New Thermostat- VE- 200

[gardenfiend138]

So I just un-boxed and set up my new Vivarium Electronics VE-200 proportional thermostat. Super easy set up, took 3 minutes to set time and temp, didn't even have to use the directions (although I double checked after to make sure I didn't screw it up...). Really user friendly, I'm excited to see how well it works in the long run! Just thought I'd share in case anyone is in the market for a new thermostat

[Adam Chandler]

Very cool, I'm looking into the new RBI thermostat myself. Please keep us updated on it.

[kitedemon]

Did it come with a set of specs? If so can you tell me the accuracy of the probe?

I looked at this unit but didn't see much difference between it and the Herpstat grounded model other than a few missing features and a higher rated power which you likely don't need anyway as if you are running flexwatt you are over the recommended run length.

To me the probe accuracy is the biggest potential difference and nobody has the specs....

[gardenfiend138]

Did it come with a set of specs? If so can you tell me the accuracy of the probe?

I looked at this unit but didn't see much difference between it and the Herpstat grounded model other than a few missing features and a higher rated power which you likely don't need anyway as if you are running flexwatt you are over the recommended run length.

To me the probe accuracy is the biggest potential difference and nobody has the specs....

yeah, I cannot find any specifications as the the accuracy of the probe either, and it's also not listed on the paperwork that came with it. To be honest I didn't do a ton of research, and since I couldn't find any info on the spyderrobotics website i opted for this one. I do like the display better on this model, but I do agree it is shifty not lisiting the probe accuracy... I think I went on the assumption that it is most likely comparable to other models... after researching more though, I do like the calibration feature on the herpstat model. Oh well, it's doing it's job at least!

[Adam Chandler]

Did it come with a set of specs? If so can you tell me the accuracy of the probe?

To me the probe accuracy is the biggest potential difference and nobody has the specs....

I'd recommend emailing Rich to find out the accuacy, he is very helpful for figuring out specs.

I looked at this unit but didn't see much difference between it and the Herpstat grounded model other than a few missing features and a higher rated power which you likely don't need anyway as if you are running flexwatt you are over the recommended run length.

To me it seems like RBI is trying to compete with Helix, which is very easy to beat with features (geez just have a down temperature button and you have Helix beat) when I feel they should be competing and trying to edge out the feature rich Herpstats. I actually emailed Rich with some suggestion for features for future models. I would LOVE to see a Vivarium with a different color LCD.

[kitedemon]

Hmmm maybe, The helix has longevity in their court the oldest model. Herpstats have a rich set of features even the lowest model grounded or un grounded both have alarms and sensor and temp matching. The price is sooo close to the same the VE-200 is 114 herpstat 119 and helix 139. I have been looking at the ecozone system it is a lot more Herpstat pro pricing but the online interface is awesome. I have a mac and can't run the herpstats system. I was thinking the ecozone as a check for my systems.

gardenfiend138 I am not knocking your choice at all just curious about the unit, and interested in the specs. I have never dealt with Rich but I know his rep and if he stands behind the product I am sure it is good. I actually think that is what they are banking on, it doesn't have anything that stands out and says I am the better than X. But it has a company that has a huge set of clients and a great rep saying we like this one.

I hope it is enough, I like Dion (spyder robotics), Jeff (helix) and Tony (ecozone) but competition will bring better products and more features with lower pricing in the end.

[alopez700]

I have one, very easy to use with ground, night drop, and temp alarm all-in one . I'm very happy with it. i would recommend it if your willing to drop a $139.99 + shipping. but i think it is worth it.