Timed outlets?

[Myka]

Hey guys,

I ordered an ATI fixture, and didn't realize that some models don't come with a built-in timer. It's a 6-bulb, so it has 2 channels, and also fans. I would like it to be digital because I want CH1 to be off while CH2 is running because this tank doesn't need all 6 bulbs running at the same time. The fans need to run the whole time.

Anyone know something besides a controller that will do this? I imagine these fixtures were designed with a controller in mind...

[sick lid]

Hi Mindy, I am using a bunch of these coralife digital timers and they work well. 2 day and 2 night plug ins and 4 constant power plugs. https://www.coralifeproducts.com/pro...er-management/

[Myka]

Thank you. I do have a few of those as well except they're Woods brand. The trouble with that one is that all 4 outlets are set at the same time and I want to put 3 different programs in.

[Galizio]

Yes those ati fixture have 3 plugs so pretty much have to get a single timer for each.
I use apex controller, but a cheaper solution could be a reef keeper lite or an apex jr, as every single timer could cost 10-20$, and also they take lots of room on an multi outlet plug.


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[ReefMadness]

interesting. i run an ati 8x54w that has a timer built in but it's also a dimmable.

[kaboom]

Been using single plug mechanical timers ($10) for years and I find them to be the most reliable for on and off function. Accuracy is not the best but don't really it that precisely. Digital timers are good for that but if you have a power outage it doesn't retain the program and you must reset, whereas the mechanical ones just keeps on ticking when power resumes. If power outage is only if a few minutes, the timer would resume and your light schedule would only be a few minutes behind. Great piece of mind when you're away for days at a time. Digital is great for programming but not if you have regular power outages. Mechanical ones are very durable, most of mine are over ten years old.

[sparkeysplace]

Hey Mindy, look into the Belkin WeMo wireless switches. They are a little on the expensive side, about 40 bucks but I think you can have them come on and off as many times as you want in a day, and you can also control them from any where with a smart phone.


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[sparkeysplace]

Sorry Myka, dunno where Mindy came from. I can't even blame auto correct for that one!


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[sphelps]

Lots of home automation options available, you could use a set of smart plugs that would allow you to setup timers from your smart phone or device. This way the time should always match between the plugs and the setup is a bit more organized and easier to manage.

Alternatively two digital timers are the obvious option here, not sure what kaboom is on about but all the digital timers I've ever had maintain memory during power outages. For the fans you could use a simply relay circuit to avoid an additional timer.

[sphelps]

Cheap smart plug option
http://r.ebay.com/hxyw4u
Or multi outlet
http://r.ebay.com/4RU3pw