Why does BRS recommend this?
The Apex controller is by far one of the most advanced dedicated aquarium controllers on the market today. There are other controllers that are easier to use, however, the wide variety of controllability with the Apex controllers and their easy to use cloud interface makes it a perfect option for a fully automated reef tank.
Great Advanced Level Controller from Neptune Systems
- Includes Classic Apex Base Unit Controller, Apex Display Module, Long-life Temperature Probe, Energy Bar 8 and Lab Grade pH Probe
- Basic functions: Light Control, Temperature Control and pH Monitoring, pH Port, pH/ORP Port, I/O Switch Input, 4 V Ports
- Cool Features: Internet Connectivity, phone and text alerts, over temperature protection, mobile phone and tablet access
- Apex User Manual
- Apex Comprehensive Manual
- Fusion Ready
Quick Compare - Neptune Apex Controllers |
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| Controller | Price | Base Unit | Key Features | Probe(s) | Energy Bar | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apex Jr |
$239.95
|
Apex Jr.
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|
Long-life Temperature Probe:
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4-outlets built-in
Not compatible with EnergyBar 832 |
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$549.95 |
Apex Classic
|
|
Long-life Temperature Probe:
Lab Grade pH Probe:
|
8 Independently Controlled Outlets 6 rated at 5A@120V AC 2 rated at 10A@120V AC
Not compatible with EnergyBar 832 |
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|
$799.95 |
Apex
|
|
Long-life Temperature Probe:
Lab Grade Conductivity Probe:
Lab Grade pH Probe:
|
|
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Note: Smart Phone and Tablet not included.
| SKU | 207491 |
|---|---|
| UPC | 696859110887 |
| Aquarium Type | Saltwater |
Write Your Own Review
Product Questions
I have the apex classic and my controller is missing its power cord. Can you point me in the right direction of its replacement. Thanks
Question by: Tom on Nov 25, 2017, 2:22 PM
Hi Tom, thanks for reaching out!
Under normal operation power is supplied to the Apex through the Aquabus cable plugged into the power bar. If you wanted to provide an alternate power source to alert you of a power outage you could use the optional 12 volt power supply connected to a battery back up. That can be found here: https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/12v-power-supply-neptune-systems.html
Let us know if you have any other questions!
Under normal operation power is supplied to the Apex through the Aquabus cable plugged into the power bar. If you wanted to provide an alternate power source to alert you of a power outage you could use the optional 12 volt power supply connected to a battery back up. That can be found here: https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/12v-power-supply-neptune-systems.html
Let us know if you have any other questions!
Answer by: Nick on Nov 25, 2017, 3:14 PM
When connecting two tanks to one controller, how do you perform updates and calibrate PH probe on second tank?
Question by: Mical Caterina on Nov 24, 2017, 8:31 AM
Calibrating and updating the probes should not affect what tank you have them placed in. Calibration should take place outside of the tank with calibration solutions for the best results.
Answer by: Charlie on Nov 24, 2017, 9:13 AM
Apex Classic comes with one temp probe and one pH probe. If I want to monitoring two tanks, pH and temp, should I buy two PM1 modules and probes (temp and pH) or just one PM1 ? Can I hook up temp and pH probes simultaneously in one PM1 module ?
Question by: Robert on Oct 27, 2017, 11:12 AM
Hi Robert, great question!
You should only need one additional PM1 module to monitor pH and Temp on a second system. You can use a pH probe, temp probe and a breakout box on the I/O port all at the same time on the PM1.
You should only need one additional PM1 module to monitor pH and Temp on a second system. You can use a pH probe, temp probe and a breakout box on the I/O port all at the same time on the PM1.
Answer by: Nick on Nov 16, 2017, 5:20 PM
Is this the latest version of the apex? I was advised to get the newest version available. (Someone told me 2016??)
Question by: John on Jan 24, 2017, 9:17 AM
Awesome question! The most recent Apex release is linked below. :-)
https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/apex-controller-system-neptune-systems.html
https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/apex-controller-system-neptune-systems.html
Answer by: Randy on Jan 28, 2017, 7:27 AM
If I buy this system,what else would i need to purchase to to able to monitor salinity and orp?
