ELOS System 60 Pictures and Progression

[Cinderblock]

I have been reading the ELOS thread for about two months trying to decide if I should pull the trigger or not. Fliger, Nuuze, TheMoneyPit and of course Jesse from Elos made a perfect case for acquiring this system. I decided to go with the System 60 because its a perfect size for me and my first large(r) aquarium. Today it arrived. Here are some pictures:

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685ELOS_60_Packaging_2.jpg

I unpacked everything and moved it into my 1st floor office. Much easier than going up 2 flights of stairs to make it to the living room.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685ELOS_60_in_office_1.jpg

Now on to the sump.....

[Cinderblock]

Here is a picture of the Sump and how its packaged:

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685ELOS_60_Sump_Packaging.jpg

Here is the Protein Skimmer (w/out collection cup):

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685ELOS_60_PS_no_lid.jpg

Sump in Elos Square:

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685ELOS_60_Sump_in_Square_1.jpg

Now I have to configure all the tubes, pumps, wires etc....

[shawk]

looks awesome so far, can't wait to see pics of it up and running

[Cinderblock]

In a system this size I was concerned about proper flow for a mainly SPS project. Jesse suggested the Movement Kit. It attaches to the overflow and allows the tank to maintain its clean look. Its basically two Eheim 280 GPH pumps with no head loss. They are both attached to a movable arm to direct the flow. So that gives me the return (635 GPH with about 3.5 feet of head loss) plus two additional pumps for flow. I think it will be enough flow and most likely I wont need a heater :) It might be possible to connect the outputs to some Lok-Line and get the directions of the flow perfect.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685ELOS_60_Movement_Kit.jpg

[Cinderblock]

The sump was easy to put together and all the tubes and wires had a place to go. The only problem I had was getting the protein skimmer muffler cord to fit in the sump with the lid closed. After looking a few photos from the ELOS thread I realized I had to make a sight adjustment to the skimmer. I took off the top, using the four wing nuts, and moved it 90 deg so that the muffler cord was now facing to the left instead of the way it was packaged which was in the back. Now it looks like it should. I think.

Here are the two Eheim pumps for the return (larger one) and the skimmer (smaller one).

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Eheim_Sump_Pumps.JPG

The completed sump in its ELOS Square.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685ELOS_Sump_Completed.JPG

You can see the large grey tube in the back. That's the overflow. The clear tube on the left is for the Top-Off water compartment. I still need to add another small pump there.

One question: The top-off tube connects to an elbow to get the water into the sump area. Can I add loc-line there so it reduces the splashing into the sump?

[elosusa]

Everything looks great. As long as the top off is above the water level in the sump you can add anything to reduce the splash if it is needed. Thanks for the pictures and let me know if you have any other questions. Jesse

[Nuuze]

Looks great and congrats Cinderblock! Nice how clean the movement kit connects, wonder if you can do a wavemaker setup with it. Is it missing a second clamp for the skimmer Jesse? Check your packaging for another clamp identical to the one you already have for the skimmer air flow. It will make dumping/cleaning the cup a lot easier without changing your settings. That way you can fine tune one and use the other to completely cut off air without turning off the skimmer to remove cup.

[Fliger]

Nice! I love the movement kit - I have one for my 120 but it only has one return. Thats cool that you have two. JESSE! :) (actually please LMK if Elos makes a dual return for my size, I can just pop out the Eheim).

edit - just noticed your location. i lived there for quite awhile. got married at american martyrs in manhattan. come to think of it i proposed on the pier right in front of the roundhouse. nice fishy smell as a backdrop, how romantic. :)

[Cinderblock]

The space for the ELOS Square 60 is not large enough to support a CA reactor. It only has four inches left on one side. Either I have to have the CA reactor in sump of figure out how to get it outside the Square on a shelf or something. Right now I am thinking that the sump idea may be the best? Its crowded in there. The pump for the CA reactor would either fit on the four inch space or inside the top-off compartments. If you notice I drilled out a whole for the probe. Any suggestions?

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685CA_Reactor_in_Sump.JPG

[elosusa]

we do fliger. I will check and see if I have the connections for the second eheim and I am sure I can send you a picture of how to install the second. I'll email you about this. BTW in the last shipment we got the 3lt bottles and 500ml bottles of Prima Line that we talked about. Talk to you later.

[elosusa]

That looks like it would work. Perhaps you could switch the 1260 and the 1250 and then put the skimmer 1250 under the overflow by using longer silicone, if it will fit? If you need anymore silicone tubing for the install let me know and I can throw it in the envelope for the extra clamp I forgot to add? If this idea doesn't work I think having the reactor pump in the top off and running the silicone to the sump side would be the next best option.

[elosusa]

Also I should mention that the plastic bottom on the tank is not needed if you do not want to keep it on the tank.

[Cinderblock]

Like this?

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685New_Sump_Design.JPG

So if thats the case I will need some more of the large and medium width tubes you send out. I dont know the sizes. One is maybe 3/4 OD and the other for the Top-Off return is about 1/2 OD. That should do it.

With the plastic bottom on the tank what is its purpose?

[elosusa]

Yes that looks good. The plastic bottom is used for shipping and some like to have it on so they do not see the side of the sand. I will send that tubing out.

[boozeman]

everything looks so nice !!:D
looking foward to the fill-up!

[Cinderblock]

I like the fact that even something like the plastic on the bottom of the tank which is for shipping can actually have some good use. Not seeing the sand is a great idea. I think I will keep it on.

Fliger - Manhattan Beach is nice. We just went to dinner last night at Mamma D's. My wife and I bought our Hermosa Beach about nine months after is was built. We really like the South Bay.

Jesse - thanks for sending out the tubes. I think it will do the trick. I am going to wait on the lights until this weekend. Any recommendations on MH bulbs? 10k~14k? What's the best combination of MH and T5's. I have been reading Fliger and Nuuze's threads and see the T5's but is any combo recommended from ELOS?

[elosusa]

I just got word from Elos Italy that our spectra's are out of stock until late january, but I will send you one when I get them in. I only have the 250w in stock at the moment. As for lighting combo's it is such a subjective thing that it is hard to recommend but it is nice to have 4-t5's to get just the right color. Talk to you later.

