AquaController II

[Ne0eN]

I just bought a used Neptune AquaController II sortof complete with a temp probe and a bunch of timers. I 'm using my existing PinPoint pH probe with it, and it appears to be working ok. Couple of questions:

 

How do i interface it to a PC to log data? My unit didn't come with any software. Should it come with software? Where can I buy a cable? Do I need an ORP probe and what does it do?

 

Thanks...

 

-Rob

[dhoch]

THe pH probe are interchangeable (I used my pinpoint one till just recently... in fact I replaced just about an hour ago, it was giving erratic readings).

 

To use the AC II and interface with your PC you need to

1) purchase a minidin/serial cable (this will go between the ACII and the pc)... see neptunes site for more info

2) Download (there is a free or limited version) or purchase aquanotes OR you can use hyperterminal to connect.

 

After that what are you going to do with it... I wrote a program to upload stats to a mysql database for example

 

Dave

[dzekunoi]

ORP you need if you use ozone - then you need to measure redox potential.

[Jon Lazar]

Rob,

 

You don't have to have any of the extra items you mention, but it will make your life a lot easier.

 

You can also get the serial cable from a computer store. I used to look at the data logging stuff more often. Now I only connect the cable when I want to make a change to the program. You can modify the program with the buttons on the unit, but it's much easier to do it with the computer.

 

The base unit doesn't come with Aquanotes unless you buy a package, and then you still pay for it. There are some third party software applications, but I can't vouch for their functionality. I find Aquanotes (v2.0)crashes more often than I think it should.

 

You can email Curt Pansegrau with all your technical questions, and he's pretty darn good about answering promptly. clp@neptunesys.com If you don't have instruction manuals, you can also get those at Neptune's site.

 

Once you get over the sticker shock and learning curve, you will absolutely love the Aquacontroller. Just keep an eye on things, because some folks have equipment that interferes with X10 signals.

 

Happy reefing,

Jon

[dhoch]

Jon,

 

I don't know hold long it's been since you looked at the unit, but they have direct connects (4 and 8 outlets... no more X-10)...

 

Also Aquanotes is much stabler (v3.2 is what I'm running)... Plus there is a "free" version that you can download... it's got limited functionality (not sure what is not enabled, but there is a lot of functionality there).

 

Also there is a great forum over at RC for neptune.

 

Dave

[Jon Lazar]

Good points. I forgot about the direct connect modules. I have never had a problem with X10 (knock on wood) so I just use that.

 

Jon

[Ne0eN]

Thanks Jon...

 

I'm actually thinking about making the cable myself. I've got plenty of all kinds of connectors (DB-9, DB-25, and mini-din)... Looks like I can run 100' without any problems. The only thing I'm curious about is the difference between the SERIPC9 connector pinouts (ground isolation) and the standard pinout they give for SERPC9 cable. Any clue?

 

-- Rob