ReefKeeper 2
Advanced Aquarium Monitoring System
User Guide
Revised: 9/15/07
D i g i t a l A q u a t i c s
Version 2.5
Copyright
2006 Digital Aquatics, LLC. All rights reserving, no part of this manual may be reproduced, copied, transmitted, disseminated or stored in any
storage medium, for any purpose without the express written permission of Digital Aquatics, LLC. Digital Aquatics hereby grants permission to
download a single copy of this manual and of any revision to this manual onto a hard drive or other electronic storage medium to be viewed for
personal use, provided that such electronic or printed copy of this manual or revision must contain the complete text of this copyright notice and
provided further that any unauthorized commercial distribution of this manual or any revision hereto is strictly prohibited.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice. Digital Aquatics reserves the right to change or improve its products and to make
changes in the content without obligation to notify any person or organization of such changes. Visit the Digital Aquatics website
(
www.DigitalAquatics.com) for current updates and supplemental information concerning the use and operation of this and other Digital Aquatics
products.
Limited Warranty
Digital Aquatics LLC warrants this product to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for two years from date of shipment. Digital
Aquatics will, at its sole discretion, repair or replace any components that fail in normal use. The customer is responsible for any transportation costs.
This warranty does not cover accessories and probes or failures due to abuse, misuse, accident, improper installation or unauthorized alteration or
repairs.
THE WARRANTIES AND REMEDIES CONTAINED HEREIN ARE EXCLUSIVE, AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES
EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING ANY LIABILITY ARISING UNDER WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE, STATUTORY OR OTHERWISE. THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, WHICH MAY
VARY FROM STATE TO STATE.
IN NO EVENT SHALL DIGITAL AQUATICS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES, WHETHER RESULTING FROM THE USE, MISUSE OR INABILITY TO USE THIS PRODUCT OR FROM DEFECTS IN THE
PRODUCT. SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE
LIMITATIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
Digital Aquatics retains the exclusive right to repair or replace the unit or firmware or offer a full refund of the purchase price at its sole discretion.
SUCH REMEDY SHALL BE YOUR SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY FOR ANY BREACH OF WARRANTY.
Warranty Contact Information
Should you experience difficulty with your ReefKeeper 2, please contact
support@digitalaquatics.com. A customer service representative will contact
you regarding your problem.
ReefKeeper 2 User Guide vii
Table of Contents
1. Introduction 1-1
About this manual............................................ .................................................. .................................................. .............1-1
2. Product Overview 2-1
Remote Display .................................................. .................................................. .................................................. ..........2-1
Power Controller........................................ .................................................. .................................................. ...................2-1
Temperature Probe .................................................. .................................................. .................................................. .....2-2
pH Probe............................................. .................................................. .................................................. ..........................2-2
Serial Port Cable............................................. .................................................. .................................................. ..............2-2
3. Product Installation 3-1
Power Controller Installation...................................... .................................................. .................................................. ..3-1
Remote Display Installation .................................................. .................................................. .........................................3-2
Temperature Probe Installation...................................... .................................................. .................................................3-3
pH Probe Installation .................................................. .................................................. .................................................. ..3-3
4. Menu System and Interaction 4-1
Overview .................................................. .................................................. .................................................. ....................4-1
Menu System Basics............................................ .................................................. .................................................. .4-1
Operation .................................................. .................................................. .................................................. ............4-2
Standby/Night Mode Hotkey............................................ .................................................. ..............................................4-2
Status Hotkey............................................ .................................................. .................................................. ....................4-2
Channel Setup............................................. .................................................. .................................................. ..................4-3
Manual OVERRIDE.......................................... .................................................. .................................................. ...4-3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
viii ReefKeeper 2 User Guide
Auto .................................................. .................................................. .................................................. ....................4-3
Light .................................................. .................................................. .................................................. ...................4-5
Skimmer/Sump pump .................................................. .................................................. ...........................................4-5
Wavemaker .................................................. .................................................. .................................................. .........4-5
Temp controller .................................................. .................................................. .................................................. ..4-6
