Now that the powerbuy is out of the way, I can share my experiences with both units.

The RK2 has the following pluses in my book:

It is metal powdercoated rather than a plastic box. It has a sturdier feel.
It is much easier to program the RK2 from the head unit and ultimately easier to use
Even compared to the new fresh looking AC units it is prettier to me
The head unit is a bit smaller and easier to mount
The head unit only has one cable coming from it also making it easier to mount
The head unit has mounting brackets built in so you can screw it to whatever you like as opposed to using velcro or creating a container to mount the head unitThe AC (and this is in general for the ACJr and AC3):

Programming rather than static channels. This allows a single channel to work with multiple conditions. A channel can be shut off via temperature, pH, a timer and can oscilate all at the same time. As opposed to a channel only having one function. Also, you can set feed mode on any channel you like rather than on a select few. The unit is just much more flexible which of course adds to its difficulty
The ACJr can control 12 devices versus 8 on the RK2 and the AC3 can control 24
The processing is in the head unit seperate from the power distribution block so there is no interference with power supply into the temp, ph and such. If you don't have a noisy ballast this won't be a problem, but you likely won't know that until you have a problem.
Rebooting the head unit doesn't effect the power supply to your system. On both units, I have run into occasions where a reset of the head unit corrected a problem. On the RK2, that means everything shuts off and back on. On the AC system, only the head unit reboots.
Digital input so you can monitor float switches, water sensors, etc.
Each interface is seperated so you don't need a special splitter and you don't have the headaches associated with such
When plugged into a PC, noise from regulated DC power supplies i.e. laptops won't cause problems with the temperature as they seem to be on seperate insulated circuits
True data logging support. If you don't have the controller plugged in at all times, it will still log data for quite a while in most cases well over two weeks.
Ability to vary temp and day lighting seasonally
Moon cycle simulation
Ability to produce random effects such as wave making and even random lighting changes
pH probe temperature compensation
Password protection
True telnet interface so you can view AC data via any standard telnet program including the one that ships with Windows and you can turn ports on/off via this interface
AquaNotes expands the functionality by adding webserver, email alarms and the ability to configure your unit from a PC.
You can save off your programming between firmware updates. Huge pain to setup every channel every time a new firm ware comes out.
You can give channels 3 character names versus having to know what Channel1 is
Larger more stable company so support isn't a big issue. I waited several weeks to get a new unit when mine was having trouble as DA had none in stock
Curt (the owner) often picks up the phone when you call Neptune. I like Scott at DA, but I don't know who the president is over there. Curt knows his units forwards and backwards as he helped design/program them and ultimately is responsible for the company. I have dealt with Curt on some highly technical material and I can tell you he is very sharp.
Expandablity. The memory in the Neptune systems is much greater than the DA units so new firmware patches can do more in the future. This is particularly helpful in the programming department as the AC can get new programming commands added via firmware and that usually takes more memory
Expansion modules. Right now it is limited to the LunarSim, but in the works is a Tunze Stream controller so you can control wave functions timed with lighting and such right from your AC. The AC systems use a daisy chaining system so the head units plugs to A which plugs to B which plugs to C so you can daisy chain a variety of equipment together. DA doesn't have anything like this... yet.Some people tout cost. If you are looking for a bare bones setup, you can get a cheaper AC unit. If you want to do a PC interface, they are pretty close in cost. About $290 buys you a black backlit ACJr, $270 for the older blue style. Around $330 for a system that has a serial interface with cable. Same system from DA will run $320 and another $10 for the splitter without a long cable which is $5-$10 at Lowes. Configuring the PC interface for the RK2 can be a bit tricky and the PC software for the RK2 does not allow you to adjust programming and likely never will. So if looks aren't a big deal to you and you don't need a serial interface, you can save about $50. $30 if you want something a bit sleeker. Pretty comparable once you move into the PC interface, but again as of now AC has far more functional software.

I really like my AC3 which is far superior to the current RK2, but it does cost more. From my experience with the RK2, had I to buy a new unit today I would buy an ACJr or AC3 as I prefer the flexibility but I cannot fault anyone wanting a nicer looking head unit that is easy to program. I will say if you plan on connecting this to your PC, it is hard to pass on the AC line of controllers.

