Vivosun now in the 'smart controller' ecosystem/game.

[LeastExpectedGrower]

I don't know if y'all saw this but looks like Vivosun is introducing an all-in-one WIFI controller not so different from the one that AC Infinity is releasing (Controller 69). I just got an email about it and while I'm pretty happy with the AC-I stuff and will remain with that, it was interesting enough to have a looksee.

Form factor is similar, with both older and newer USB-C connectors, can control fans/schedules, also can time and dim lights and looks to have Seedling, Veg and Flower schedules available and has 'inside' and 'outside' sensors. Looks to be pretty well thought out and designed too.

Alas, I'm not necessarily one for doing a 'one stop shop' of gear from a single manufacturer, but I know that there are some who would do so. I'll keep my HLG's and use my AC-I controller for all the fans. But this DOES look like a nice bit of kit for $99.

Vivosun GrowHub E42A Controller

Elevate Your Grow Game with Vivosun GrowHub E42A! Master Your Environment with Smart WiFi Controls for Temperature, Humidity, Timer, Cycle and Schedule in One Platform.

next.vivosun.com

 

[hotrodharley]

Sadly they’re out of stock. But it appears to be a good option for those of us who aren’t ready or able to drop $300 on a controller.

 

[LeastExpectedGrower]

Sadly they’re out of stock. But it appears to be a good option for those of us who aren’t ready or able to drop $300 on a controller.

I think it's 'out of stock' because its brand new and they haven't gotten their first run yet. I saw something suggesting 'pre-order'.

My only difficulty with any of these is that my HLG's don't have any kind of control connectability...but I really DO like the ability to set up parameters for the fans, monitor conditions while away from home and all that. I'll also eventually get a couple circulation fans that I can use the controller to time their on/off cycles. Right now I have my circulation 6" fans on smart plugs that time on/off alternation.

 

[hotrodharley]

I think it's 'out of stock' because its brand new and they haven't gotten their first run yet. I saw something suggesting 'pre-order'.

My only difficulty with any of these is that my HLG's don't have any kind of control connectability...but I really DO like the ability to set up parameters for the fans, monitor conditions while away from home and all that. I'll also eventually get a couple circulation fans that I can use the controller to time their on/off cycles. Right now I have my circulation 6" fans on smart plugs that time on/off alternation.

I love my Inkbird controllers. They’ve been a real boon.

 

[LeastExpectedGrower]

I love my Inkbird controllers. They’ve been a real boon.

I have a few of those too...one for my heater, one for my humidifier. I don't do AC, but I use the AC Infinity controller/fans to keep my temps from getting too high as well as controlling humidity. Works pretty well to keep things in a zone that's within a handful of percentage points/degrees.

Would be really great to have one unit that does most everything though.

Also, I currently love this little heater:

Under-Desk Heater - Portable | Newair

Slim, portable under-desk heater. 400 watts, silent operation, energy efficient. Stay warm at your desk.

www.newair.com

400w, so it's easy on the amperage as well as the wallet, super thin and small so it doesn't fill up my little tent and since it's an oil-filled, I have a relative sense of safety with it.

I'm surprised at how effectively it can keep my lights-out temps in the range of 78-81 with an Inkbird set at 81.

 

[hotrodharley]

I have a few of those too...one for my heater, one for my humidifier. I don't do AC, but I use the AC Infinity controller/fans to keep my temps from getting too high as well as controlling humidity. Works pretty well to keep things in a zone that's within a handful of percentage points/degrees.

Would be really great to have one unit that does most everything though.

Also, I currently love this little heater:

Under-Desk Heater - Portable | Newair

Slim, portable under-desk heater. 400 watts, silent operation, energy efficient. Stay warm at your desk.

www.newair.com

400w, so it's easy on the amperage as well as the wallet, super thin and small so it doesn't fill up my little tent and since it's an oil-filled, I have a relative sense of safety with it.

I'm surprised at how effectively it can keep my lights-out temps in the range of 78-81 with an Inkbird set at 81.

I use a 500 watt analog control ceramic desk heater. Cost $20 18 months ago. Works like a charm in a closed tent even with 24/7 air exchange.

 

[coreywebster]

Yeah they've got an add on here for the light and controller, don't think it's up for sale just yet.

 

[Polly Wog]

I use the niwa now. I did use inkbird and it worked well. Good to have a seamless option including dimming/sunset options. Without diy.

 

[LeastExpectedGrower]

I use the niwa now. I did use inkbird and it worked well. Good to have a seamless option including dimming/sunset options. Without diy.

Yeah, I like the outlet controllers like that and the Inkbird, but having the ability to control fan-speed and how it reacts, is a really nice thing with the AC Infinity fans. You have some ability to add nuance to your control. Being able to dim/adjust lighting would also make things easier...rather than me futzing with my light meter and the little internal dimmers on my HLG's...but at the same time, its a matter of whether the lights you want are controllable or not and what paradigm they use to communicate.

The other thing is that it would be great to cut down on the number of sensors in the room. right now I have 2 inkbird, my AC-I controller and then another WIFI hygrometer/thermometer.

 

[jimmy311]

Man technology came a long way lol.. I remember using manual timers lol and they were all they rage..
2024 I'm happy asf with the grow hub.. I'm actually thinking about getting a s6 to do a side by side in the same tent to see which last and is better . Says itl work so that's a huge plus as I hear alot of complaints about the 69 from AC.. so far 10/10 imo

 

[jimmy311]

Oh I'm waiting on the wireless output they got you then can control anything that can be plugged in.. also humidifier and I see a water pump.. asking about that soon . ..
I have a midea smart dehumidifier 4500 sq ft with WiFi..so no controller needed for that..
This is irrelevant but them $18 solar drip systems are pretty good so far lol..
Ac does look like they have better lights..but I heard mixed reviews about if they work with my grow hub or not .. vivosun lights have fan built in to blow on plants and distributes air at same time .