The new Kessil Spectral Controller is a simple stand alone device which allows allows access and detailed controls of all the capabilities of the controllable Kessil A360 series LEDs. While it’s been really nice to be able to daisy chain and control color and intensity of a series of lights with very basic color and brightness dials, with the new forthcoming Kessil Spectral Controller users will be able to unlock all of the now-standard features that we come to expect from a modern LED aquarium light.
The Kessil Spectral Control features a color LCD screen that is navigated by six different capacitive touchscreen buttons to access timer, dimming, color and intensity functions, with dedicated modes for manual, quick set, or program mode, and there’s even a setting for acclimation mode when new corals are introduced. All of the controllability of the Kessil Spectral Controller is packed into the size of a small smartphone, it is USB powered and comes with two outputs for controlling two different banks of lights.
The entire device is powered via USB which is also used to upload firmware updates to ensure that more features can be added in the future, and more importantly to maintain compatibility with forthcoming Kessil LED light models. The Kessil Spectral Controller will be available later this summer for $99, full press release can be seen below.
Richmond, CA (May 14, 2014) – Kessil Lighting, a leading manufacturer of LED aquarium lighting, announces the Spectral Controller. The controller introduces an easy to use control option for the aquarium community. Just the size of a smart phone, the Spectral Controller has the ability to tune up to two different sets of lights via two separate output ports (0~10V). Designed to look great along side Kessil lights, the Spectral Controller is fully compatible with the A360 platform and future releases.
“The Spectral Controller provides a long needed solution for aquarium lighting control. We wanted something that wasn’t too bulky or too complex. Our goal was to create a controller that featured a modern design at an affordable price point,” says David Lowry, Sales Manager of Kessil, “We wanted a controller specifically for lights, that would provide the right level of control without unnecessary confusion. This controller is the result of that vision.”
The controller features a large color display, and a precision touch pad for effortless navigation through the application. Two output ports allow programming of two independent banks of lights; whether it’s two groups of lights on one aquarium, a display and refugium, or multiple tanks, a single controller links it all together. The program mode features:
Manual Mode: Instantly tune spectrum and intensity for on demand light customization.
Program Mode: Features two ways of setting a customized light schedule to match individual tank needs.
Quick Set: Create unique dawn and dusk effects by altering light intensity and color based on a custom schedule.
Acclimation Mode: Simplify the introduction of new lights to a tank or new corals to an existing setup with acclimation mode. The acclimation timeline can be customized to suit specific needs.
The controller is powered via a micro-USB cable; just like a cell phone charger, it can be plugged into a wall outlet or a computer USB port. The controller retains all programs, settings, date and time even when unplugged. The application will be fully upgradeable through online downloads, allowing compatibility with future lights and even more customization.
The Spectral Controller is now entering pre-production for testing with production units available late summer 2014 at a list price of $99.