Ohh and let the flaming begin... if you find this useful help a fellow out and post some rep points. Do you really want Brandon to have the highest rep on the boards? Lets hope not. A rep vote for me is a vote against reefkeeping insanity.

Agreed, my next unit will be a AC. But the RKII is better then no unit! ;) I love just having a unit!

I love just having a unit!


...keep away from the stupid jokes lee...dont say anything.....AHHHH its killing me! lol, anyways thanks again Cameron for writing up this review I cant put any useful information to this seeing how I dont have any of these units but it does make for easy shopping once I'm in the market for one. Thanks again man.

So the RK2 looks better and is basically programming for Dummies,And the AC Jr./3 is what you need if you need some serious control over your aquarium.Makes sense to me which one im going to buy for my 500.Thanks for the write up Cameron.

Now what if your a Dummy(like me) but want to buy the AC JR. is it that hard to setup to where I would need to constantly be calling in for support,or once you got the commands down it becomes fairly simple?

Will the RK2 not turn channels off or on when ph and temp are +/- set points?

Also if you travelled 90% of the time with your job .which controller would you use so that your wife/gf could be able to monitor or make changes if for whatever reason I needed her to while im out of town.

Oh Ya... +1 rep point for Cameron. I have to help him catch back up to me. Consider it a Rep point for charity!

Will the RK2 not turn channels off or on when ph and temp are +/- set points?

Yes, it will control based on either temp or pH. Cameron's point was that individual channels can be controlled via temp and pH at the same time.

Excellent write up Cameron! I love my RKII, but I have a feeling I'll be buying an AC unit in several years when I'm out of school and can afford a big tank.

Anyone upgrading from a RK2 and wants to sell it PM me.

I would like the Rk2 to have more channels but other than that I believe it works very well for most reefers. I am setting up a new tank and would like to buy another one. It seems that there are some upgrades going so there should be some available.

Now what if your a Dummy(like me) but want to buy the AC JR. is it that hard to setup to where I would need to constantly be calling in for support,or once you got the commands down it becomes fairly simple?Here is the programming for my AC3 currently:

If Time > 08:00 Then LT1 ON
If Time > 21:00 Then LT1 OFF
If Time > 08:30 Then LT2 ON
If Time > 20:30 Then LT2 OFF
If Time > 09:00 Then LT3 ON
If Time > 20:00 Then LT3 OFF
If Temp < 78.0 Then HT1 ON
If Temp > 78.4 Then HT1 OFF
If Temp < 78.0 Then HT2 ON
If Temp > 78.4 Then HT2 OFF
If Temp < 78.5 Then FAN OFF
If Temp > 78.8 Then FAN ON
If Temp < 78.5 Then COL OFF
If Temp > 80.0 Then COL ON
If FeedA 000 Then PM1 OFF
If FeedA 000 Then PM2 OFF
If FeedA 000 Then PM3 OFF
OSC 020/120 ON/OFF Then PM4 ON
If Time > 00:00 Then ALM OFF
If pH > 08.50 Then ALM ON
If pH < 07.70 Then ALM ON
If ORP > 450 Then ALM ON
If ORP < 300 Then ALM ON
If Temp < 75.0 Then ALM ON
If Temp > 81.0 Then ALM ON

Typing that into the head unit of the AC isn't easy, but the free version of Aquanotes lets you type it into your PC and upload it to the controller. The code itself is pretty easy and I don't think you will need to call support at all.

Will the RK2 not turn channels off or on when ph and temp are +/- set points?Yes, but the RK2 has been buggy in the past with the pH port. 2.3 firmware is supposed to fix that, but historically the DA controllers have had ports stuck on/off when they shouldn't be. I wouldn't but a reactor on a controller for example as it might nuke my tank due to a programming error or a bug in the unit.

Also if you travelled 90% of the time with your job .which controller would you use so that your wife/gf could be able to monitor or make changes if for whatever reason I needed her to while im out of town.Without a doubt the AC3. You can control the unit remotely without the need for a PC. It has a built in webserver and email alarms. You plug the AC3 controller right into your home network via ethernet. You can turn on/off channels, change programming, check the status of your pH/temp/etc and you can even have multiple probes on one controller with an expansion box so you don't need multiple controllers for multiple tanks all through an internet browser including your phone.