pH Control .................................................. .................................................. .................................................. ..........4-7
Multi-Timer .................................................. .................................................. .................................................. ........4-7
On/Off Oscillate......................................... .................................................. .................................................. ...........4-8
Always On .................................................. .................................................. .................................................. ..........4-8
Always Off .................................................. .................................................. .................................................. .........4-8
Wavemaker Setup............................................. .................................................. .................................................. ............4-9
Temperature Setup............................................. .................................................. .................................................. ...........4-9
Standby Duration .................................................. .................................................. .................................................. ......4-10
Set Time.............................................. .................................................. .................................................. ........................4-10
Night Mode Setup............................................. .................................................. .................................................. ..........4-10
pH Setup .................................................. .................................................. .................................................. ...................4-11
Brightness .................................................. .................................................. .................................................. .................4-12
5. Appendix 5-1
Firmware Updates........................................... .................................................. .................................................. ..............5-1
Data connection and myreef .................................................. .................................................. .................................5-1
Troubleshooting................................... .................................................. .................................................. .........................5-2
pH Probe Care and Maintenance .................................................. .................................................. ..................................5-3
Recalibration..................................... .................................................. .................................................. ....................5-3
Cleaning/Care .................................................. .................................................. .................................................. .....5-3
Spent Probe............................................. .................................................. .................................................. ..............5-4
pH Troubleshooting .................................................. .................................................. ..............................................5-4
ReefKeeper 2 User Guide 1-1
1. INTRODUCTION
About this manual
Digital Aquatics strongly recommends that you read the entire manual before attempting to utilize the ReefKeeper 2 for
actual aquarium control.
In the electronic (.PDF) version of this manual, clicking on any of the sections listed in the Table of Contents above will
jump directly to that section.
The latest version of this guide may be downloaded from our website at
www.DigitalAquatics.com.
ReefKeeper 2 User Guide 2-1
2. PRODUCT OVERVIEW
This section gives you a brief overview of the components of your ReefKeeper 2.
Remote Display
Eight LEDs along the bottom of the face plate correspond to the eight available channels on the power
controller, indicating which channels are currently turned on. A blinking light indicates the Sure-On feature of a
metal halide light; see Light Configuration on page 4-5 for more information on configuring the Sure-On
feature.
Three buttons along the right allow you to configure your ReefKeeper 2 as well as enter Standby Mode and
view the night/day mode status.
The remote display receives its power via the cable connected to the power controller. In the event of a power
failure, a built-in battery allows the clock to be preserved.
Power Controller
The power controller looks like a power strip and plugs into a 3 prong wall socket.
Each of the eight channels can be configured to run any of the ReefKeeper 2 functions.
Any single channel can handle no more than 6 Amps each. The entire unit can handle no more than 15 Amps
total.
Channels 1 and 5 are spaced to allow placement of large power bricks, or “wall warts.”
Channels 4 and 8 are special purpose relays; for optimal performance, plug your highest current devices into
these channels
PRODUCT OVERVIEW D i g i t a l A q u a t i c s
2-2 ReefKeeper 2 User Guide
Temperature Probe
The temperature probe plugs into the power controller via the 6-pin connector located on the side of the power
controller (the middle connector).
Once calibrated, the probe is accurate to +/- 0.2 degrees Fahrenheit.
pH Probe
The pH probe plugs into the power controller via the BNC connection, located on the side of the power
controller.
Serial Port Cable
The serial port cable is used to update the firmware in you ReefKeeper 2 and shares a connector with the
temperature probe. For instructions on updating your ReefKeeper 2’s firmware please refer to our website at
www.DigitalAquatics.com.
ReefKeeper 2 User Guide 3-1
3. PRODUCT INSTALLATION
Power Controller Installation
The power controller should be mounted in or around your aquarium cabinet close to a source of power. The power cable
connected to the power controller is 6 feet long; plan distance from an AC wall plug accordingly. We recommend that,
you do not use extension cords or splitters in your ReefKeeper 2 installation. There are four mounting holes, two on each
side of the module. Use these to mount the power controller in a convenient location within 5 feet of where you would
like to mount the remote display and within 6 feet of where you would like to install the water temperature probe. A
coupler (available at Radio Shack) and a standard CAT5 cable can be used to increase the length between the remote
display and the power controller.
When running any wires to the ReefKeeper 2, be sure to use drip loops so that water will not damage the device.