Question by: Daniel Cura on Jan 7, 2017, 5:59 AM
Great question! You will need an ORP Probe, which can be directly connected to the Apex Classic head unit. For salinity monitoring, you would need to add the PM2 Module and a Salinity Probe. I've included links to those products below! :-)
https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/search?view=grid&w=orp+probe
www.bulkreefsupply.com/neptune-systems-lab-grade-conductivity-probe.html
https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/salinity-module-pm2-neptune-systems.html
https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/search?view=grid&w=orp+probe
www.bulkreefsupply.com/neptune-systems-lab-grade-conductivity-probe.html
https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/salinity-module-pm2-neptune-systems.html
Answer by: Randy on Jan 10, 2017, 5:09 PM
Can this controller or the apex fully control the co2 scrubber I have to maintain perfect ph and my t5?
Question by: Nicholas on Dec 12, 2016, 9:23 PM
Great question! The CO2 scrubber is attached to the skimmer air intake, so there is no mechanically controllable components involved other than the skimmer pump itself. Your Apex can control the ON/OFF functionality of the skimmer, but if you wanted to control the input of the air intake line, you would need to purchase a powered solenoid. Unfortunately we do not carry these products. :-(
Answer by: Randy on Dec 13, 2016, 11:27 AM
Does the kit include the ph solution to
Calibrate the probe
Calibrate the probe
Question by: Matt on Nov 27, 2016, 9:29 PM
Great question! This will not come with calibration solutions. Below is a link to the BRS favorite solutions! :-)
https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/milwaukee-ph-calibration-fluid-single-use-packet.html
https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/milwaukee-ph-calibration-fluid-single-use-packet.html
Answer by: Randy on Nov 28, 2016, 9:24 AM
I'm purchasing 2 x kessil 160 lights. How can I connect both of them to apex? Do I need VDM module? Do I need to connect the lights to each other or do I connect them separately?
Question by: ilya babadzhan on Nov 26, 2016, 8:39 AM
Great question! The Apex Classic already has variable speed ports built in. All you need is the Kessil to Apex interface cables.
https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/kessil-a360-control-cable-type-1-neptune-apex.html
https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/kessil-a360-control-cable-type-1-neptune-apex.html
Answer by: Randy on Nov 26, 2016, 8:58 AM
Will this come with the flood prod?
Question by: Edmond on Nov 20, 2016, 8:31 PM
Great question! This does not include the ALD module or Leak Detection probes. You will need to purchase those separately. :-)
Answer by: Randy on Nov 21, 2016, 6:20 PM
Neptune apex remodeling the equipment, if I buy the apex classic come in the new look and models?
Question by: RandyFerguson on Aug 1, 2016, 12:41 PM
Hi Randy,
The Classic Apex Systems will come exactly as they are pictured. They did not update anything on the classic systems. Thanks for the question and have a great day!
The Classic Apex Systems will come exactly as they are pictured. They did not update anything on the classic systems. Thanks for the question and have a great day!
Answer by: Charlie on Aug 1, 2016, 3:50 PM
Do you need to purchase the I/O break out box to run Float Switches?
Question by: Wesley Hotzler on Jul 29, 2016, 3:52 PM
Hi there,
Yes, you will need to purchase the I/O Breakout Box if you wish to run any type of float switch.
Thanks for the question, and have a great day!
Yes, you will need to purchase the I/O Breakout Box if you wish to run any type of float switch.
Thanks for the question, and have a great day!
Answer by: Charlie on Aug 1, 2016, 8:12 AM
Looking to get a controller for: ph,orp,temp.,salinity and vortech mp10wqd. What would you recommend? Apex/RKL Thanks
Question by: Larry on Mar 25, 2016, 7:38 PM
Great question!
The Apex will be your best bet with the Vortech and for full features with control through your phone and a lot of support online! You will need the necessary module for salinity control (PM2 and salinity probe) as well as the WXM module for the wireless connection to the Vortech. Feel free to let us know if you have any further questions!
The Apex will be your best bet with the Vortech and for full features with control through your phone and a lot of support online! You will need the necessary module for salinity control (PM2 and salinity probe) as well as the WXM module for the wireless connection to the Vortech. Feel free to let us know if you have any further questions!