The AC3 unit is just a huge upgrade from the ACJr and ReefKeeper2 in functionality. I liked my RK2 (except for the strange problems I had with it and a ballast), but I love my AC3.

Yes, it will control based on either temp or pH. Cameron's point was that individual channels can be controlled via temp and pH at the same time.Also something like the Multi-Timer mode can't be put into the feed mode or can't be controlled via pH. You are just locked into a channel based on the channel type which can be very limitiing.

Anyone upgrading from a RK2 and wants to sell it PM me.

I would like the Rk2 to have more channels but other than that I believe it works very well for most reefers. I am setting up a new tank and would like to buy another one. It seems that there are some upgrades going so there should be some available.I liked my RK2 unit and like the simple easy setup which can be very appealing. The AC system is a good system as well with more in it, but that does come at the price of an easier setup. One is pretty and easy the other is more functional.

If you plan on hooking a controller to a computer, I think the AC system is just significantly better and likely always will be until RK3 as the RK2 is at its limit for what it can do connectivity wise. Also the cost savings of an AC system is something to look at as well.

The AC3 is just in another league. Other than calibrating my probe and setting up the ethernet interace, I have never touched the menus of the head unit. I do everything via the web interface which is just too cool.

For me, the decider was the durability and ease of use in favor of the RK2. I have extra comps (laptops even) that I intend to use for data logging, so perma-connection, even in a power outage, isn't an issue. I am rather unforgiving to equipment and thus am willing to trade some functionality for durability and engineering.

Programming control would be nifty, though I'm not sure how much time I'd ultimately devote to all the bells and whistles. The RK2 does what I need it to do, minus a few things that only a step up to an AC3 would get.

If it had been in the budget, an AC3 would be king, though. I completely agree it's a slam dunk, but, configured with the necessary parts, it comes in around 2x the cost which isn't in my budget.

The AC3 is just in another league. Other than calibrating my probe and setting up the ethernet interace, I have never touched the menus of the head unit. I do everything via the web interface which is just too cool.

I didn't know you could do all that with the AC3. That's just freakin' awesome!!! :up: If we ever have a power buy on AC's, I'll buy one and sell my RKII.

For me, the decider was the durability and ease of use in favor of the RK2. I have extra comps (laptops even) that I intend to use for data logging, so perma-connection, even in a power outage, isn't an issue. I am rather unforgiving to equipment and thus am willing to trade some functionality for durability and engineering.Not sure where you get the durability factor from. I have found the AC to actually be less error prone and a better design than the RK2. The only difference is plastic versus metal, but around saltwater I don't think I would list a metal component as being more durable. I think if you were rough with either one they would probably stop working at about the same time.

Few RK2 users I know have been able to actually run the data logging on a laptop. Some desktop PCs have the problem as well. The regulated DC power supplies of the laptop and some PCs tend to introduce noise on the line of the serial interface. This causes the temp reading to get screwy as they share the same circuit. I think Big D went through a couple computers before his worked properly and I handled probably 20+ support emails with this problem. Brandon has a really strange problem as well. When certain channels are on the DA software won't even register a reading even though the control panel is fine. He is using the exact setup with the exact wiring I was using so noise is getting onto the line somewhere and screwing with the logging.

I liked my RK2 unit and like the simple easy setup which can be very appealing. The AC system is a good system as well with more in it, but that does come at the price of an easier setup. One is pretty and easy the other is more functional.

If you plan on hooking a controller to a computer, I think the AC system is just significantly better and likely always will be until RK3 as the RK2 is at its limit for what it can do connectivity wise. Also the cost savings of an AC system is something to look at as well.

The AC3 is just in another league. Other than calibrating my probe and setting up the ethernet interace, I have never touched the menus of the head unit. I do everything via the web interface which is just too cool.

I guess I just like simple and easy. As stated I have several old laptops to dedicate to the data loging.

I am not sure where any cost savings would come with the AC. Equipped equaly I beleve you even stated the cost is very close. I am not a programer and I know the language is not that tough but the RK2 is much easier to setup/use.

I am just waiting for the interface that will allow you to login to your controler and make changes from the web using a GUI interface. Now that will be a controler!