PRODUCT INSTALLATION D i g i t a l A q u a t i c s
3-2 ReefKeeper 2 User Guide
Remote Display Installation
The remote display may be mounted on the face of your aquarium cabinet or other convenient location. It can also be
mounted flush to a cabinet. If you would like to mount it flush, make a rectangular cutout in your cabinet, appropriately
sized to allow the face of the remote display through. Place the front of the module through this hole from behind the
cabinet surface. Install four wood screws to secure the device (make sure screws are the correct length so they don’t go
completely through the front of the cabinetry). The cable can be oriented straight out the back of the remote display to
accommodate this mounting option. Route the cable to the power controller and plug it into the receptacle labeled
“Remote”.
D i g i t a l A q u a t i c s PRODUCT INSTALLATION
ReefKeeper 2 User Guide 3-3
Temperature Probe Installation
Plug the temperature probe into the connector labeled “Temp” on the power controller. Route the temperature probe
cable through convenient locations and insert it into your tank or sump reservoir. For best results, ensure that the end of
the temperature probe is at least 6 inches below the surface of the water in your tank. Be sure that you do not crimp,
pinch or tie off the temperature probe, doing so can shorten the life of the probe.
pH Probe Installation
Before physically installing your pH probe complete the pH calibration described on page 4-11.
For best results, mount the pH probe in the flow of water; the sump is a common mounting location. Avoid placing your
probe in still water as pH levels may not reflect the true pH value in the tank. When you have picked a location to mount
the probe, clean the area where the included suction cup will be placed. With the suction cup near the top of the pH
probe, press the cup to the desired location.
Once the probe is mounted, connect the cable to the BNC connection on the power strip. When routing the pH probe
cable, do not crimp, pinch, or excessively manipulate it. Doing so can cause faults in your pH probe and may require you
to replace your probe. Make sure you clean the surface where the suction cup is mounted before remounting it.
For best results, ensure that your pH probe is clean and that the tip of the probe never dries out. See pH Probe Care and
Maintenance on page 5-3 for more information on the care of your pH probe.
ReefKeeper 2 User Guide 4-1
4. MENU SYSTEM AND INTERACTION
This section guides you through each of main menu selections and their submenus. In addition to the main menu system,
there are two hotkey menus which can be accessed when the remote display is in its normal status display.
Overview
The ReefKeeper 2’s menu system is designed to provide quick access to commonly-used functions. All interaction with
the device takes place via the 3 buttons at the right of the front panel of the ReefKeeper 2. When the screen is displaying
the normal status display, pressing the Down button (the “Menu” hotkey) enters the menu system.
MENU SYSTEM BASICS
The following few points give you a basic understanding of the menu system.
When in normal operation the display shows a status screen containing the temperature,
pH (if enabled), time, and the currently active wavemaker cycles.
The currently selected menu item blinks; pressing Select will act upon the blinking
item.
The menu system operates as a hierarchy. When you press Select, the ReefKeeper 2
displays the next menu down in the hierarchy.
When changing values (setting the clock, wavemaker cycle time, etc), press and hold
either the Up or Down button to change values at a faster rate, allowing you to quickly
reach the desired value.
When in the main menu or any of the submenus, if you do not press any button for 10
seconds, the display will revert back to the normal operating screen.
MENU SYSTEM AND INTERACTION D i g i t a l A q u a t i c s
4-2 ReefKeeper 2 User Guide
OPERATION
When you enter the menu system by pressing the Down button, the display presents the first two lines of the menu
system. The top line, Channel Setup, blinks, indicating that it is the selected item. Press the Select button to display the
Channel Setup submenu. Press Up or Down to navigate through the list, Each of the 5 main submenus and the 2 hotkey
menus will be dealt with below.
To reset the ReefKeeper 2 to its factory-programmed default values, press the Up and Down buttons simultaneously
while the main status display is showing. A confirmation screen appears, asking if you would like to erase your changes
to the channel configuration and revert to the defaults. Push the Up or Down button to select Yes or No and then press
Select to make your choice.