[Fliger]

I wish I could capture the color of my lights. I'm incredibly surprised that my corals look as nice as they do with the 10K + the 4x T5's since I've never owned 150 watters. I went from 1,000W+ to 500W. I really like running 3 bluer T5's and one one white - LPS and some SPS look awesome during the first and last couple hours of the photoperiod.

If you're into SPS, I posted a thread a few months ago - something like "Glad to go back to 10K's". There were some informative posts. I love the Elos bulb, I also really like the Giesemann Coral (14.5K - looks very much like Elos IME).

Love Mamma D's - also love The Bottle Inn down there. We're regulars at Shark's Cove, Sharkeez HB, FFFF. I used to live there when you could still drive on Pier Ave. :) Of course I wish I would have bought back then! But we'll either be in SF or the South Bay in 3-4 years.

[Cinderblock]

Fliger - I found your post on the 10K lights. I dont know if I should wait until the end of January for the ELOS 10K or get the Giesemann Megachrome 14.5k that you say looks almost the same. Most likely I will wait due to the fact that I am traveling for most of January (all business). Plus if the ELOS brand is even 1/2 of what the System 60 quality is - then I am guessing its about as good as it gets.

I finally got around to unpacking the Planet II. All I can say is wow! I have finally entered the professional arena. I want to hang it tomorrow or Saturday but I am not 100% sure how. For any users are the dimensions of the two points 23 & 1/8 inches? Any pictures of how you completed the installation to the ceiling?

Here is a picture of the Planet II. The stock color is really nice - I don't see a need to paint it. It compliments my ELOS Square very well.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Planet_II_in_Box.JPG

[Nuuze]

I was using wall anchors at first. (the kind you hammer in the screw as it spreads apart inside the wall) But it was making me paranoid for some reason thinking it will fall and fixture will be in the tank. I ended up re-mounting it to the studs of the ceilings. The measurement spread is wider than the fixture itself but still looks good with a slight "V" look. That way I know it will never fall and I can sleep better. :)

[boozeman]

looks nice and glossy...look at that shine!! :D

[Fliger]

I have to qualify though that I'm comparing the color of a Giesemann 250W to the Elos 150W. Just the color. Almost perfect white IMO from both bulbs but I'm making the assumption that the Giesemann 250W looks like the 150W. Personally I doubt seriously I'll switch from the Elos bulb anytime soon - but if I did, it would probably be the Giesemann 14.5K bulb. I like the added UV protection on the Elos.

The Giesemann doesn't come with a fancy glove. :)

I'm takin my Planet cover to a biker shop and having them airbrush flames, or those naked lady silhouettes on the back of trucks!

[clownnrnd]

David, Have them ghost in your Avator. Would that make you the biggest Suns fan ? :D

Chad

[Cinderblock]

I hope to get to hanging the lights by this weekend. I also decided to open up the Osmocontroller box. Here is a picture of the components.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Osmocontroller.JPG

The glass guard for the sensor shows the quality of the unit.

The directions are clear and it seems simple to use. I have an JBJ ATO on my current set up and its easy to use as well but only having one float switch on the Osmocontroller simplifies the process. One of the problems of the JBJ ATO is that once the float switch is at its desired level (after filling up the tank) it takes a few more seconds for the pump to shut off, filling up my tank a little too much and lowers the salinity. With the Osmocontroller it has a pump that is designed to work with the unit and is preprogrammed for around 20 seconds to allow the pump to fill the sump. If that's not enough or too much you can re-program the Osmocontroller for a perfect fill every time. Another nice feature to customize everything.

[Cinderblock]

I went to Ace to purchase some toggle bolts for hanging the lights. Jesse will these work? They are 3/16" x 2" heavy duty hollow wall toggle bolts.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Toggle_Bolts.JPG

The measurements for the bolts on the lights is 23 & 1/8 inches with the center point at 11 & 9/16. I need to measure twice before I put two 5/8 holes in my ceiling of my office. Plus I need to figure out how far from the wall I will have my aquarium. I am planning on mounting the powerstrips on the back of the Square so I need at least enough room to get my hand back there to plug and unplug everything.

[elosusa]

Those look fine. Did they have a weight rating on the package?

[Cinderblock]

These dont have a weight on the package. I was talking about this installation with a friend and he said to use Snaptoggle. He is bringing a few over tonight. They hold over 100 pounds each and it does not need a big hole. Plus is allows removal of bolt or fixture without anchor being left in ceiling. I'll try these out instead.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

[Cinderblock]

I mounted the lights today. I measured twice and drilled once. It looks great. How far above the tank should they be? Around 9 inches or so?

Here is a picture of the light mounted to the ceiling using the kit.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Lights_Mounted_1.JPG

and a picture of the lights over the tank. I need to adjust the angle a little bit as it tilts slightly toward me.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Lights_over_Tank_1.JPG

[elosusa]

Very nice. 9" is fine and you can really go lower if you want but it will mean that you will have to clean the glass on the planet more. I like to angle the lights back, as well. The angle adjustment will come in handy when you have your hands in the tank or want to take a top down picture. Everything looks great and I will talk to you later. Jesse

[CraigsReef]

What are the measurements of that tank please?

Craig-

[boozeman]

looks great :thumbsup:
is that an intercom behind the tank?...do you think that the salt spray/humidity will be an issue for it?

[Cinderblock]

The measurements are ~20 h x 26 w and ~19.5 d. As for the intercom - We dont use it much so if if malfunctions its not that big of a deal. I think the lights and humidity will be an issue but hopefully I wont need to remove it.

I am going to order the lights tonight.

[Cinderblock]

The lights arrived today. I decided on the following mix (for now).

Metal Halide: Giesemann MegaChrome - Coral (A slightly bluer 10k bulb) I think they market it as 14.5 but the description is what I was looking for.

T5: All Giesemann
(2) Actinic +
(1) Aquablue
(1) Pure Actinic

It mimics my old T5 only set up. That mix plus the MH should be a nice look. I am going to take off the yellow protective plastic off of the Planet II and install everything. I will fire it up later and take a picture.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Geisemann_MH___T5_s.JPG

[Nuuze]

Be sure to use a bit of windex after taking the yellow protective plastic off. I thought I got most of it off with just a damp cloth but when I used windex, what a difference!