I guess I just like simple and easy. As stated I have several old laptops to dedicate to the data loging.I would list the AC as easy as well. Both are pretty easy to get to do what you want to do. The RK2 is easier however, but ultimately limiting. Oddly the AC could be easier and I am working on that.

I am not sure where any cost savings would come with the AC. Equipped equaly I beleve you even stated the cost is very close. I am not a programer and I know the language is not that tough but the RK2 is much easier to setup/use. If you don't use the PC interface there is a clear cost difference. Cost only equalizes when you factor in the hookup to the PC and then I think the AC trumps the RK2 since its PC software is far superior in function and ultimately what can be done with it down the road.

I am just waiting for the interface that will allow you to login to your controler and make changes from the web using a GUI interface. Now that will be a controler!AC3 can already do it. I can change my programming any time I like and do right now straight from my PC using a browser. I can change my settings remotely from any browser and I don't need a PC from home to do it with the AC3. If I have an ACJr and buy the full version of Aquanotes you gain that ability as well, but need a PC at home to make it work.

Seriously, I liked my RK2 unit but the AC systems have a lot more capability.

I am hopeful that the new software coming from Neptune will have GUI wizards to automate a lot of this as well and lets just say I have good reason to be hopeful.

This causes the temp reading to get screwy as they share the same circuit
...
He is using the exact setup with the exact wiring I was using so noise is getting onto the line somewhere and screwing with the logging.
I believe I've solved this problem. I have to do a bit more testing, however.

If you use a filter or something to fix it, post this on the ReefCentral forums as A LOT of people have been looking for this solution. Oddly for some it comes and goes. Brandon's problem didn't make any sense to me considering the exact same setup with the exact same equipment produced a different result.

Ya my problems with the RKII are weird... I thought at first it was an ESO error (Equipment Smarter the Opperator) but once I had Cameron look at the data, it is just screwed up numbers.

Not sure where you get the durability factor from. I have found the AC to actually be less error prone and a better design than the RK2. The only difference is plastic versus metal, but around saltwater I don't think I would list a metal component as being more durable. I think if you were rough with either one they would probably stop working at about the same time.

Few RK2 users I know have been able to actually run the data logging on a laptop. Some desktop PCs have the problem as well. The regulated DC power supplies of the laptop and some PCs tend to introduce noise on the line of the serial interface. This causes the temp reading to get screwy as they share the same circuit. I think Big D went through a couple computers before his worked properly and I handled probably 20+ support emails with this problem. Brandon has a really strange problem as well. When certain channels are on the DA software won't even register a reading even though the control panel is fine. He is using the exact setup with the exact wiring I was using so noise is getting onto the line somewhere and screwing with the logging.

With my experence with laptops the regulated powersupplies do not generate "noise" this usualy is induced on the data cable from another device (ballast, fan, etc) If you use a shielded cable this problem goes away. I uses the cable that came with the RK2 and a sheilded serial cable. I ran it on 2 laptops with out any issues.

Well having heard this I still say I love my RKII and if anyone would like to sell theirs then please let me know because I will be needing another one soon. Thanks.

I would list the AC as easy as well. Both are pretty easy to get to do what you want to do. The RK2 is easier however, but ultimately limiting. Oddly the AC could be easier and I am working on that.

If you don't use the PC interface there is a clear cost difference. Cost only equalizes when you factor in the hookup to the PC and then I think the AC trumps the RK2 since its PC software is far superior in function and ultimately what can be done with it down the road.

AC3 can already do it. I can change my programming any time I like and do right now straight from my PC using a browser. I can change my settings remotely from any browser and I don't need a PC from home to do it with the AC3. If I have an ACJr and buy the full version of Aquanotes you gain that ability as well, but need a PC at home to make it work.

Seriously, I liked my RK2 unit but the AC systems have a lot more capability.

I am hopeful that the new software coming from Neptune will have GUI wizards to automate a lot of this as well and lets just say I have good reason to be hopeful.

At this point I think the game is on between Digital Aquatics and Neptune. It will be interesting who comes out the victor. As you stated it is unknown who is the President of DA, I do not believe there is one at this time since it was purchased by a much larger company. I have been told this person is unhappy with all the issues of late and has directed additional resources to the DA division.