Standby/Night Mode Hotkey
When you press the Standby Mode hotkey (the Up button, from the normal operating screen), the system enters Standby
Mode. While in Standby Mode, all channels configured to control skimmers, sump pumps and some powerheads
(depending on each wavemaker channel’s Night Mode Status) turn off. This prevents food from being swept away
during feedings which causes unnecessary bio load on your system. Standby mode is also useful when it is time to
perform maintenance on your tank and you need all the water pumps to be temporarily turned off. The length of time that
Standby Mode takes is configurable in the Standby Duration section. Standby duration can be set to any amount of time
between 1 and 99 minutes, in 1 minute increments.
Status Hotkey
When you press the Status hotkey (the Select button, from the normal operating screen), the Status screen is displayed. It
displays your ReefKeeper 2’s current firmware version as well as the Day/Night Mode status.
D i g i t a l A q u a t i c s MENU SYSTEM AND INTERACTION
ReefKeeper 2 User Guide 4-3
Channel Setup
The first item in the main menu is the Channel Setup submenu. Press Select to enter the submenu and configure the 8
channels. Each channel can be configured to a desired Auto function or may be manually overridden to be on or off.
MANUAL OVERRIDE
Manual override is useful when working with your tank or if you just need to activate your lights for an unexpected
visitor. This is the first option when you enter any channel’s setup. Press Up or Down to select whether the channel is
manually On or Off. When you manually set a channel on or off, its previous configuration is not lost. The next time you
enter the Auto configuration menu for a manually overridden channel, its previous setup is recalled.
AUTO
You may configure any of the 8 channels to perform any of the following functions:
Light (metal halide or other type)
Skimmer/Sump Pump
Powerhead
Temp Controller
pH Controller
Always on
Always off
Multi-timer
On/Off Oscillate
MENU SYSTEM AND INTERACTION D i g i t a l A q u a t i c s
4-4 ReefKeeper 2 User Guide
By default, the channels are configured as follows. You may change any channel to be any of the available functions.
Channel Default Function Default Configurations
Channel 1 Temp Controller Turn on temp: 78 ºF
Turn off temp 79 ºF
Channel 2 Powerhead Cycle A – 6 minute cycle
Channel 3 Powerhead Cycle B – 6 minute cycle
Channel 4 Light (Metal halide) Turn on: 9 AM
Turn off: 7 PM
Temp off: 88 ºF
Channel 5 Temp Controller Turn on temp: 82 ºF
Turn off temp 80 ºF
Channel 6 Sump/Skimmer
Channel 7 Powerhead Cycle C – 8 minute cycle
Channel 8 Light (Other) Turn on: 8 AM
Turn off: 8 PM
Temp off: 88 ºF
To change any given channel’s configuration, enter the menu system by pressing the Menu hotkey (Down) and select
“Channel Setup.” Select the desired channel number (if you would like to return to the main menu, press Up or Down
until “Back” is blinking; then press the Select button). Press Select to choose “Auto.” Now, choose the desired function
for that channel and press Select. Refer to the detailed configuration information for each of the functions on the
following pages for more information.
D i g i t a l A q u a t i c s MENU SYSTEM AND INTERACTION
ReefKeeper 2 User Guide 4-5
LIGHT
If you configure the channel to control a light, select whether the light is a metal halide or other type of light. If it is a
Metal Halide, the ReefKeeper 2 will ensure that it has time to cool down after a power loss before turning back on. After
making your selection, set the time that you would like the light to turn on. Use the Select button to make each selection
for hours and minutes. Then, set the time you would like to have the light turn off.
Next, select a safety cutoff temperature. If the temperature in your tank rises above this temperature, the ReefKeeper 2
will turn off the selected light. It will keep the light off until the temperature drops to 2 ºF below the safety cutoff
temperature. Pressing Select will return you to the main channel selection menu.
Note that if the ReefKeeper 2 has been power cycled within the last 15 minutes, any metal halide channel will be off
until a full 15 minutes have passed. The LEDs blink during this time to indicate that they will be turned on after the 15
minutes has passed.
SKIMMER/SUMP PUMP
If you set the channel to control a skimmer or sump pump, the ReefKeeper 2 will automatically turn the device off
during Standby Mode. There is no configuration needed for a skimmer or sump pump channel.
WAVEMAKER
If you set the channel to control a powerhead, choose which wavemaker cycle you would like the powerhead to be a part
of. For more information, see the Wavemaker Setup section on page 4-9. After making your wavemaker cycle selection,
specify whether you want that particular pump to be on or off during Night Mode and then on or off during Standby
Mode.