[Cinderblock]

Ok - here is the first picture of the lights in the Planet II. The fan is not that loud at all. Its whiter than it appears in this picture but I don't have the best white balance control.

Any suggestions on the order of the T5's front to back. Right now I have them Actinic+, Pure Actinic, Aquablue, Actinic+. Looks crisp right now.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Lights_On_1.JPG

Nuuze - Thanks for the suggestion. The reflectors are like a mirror. WOW!

[Cinderblock]

Ok - The sump is ready to go. Talk about easy - the ELOS system is about as simple as it gets. I don't consider myself an expert, more of a progressing advanced reef keeper, but the ELOS 60 has taken me to that next level. I am going to guess that if I did not add the CA Reactor I could have had the System 60 up and running within about an hour of unpacking the components. Never using a CA Reactor caused me some confusion but I think I have the basics down. Next I have to add the regulator and get the bubble counter dialed in. I am traveling over the next two week but I think I can get the sand, LR and water in there by the end of January.

On another note - after two years with another controller - I decided to step it up and purchase the B2. I got it in the mail the other day but have not had a chance to open it up yet. I had to purchase another power strip due to all the items I have (MH, T5, Moon, Heater, Chiller, Skimmer pump, return pump, CA Pump, Top-Off pump, Wave pump 1 and Wave pump 2). I works out to 11 sockets. If you utilize the Planet 2 interface you can save three sockets because it connects via phone line to the system, but with all my add-ons I am fine with what I purchased. From all my readings, it seems like the ultimate monitor system. Ok all for now.

[Cinderblock]

Its impressive that everything fit in the sump. Skimmer, CA Reactor, Return Pump, Skimmer Pump, CA Pump, and Osmocontroller Pump. Its a little crowded but it is very organized. Here is a picture. I still have not attached the level controller yet (you can see it laying on top).

I only had to drill out two holes in the sump cover for all the tubes to wrap around and get to where they needed to go. Easy.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Sump_Ready.JPG

I also went to a welding supply store and got my co2 tank filled up. I want to keep my dog from licking it (its cold) so I put it in a clear bag until I find another solution. ELOS makes it easy to be compatible with other products although I am very impressed with the build quality of all the ELOS stuff I have.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685CO2_Reactor.JPG

[CamBarr]

nice set up

[Cinderblock]

I programmed the B2 controller for all twelve sockets which was fairly easy. Thanks for the exta assistance Jesse. Additionally I added the chiller this morning. I just T'd it off of the return line. It will reduce flow in the display but I still think I will have enough flow for SPS.

Living near the beach equals mild/cool weather year round so a massive chiller is not necessary. I just use a smaller HP model and a small fan for those three weeks when air temp get into the 90's. Here is the final version before I add live rock and water.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Finish_2.JPG

I added a moon light for night time viewing. I think the B2 can handle moon cycles but I dont really need to get that technical.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Finish.JPG

[CamBarr]

Why did you leave the back clear??? i think the tanks look sweet open and clear but another thing to clean and i think a colored back gives some perspective just my opinion but was there a reason you left this clear?

[Cinderblock]

I puchased some black background but have not installed it yet. After thinking about it for a while I might just leave it clear. The live rock will cover most of the back so I will see what it looks like. I always have had a black back so the chang might be different.

[CamBarr]

some tanks look really good and other don't i guess you will have to see. btw did you get my PM

[Cinderblock]

Have not received your PM. Send again.....

[skimmy]

we set up the exact same system at barrier reef aquariums, now a month later it is filled with our rarest corals, all we do is stare at it all day....
i want one soooooo baaaaad:(

[CamBarr]

when is the rock going to go in?

[Cinderblock]

Here is my live rock. I hand selected it from my coral supplier. Its some Fiji show and some Huni. I have to put it in later this evening.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Box_O_Rox.JPG

[Patio]

Jumping on.

[CamBarr]

do you have pics yet???

[invincible569]

LOL at the C02 bottle!

[Cinderblock]

Took this picture last night of the live rock in the Elos 60. After several tries to make it look natural I think it looks really good. The cool thing is that its only five rocks total. I have one extra piece that I paid for so I guess I will keep it or take it back to the coral store. I still have to add the sand in about a week or so.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Rock_in.JPG

I really like the clear background better than the black.

[Nuuze]

Looking good Cinderblock! Why not save that extras piece in your sump. What I do is smash the pieces I don't like or want with a hammer and save it in my middle chamber for frag glueing. :)

[Kinetic]

oooh beautiful! looks great =)

If I were to nitpick, I'd say allow for a bit more room next to the glass so you can clean the glass better / access the sides better (in case a frag falls there etc.).

nice!!

[Cinderblock]

Thanks for all the advice. I think I can get my hand down the right side and maybe the left side once I put the sand in but the back I only left about four inches.

[Cinderblock]

The movement kit is better than I expected. Its two 280 gph Eheim pumps that fit in front of the the overflow. The flow can be directed any way and it looks stock. I think it might be enough for SPS but I always like more flow. If the nozzles provided random movement like the wavysea then it would be just about perfect.

[CamBarr]

love the rock work

Can you post a pic from the side to show a better comparison of depth???

cam

[Cinderblock]

Cam - Here are the right and left sides as of yesterday morning. The pictures really dont give a good comparison of depth. My water is a little cloudy from the fact that I did not wash the the media for the CA reactor before I turned it on. I still have to dial that in next week. The water will clear up in a few hours.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Right.JPG

This shows the rock with about four inches of room in the back. It only touches the glass at one small point. Easy to clean...

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Left.JPG

[Quatro]

Awesome!

A suggestion however,

If I were you, I would remove about half of the rock. I would make sure that the rock is securely fastened to eachother using cable ties, rods, pvc, etc. I wouldn't have any rock within 4 inches of ANY side of the aquarium. I would probably make two small outcrops, and allow the sps to over grow them. I think you may run out of room when the sps starts growing in.

Great tank and equipment!

[invincible569]

The Aquascape is perfect!

[CamBarr]

sweet looking good dude

[Cinderblock]

I have never used cable ties etc. for live rock. Never had an issue in any of my old systems. I think it looks better when you go natural. As for SPS, I am a big frag fan so I dont think I will ever run out of room. I do see your point though and thanks for the suggestion.

