Apex Jr. vs Apex Standard
 

What does the standard controller do that the Jr. doesn't? and can the Jr. be upgraded to the point that it is the same as the standard? On a budget here(my frag budget :cry:)

Don't ask me what is different, but I know that the Jr or the lite (which has now been discontinued) cannot be upgraded to the same as I 'full' apex. You can still control a tonne of devices with the Jr and lite but there are ports or connections missing that cannot be added without purchasing the 'full' apex.

I think that makes sense

I guess what I need to know would a normal Apex user miss those ports/connections? or can you run your tank fully with the jr and upgrades?

For sure you can.

You only get a 4 port outlet with the Jr (I couldn't do it without at least 8). You can still control lights, temp pumps etc.

You would have to buy an expansion module for a pH probe if you want that capability though.

Otherwise you can easily run a tank with a Jr. When I bought mine I was told to keep in mind possible expansion. I'm glad I did as I used all 8 ports on my eb8 and could have done with a couple more too. To add another eb8 is over $160 I believe. An eb4 isn't much cheaper either so bear that in mind also.

aquarium controller comparison link

Most of my equipment is stand alone stuff so if I had the jr I would just run heating/cooling and lights on the 4 outlets. Eventually upgrade and get an eb8 or a dc8 not sure what the difference is.

Buying the EB8 is pricey. And you get no pH probe, if you wanted one. I think also no variable ports. For the cost, I'd go with full. I use 2 EB8 bars on my tank, no way 4 would do it.

Anyone mind sharing what exactly they have there apex controller doing for them? Just in general thanks.

2 heaters
return pump
skimmer
chiller pump
ATO solenoid
Ca Reactor pump
CO2 solenoid
Temp control
main lights
supp lights
fan
variable speed pumps x 4
email alerts
feed pause
pump pause for WC

oh, and auto feeder. When I ran LED, I used it to manage the lighting profiles