MENU SYSTEM AND INTERACTION D i g i t a l A q u a t i c s
4-6 ReefKeeper 2 User Guide
TEMP CONTROLLER
If you set the channel to control a Temp Controller, you will need to specify the on temperature and the off temperature.
This function can work in two ways; see below for directions on how to set up a heating device and a cooling device.
NOTE: When using the temp controller function, set the thermostat on your device to no more than two degrees
above/below the threshold temperature on the ReefKeeper 2. This provides redundant protection.
Heating Device:
For a heater you’ll want the “ON” temperature to be lower then the “OFF” temperature.
Ex: ON: 77.5
OFF: 78.5
Here the heating device will come on once the temp drops below 78 degrees and it will stay on until the temp
exceeds 79 degrees. Note, however the heating device will not come on again until the temp drops below 78.
This also allows the user to set whatever level of hysteresis they would like for there heater to best suit their
system.
Cooling device: (fan/chiller)
You set the “ON” point higher then the “OFF” point. This will work in the reverse way as the heating device
above. Again coming on once the temp passes the “ON” point and not turning off until it passes the “OFF”
point.
Ex: ON: 81.5
OFF: 79.0
D i g i t a l A q u a t i c s MENU SYSTEM AND INTERACTION
ReefKeeper 2 User Guide 4-7
PH CONTROL
If you set the channel to control a pH manipulation device, it will raise or lower pH based on your tank’s current pH
level. You must have a pH probe installed and have performed the calibration steps as described in the pH Setup section
on page 4-11. All common pH probes are supported and easy calibration steps will ensure an accurate reading. Be sure to
read the pH Probe Care and Maintenance section on page 5-3 before setting up pH control.
Set the pH levels at which you would like your device to be turned on and off.
If you set the Turn On pH higher than the Turn Off pH, it is assumed you have connected a device that lowers the pH.
When the pH rises to the Turn On pH value, the channel is turned on. It remains on until the pH drops below the Turn
Off pH. The channel will not turn on again until it rises to the Turn On pH value again.
Likewise, if you set the Turn Off pH higher than the Turn On pH, it is assumed you have connected a device that raises
the pH. When the pH falls to the Turn On pH value, the channel is turned on. It remains on until the pH rises above the
Turn Off pH. The channel will not turn on again until it falls to the Turn On pH value again.
You may not set the Turn On and the Turn Off values to be equal.
MULTI-TIMER
If you set the channel to be a multi-timer, you may select up to 3 different on/off cycles. For each cycle, select an On
Time and then Duration. If you select 0 minutes for a duration, “Off” is displayed and the following timers are disabled.
Multi-Timer is useful for multiple light on/off times, feeders, top-off devices or anything else that you might want to turn
on/off multiple times in a day.
MENU SYSTEM AND INTERACTION D i g i t a l A q u a t i c s
4-8 ReefKeeper 2 User Guide
ON/OFF OSCILLATE
If you set the channel to oscillate, you must configure both the On time and Off time. The channel will then oscillate
between these 2 cycles. It will be on for the configured on-time and off for the configured off-time. The channel begins
cycling the moment you finish the configuration. This cycle repeats constantly.
ALWAYS ON
If a channel is set to be always on, it will act as regular power outlet, with no switching.
ALWAYS OFF
If you set the channel to be always off, there will be no power to that channel. Digital Aquatics recommends that you set
all unused channels to this setting.
D i g i t a l A q u a t i c s MENU SYSTEM AND INTERACTION
ReefKeeper 2 User Guide 4-9
Wavemaker Setup
Every channel that is set to be a wavemaker is associated with one cycle: A, B, or C. A and B cycles alternate at the set
interval. The C cycle turns on and off at the set interval but is independent of the A and B cycles.
In the Wavemaker Setup menu, you must first select if you want to enable the wavemaker (enabled by default). When
disabled, the A, B, C display is removed from the main screen. If you select “enabled” you will be then be taken to the
set Cycle A/B time, this is the amount of time that cycle A will be on while cycle B is off and vice versa. You may set
this time to any value between 20 seconds and 2 hours. Once you have made your selection, you must set the Cycle C
time. This is the amount of time that cycle C will be on and off for in succession. You may set this time to any value
between 20 seconds and 2 hours. The ReefKeeper 2 allows you to select if a wavemaker is on/off during Night Mode and
on/off during Standby Mode; this is done on a per channel basis in the Channel Setup menus.