Now on to more Elos equipment. Next up - the CA Reactor and the Biotopus 2 controller.

[CamBarr]

How is the skimmer working got any pics

[CamBarr]

any updates?

[boozeman]

nice :thumbsup:

[E-A-G-L-E-S]

Hmmm...that skimmer design looks very similar to my old Schuran Jetskim 200....if it performs like that skimmer did(at size) then you have a great system Elos.

[CamBarr]

i think it is roughly the same ????

[elosusa]

The NS uses our patented injection (TDJ®) so they are different but they both have inner and out chamber and have a similar appearance. I believe the schuran skimmer you are talking about adds the polluted water and air mix from the bottom of the skimmer and ours injects it from the top of the reaction chamber. We inject from the top of the reaction chamber to increase contact time and improve bubbles size over standard venturi based skimmers. The protein laden bubbles must get passed the injector, injecting more polluted water and air mix in order to get to the collection cup and in most skimmer designs it is simply the decreased size of the neck that slows down the bubbles going to the collection cup. Both are good skimmers. Our website has more information. Let me know if you have any other questions.

[Cinderblock]

Here are some updates. I am going through the standard cycle with my "fully cured" LR. I left the MH's on too long for three days and I have a little hair algae outbreak. Some solid skimming, water changes and a clean up crew should do the trick. I purchased a mix of snails (margarita, cerith, nessarious, bumble and astrea) and hermits (2 Blue and 3 Red + 1 Scarlet). I am not a fan of Turbos due to the size and hippo like qualities. Although I wish I could rent one for a few days. Anyway here are some new pictures. The first one is of the B2 Controller. The directions needed to be printed out from a .PDF but its pretty easy to get it all going. Jesse helped me out once or twice with it but now its almost like that commercial for some Ron Popeil oven "set it and forget it". All I look at it now is to make sure my PH is in balance. The biotopes have to be one of the most innovative ideas in controllers. You could just select "Fiji" for example and the B2 sets up everything. Temp, lights, PH etc. Its worth the money just for that. Jesse sent me some software that would make it even easier to set up but I had some problems because I did not have a null modem. I guess you can use drop down menus for each of the plugs on the multi-plug. No big deal as I just used the B2 to set up everything. Nice equipment. When are the stands coming out?

I had some problems with the CA Reactor. First I could not get a siphon to start and the pump could not get the water around my looping tube work. I then had to put the pump in the sump area (yes it all fits - if you are good at Tetris). Then I could get a siphon but no CA enriched water was coming out of the exit. I then realized I had the tubes on the wrong places for the pump. Elos changed the design and the pictures on the directions which confused me a little bit. After a few phone calls to Jesse (Thanks again!) we figured out that the tubes should be reversed and that I should wait until water starts bubbling out of the probe holder in the reactor and then put the probe in. This allowed the right mix of air and water to fill up the reactor to the proper height and the CA Reactor started working - the siphon was created. Not any fault of the design - just I had never used one before so I was a little confused.

The Elos pH Probe is very nice looking. Its glass and you can see the wires inside. I could get it to read very accurate pH but my other pH probe (Pinpoint) was way out of wack as far as what the B2 said. I tested the water using a Elos Aqua Test and figured there is a problem as the Elos was accurate when used alone and the Pinpoint was accurate when used it alone. I then tried two Pinpoints and I get exact readings. For some reason the Elos probe with the B2 caused other probes to not work properly. So now I am not using the Elos pH probe at all. Jesse any ideas why this is occurring?

Here are some new pictures:

The B2

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685B2.JPG

The CA Reactor

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685CA_Reactor.JPG

Nasty (the Elos Skimmer is very impressive)

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Nasty.JPG

[elosusa]

Good to hear it is all coming along. I will try to replicate what you have going with the two different probes. I have more probes coming in this week and I have pinpoint around here so I will see if I can get the same interference between the probes. I'll also ask back to Italy. I have a container due to arrive in March and there should be a stand or two on that shipment. I have also been talking to catchit about fabricating a slightly different model. When you get a chance give me a call and I can also help you out with the other questions you pm'd me. Talk to you later.

[Cinderblock]

Here is my first fish. Its a Rainfordi or Old Glory or Court Jester Gobi.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Sandy.JPG

[CamBarr]

post a fts

[Cinderblock]

Not yet. There is not much to look at except for a clean up crew and some rocks. Give me a little time Cam. I will be traveling next week.

[CamBarr]

hey Cinder,

I travel 3 times a month and i can still post pics of my tank!

Ha ha what do you sell??? anything real-estate related?

[Cinderblock]

I have not had the easiest time dialing in the Rea but most of it was not having a clue on how to use a Ca reactor. So now my pH in the reactor is 6.4-6.55 during the day. Its dialed in. But the pH in the tank during the day goes down to 7.9

The B2 turns off the co2 when the lights go off and the tank pH then rises to 8.1-8.2 during the night

I cant figure that one out right now but it could be because my tank is not 100% broken in. Jesse sent me some Elos KH+ buffer but I have not read the directions.

My Ca (using the Aqua Test Expert Line Ca test) was 450 on two tests. My Alkalinity (KH) was 12 which I think is very high. I will have to test it again. I dont think its optimal right now.

Still getting diatoms on the glass which is strange. Is it because of the co2? Could just be a long cycle? But its been a few weeks and they should have gone away by now.

[Cinderblock]

Here is the Rea 120 Ca Reactor. I now have it running very well. One issue I was having was that the overflow to the pump (not the effluent) was not draining properly. It was causing the pump to work harder than it had to and I could not keep consistent pressure in the reactor. The effluent was coming out in waves. I had to use a cable tie to cut off some of the flow on the tube which helped out but there was a better solution. Jesse sent me a ball valve that did the trick. I installed it yesterday and I now have consistent pressure and a better operating system.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Rea_120_valve.JPG

When I looked at the B2 this morning the pH was reading 8.15 in the tank and 6.45 in the Rea. Finally I had success! I did a test anyhow and it reads about 8.1-8.2. The Aqua Test Expert Line is very easy to use. Right now I have the KH, CA and pH.

