WSM Week 2- Choosing the Right Controller

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Choosing the Right Chemical Controller

This guide is designed to help aquatic professionals understand the differences between high-end, mid-range, and low-end pool chemical controllers in terms of features, sensor support, and I/O capabilities. Use this to assess what level of controller best suits your aquatic facility's needs.

High-End Controllers

• Automation & Connectivity – Offers robust cloud connectivity, remote access, BACnet/MODBUS integration, and advanced automation features.
• Sensor Support – Supports multiple sensors including ORP, pH, temperature, conductivity, free chlorine, total chlorine, turbidity, and salinity.
• Data Logging & Reporting – Includes onboard memory or cloud-based data logging, real-time alarms, and downloadable reports.
• Control Capabilities – Allows for precise chemical feed control with support for multiple relay outputs, proportional dosing, and variable speed pump control.
• User Interface – Full-color touchscreen interface with intuitive navigation and multi-language support.
• Advanced Features – Redundancy options, diagnostic tools, self-cleaning sensors, predictive maintenance alerts.

Mid-Range Controllers

• Automation & Connectivity – May include basic remote access or app connectivity, limited building management system integration.
• Sensor Support – ORP, pH, temperature, and sometimes conductivity or free chlorine sensors supported.
• Data Logging & Reporting – May include limited onboard logging or cloud access; typically requires external tools for reports.
• Control Capabilities – Basic chemical feed control, time-based or sensor-triggered dosing. Fewer relays and limited proportional feed options.
• User Interface – Simple LCD screen or button-based interface, typically monochrome.
• Additional Features – Some diagnostic features; occasional expandability depending on model.

Low-End Controllers

• Automation & Connectivity – Generally standalone with no remote access or automation integration.
• Sensor Support – Basic pH and ORP sensors only; minimal or no expansion capability.
• Data Logging & Reporting – No data logging or real-time monitoring features.
• Control Capabilities – On/off control only, with one or two relays for basic pump or feeder activation.
• User Interface – Basic LED indicators or dial knobs; limited feedback or diagnostics.
• Additional Features – Minimal to no additional features; purely reactive control.

Summary Table