Octo has just announced that it is making more of its products Wi-Fi controllable with the imminent launch of the VarioS+ Controller. Like the Octo Wave Controller, this slick-looking stand-alone box will provide power and control to existing Vario return and Vario S skimmer pumps, as well as control capability via your phone or tablet and the Octo app.
Like the wired controllers supplied currently, the VarioS+ will power one return pump or skimmer pump, has a 0-10v port for third-party controllers and a float switch port for Octo Regal and Elite skimmers, to shut the pump off if the collection cup overfills. Then via the IOS or Android app, users will still get 8 variable speed control settings, a feed/five-minute delay timer, and notifications of any anomalies like if the pump stops. A mounting bracket and float switch are included, so the float could upgrade non-switched skimmer models or be used as a fail-safe elsewhere.
Octo has told Reef Builders today that this new controller will be supplied first as a stand-alone upgrade, and is not compatible with their biggest, most powerful return pump, the VarioS 10. There are plans to make DC pump/Wi-Fi controller bundles available in the future, and the new controller should be available from January 2024.