I think the problem was that I had the effluent from the Rea 120 in the area with the tank pH probe. I moved the effluent to another area in the sump and I think I am getting better readings.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685pH_Test.JPG

[prugs]

WOW,
This 60gal setup seems very compact.
Any idea how much you have invested?

[Cinderblock]

Yes the 60 is compact. For me coming from a nanocube, it was a big jump. I talked to Jesse about a week ago and I believe that Elos is no longer making or shipping out the 60 and the 80 will be the smallest tank. I am glad I got in on the smaller tank as its a perfect size for me and my wife. As for investment - I cant recall. I just think I spent wisely.

[prugs]

I guess that was kind of rude for me to ask. It does look very expensive though.

[elosusa]

just to clarify, as it is confusing, the 60 is 39 gallons and is 60 centimeters in length.

[Patio]

Is the 60 still available?

[dmhagen]

I can see that this system take over from 60 and 80. It is 75x57x50. So in the future only system 70 and 120 and 120xl and last 160.

[hawaiianwargod]

dmhagen
[welcome]

[elosusa]

Man you guys are quick:) The 60 and 80 will not be available anymore, in their place will be the system 70. I believe there is only one system 80 left in the country and it is at The Aquarium Gallery in New Hampshire. The sizes were so similar we decided to consolidate the line by making a size in between. We have also added the 160xl as a standard size and we are making the 120,160 in a bow front design. These are standard sizes but there are many more sizes that we built frequently but are not in the catalog or on the website but are available upon request. Of course, custom tanks are always an option. Let me know if you have any other questions and cinderblock, the tank sounds like it is coming along nicely now that dialing in the reactor is done. For now.............

[dmhagen]

Thank's for welcome me hawaiianwargod.

[hawaiianwargod]

No problem...dmhagen.

[Cinderblock]

Stop with the threadjack :)

[hawaiianwargod]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9374499#post9374499 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Cinderblock
Stop with the threadjack :)

Don't mean to "threadjack"...my apology. Out 4 good in this thread!

[Cinderblock]

Still just waiting until all the algae is removed from the LR and the system is 100% stable until I add in the Rea and co2 again. Due to all the travel I am guessing April is my target date to get the ball rolling.

I just ordered a pack of 5 filter socks for the skimmer. What a difference a clean one makes. The skimmer works better and the water level is lower in the skimmer section of the sump. I think its because the old sock was filled with gunk. Not using filter socks before, I did not know they needed to be cleaned so often.

Jesse - any word on the stand? I need to get the B2 off the floor.

[pammy]

Hey Cinderblock. Any updated photos of your tank?

Bye
Pam

[Cinderblock]

Here you go. I cant get the colors to look right with my camera. It looks very blue/green here. Notice the movement kit with coralline algae starting to grow.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685FTS_4-16-07.JPG

[pammy]

Hey Cinderblock. Looks like you've added quite a few corals. Looking good. Great rock work! Can't wait to get water and rock in mine! As for the photos....have you tried adjusting the white balance on your camera? (if you have an option to set it). Or....you can try a little photo editing. I tried a filter to remove the blue on your photo for you (I use this filter for photos I take Scuba Diving). See the before and after pics below. Bye. Pam


ORIGINAL PHOTO
http://www.homebasedbusiness-usa.com/cinderblocks tank.jpg


EDITED PHOTO
http://www.homebasedbusiness-usa.com/cinderblocks tank filter.jpg

[Cinderblock]

Thanks Pam. I guess I should find the directions that came with my camera.

[pammy]

Hey Cinderblock. What you need, is a piece of white PVC or something white to put IN the tank. On my camera (Canon A95), I'd select the icon in my function menu for white balance, and aim the camera so that the white object completely fills the frame then I'd press the SET Button....then take the pictures.

Bye
Pam

[Cinderblock]

Had some aptesia. Purchased two peppermint shrimp yesterday and the aptesia is gone. I have not seen the shrimp since I have put them into the Elos 60 but I guess they are out at night.

Next step is to use Elos dosing pumps for two part. I'll put more information here when I can get them from Jesse.

[liver]

any more info. on the dosing pumps? can the B2 control them?

[Cinderblock]

After talking to Jesse - yes the B2 can control up to five dosing pumps.

[advice1]

If you cant post, can you please PM how much cash you dropped on this?

It would look good in my bedroom :-)

[flyingphish]

1 miiiiilllllion dollars...

[CamBarr]

lol

[Cinderblock]

Ok - Enough of the money talk - just call Jesse at Elos. I dont think any of the 60's are left in the USA. My tank is coming along well. I have been traveling as of late so some neglect started to occur. Bottom line though is that The PII can support just about any SPS and color them up well. I have never tried them before the Elos and some of them are like weeds. I have to cut the montipora digitata about every twice a month. I even received a acropora granulosa that was almost white and within a month is now dark green wth red tips. I'll post pics soon. Plus Jesse just let me know my B2 stand is in.

[CamBarr]

any updated shots?

[GSMguy]

looks great

[Cinderblock]

I post a shot this weekend. I still cant figure out the white balance but you will get the picture. I still am impressed with the whole Elos system. Its only six months old and I think I can grow just about anything, including some bubble algae due to all the crabs killing all my snails. My SPS look amazing and I am going to add in a few more soon once I can get the haladamide off some of the rock. I know its looks good but it is growing to fast so off it goes.

[elosusa]

your stand should be there before the weekend, too;)

[Cinderblock]

Stand is set up and on the B2. I'll post a picture this weekend. For all the B2 owners - dont be jealous. It looks better than on the floor.

[Fliger]

Que? Bueller ... Jesse ... Jesse ... Bueller ...

I am definitely jealous. My beautiful controller is on a cheap arse Ikea stand.

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/dfliger/Elos%20160XL/100_0694.jpg

[Cinderblock]

Ok here it is...

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Stand_1.JPG

Need to tie the wires together for a better look. I like it.

[Cinderblock]

Plan on adding two pumps for Two Part. Finally they have arrived.

[Cinderblock]

I tied the cables together (on the stand) so it looks better.

