OpenCoral Open Logic and Automation Controllers

Formerly the OpenCoral Open Source Aquarium Controller

Welcome! You've reached the home of the OpenCoral system of open programmable logic controllers. We are a very small team working on developing software and hardware, in an open fashion usable by experienced hobbyists and companies, for the control and monitoring of aquariums (both saltwater and freshwater) and other automation systems (irrigation, etc). This site documents the design and development of the various components in this project. You will find open hardware designs, open source software for the control of the system, along with open system specifications allowing others to develop modules and controllers.

1. Produce an Open Source and Open Hardware Programmable Logic Controller and related modules and systems.
2. Allow the system to expand well beyond the average home aquarium control system.
3. Define a standard interconnect based on readily available parts and standards, allowing not only OpenCoral modules from communicating but add interoperability between various vendors' modules and controllers.
4. Remain flexible to allow the designs to be re-used and adapted to other related fields, such as hydroponics and horticulture.
5. Go beyond the available commercial offerings by providing a fully open system specification, hardware design, and software/firmware.
6. Provide features and modules which would generally not be commercially viable to develop.

Syndicated news feeds:

• The future of OpenCoral

• OpenCoral OCnet The communications bus used by OpenCoral modules.
• OpenCoral TipTop AllInOne Controller The first available component in the system. Built as both a stand-alone module but with integration to a master controller.

Various resources for aquarium automation topics.

• pH Probes and Circuits
• Distributor list
• PCB and Schematic Design Software
• General equations and General constants

We're not alone out there. Here is a small collection of other aquarium controller projects and products:

• WRRC Wireless Reef Controller with Linksys Router
• Reef Buddy

• Neptune Systems - AquaController
• Digital Aquatics - Reefkeeper

This is a Wiki, allowing anyone to edit the pages to provide more details and enhance the available documentation. Please be courteous. You don't need an account to edit, just fill out the Captcha to prove you're not a zombie spam bot.

If you have comments to leave, please add them to the appropriate discussion pages. If a page doesn't have a discussion section, you can add one by following the instructions on this page. You can also contact Yann directly via e-mail at atrus@stackworks.net