Choosing the Right A3 Apex for Your Aquarium: A Comprehensive Buyer's Guide to Neptune Systems A3 Aquarium Controllers
Neptune Systems' A3 Apex Pro, A3 Apex, and Apex Jr: A Comprehensive Guide
The Neptune Systems A3 Apex Pro, A3 Apex, and Apex Jr are the three aquarium controllers designed to cater to different needs, from basic monitoring to advanced control and automation.
| Feature / Model | A3 Apex Pro | A3 Apex | Apex Jr | |---------------------------------|-----------------------------------|----------------------------------|----------------------------------------|
Monitoring Capabilities
The A3 Apex Pro offers temperature, pH, ORP, and salinity monitoring, while the A3 Apex and Apex Jr provide temperature, pH, and water level monitoring. The Apex Jr requires an additional probe for salinity and ORP monitoring.
Controllable Outlets
The A3 Apex Pro and Apex offer 8 controllable outlets, while the Apex Jr does not have any controllable outlets out of the box. However, it can be expanded with the EB832 accessory.
FMM Input Ports
The A3 Apex Pro has 4 FMM Input Ports, the Apex has 3, and the Apex Jr has 2.
1LINK Outputs
The A3 Apex Pro and Apex have 3 1LINK Outputs, while the Apex Jr does not have any.
DC 24V Outputs
The A3 Apex Pro and Apex have 2 DC 24V Outputs, while the Apex Jr does not have any.
Digital Inputs
The A3 Apex Pro has 6 Digital Inputs, the A3 Apex and Apex have 6 Digital Inputs each, and the Apex Jr's Digital Inputs can be expanded with PM1, PM2, or PM3.
Audible Alarm Buzzer
The A3 Apex Pro includes an audible alarm buzzer, while the Apex Jr and Apex have this feature as well.
Wi-Fi Connectivity
All three models support wireless internet connectivity.
Ethernet
The Apex PRO and Apex have hard-wired Ethernet, while the Apex Jr does not.
Leak Detection
The Apex PRO uses optical leak detection sensors, while the Apex Jr uses analog sensors.
Variable Outputs (0-10V)
The Apex PRO has 4 Variable Outputs (0-10V), while the Apex Jr requires the VDM for this functionality.
Expandability
The A3 Apex Pro offers extensive modular expansion, supporting a wide range of add-ons and control modules. The A3 Apex can expand with add-ons like power bars, sensors, and more. The Apex Jr is targeted as a monitoring-only solution with basic essential sensors and offers expandability via two AquaBus ports to add modules for salinity, oxygen, and equipment control.
Primary Use Case
The A3 Apex Pro is the most feature-rich, with optical leak detection sensors, variable voltage outputs, Ethernet connectivity, and the most input/output ports plus advanced sensors including salinity and ORP built-in. The A3 Apex adds controllable outlets and more input/output ports, with some advanced features but lacks Ethernet and some of the advanced outputs of the Pro version. The Apex Jr is an affordable, entry-level monitoring-only system primarily for essential tank monitoring, with future upgrade options.
Neptune Systems offers a myriad of expansion modules, equipment, and accessories for aquarium control. Some of the additional accessories and equipment include the AFS Automatic Feeding System, DDR DOS Dual Reservoir, FMK Flow Monitoring Kit, COR-15 Intelligent Return Pump, COR-20 Intelligent Return Pump, Trident - Marine Aquarium Water Analyser, ATK V2 Auto Top Off Kit, PMUP v2 Practical Multi-Purpose Utility Pump, PMUP-T v2 with Power Supply, GRO Refugium Light with Pipe Mount, and GRO Refugium Light with Flat Tank Mount Bracket.
With the Apex system, users can monitor critical parameters like temperature and be alerted when they are out of range. The system can also remotely check the exact water depth in the sump and reservoir. It can send notifications if anything goes wrong with the tank, no matter where the user is in the world. The Apex system can automate equipment to respond to parameter changes or emergency situations.
Robert, with over 25 years of experience keeping aquariums of all kinds, has written digestible content that makes reefing fun and easy. Neptune Systems is the most widely trusted brand in aquarium control with the largest userbase globally. All Neptune System accessories are compatible with any A2 or A3 series Apex Controllers and connect using the AquaBus, 1Link, or 24V DC ports.
In conclusion, the A3 Apex Pro, A3 Apex, and Apex Jr cater to different needs in the aquarium hobbyist market, offering a range of features, monitoring capabilities, input/output ports, and expandability. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned hobbyist, Neptune Systems has a solution to help you maintain a healthy and thriving aquarium ecosystem.
These smart-home-devices, including Neptune Systems' A3 Apex Pro, A3 Apex, and Apex Jr, showcase cutting-edge technology in gadgets designed specifically for aquarium environments. With the Apex system, users can connect their devices wirelessly, control multiple outlets, and expand functionality using a variety of additional gadgets and accessories.
