST TIMERS
• Simulates sunrise/sunset
• Simulates moon cycle
• Wave Maker and Random timed cycles
• Built-in Variable speed pump control
• Still water feed mode (multiple modes)
ULTIMATE CONTROL
• Monitor/Control Temperature, pH, and ORP
• Digital Calibration on all probes
• Seasonal temp & lighting control
• Flexible Control Options

pH Probe
• Precision of +/- .01
• 10` coax cable
• Sealed Ag/AgCI reference.
• Standard BNC connector
 
I just purchased the Neptune Apex module. From everything I read they are very similiar and it really boils down to personal preferance on looks. The biggest reason however for why I chose the Apex module is Neptune systems is a local company and Curt has great customer service.
 
Curt has been very good on fast responses. I've had some more technical questions and he had a good and fast technical reply back. When two devices are very similar, and neither has a critical feature, customer service wins hands down.
 
I have the APEX as well and I can say that it's a great product. I only experienced a couple glitches with it but they were fixed by simply upgrading the firmware and now it runs flawlessly. I also agree that Curt's technical advice and customer service are exceptional. I've never dealt with the other companies so I can't comment on how they compare. But I've had a great experience with my APEX since I've been using it.
 
Do not buy the Digital Aquatics product. I have had nothing but problems with it since day one. After lots of troubleshooting it had been working solidly for a while until I needed to replace my probes.

Their customer service has totally gone into the toilet and all they seem to want to do is point fingers at other people for clearly a shortcoming in either their service and or product. If I could I would sell the whole thing but the loss on my investment would be significant.

Do i sound bitter?
 
Hehe Bryan, a scosh.

I had a similar problem with the RKE, I ended having it work fine out of the box however as soon as I started adding the software "patches" it got progressively worse and worse. I ended up finding out there was too much electrical noise in my basement, and they gave me the run around for a long LONG time, eventually I sold it for a loss, I think I sold it for $300 or so (minus one of the PC4s), haven't heard from the guy I sold it too so I assume it worked for him :D

That said, knowing what you want your controller to do is a good first step. As to what you listed however, I think any controller can do it in some way, even a used AC3 w/DC8 or something. Any controller will control what you want most likely, and many (including the AC3) have a web interface built into it, so that if you run a wire to a router you're good to go as far as internet connectivity, so as long as your cell phone can dial an IP address (webbrowser) you should be able to control and monitor your tank remotely, I'm not sure about how intensive cell phones go as far as web browsers (i.e. do they have java etc), but it's possible.
 
I have run an AC3 for a couple of years and can't imagine running a serious reef tank without one. I'd love to upgrade to an APEX, but at the moment don't have an immediate need.

Curt and Neptune have been fantastic.
 
Switching over to APEX eventually. Had 3 controllers, now down to 2.

AC2 - sent to buddy down south for him to do some home automation w/x10 units
RKE - sold to someone else down south for $100 (yes, I rather eat the loss on the unit than to bother with it any more)

AC Jr. - currently using and will phase out w/Apex.
 
Well I'm sorry Bryan I almost felt like getting you the Apex, but the wife said no.
8)
It looks like the Apex is the one for me. So what do you guys think I should get with it.
 
Curt is the man behind Neptune Systems. He's the man to talk to in regards to his controller :)
 
Ok so I have looked into apps for the driod if anyone has the driod here is a link of a guy that has been working on it and the apps he has created.
http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1824243
 
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