Ok - on to the dosing pumps and the 01. alkali (calcium, magnesium and strontium) and 03. carbonates (buffer solution). I have never used a two part solution before so I may need some help Jesse. Here are some pics as I mounted the pumps and purchased two 64oz bottles to house the solution. I had to get rectangular ones because its the only size I could find that would fit in the Elos Square.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Bottles.JPG

Here are the Elos Dosing Pumps. Very nice. I had to use Velcro in order to mount them in the Square. There is a cool mounting part with a screw but I could not reach the area I wanted. Velcro to the rescue. I dont think I have much space left. I added the labels to assist me in using the right part for the right bottle.

For those who have an Elos 60 - here is where I mounted them.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Dose_Pumps_1.JPG

Close Up:

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Dose_Pumps_2.JPG

[clownnrnd]

Looks cool but IMO Elos should think of having the wires run inside the pipe and come out a key way or grommet in the base. Just a thought :)

Chad

[Cinderblock]

I have been dealing with a brown algae called dictyota for over six months now. It progressively got worse. My wife said enough of the frustration. So out with the old and in with the new. My corals were getting so big that they were starting to pop out of the water so I would have had to re-aquascape anyhow. Here is the minimal rockwork for maximum coral growth.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685FTS.JPG

[slovan]

Cinderblock, you have one of the best equipment setups I have ever seen! :eek1:

On your battle with dictyota, what are you doing to preventing it from coming back? Did you get all new rock? Are you doing anything to help lower the nutrients in your tank?

[Cinderblock]

Slovan - Thanks. As far as the Dictyota, I tried to hand prune it for months. It kept growing and growing. With a ~43 gallon tank, I could not get the fish I wanted due to size limitations. I had low phosphates, nitrates etc. My SPS were very bright and growing well so bottom line is that I had to get all new rock. I just got it on Friday. What is mess. I still cant find two of my shrimp. I think they are on the old rock in my garage. RIP shrimps. I just spent the last two hours getting all the corals, except for all the Zoas, off my rock and adding them to the new setup. I broke a few pieces - so I had to frag a few of the bigger colonies.

As far as equipment - I made a few changes. I removed the movement kit (PM me if anyone wants it - just pay shipping) and added in a VorTech. We will see how that works out. Its big for this small tank but I think I can hide it well behind some corals if they grow.

[slovan]

Sounds like your tank is on the right track. I hope the dictyota doesn't come back in your new setup. Good luck and keep us posted with updates. :)

[Maximus]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11014048#post11014048 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Cinderblock
Slovan - Thanks. As far as the Dictyota, I tried to hand prune it for months. It kept growing and growing. With a ~43 gallon tank, I could not get the fish I wanted due to size limitations. I had low phosphates, nitrates etc. My SPS were very bright and growing well so bottom line is that I had to get all new rock. I just got it on Friday. What is mess. I still cant find two of my shrimp. I think they are on the old rock in my garage. RIP shrimps. I just spent the last two hours getting all the corals, except for all the Zoas, off my rock and adding them to the new setup. I broke a few pieces - so I had to frag a few of the bigger colonies.

As far as equipment - I made a few changes. I removed the movement kit (PM me if anyone wants it - just pay shipping) and added in a VorTech. We will see how that works out. Its big for this small tank but I think I can hide it well behind some corals if they grow.
Do you not like the movement kit? If not can you tell me why? I may order one for the 120xl.

[Cinderblock]

The movement kit was good for directional flow on the Elos 60. It comes with two ~275 gph Eheim pumps. I cant find it in my garage - which is not good considering it is not a mess at all. Call Jesse and ask for a suggestion on a tank your size.

[Cinderblock]

I am not good with my camera. I added in all the corals. It looks really blue and washed out in this pic.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685FTS2.JPG

[elosusa]

cinderblock email me and I will send over the new firmware for the BII. I think I have an old email address.

[Cinderblock]

I had to return my VorTech with the WWD to IceCap today :( After talking to IceCap - they think they can fix it so :) but now I have to put the old Tunze Stream in again. At least it moves the water around enough for the SPS.

[Cinderblock]

Thinking about moving to a Elos PII 1x250 w/ 4t5's. More light! Jesse says they will be in next week. Any buyers for my PII 1x250 w/4 t5's? We can work something out.

Plus I removed the chiller and changed to a Teco with built in heater. Tried using a MJ 1200 but it could not push the water up enough so I purchased a Tunze Master Recirculation Pump - 1073.030. Its perfect.

I changed out some tubing. The Eheim circulation pump is no longer t'd off to the chiller. So the flow in the display is alot more. I used the VorTech on pulse mode and the water is wild. The SPS are loving it.

I still have the Rainfordi Gobi and the Tomato Clown and am thinking of another fish. Maybe a six-line wrasse?

There are 28 SPS now. Some are small frags and some need to be cut. FTS soon....

[GSMguy]

are you getting a wave with pulse mode or just random flow? my 50g has a sweet wave from pulse mode.

tank looks great BTW.

[Cinderblock]

No wave because I have the Vortech behind the rock work. Great random flow on pulse mode with the return.

[nanoguy]

The vortech must be well hidden since I can't see it in the pics. How's the flow in the front of your tank since the vortech's flow is being obstructed by all the rocks?

[Cinderblock]

nanoguy - i have not posted a good picture with the vortech yet. So that most likely why you cant see it. Its below the cord in the back on the other pictures.

The flow in the front is great. I positioned the return so that it points to the front of the glass and when mixed with the vortech on pulse mode I am getting some great flow (waving and random).

[Felix1021]

nice system...

[nanoguy]

Thanks for the info cinder. How high are you cranking it up? Does it blow your sand bed around?

[Cinderblock]

I have it about 3/4 of the way cranked up on pulse mode with a three second delay between pulses. It created a little three inch hole behind iin the sand the rock work but thats it. If I go to 100% then I get a sandstorm behind the rocks but not in front. Sometimes I use this on the green flow mode just to get some diutrus stirred up. It works well in the Elos. Should be perfect for your 70.

[GSMguy]

Cinderblock i didnt want to take this OT but it has gone the direction i wanted to take it anyway.

I think you are doing yourself a disservice by positioning the vortech where it is, by aiming the pump at the rocks you are essentially packing phosphates into the rock if you move the pump into the open water it will lift detritus out of the rocks so it would have an opposite effect. and your tank would benefit, also shouldn't the rocks be a place where animals can hide without being blasted with flow.

Tell me, do you have any algae growth where the vortech is aimed at the rocks? look for localized algae or cyano growth right where the flow is pointed at the rocks.

