Comparing Apex A3 Models for Your Aquarium: A Comprehensive Guide to Neptune Systems A3 Aquarium Controllers
Neptune Systems Unveils Three Apex Controllers for Aquarium Enthusiasts
Neptune Systems, a leading name in aquarium technology, has announced three Apex Controllers – the A3 Apex Pro, A3 Apex, and Apex Jr – catering to a range of aquarium setups and user preferences.
The key differences between these controllers lie in their monitoring and control capabilities, number of ports, expandable features, and connectivity options.
| Feature | A3 Apex Pro | A3 Apex | Apex Jr | |-------------------------------|------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------| | Monitoring | Temperature, pH, ORP, Salinity (probe separately) | Temperature, pH, ORP | Temperature, pH, Water level, Floor leaks | | AquaBus / FMM Ports | 4 (FMM input ports) | 3 (FMM input ports) | 2 (AquaBus ports) | | Controllable Outlets | 8 | 8 | None | | 1LINK Outputs | 3 | 3 | None | | DC 24V Outputs | 2 | 2 | None | | Digital Inputs | 6 | 6 | None | | Variable Outputs (0-10V) | 4 | None | None | | Leak Detection Type | Optical | Analog | Analog | | Network Connectivity | Wi-Fi and hard-wired Ethernet | Wi-Fi only | Wi-Fi only | | Expandability | Fully modular with extensive expansion options | Modular with good expansion options | Entry-level, expandable via modules like PM2, PM3, EB632 power bar | | Audible Alarm Buzzer | Yes | Yes | No mentioned |
The Apex Jr is an affordable, entry-level monitoring-only solution focused on essential parameters with the ability to expand monitoring and control by adding external modules via its two AquaBus ports. The standard A3 Apex adds more probes (like ORP) and has more ports and outputs for controlling devices such as lights and pumps. The Apex Pro further upgrades with extra FMM ports, variable outputs (0-10V) for fine control, and offers a wired Ethernet option for more reliable network connectivity. Leak detection is optical on the Pro model for advanced sensing, while the Apex and Jr use analog detection.
The Neptune Systems Apex Controller allows monitoring and control of all life support equipment and water parameters via a centralized app. The Apex system can grow with the user as their interest and participation in the hobby expand. The Apex Jr does not have a digital input for the PM3 probe, and it does not include an EB832 device for controlling heaters, lighting, pumps, etc., but they can be purchased separately. All Neptune System probes, modules, equipment, and accessories can be added and controlled using any of the A3 Apex systems.
Neptune Systems offers a variety of expansion modules, equipment, and accessories for aquarium control, such as the AFS Automatic Feeding System, DDR DOS Dual Reservoir, FMK Flow Monitoring Kit, COR-15 and COR-20 Intelligent Return Pumps, Trident Marine Aquarium Water Analyzer, ATK Auto Top Off Kit, PMUP v2 Practical Multi-Purpose Utility Pump, and GRO Refugium Light.
As the most widely trusted brand in aquarium control with the largest userbase globally, Neptune Systems continues to set the standard for innovation and reliability in the aquarium hobby.
- Smart-home devices like lights and pumps can be controlled more efficiently with the Neptune Systems Apex Controllers, as the A3 Apex and Apex Pro offer multiple ports and outputs for such devices.
- The A3 Apex Pro, a high-end aquarium controller from Neptune Systems, can be considered as one of the gadgets that exemplify the integration of technology in smart-home devices and aquarium controllers.
