Neptune Apex Integration
If you run a Neptune Apex controller, you can pull probe readings directly into ReefTanker with a single click. pH, temperature, and salinity data syncs from your Apex and merges seamlessly with your manual test results on charts and parameter cards.
What Gets Synced
ReefTanker reads the XML status feed from your Apex controller and extracts three probe values:
pH
From your pH probe
Temperature
From your temp probe
Salinity
From your conductivity probe
Each synced reading is automatically tagged with the source "Apex" so you can distinguish it from manual tests on charts and in the data table.
Setting Up the Connection
Apex integration is configured per tank. You'll need your Apex controller's local IP address — your device and the Apex must be on the same network.
Steps
- 1 Find your Apex's local IP address. In Apex Fusion, go to Settings → Network → Local IP
- 2 Open Tank Management in ReefTanker and edit the tank you want to connect
- 3 Enter the Apex Local IP Address (e.g.,
192.168.1.100) - 4 If your Apex has a local password set, enter the Username and Password. Leave blank if you haven't configured authentication.
- 5 Save the tank. A Sync Apex button will now appear on your Dashboard.
Tip: For security, the Apex password is never displayed after you save it. If you need to change it, enter the new password and save again.
Syncing Data
Once configured, syncing is a one-click process.
How it works
- 1 Click the Sync Apex button on your Dashboard
- 2 ReefTanker fetches the status XML from your Apex at
http://<your-ip>/cgi-bin/status.xml - 3 Probe values for pH, temperature, and conductivity (salinity) are extracted
- 4 Readings are saved with the source tagged as "Apex"
- 5 A success toast confirms how many parameters were imported
On-demand syncing
Apex sync is triggered manually each time you click the button. There is no automatic background polling — you control exactly when data is captured. This is ideal for creating regular snapshots that correlate with your testing routine.
How Apex Data Appears in the App
Apex readings merge seamlessly with your other data sources throughout ReefTanker.
Network Requirements
The Apex sync works over your local network. Your device (phone, tablet, or computer) needs to be able to reach the Apex controller's IP address directly.
Requirements
- Your device and the Apex must be on the same local network (same Wi-Fi or LAN)
- The Apex's local web server must be accessible (not blocked by firewall rules)
- The Apex must have a static or reserved IP address so the connection doesn't break if your router reassigns IPs
Tip: Most routers let you assign a static IP (also called a DHCP reservation) to a device by its MAC address. Check your router's admin page to set this up for your Apex.
Troubleshooting
If the sync fails, you'll see an error toast. Here are the most common issues and fixes:
Network or CORS error
Your device can't reach the Apex. Confirm you're on the same network, check that the IP address is correct, and try pinging the Apex IP from your device. If you're on a VPN, disconnect it first.
Authentication required (HTTP 401)
The Apex has a local password set. You'll be prompted to enter it. Make sure the username and password in your tank settings match what's configured on the Apex. If you've changed the Apex password recently, update it in Tank Management.
Invalid XML
The Apex returned a response, but it wasn't valid XML. This can happen if the Apex is in the middle of a firmware update or is temporarily unresponsive. Wait a moment and try again.
No parameters imported
The XML was read successfully, but no recognized probe types were found. This can happen if your Apex doesn't have pH, temperature, or conductivity probes connected. Check your Apex Fusion dashboard to verify your probes are showing readings.