Answer by: Connor on Mar 28, 2016, 11:16 AM
so i bought this apex controller and im trying to hook it up to apex fusion but it says i need a token and to go to link to fusion but its not working can u please help
Question by: Austin on Feb 4, 2016, 12:19 PM
Hey there!
Once connected to the internet via direct connection you can set up your Fusion account and request the token, To find the Token you will navigate through the aqua controller menus and ensure the system is restarted. Then when loading back up the main menu will dislpay an icon "ApexFusion:" Select this icon twice and the token should appear. I have included a link for set up below!
http://support.neptunesystems.com/support/solutions/articles/3000021387-apex-fusion-get-started
Once connected to the internet via direct connection you can set up your Fusion account and request the token, To find the Token you will navigate through the aqua controller menus and ensure the system is restarted. Then when loading back up the main menu will dislpay an icon "ApexFusion:" Select this icon twice and the token should appear. I have included a link for set up below!
http://support.neptunesystems.com/support/solutions/articles/3000021387-apex-fusion-get-started
Answer by: Connor on Feb 26, 2016, 9:27 AM
Hi,
I'm new to the reef controllers and wanted to know which is better the Apex controller or the Reefkeeper Elite? I would like to use it for the following: measure temp, PH, Lights, dosing, wave makers, ATO, etc. Do any of these reef controllers have any outlets that are always on for a skimmer, aquaripure, UV, etc.
I'm new to the reef controllers and wanted to know which is better the Apex controller or the Reefkeeper Elite? I would like to use it for the following: measure temp, PH, Lights, dosing, wave makers, ATO, etc. Do any of these reef controllers have any outlets that are always on for a skimmer, aquaripure, UV, etc.
Question by: Javier on Jun 10, 2014, 2:54 PM
Hi Javier,
It isn't really a matter of better or worse, but that each has it's own features it excels at. If you are looking for something that is super easily configured via the screen without the use of a computer, the reef keeper is better in that sense. If you want more programming ability for custom options, the ability to control via your computer or phone, remote access, etc then the Neptune will be what you want. Any of the controllers can have an outlet programmed to be always on (though if its going to be always on, you might just want to use a regular wall outlet instead of using one of the programmable outlets on the controller).
It isn't really a matter of better or worse, but that each has it's own features it excels at. If you are looking for something that is super easily configured via the screen without the use of a computer, the reef keeper is better in that sense. If you want more programming ability for custom options, the ability to control via your computer or phone, remote access, etc then the Neptune will be what you want. Any of the controllers can have an outlet programmed to be always on (though if its going to be always on, you might just want to use a regular wall outlet instead of using one of the programmable outlets on the controller).
Answer by: Bulk Reef Supply on Jun 10, 2014, 2:54 PM
Can I use Apex to implement an intelligent ATO, with some mechanical float switches and a pump?
Do I need to buy the breaker box for Apex? I wonder how Apex gets the input signal from the floating switches and detects it. Where to plug the outputs of the float switches?
Thanks.
Do I need to buy the breaker box for Apex? I wonder how Apex gets the input signal from the floating switches and detects it. Where to plug the outputs of the float switches?
Thanks.
Question by: Jerry on May 1, 2014, 8:20 PM
Hey Jerry,
You can certainly configure the Apex to do that. You are correct, you need the I/O breakout box to connect the switches to. The breakout box plugs into either a standard apex or to a PM1 or PM2 module if you have an Apex jr or other system without an I/O port built in.
You can certainly configure the Apex to do that. You are correct, you need the I/O breakout box to connect the switches to. The breakout box plugs into either a standard apex or to a PM1 or PM2 module if you have an Apex jr or other system without an I/O port built in.
Answer by: Bulk Reef Supply on May 1, 2014, 8:20 PM
Does it run wireless to the computer or do I need to run an Ethernet cable threw the whole house? Or donu sell a wireless module so I wouldn't need an Ethernet cable? Thx
Question by: Chuck Zdany on Feb 25, 2014, 10:02 PM
Hi Chuck,
The controller requires Ethernet for computer/internet access. It is possible to get a wireless bridge from an electronics store which would allow you to plug the Ethernet port into the bridge and connect the bridge to a wireless network though what make and model you want to use will depend on your wi-fi equipment.
The controller requires Ethernet for computer/internet access. It is possible to get a wireless bridge from an electronics store which would allow you to plug the Ethernet port into the bridge and connect the bridge to a wireless network though what make and model you want to use will depend on your wi-fi equipment.
