Aquarium controller
Electronic device that automatically monitors and controls aquarium parameters: temperature, pH, ORP, level, pumps and lighting.
Detailed explanation
Aquarium controllers are the electronic brain that automates the management of the aquarium. They monitor parameters in real time and automatically intervene when something goes out of range.
More advanced controllers (such as Neptune Systems Apex, GHL ProfiLux, Seneye) can measure temperature, pH, ORP, salinity and control pumps, lighting, heaters, chillers, ATO and dosing pumps.
The most important function is safety. A controller can turn off the heater if the temperature exceeds the limit, activate an alarm if the water level drops too low, turn off the return pumps if the sump is full.
The Neptune Apex is the most popular controller in the reef world. It has a web interface and a smartphone app that allows you to monitor and control the aquarium remotely. Push notifications alert you to any anomaly.
The GHL ProfiLux is the European competitor. It offers similar functionality with a more modular approach. It is popular in Europe for its support and availability.
pH and ORP probes require regular calibration (monthly) and periodic replacement (annual). An uncalibrated probe gives false readings and can cause the controller to trip incorrectly.
For those who do not want to invest in a complete controller, there are partial solutions: digital thermostats (Inkbird), programmable timers for lights, standalone ATO. Each of these covers a single function but without integration.
The integration with Coralia Lab allows you to record sensor data and have it analysed by AI for a complete view of the health of the aquarium.
Coralia Lab monitors this parameter with AI diagnostics. Tank Score alerts you when a value moves outside the recommended range for your aquarium.
Try AI diagnostics for free