[Cinderblock]

GSMguy - interesting concept. Maybe a good topic for another thread.

With the Vortech in pulse mode (with 3 second delay) and behind the rocks you are actually doing a good thing, as long as you have it positioned correctly... If you are moving the water around the complete LR structure, removing detritus at the same time and have solid surface agitation - you have the Vortech in the correct position.

My LR structure has over five inches of space behind it and the Vortech, which allows more random flow and not a blast of water into one spot. If the Vortech is used on reef-crest or on another semi-consistent area your concern may be accurate. The placement of the Vortech is the key. Additionally this one is placed just a half inch below the top of the top rock structure so thats why the surface is getting random agitation.

There are snails and hermits all over the tank and in some cases right in-front of the output of the Vortech. There is no cyano or localized algae, but I will now look to make sure that there are no issues. In fact the coralline has even encrusted over the back of the LR.

I believe that if you had the Vortech inside a rock or right behind the rock work with no other place for the water to go then I guess there may be cause for concern with the phosphates – especially in a SPS system. Its tough to see from my pictures but I planned this new LR structure around the Vortech and its benefits to the Elos 60.

[GSMguy]

i think your right that pulse mode will create less of a problem, I am running my vortech on pulse mode and getting a sweet wave its a great pump.

this is just one of the things i have seen mentioned in BB threads pertaining to keeping phosphates low, thought i would mention it. your tank is great looking i was not trying to knock you, keep it up.

I want Jesse to order me an elos with a 3 inch lip above the overflow so i can have a violent wave in my next tank.

[Cinderblock]

I like the three inch lip idea. I would like a huge wave but my floors (and wife) would not be happy.

Here is a picture. Does not show great depth, but you can see one snail right in front of the vortechs flow (if direct). There is a green and red granulosa and bright pink mille in upper half, which is the lower right of the 60 and a forest green mille in the picture as well. They are all in the back of the structure.

I am not very good with this Cyber-Shot 8.1 camera and aquarium pictures.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Vortech_3.JPG

[CamBarr]

do you have any pics of your skimmer in action???

[GSMguy]

updated FTS?

[CamBarr]

i second that^ and skimmer pics!

[elosusa]

I have a suspicion that cinderblock will be taking a few pictures soon;)

[GSMguy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11770201#post11770201 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by elosusa
I have a suspicion that cinderblock will be taking a few pictures soon;)

you sold him a new tank? :)

[elosusa]

no but I believe he is making some changes.

[boozeman]

will this be the next episode of pimp my reef :bum:

[CamBarr]

ha ha ha ^^^

[Cinderblock]

Close.

I like the "Pimp my Reef" line.

I need a week or so to set up the new goodies. Pictures soon.

[Cinderblock]

New Ferrari Red Planet II 1x250 + 4 T5's

Elos 250w MH 10000k bulb with 2 Giesemann Pure Actinic and 2 Actinic Plus. Solid SPS upgrade from my 1x150 PII + 4 T5's. The Ferrari red color is awesome with the silver on the Elos Square door.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Red_PII-med.JPG

WOW!

[cartman5579]

OOoooohhhh, Aaaaaaahhhhh, Very nice!

[boozeman]

:eek: OMG ...I had to darken my monitor...that is one loud RED!!!
I absolutely love it :bum:

[CamBarr]

post a fts so we can see it over the tank

[Cinderblock]

CamBarr - Here is good one for you. Its 6:30 pm here so its just the T5's that are on......

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685PII_over_Tank-med.JPG

[Felix1021]

drool...lol

[CamBarr]

niceeeeeeeeee

[Fliger]

That is saweeet! Now you need a matching door. :)

[Cinderblock]

I really like the silver on the door with the red of the hood on the PII. The contrast looks great with the Elos 60 tank.

[Cinderblock]

Sold the PII 1x150 with 4T5's to Quatro. Thanks!

Had to send in the Vortech for repair. Its back today. Placement was on back wall now I am considering puting it on the side with the overflow. Anyone with a 60 or 70 have a reco on Vortech placement?

[Quatro]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11831635#post11831635 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Cinderblock
Sold the PII 1x150 with 4T5's to Quatro. Thanks!

Had to send in the Vortech for repair. Its back today. Placement was on back wall now I am considering puting it on the side with the overflow. Anyone with a 60 or 70 have a reco on Vortech placement?

Thank you Cinder! I'll put it to good use :D And thanks to Fliger for letting me have this one, I owe you bud ;)

On the vortech, I liked mine better on the side going long ways for the system 70. You get a wider spread if you give the vortech more flow lengthwise, which is what it was meant for. On the back, I felt like it could be hidden better, but you reduce the usefulness by cutting the flow short. Also, I found it works best if it's out in the open away from everything else, free to flow. Hard to hide, but it works really well when given space. HTH...

[GSMguy]

in my 36x18x18 i prefer the vortech on the side as well.

i wish it was a system 70 though.

[Cinderblock]

Ok - I put the Vortech on the side. I got a sand storm at the other end of the tank. When I woke up the sand was built up in the middle of the rock structure. I think I need to lower the speed a bit.

On another note - I switched out the Elos 10k bulb. I think its very bright but I like the blue(r) look. I put in a 14k 250w Phoenix. I like it but it might be to blue. The corals look more like I am used to. I need a hybrid between the two. Jesse - does Elos make a 14k?

I think I am going to sell the Elos 10k 250w bulb. Anyone interested? Its been used for a week. Its very bright compared to my 150k set-up. Also its UV shielded. PM me if interested.

[cartman5579]

Jesse is this 10K bulb everyone hates the same one that comes with my Planet II? Hope not!! LOL

[Cinderblock]

Here are the Corals and Fish in the My Elos 60 system:

Tomoto Clown
Rainfordi Gobi

Acro. Mille (Purple Corallites with Red)
Acro. Mille (Forest Green)
Acro. Mille (Candy Apple)
Acro. Mille (Blue) (3)
Acro. Mille (Purple)
Acro. Mille (Teal)
Acro. Mille (Rose Red)
Acro. Mille (Red)
Acro. Tortosa (Blue) (2)
Acro. Yongei (Lime Green) (2)
Acro. Samoensis (Purple)
Acro. Tenuis (Blue, Purple and Yellow)
Acro. Secale (Tri-color)
Acro. Digitifera (Blue)
Acro. Cervicornis (Stag) - (Blue/Green)
Acro. Granulosa (Green and Red)
Acro. Selago (Blue)
Acro. (Purple Bansai)
Monti. Digitata (Red and Blue)
Seriatopora hystrix (Green and Pink)
Two other corals I can not ID

My camera is not good with aquarium pictures - sorry for no FTS. CamBarr dont even ask :)

[Cinderblock]

Added a Acro. Vermiculata (Neon Green)

I will try to take a picture of this one. Its very nice.