I hope Neptune is doing the same thing. The one great thing about competition is that the consumer wins! This is what makes America great, competition. My hope is that both companys will not rest until the out do the other. Can you imagine the products that should be coming soon!

With my experence with laptops the regulated powersupplies do not generate "noise" this usualy is induced on the data cable from another device (ballast, fan, etc) If you use a shielded cable this problem goes away. I uses the cable that came with the RK2 and a sheilded serial cable. I ran it on 2 laptops with out any issues.Noise can come in from other items for sure, but ground loops are usually the cause of this in the serial cables. This is a common problem with serial cables runs, but the RK2 temp is particularly sensitive due to being on the same circuit. Big D is a perfect example. He went through a couple computers before he landed on one that didn't have the problem. Nothing to do with the equipment around it and everything to do with the equipment. DA had a design flaw by not including a seperate port for a computer interface and fixed it with an interesting patch, but there has been some fallout with this patch. It was one of the top pains for me when I was trying to get peoples machines connected to the PC.

At this point I think the game is on between Digital Aquatics and Neptune.I think it has been on for quite a while. Neptune has a long history compared to DA, but DA certainly got the price of the budget controllers down and got Neptune to update the look. On the flip side, DA had to add a PC interface and how they did it was pretty ingenious. They bent the RK2 code over backwards to pull that one off so hats off to overcoming a pretty big design issue.

In the past Neptune has seen controllers come on the market and simply stagnate since the controller market is so small. DAs first attempts with the RK were an inferior product similar to other companies in the past, but RK2 was a big step and from what I hear about RK3 or whatever they are going to call it could be a real platform for DA. They still have a lot of work to do and I want to see them stabilize the support, but they are the first company to come along and challenge the throne at least in the US.

+1
Great thread Cam!
I have always been really happy with my ACJr and I knew that it had more guts behind it than I really need at this point in time. When I was putting the commands in the unit I went round and round thinking how wonderful the controller was and all of the complex things it could control based on time, temp and pH all to control one outlet on the power strip. It was fun to set up.
I would like to get an AC 3 for my next controller on my next larger tank. :)
What do you think about the AC 3 Pro ??? Just a big jump in price? I know that it can do more hard wired plugs (40 !?!?! Holy Cow!) Also the Pro adds Dissolved Oxyg and Salinity which is interesting over the standard AC 3
What do you think? Is the AC 3 the way to go or do you think that the 3 Pro is worth paying almost double??? Yikes!
Thanks again Cameron for all of you efforts. Glad to have you as a member and that I count you as a friend. :)

+1
Great thread Cam!



My era of Rep leader is over. I would like to thank all the little people that got me up there, but alas, all good things must come to an end. So I say farewell till the next time I can mastermind a way for Cameron to take a break from the boards?!? (Hummm, extended case of food poisoning?!?)

Hey Cam, Wanna come over for that dinner I owe ya?!? :D

How do you know how many points you have? You both look like you are tied to me (two little green boxes right?). Sorry to hijack... just only seems appropriate in one of Cameron's threads. :lol2:

Click on your own rep button for one of your posts or check your user CP button at the top of the forums. By checking the user CP you can also see what Rep Comments were left by other members. I think the two green boxes just means you have over 100 rep points. Cam and I just have a friendly duel going on over how many points eachother has. I will never catch up to him!

Oh BTW: Hijacking a Cameron thread is ALWAYS allowed! Heck, I have even seen him hijack his own thread on more then one instance! Now that is talent! :D

+1
Great thread Cam!
I have always been really happy with my ACJr and I knew that it had more guts behind it than I really need at this point in time. When I was putting the commands in the unit I went round and round thinking how wonderful the controller was and all of the complex things it could control based on time, temp and pH all to control one outlet on the power strip. It was fun to set up.
I would like to get an AC 3 for my next controller on my next larger tank. :)
What do you think about the AC 3 Pro ??? Just a big jump in price? I know that it can do more hard wired plugs (40 !?!?! Holy Cow!) Also the Pro adds Dissolved Oxyg and Salinity which is interesting over the standard AC 3
What do you think? Is the AC 3 the way to go or do you think that the 3 Pro is worth paying almost double??? Yikes!
Thanks again Cameron for all of you efforts. Glad to have you as a member and that I count you as a friend. :)

