With the launch of the Cerebra controller right around the corner, Vertex is keen to make the new machine as appealing and useful as possible. Since the Cerebra is based on the Android operating system, and many manufacturers of controllable products already have android apps available, it is already possible to install these 3rd party apps on the Vertex aquarium controller.
The huge benefit of this is being able to forego the need for dedicated modules for each manufacturer’s proprietary communication protocols. You will already be able to use other any android app on the Cerebra, but with a negligible amount of programming it is possible for Cerebra to communicate with controllable products inside the native Cerebra app.
On a similar note, since the Cerebra is an open platform it is possible for anyone to develop their own apps. These can be as simple as coding your own applets for performing several functions at a time, like turning off the return pump and the protein skimmer for a temporary feed mode, but really, you are limited only by your own creativity.
The Cerebra Development Contest and the Open Letter to Manufacturers is shared below.
https://www.facebook.com/VertexTechnologiesUS/posts/1004748486299213:0
Dear Industry Friends, Aquarium Enthusiasts/ Manufacturers,
Although we operate different businesses in the same industry and might not frequently communicate, this exceptional occasion warrants an invitation in the spirit of partnership within our hobby.As you’re all aware, we are releasing our Complete Management Platform; “Cerebra”. This is the result of almost six years of design and development.
In the early phases of development, we realized the potential of the system would only be reached as an “Open Source” platform. We also realized the cost of allowing the community to assume ownership over the open source platform would be to forgo of our plans of proprietary Modules. Internally, this was a debate; all but for a brief moment!
With that said, we are proud to present to you; “Cerebra” not only an Aquarium Controller but also a shared community Intelligence, capable of many future possibilities that can transform this hobby. In the spirit of collaboration, we would like to share with you one of its most desirable features that can benefit your users controlling their systems by Cerebra:
Cerebra utilizes Android OS which brings about the possibility of controlling 3rd party devices via their dedicated Native Android Cerebra APP on Cerebra Desktop. A few basic requirements are:
• The device must be connected to your “Home Network” directly or via Proprietary Interface Module
• The device (Interface) must have a Native Android APPAny such devices can be controlled by Cerebra via a Cerebra Native APP. Creation of such “Device dedicated APP” can be achieved by minimal amount of cooperation and information sharing on both sides. This reduces the cost for the hobbyist as well as the footprint of the hobby on the environment. Today’s hobbyists expect an additional device to perform a needed task instead of being a required purchase of a proprietary platform.
If your device fits the criteria, it can be controlled by Cerebra without any physical interface Module offered by Vertex Aquaristik! This means no new module, no wiring or new install will be required to interface Cerebra to the said device. Currently there are many such devices being utilized in our hobby and we would be delighted to cooperate with any manufacturers who are interested in making their devices compatible with Cerebra.
This acts as an open letter of invitation to all our colleagues, Developers and Industry friends. We are confident that together we can offer better products that interface seamlessly delivering more success while reducing the amount of effort required for all Aquarium Tasks.
Sincerely,
Vertex Aquaristik Development Team