[Radar1]

How blue was the light with the elos 10K and 4 Actinic bulbs? I prefer a whiter light is why I ask.

[Cinderblock]

Not much blue at all. Jesse says its more like a 12k. I found it to be very white and my T5's did not off set the white enough. I am sure this is a great look for some people as lighting is all subjective but I went with a Phoenix 14k. I still have the bulb if you are interested. Its UV protected and very bright.

[Cinderblock]

Here is my tomato clown - Griswold. All the coral pics are coming out blury. I think its time for a non point and shoot camera.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Griswald.JPG

[GSMguy]

Cute clown,

you really need to post a FTS lol

[kellen85]

hello, sorry to interupt but i've been trying to find a elos 120 and cannot find one anywere any suggestions. please

[GSMguy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12014891#post12014891 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by kellen85
hello, sorry to interupt but i've been trying to find a elos 120 and cannot find one anywere any suggestions. please

did you try Jessie at elos USA?

[kellen85]

i have'nt called anyone i just went to there website then looked around locally and online

[GSMguy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12015490#post12015490 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by kellen85
i have'nt called anyone i just went to there website then looked around locally and online

Call Jesse at Elos USA he is very helpful and understands the elos product line like nobody else

[kellen85]

do you have a number to contact him

[GSMguy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12016057#post12016057 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by kellen85
do you have a number to contact him

cant find it, here is an email for him.
info@elosusa.com

[Mac Inger]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11389907#post11389907 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by GSMguy
Cinderblock i didnt want to take this OT but it has gone the direction i wanted to take it anyway.

I think you are doing yourself a disservice by positioning the vortech where it is, by aiming the pump at the rocks you are essentially packing phosphates into the rock if you move the pump into the open water it will lift detritus out of the rocks so it would have an opposite effect. and your tank would benefit, also shouldn't the rocks be a place where animals can hide without being blasted with flow.

Tell me, do you have any algae growth where the vortech is aimed at the rocks? look for localized algae or cyano growth right where the flow is pointed at the rocks.


GSM,..i posted a similar question on the chemistry forum (powerhead packing phosphates into the rock).


http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1328566&highlight=vortech

Randy doesnt think there is a problem with doing that.

[deadmanh]

any updates on this?

[Cinderblock]

Wow it has been a long time. New baby and too much travel = lack of time for the Elos. Jesse I have not talked to you in over a year - still have not installed the Cond-Prob!

The tank does not look to good. Griswold is still alive and I have only a few corals left. The rare Superman digi and the purple and red mille are still there but the rest are in sad shape or dead and in the trash. I did a major overhall today but need to get the sump cleaned out and maybe even get a new pump for the skimmer.

Off to FL for a week but next weekend the sump will be as good as new and the PII lights will be changed.

So I have missed the Mini - anything else?

[tadashi123]

glad to see this thread active again. would be great to see an updated pic as well as feedback on the stock elos 60 skimmer :)

[Cinderblock]

Ok - just got back from FL. I am cleaning the sump, replacing all the tubing and changing out the lights. As for livestock - I should receive a new cleaner crew today. I will take a picture and post it and if you want some feedback on the skimmer I can give it.

[elosusa]

Hey Cinderblock good to see you here again. First congratulations on the baby. The cond. probe is easy, just take the top right side cover off and there will be a connection for it there, plug the transformer in and in the expert menu go to, "add/remove input" and say "yes" on conductivity and you are all set.
As for new stuff, we have added new test kit resolution, new lights (e-power, e-lite, manta for e-power), new 120 size, new cabinets, new 14k bulbs, and I am sure there is more. Give me a call if you need any help with the cond. probe and talk to you later.

[Cinderblock]

Hi Jesse,

Thanks and good the hear from you. Here is the COND-Prob. Opened finally!

What is the red wire for?

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85685Cond-Prob-1.JPG

Dont recall if my B2 is up to date. I have never figured out how to upgrade it with new software. Dont I have to get a null-modem or something.

I will give it a shot on Saturday and see if it works. Talk to you soon.

[elosusa]

The red is for troubleshooting if there is a problem, just leave it in the box. For the firmware unplug the controller and the first screen will give you a firmware version, email that to me and I will tell you if you need o upgrade to a newer version. If you don't, you will only need to turn on the cond. probe in the expert menu and that is it. If you do, you will need the null modem cable to update the firmware. Talk to you later.

[Cinderblock]

Its 1.09.

[elosusa]

get the cable. If you want, ship only the controller back and I will upgrade the firmware and send it back. Since you are changing things around this might be a good time to do this. I could even connect the conductivity as well.

[Cinderblock]

Even better. Can you either PM or post the address? Plus I need to replace the face plate to the B2. Thanks Jesse!

[ppsthlm]

I have a question:
I have a System Mini and I am thinking about getting a Biotopus II. Hard to find threads with people who have the BII, but I see you do. Are you happy with it? Is it accurate and working as you want it to??
Nice tank you´ve got by the way. Please add more pictures and also of the livestock.

[Cinderblock]

The BII made my tank truly automated. I found it a little difficult at first but thats like going from a PC to a Mac. Once you figure it out its easy. The temp and PH probes are very accurate and now I am going to add the Condi probe to automate the salinity. I will add some pictures soon. It does not look that good now. I just finished up cleaning up the inside of the tank a little bit, did some trimming of my torts and mille's and now am cleaning the gunk off of some equipment. I have to get to the sump next week. Need to clean all the pumps and the protein skimmer. Just purchased new lights and will change them out as well. PM me if you have more questions about the BII or contact Jesse.

[N00bietanker]

Like the clown cant wait to see more pics