The AC3Pro is a great controller as well. If you want Salinity and DisOxy, it is the way to go. From my understanding Salinity probes are notoriously wrong, but I could be mistaken on that point. I probably would stick with the AC3 otherwise. The AC3Pro can handle a lot more connections (16 more) which might sway some. To my knowledge that is the extent of the differences beyond more digital inputs and if that is what you want you can buy the PX1000 and the IOBREAKOUT which would give you 2 temp probes and 4ph/1ORP or 3ph/2ORP as well as 8 digital inputs for float switches and such. Which should be enough to run two tanks. I am not sure if you can run multiple PX1000 boxes.

If you use a filter or something to fix it, post this on the ReefCentral forums as A LOT of people have been looking for this solution. Oddly for some it comes and goes. Brandon's problem didn't make any sense to me considering the exact same setup with the exact same equipment produced a different result.
I saw all that and I certainly will. My problems is that my good new laptop (not the one I'd use for monitoring) doesn't exhibit the problem reliably and my desktop doesn't do it either. I'm going to try with my work laptop and, once I re-stage it, my old laptop and see if I can get the problem to happen regularly since it's a 5 year old machine.

Why would anyone need a AC3 or a pro for that matter? I cant think of that many things I would ever need to plug in or control?Seems like a waste of money 2 me.Is anyone with a RK2 or ACjr. controller near or at maximum capacity of there unit as is?

Why would anyone need a AC3 or a pro for that matter? I cant think of that many things I would ever need to plug in or control?Seems like a waste of money 2 me.Is anyone with a RK2 or ACjr. controller near or at maximum capacity of there unit as is?
There are lots of features you gain moving from a Jr to the AC3 that I think would be great, if it were in my budget. The web interface for programming that Cameron mentioned and the network connectivity is big, IMO.

Is anyone with a RK2 or ACjr. controller near or at maximum capacity of there unit as is?

I have a 30G tank and I'm at max capacity on my RKII. They seem like an extravagence when you don't have a controller, but after buying one, you can't imagine keeping a tank without it.

I have a 30G tank and I'm at max capacity on my RKII. They seem like an extravagence when you don't have a controller, but after buying one, you can't imagine keeping a tank without it.


Agree 100%... I kept a tank off and on for 10 years. I just got my RKII less then a month ago and I would never run a main display tank without one. WIth that being said, I am fixing to start up a 40 gal and I can not afford another controller. In this case the AC3 would be very nice. It could control both tanks.

Why would anyone need a AC3 or a pro for that matter? I cant think of that many things I would ever need to plug in or control?Seems like a waste of money 2 me.Is anyone with a RK2 or ACjr. controller near or at maximum capacity of there unit as is?If you have two tanks the AC3 can handle it with one controller. If you want to track ORP and most importantly if you want to be able to control your setup remotely. The AC3 out of the box has a web interface and doesn't need a seperate PC to use it. If you use a Mac this is great as to my knowledge nobody is developing a Mac version of their computer interface. The AC3 comes with two pH ports so you have one controlling your reactor and the other one dosing Kalkwasser into the tank to keep pH up. The AC3 uses ethernet so you don't need a PC close to a long cable run. You can pick up an ethernet to wireless controller for $30 and it is right on your network.

Email alarms, power failure indicator (and the ability to code if statements around a powerfailure such as only bringing one pump online while power is out), digital inputs such as float switches and water detection sensors.

You can also use their LunarSim module with LEDs to light your tank and keep your LEDs on an actual lunar cycle. The upcoming Tunze Stream controller will allow you to control your Tunze Streams through a single control unit as well as remotely.

The AC3 is way ahead of the ACJr and RK2 in terms of function. IMO, worth the extra $250 to get it as it is cheaper than a laptop and more stable. With a second tank, it starts making a whole lot more sense.

If you have two tanks the AC3 can handle it with one controller. If you want to track ORP and most importantly if you want to be able to control your setup remotely. The AC3 out of the box has a web interface and doesn't need a seperate PC to use it. If you use a Mac this is great as to my knowledge nobody is developing a Mac version of their computer interface. The AC3 comes with two pH ports so you have one controlling your reactor and the other one dosing Kalkwasser into the tank to keep pH up. The AC3 uses ethernet so you don't need a PC close to a long cable run. You can pick up an ethernet to wireless controller for $30 and it is right on your network.