Answer by: Bulk Reef Supply on Feb 25, 2014, 10:02 PM
can you run two tanks off of one of these controllers?
I have a 185 gallon and a 140 gallon that are in different rooms maybe 12-15 feet apart from each other.
Thanks,
Roman
I have a 185 gallon and a 140 gallon that are in different rooms maybe 12-15 feet apart from each other.
Thanks,
Roman
Question by: Roman on Feb 19, 2014, 7:53 PM
Hey Roman,
You will likely want some extra probes and modules (so for example you can have two temp probes) but there is no reason at all you can't run more then one tank off of it. This thing can handle an hundreds of modules so you could probably run a whole fish store off of it if you felt so inclined :-)
You will likely want some extra probes and modules (so for example you can have two temp probes) but there is no reason at all you can't run more then one tank off of it. This thing can handle an hundreds of modules so you could probably run a whole fish store off of it if you felt so inclined :-)
Answer by: Bulk Reef Supply on Feb 19, 2014, 7:53 PM
Will this system controll my kessil a360w and my tunze turbelle stream 6065 or will I have to purchase the VDM module to get better control? When i purchased the kessil i also purchased the neptune control cable for the kessil will it link directly to the neptune or do I need to connect it to the VDM module?
Question by: Joe on Feb 16, 2014, 1:55 AM
Hi Joe,
The Apex system already has 2 VDM ports (each with 2 channels) so aside from purchasing the relevant cables you need, no need to purchase the VDM module. Just make sure the cables you have are to interface between the VDM ports and the device you want to control (ie Kessil to VDM cable, VDM to Tunze cable, etc) which won't be the same as a Kessil to Kessil cable for example.
The Apex system already has 2 VDM ports (each with 2 channels) so aside from purchasing the relevant cables you need, no need to purchase the VDM module. Just make sure the cables you have are to interface between the VDM ports and the device you want to control (ie Kessil to VDM cable, VDM to Tunze cable, etc) which won't be the same as a Kessil to Kessil cable for example.
Answer by: Bulk Reef Supply on Feb 16, 2014, 1:55 AM
I have a nano cube 28 intermediate. Was planning on upgrading to a bigger setup in the future so was looking at getting a controller. My question is would the apex be able to control the lights on my nano cube (dimming, gradually amping up and down the lights)?
Question by: Gregory on Feb 5, 2014, 2:13 PM
Hi Gregory,
If your nano cube has an LED light that can interface with external controllers (like a Radion, AI, Kessil, etc) then it sure can. If its a fluorescent bulb like most though it simply can be on and off (the limitation being the hood not the controller).
If your nano cube has an LED light that can interface with external controllers (like a Radion, AI, Kessil, etc) then it sure can. If its a fluorescent bulb like most though it simply can be on and off (the limitation being the hood not the controller).
Answer by: Bulk Reef Supply on Feb 5, 2014, 2:13 PM
Wanted to know if the Apex controller will beable to control 2 part dosing pumps?
Question by: Jon on Jan 28, 2014, 8:32 AM
Hey Jon,
It will control many pumps such as our BRS dosing pumps. You simply plug them into an outlet on the Apex unit and program the Apex to turn the outlet on and off at the interval you desire.
It will control many pumps such as our BRS dosing pumps. You simply plug them into an outlet on the Apex unit and program the Apex to turn the outlet on and off at the interval you desire.
Answer by: Bulk Reef Supply on Jan 28, 2014, 8:32 AM
The laptop/pc I have access to doesn't have a disc drive. Can the software for the Apex controller by Neptune be downloaded straight from a web site?
Question by: Wiley on Nov 3, 2013, 4:22 PM
Hi Wiley,
It can be, though no software is actually needed. The Apex is programmed via a web browser so short of a really basic utility tool that finds your apex on the network (which most folks don't need as it is) you just need to fire up whatever web browser you use on your laptop to program it.
It can be, though no software is actually needed. The Apex is programmed via a web browser so short of a really basic utility tool that finds your apex on the network (which most folks don't need as it is) you just need to fire up whatever web browser you use on your laptop to program it.
Answer by: Bulk Reef Supply on Nov 3, 2013, 4:22 PM
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