by AquaNerd | Jun 9, 2016 | Reef, Science
Recently Matthias Gross, owner of GHL posted an example of its new seasonal lighting feature that is now included in the Mitras LX LED Fixtures. The new feature simulates the seasonal course of lighting based on the following aspects: Similar to nature but still practical for artificial biotopes Simple and convenient to operate Flexible and customizable to suit individual needs Seasonal lighting can be combined with other lighting simulations that will run simultaneously such as thunderstorms, rainy days, moon phases, clouds and coral acclimation. The minimum requirements to achieve these effects requires the following minimum software versions: Profilux 3 N/T (eX) Version 6.27 Mitras LX 6xxx Version 1.10 GHL Control Center Version 1.0.8.4 Mitras LED Fixture Basics: For more details on how Seasonal Simulation works with the Mitras LED by AquaNerd | May 20, 2016 | Science
[embedded content] Vertex Aquaristik announces the release of long awaited Cerebra aquarium controller just made moments ago and ahead of Innerzoo 2016 in Nuremberg, Germany. More to follow in the coming days and weeks. by Saltwater Smarts | Feb 25, 2016 | Equipment, Fish, Reef, Science, Technology
Here’s the FishBit monitor mounted in my 125 gallon reefRegular Saltwater Smarts visitors are well aware that I’m not exactly what you’d call “tech-savvy” or an “early adopter” when it comes to the latest gadgetry (though I am intrigued by this newfangled doohickey the kids call an “eight-track player”—it’s gonna be yuuuge!). So, it should come as no surprise that I take a pretty low-tech approach to the marine aquarium hobby. Nothing in my system is really automated (unless you count the timer on my lights), and I don’t use a lot of devices beyond your basic heater, protein skimmer, and submersible pumps. And, until very recently, I monitored all my water parameters the way God intended—using a hydrometer, floating thermometer, and various and sundry colorimetric test kits.I tell people that I like to keep things natural, but the truth of the matter is, my lone functioning brain cell has always struggled with technology and figuring out how the various components of a high-tech system interconnect (how I managed to finish Air Force Crypto School with high marks back in the day is anybody’s guess!). So, when Nathan Levine, founder of Current Labs, asked me to beta test their new FishBit monitor and controller, I was a bit apprehensive. How embarrassing would it be if I had to admit I couldn’t figure the thing out or, much worse, if I somehow damaged the unit by installing it upside down or…I don’t know…accidentally swallowing it? But after hearing that FishBit is specifically designed to be easy, trouble-free, and intuitive for people like me (analog folks trapped in a digital world), I felt somewhat reassured and agreed to give it a try. FishBit allows you to monitor key water parameters in real time as well as control multiple aquarium devices, such as your lights, pumps, and heater, through an app on your smartphone or other device. by AquaNerd | Jan 8, 2015 | Science
The crew at GHL has rolled out some new gear for the new year. A few days ago, they unveiled their new Powerbar 5.1, and it looks to add some serious firepower to the already impressive lineup ProfiLux 3 controller accessories. As its name suggests, the new Powerbar sports 5 outlets, all of which are switchable. Of those five, one is is dimmable, a good choice for aquarium lighting, and another is supplied with permanent power, a good option for pumps or lights. The Powerbar is also outfitted with heavy duty relays that help handle the heavy power loads brought on by lights turning on by AquaNerd | May 21, 2014 | Science
We’re full of teaser information today, it seems. Digital Aquatics let it slip that they will soon be releasing their very own dosing pump module, called the DP1. This new module is pretty straightforward, using a peristaltic pump to move liquids from one container to another and connecting to the Reef Keeper controller via the BUS connection. A total of 16 individual DP1 modules can be used simultaneously on the RK Elite controller, which is overkill, but it gives users tons of options for dosing various products. As far as mounting the module goes, a pair of screw holes flank the DP1, allowing it to be mounted to the inside of the stand or anywhere else you might want it installed. Pricing for the new module hasn’t been finalized, but we’re told that it will definitely be under $100. In addition to the DP1, another one of the Digital Aquatics modules is getting a refresher