Email alarms, power failure indicator (and the ability to code if statements around a powerfailure such as only bringing one pump online while power is out), digital inputs such as float switches and water detection sensors.

You can also use their LunarSim module with LEDs to light your tank and keep your LEDs on an actual lunar cycle. The upcoming Tunze Stream controller will allow you to control your Tunze Streams through a single control unit as well as remotely.

The AC3 is way ahead of the ACJr and RK2 in terms of function. IMO, worth the extra $250 to get it as it is cheaper than a laptop and more stable. With a second tank, it starts making a whole lot more sense.



Got ya,the AC Jr. has none of those features that you mentioned? Im about to buy a controller for my 500,so that it will be protected from heater failures and so I can control my temp to be more stable.Im going to enjoy being able to control heaters,fans,pumps,lights etc. from one unit.

My tank is going to be a semi-aggressive reef tank with all softies.I dont plan on using any reactors,except for my phosban 150's for carbon and phospate remover.Im going to be using three darts for my system using them for return,closed loop with the OM4 way,and for my skimmer im getting built soon.So the AC jr. with twelve plug options seems like it would be efficient as far as outlets are concerned.At 160 watts a pump the regular plugs should be fine controlling them.My lights are two 8' T5 6 bulb fixtures that shouldnt produce too much heat on the system.I may end up needing the HD plugs If i decide to add MH to the tank eventually.

So I will be able to check on my parameters of my tank from out of town with the Jr. I just cant make any changes correct? I was under the Impression that the Jr. could send me email alerts???Sorry for the long ramble I just keep second guessing myself every time I make a decision on which controller to buy.

Please forgive my ignorance, but I had one (a RKII). So I was going to install it and Simon Kruger and myself started to diagram what we were going to try and do.....Other than lights...There is nothing I need to control...so I got rid of it. To me it is just a $300 toy that really does nothing?....I am sure I may be wrong. Not likely though..:)

What do you guys control that needs a $300 controller that cant be done with a $5 timer from Kmart?

Really would like to know, my thermostat is controlled by the chiller. and lights on the timer..what else are you controlling?

Im too cheap to buy a chiller so Im planning on using the controller to regulate my heat by being able to turn on fans or heaters depending on the temp. the controller will not affect my power bill which makes me happy unlike the chillers.I could probably get away with using ranco controllers but Im hoping controlling the whole system with one controller will not only simplify things but also give me the ability to keep an eye on my system while im not at home.If i did not travel as much I think I would just keep going like i have been and not buy a controller.

I use it for lights (2 digital timers would cost $50 and I'm sick of the old "turn" timers), a wavermaker with 3 powerheads ($115), a thermometer ($15) and pH meter and controller ($110).

If you add all of that up its $295, that just bought me my RK2 and I still have two additional plug ins for fans, chiller, heaters, etc.

PS I was really confused on which unit to get but ended up getting the RK2 and really like it. I know the ACjr does more but the RK2 does everything my 90gal needs, it looks good, and contains the wires great.

Got ya,the AC Jr. has none of those features that you mentioned? Im about to buy a controller for my 500,so that it will be protected from heater failures and so I can control my temp to be more stable.Im going to enjoy being able to control heaters,fans,pumps,lights etc. from one unit.

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So I will be able to check on my parameters of my tank from out of town with the Jr. I just cant make any changes correct? I was under the Impression that the Jr. could send me email alerts???Sorry for the long ramble I just keep second guessing myself every time I make a decision on which controller to buy.

The ACJr requires Aquanotes to do emails and have a web interface which is an additional $80. You can get the free Aquanotes to make changes locally, but it doesn't have web access or email alerts. There is a chance this could change in the very near future.

Please forgive my ignorance, but I had one (a RKII). So I was going to install it and Simon Kruger and myself started to diagram what we were going to try and do.....Other than lights...There is nothing I need to control...so I got rid of it. To me it is just a $300 toy that really does nothing?....I am sure I may be wrong. Not likely though..:)

What do you guys control that needs a $300 controller that cant be done with a $5 timer from Kmart?

