Reef Keeper Updates Coming

[RossW]

Digital Aquatics is about to release a new version of their software which includes a feature which many have been waiting a long time for, myReef.
http://www.digitalaquatics.com/news/myReef2

This update will allow you to program your Reef Keeper from your PC, monitor its status, etc.  The only catch is that the connection between your PC and your Reef Keeper is via USB.  This is great if your tank and PC are in the same room, but not likely for most people.

To address this, the following IOGear USB Ethernet converter can allow you to access your Reef Keeper over your home network.
http://ncix.com/products/?sku=46107K22&vpn=GUIP201&manufacture=IOGEAR%20TECHNOLOGY

I am going to be ordering one, and will be organizing a group buy to split the shipping which is approx. $13.  I will be placing my order early next week.
http://ovas.ca/index.php?topic=44016.new

In addition, to upgrade your Reef Keeper you are going to have to send your SID to get the firmware upgraded.  The Canadian location to send the SIDs to is not yet know but is in Ontario.  Once the Canadian location is release, I will be organizing a group ship to that location also.
http://www.digitalaquatics.com/downloads/SID2.pdf
http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1833937

[Hookup]

Can any of these do 0-10v output?  Programmable patterns?  I'm interested in developing a module, but need to know if this system can support 0-10v....   GHL better ship up, price down or move over...

[RossW]

I am not an expert but believe you could do it with a Reef Keeper Lite($99), and an ALC($79)
http://www.digitalaquatics.com/saltwater/RKL
http://www.digitalaquatics.com/saltwater/ALC

This would give you the controller, power bar, temp probe, and the ALC.

The down side of the RKL is that it is limited to 4 modules, thus a couple power bars, an ALC, and a temp probe and you are maxed.  I believe the temp probe counts as a module.

I have 2 RKLs, but wish I had got the Reef Keeper Elite as I have a float switch I want to setup, and a couple other modules I want to add.  There is a trade up programs but I have yet to exercise it.  the RKE is a couple extra dollars but supports up to some silly number of modules I will never be able to afford.

[gauthier613]

Do you think a Belkin FL0059 would work since it has net access as well?



How would you link it just cable to the PC4?

http://www.amazon.com/Belkin-F5L009-5-Port-Network-USB/dp/tags-on-product/B000QSN3O6

Very interested....

[RossW]

The guy on RC used the IOGear one I linked to, thus I know it works.
http://reefcentral.com/forums/showpost.php?p=16989418&postcount=214

The one you listed "should" work.

All you need to do is install the drivers on your PC, and it sees the ethernet connected USB device as being local.

[Hookup]

I've been looking at a lot of automation for the aquarium.  Most of it is based upon 1-10v, which I know the GHL can do... but the other products, like the RKL are cheaper and functional... Sure there is more of some things on the GHL, and the support is great, but the pricing is equally high.  Also the GHL interface software is horrid.

I've not used the RKL, but the price point is good.. if they ad 1-10v, I think I could do just about everything for a basic setup.  I happen to use 8 pumps, and want 4 more... I also use 6 power outlets and the 1-10v... so I cannot see me swapping... but i've got ideas...   and the price point of the RKL could be very attractive.


Edit for content - BY THE MODERATOR

[charlie]

Please keep this thread relevant to the OP original post & topic, feel free to start another thread for anything else.
Regards

[JetJumper]

I've been looking at a lot of automation for the aquarium.  Most of it is based upon 1-10v, which I know the GHL can do... but the other products, like the RKL are cheaper and functional... Sure there is more of some things on the GHL, and the support is great, but the pricing is equally high.  Also the GHL interface software is horrid.

I've not used the RKL, but the price point is good.. if they ad 1-10v, I think I could do just about everything for a basic setup.  I happen to use 8 pumps, and want 4 more... I also use 6 power outlets and the 1-10v... so I cannot see me swapping... but i've got ideas...   and the price point of the RKL could be very attractive.

Edit for content

I know this specifically says lights, but..
http://www.digitalaquatics.com/saltwater/ALC

I don't see any reason why you can't connect anything else to it?  it is just 0-10Volts.. so you could wire other things to this module.

[Bubbles]

I am going to be ordering one, and will be organizing a group buy to split the shipping which is approx. $13.  I will be placing my order early next week.
http://ovas.ca/index.php?topic=44016.new

In addition, to upgrade your Reef Keeper you are going to have to send your SID to get the firmware upgraded.  The Canadian location to send the SIDs to is not yet know but is in Ontario.  Once the Canadian location is release, I will be organizing a group ship to that location also.

Ross

I'll jump in on both of these...
Let me know when
Thanks
Jeff