During Night Mode, the powerheads that are configured to be off turn off, and A/B
and C cycle times double.
The currently active (on) wavemaker cycles are displayed on screen, as shown with
the ‘A’ and ‘C’.
Temperature Setup
In the Temp Setup menu you have the choice of displaying temperature in either Fahrenheit or Celsius. Press Select to
make your selection. The next section, Calibrate Temp, displays the temperature that the probe is currently reading. You
may calibrate the temperature displayed to increase the accuracy of the ReefKeeper 2 by pressing Up or Down. Make
your selection and you will be returned to the main menu.
MENU SYSTEM AND INTERACTION D i g i t a l A q u a t i c s
4-10 ReefKeeper 2 User Guide
Standby Duration
In this menu, you may specify the length of time Standby Mode will last. This value may be set to a value between 1
minute and 99 minutes. Make your selection and you will be returned to the main menu.
Set Time
When in this submenu, simply adjust the hours and minutes to correspond to the current time. When you exit this menu,
the seconds are reset to 0.
Night Mode Setup
The ReefKeeper 2’s Night Mode functionality allows you to define a different set of behavior for your pumps to simulate
the calming of the ocean during the night hours. When in Night Mode, all wavemaker cycle times double. Also, you may
configure some or all of your wavemaker channels to be turned off during Night Mode.
If you wish to turn the ReefKeeper’s Night Mode functionality on, press Up or Down so the display reads “Enable Night
Mode? Yes”. Next, configure the start time by first selecting the start hour and then the start minute. Then, configure the
end time.
Lights are independent from Night Mode and will continue in their configured schedules. This allows you to configure
certain lights to be moonlights
D i g i t a l A q u a t i c s MENU SYSTEM AND INTERACTION
ReefKeeper 2 User Guide 4-11
pH Setup
If you will be using the ReefKeeper to monitor pH and have purchased the optional pH probe, configure the ReefKeeper
to pH Enabled. If you do not plan to utilize the pH display and control functions, configure the ReefKeeper to pH
Disabled. When disabled, the pH value does not appear on the main status display.
Please refer to pH Probe Care and Maintenance on page 5-3 before performing this calibration. Failing to follow
important care instructions can permanently damage your probe and/or cause faulty readings.
To calibrate the pH probe you will need to have two buffered solutions. We suggest using pH buffered solutions with
values of 7 and 10. If you purchased your pH probe from Digital Aquatics, you will have received one packet each of 7
and 10 pH buffer solution. The ReefKeeper 2 also supports pH calibration values of 4 and 7 when used in fresh water
applications. Remove the plastic cap from the probe before calibrating. Once the cap is removed, do not allow the tip of
the probe to dry out.
1. With your probe connected and your unit in calibration mode, place the pH probe into the lower valued solution.
2. Select the low value (4 or 7 depending upon the buffer solution used) and press Select.
3. Wait until the device reads a stable value; this can take up to two minutes. The time required for the value to
stabilize will vary depending on the age and condition of the probe. For best results, ensure that the value is stable
for at least 15 seconds before proceeding.
4. Once a stable value is reached, press Select. The ReefKeeper 2 will prompt you to place the probe in the high buffer
solution. Before doing this rinse the probe with tap water and gently shake off any drops that are on the electrode.
This prevents contamination of the high pH buffer solution.
5. Place the probe in the higher valued solution, and press Select. Again, wait as along as necessary to observe a stable
reading. Once the reading stabilizes, press Select to complete the calibration and exit the menu.
MENU SYSTEM AND INTERACTION D i g i t a l A q u a t i c s
4-12 ReefKeeper 2 User Guide
Brightness
You may set the brightness of the ReefKeeper 2 display to 25%, 50%, 75% & 100% as desired. Press Select to make
your choice and return to the main menu.