Really would like to know, my thermostat is controlled by the chiller. and lights on the timer..what else are you controlling?You can pick up an ACJr with most of the trimmings for $270. Factor in a good pH monitor runs $70+, good temp probe $20+, $100 for a temp controller, 8 port power supply $15+ and 8 timers $80 bucks. That means you get a much easier interface to dial in your changes, wavemaker, alarm, much easier interface to control equipment, pH controller capability, ability to shut pumps down easily during feeding and a variety of other nicities. I would hardly call it a toy as most people who don't have a controller and are equipment junkies end up with a ton more gear and probably as much or more in cost.

These systems also allow you to track changes on your tank over time so you can be alerted to low pH at night when your not watching, broken heaters, etc much faster than watching the tank.

I guess I need to see one in action. But I already have all those things so buying one of them seems ODD to spend on something that is already being controlled now.

The chiller is my main contol. Lights, a simple timer works for me. I have the Pinpoint Ph monitor, and the Tunzes are contolled by the Tunze Multi-controller.....

I guess I am unique, where as I don't see the need. MAybe if I was just starting out. I would make sense. But since everything is already doing what it needs to. $300 to corals and fish.

Anyone running one around Woodstock?

I guess I need to see one in action. But I already have all those things so buying one of them seems ODD to spend on something that is already being controlled now.

The chiller is my main contol. Lights, a simple timer works for me. I have the Pinpoint Ph monitor, and the Tunzes are contolled by the Tunze Multi-controller.....

I guess I am unique, where as I don't see the need. MAybe if I was just starting out. I would make sense. But since everything is already doing what it needs to. $300 to corals and fish.

Anyone running one around Woodstock?I wouldn't call it a need, but rather a very nice convinience as well as a fail safe. There are lots of things on my tank that I don't consider a need, but they make my life oh so much better. I hate to use you as an example, but if you had an AC3 setup when your power went out you would have been emailed there was a power outage and could have called someone to check on your tank. Solinoid sticks on for your CO2, get an email. Chiller breaks in mid summer, set it up to email you. That is just one great feature of a controller. It is one piece of equipment that can do so much and I try to simplify more over engineer setup as often as possible.

Need, I would say no. Really nice to have, yep. If you find yourself in Alpharetta, stop by and I will give you a tour.

Use me all ya what...I love being used :)

But how am I going to get emails on the beach? ;)

Take your cell phone and have it send a text message to your phone.

Ummmm...cell phones and the beach do not mix... Only Corona and Limes mix on the beach...

You could always have the warning emails sent to a friend. I know I feel better knowing if something drops below X or raises above Y I can notify someone remotely.

Heres's a thought....if my power goes out (using me as an example)....how's that thing going to email me? No power... therefore didn't that RK2 die as well? .....

The AC3 can have an optional power supply to keep it running. It senses power outage from the main power circuit and flips the alarm. Also, you can jack it into a seperate outlet in case it is just a breaker problem you experienced.

I'm in the same boat with Washowi... I already have a bunch of controllers so it just doesn't make sense atm. Perhaps when one of them dies I'll consider one of these fancy ones.

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Washowi
Ummmm...cell phones and the beach do not mix... Only Corona and Limes mix on the beach...
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Man Law... Don't fruit the beer.

Anyway,
I love my controller and will not run another Reef tank without one. It is set to do so much more than what timers are capable of. Lights turn on at xx o clock. Temp rises to a preset point and the hood fans kick on. If the temp continues to raise then the big sump fan turns on. (I do not run a chiller on my tank yet). If the temp does not stabilize or come down and the tank gets over 82 then my lights shut off. First one ballast and then the other if the temp hits 82.4. Wally World timers cannot do that
Also my pH drops at night. So I dose my kalk makeup water at night. However I have it set up on my controller to add kalk only if the pH is below a certain point. Kalk goes in the sump. If the pH climbs over a set point the Controller recognizes this and shuts off the kalk addition. The controller will start to add the kalk water again if the pH falls below a certain level again. You could set it up to add RODI if the sump is getting low and the pH does not fall enough to dose kalk. I dont have it this way because my tank seems to have pH on the low side chronically.