Aquacontroller GB

[cali_reef]

FYI for peeps that ordered the ACjr, the serial cable connects to a serial port, some lap tops don't have them . You will need to use a USB to Serial adaptor.

You can down load the free AquaNotes Lite to upload your program, it is much easier than using the three buttons.

 

[Pedro]

I still do not get why they keep making them with the serial connection. That is so retarded!

 

[Deanos]

I can't wait to hook mine up :Up_to_som

 

[Deanos]

Cool. 4-5 days for the cables.

Today?

 

[charile1]

I'll let you know when I get home.

I just sent an email to Neptune to follow up. I'll let you know if they reply.

 

[cali_reef]

I still do not get why they keep making them with the serial connection. That is so retarded!

I am guessing $$, he needs to develop new interface to use off the shelf USB chips. the only unit that needs it is the AcJr, and he can't continue to beat the other guys' price if he needs add more functions to it.

The cheaper solution is to buy a USB to serial connector, I think they are less than $15.

 

[charile1]

PA was wrong. Neptune shipped them yesterday and I should receive them on the 16th.

 

[Deanos]

:supermad:

 

[charile1]

You can still set it up without the serial cable. Did you try yet?

Here's the email from Neptune after I bitched...

We moved the order way ahead of other orders since it was a drop ship. If we kept it in the order that it was entered into our system it would still be another month before it ships.

 

[Deanos]

I already set mine up I just want more stuff to play with. Now to find a full version of Aquanotes in the meantime :Up_to_som

 

[danny]

acjr

Hi! Deanos,
I purchased a ACjr, but I am having trouble setting up. Do I need to get a outlet box with a telephone jack? The control interface is the outlet box?
I did not buy the dc4 or dc8 are those needed to program the unit? I have the base unit with temp probe & serial port.

thanks,

danny

 

[Pedro]

If you didn't get the dc8 or dc4 then you need the control interface for x10, if that's what you are referring to. The telephone line from the controller hooks up to it.

You can program it without anything, but what is there to control? lol

 

[Deanos]

From Neptune's AquaController Jr. page:

Control Options

Like the entire AquaController product line, both X10 and/or hardwired control options are available. For new installations we recommend a hardwired installation. Up to 3 Direct Connect 4s (DC4) or Direct Connect 4 Heavy Dutys (DC4HD), or 1 DC8 and 1 DC4/DC4HD can be used with the AquaController Jr if a hardwired control solution is desired. The DC boxes connect directly to the AquaController through a standard 4 conductor telephone cable. With 3 DC4HDs connected 12 different devices can be controlled independently, with a maximum total power dissappation of approximately 3 * 120 * 15 = 5400 Watts. No X10 modules or interfaces are required if Direct Connect control boxes are used.
For X10 control, the AquaController sends a digital signal to the control interface (part number IM513) which places a small RF signal onto the powerlines in your home. The control modules (typically part number CM466) receive this X10 signal over the power lines, and if the code matches the user settable address the module is turned on or off. Up to 12 control modules can be controlled with the AquaController Jr.

 

[danny]

AC jr

thanks guys, I guess I will order the dc8.


danny

 

[Deanos]

Let me know where you order from Danny...I'm thinking about getting a DC4 :scratch:

 

[Pedro]

Just curious Danny, how were you planning on controlling anything in the tank without buying either of the modules? Just curious, that's all.

 

[danny]

AC jr

Pedro I saw someone selling the AC jr on this site, brand new with manual,temp probe & serial port for $100. The person did not tell me I would need anything else.

Deanos I have e-mailed the person that sold me the unit because he has a dc4 for $100 & dc4hd for $125. hopefully he gets back to me by next week. he usually responds right away so I guess maybe he is out of town.
If he does not have the units then I will order a dc8 & I will let you know.
for $100 or $125, I would take one of his because no shipping & would save us about $35.

danny

 

[Deanos]

LMAO....I just finished sending him an email about the DC4. I didn't know you got your controller from him too. Oh well, you're probably first in line anyway. Wouldn't you need more than 4 controllable outlets anyway? :scratch:

 

[charile1]

Dean, you could have added a dc4 to your order for less than $100.:smash:

 

[Pedro]

Danny, Understood. Get the dc8, there will always be something you want to plug in. 4 is just too little.