ReefKeeper 2 User Guide 5-1
5. APPENDIX
Firmware Updates
To update the firmware in the ReefKeeper 2, disconnect the temperature probe and connect the PC serial cable in the
same port. To download the latest firmware and for instructions, refer to our website at
www.DigitalAquatics.com
DATA CONNECTION AND MYREEF
New to 2.5, your ReefKeeper2 can connect to your PC allowing for email alerts and data logging. This requires a data
splitter that allows your temp probe to connect at the same time your data line is connected. For more details see the
myReef manual available at our website.
The only thing you need to do to get your ReefKeeper2 ready for this function is to download and install firmware
version 2.5.
APPENDIX D i g i t a l A q u a t i c s
5-2 ReefKeeper 2 User Guide
Troubleshooting
Problem Solution
The display reads “Temp Removed” Ensure that your temperature probe is securely plugged into the power
controller. If it is plugged in securely, and the message is still displayed,
the probe may be faulty. Contact Digital Aquatics technical support at
support@digitalaquatics.com.
The temperature is inaccurate by a small
amount.
Enter the “Temp Setup” menu. In the “Calibrate Temp” section, adjust the
temperature up or down until it displays the correct water temperature.
Unit does not power up Check the fuse; replace if blown. Use a 1 ¼” x ¼” 15A slow blow, or 20A
fast blow. These fuses are readily available at Radio Shack.
pH reading jumps or is inaccurate Ensure pH probe is clean and free of damage/recalibrate your probe.
Refer to pH Probe Care and Maintenance on page 5-3.
APPENDIX
ReefKeeper 2 User Guide 5-3
pH Probe Care and Maintenance
RECALIBRATION
The value produced by a pH probe will drift over long amounts of time. We recommend that you compare your pH
probe’s value against another device or chemical measurement on a monthly basis. If you notice a large difference,
recalibrate your probe using the method described in the pH Setup section on page 4-11. If recalibration does not correct
the discrepancy, it is possible that your probe has reached the end of its life.
CLEANING/CARE
Never allow the tip of the pH probe to dry out. Doing so can permanently damage the probe and cause faulty readings.
To clean the probe, rinse it under warm tap water. From time to time you may need to use a mild dish soap followed by a
thorough rinse. Never use a brush or rag while cleaning the probe as this may cause damage. Once the probe is clean,
rinse it with de-ionized water.
It is a good idea to clean your probe each time you calibrate. By doing so you can ensure more accurate/faster readings
with fewer faults. You may find you need to clean your probe due to build up that occurs between normal calibrations.
Caring for your probe is extremely important for proper function and longer life. Never let your probe tip go dry. If you
remove your probe tip from your tank for extended periods of time (not during calibration/cleaning), you must fill the
protective cap with electrolyte solution and place the cap on probe tip. Do not leave your probe connected to your system
for long periods of time when the system is not in use. Remember that pH probes have a limited shelf life. Do not use a
pH probe that has been stored for extended periods of time, (over 8-12 months.)
APPENDIX D i g i t a l A q u a t i c s
5-4 ReefKeeper 2 User Guide
SPENT PROBE
pH probes eventually wear out over time. Several symptoms can indicate a spent probe such as drift, and extreme
fluctuation of the pH display. A spent probe must be replaced. If you fail to take action when the pH probe is spent you
run the risk endangering your eco-system.
PH TROUBLESHOOTING
Many pH probe problems can be traced back to a few common issues: a dirty probe, measurement drift, and probe
location in the tank. If you are experiencing any problems with your pH probe readings, first ensure that the probe is
clean and located in a high-flow area in your tank. If that does not resolve the issue, try recalibrating the probe with your
ReefKeeper 2, following the instructions on page 4-11. If you still have problems, refer to the following table.
Problem Solutions
pH has no reading -Probe may not be connected
-Probe may be spent
pH reads unusually high/low -Probe may need to be relocated in a higher flow area
pH value fluctuates -Probe electrode may be broken or there may be a break in the line.
-Variations may be caused by stray voltages in the tank, make sure
all devices are properly grounded.
pH reading remains constant even after attempting to calibrate -May indicate a short/shunt in the line, value often reads about 7 pH
-Ensure your probe is securely connected to the BNC connector.
pH value drifts -This may also indicate that your probe is at the end of its life. As the
problem gets worse you will be unable to reliably recalibrate
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