Trident ACM Alkalinity, Calcium & Magnesium Tester (without reagents)

Automated Testing for the Three Most Critical Reef Parameters

• Fully Automated Alkalinity, Calcium, and Magnesium Testing
• Seamless Integration with Neptune Systems Apex Controllers
• Precision Testing with Consistent, Repeatable Results
• Test Your Aquarium Water up to 24 Times Per Day
• Apex Fusion Graphing, Alerts, and Automation Support
• Compatible with Automatic Dosing Control When Paired with DŌS

The Neptune Systems Trident ACM is an automated testing device designed to continuously monitor alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium in saltwater reef aquariums. By removing the need for manual test kits, the Trident delivers consistent, high-frequency data that helps reef keepers better understand consumption trends, detect issues early, and maintain long-term stability.

The Trident connects directly to a compatible Neptune Systems Apex controller and logs every test result into Apex Fusion, where results are graphed over time and can trigger alerts or automated actions. When paired with a Neptune Systems DŌS or DŌS QuietDrive dosing pump, the Trident becomes the foundation of a closed-loop testing and dosing system that can automatically adjust additive delivery to maintain target parameters.

How it Works

The Trident uses automated titration combined with an internal colorimeter to replicate the same chemical testing process used in manual hobby test kits, but with far greater consistency. On a scheduled basis, the Trident draws a small water sample from the aquarium, mixes it with reagent, and precisely measures the color change using a controlled peristaltic pump system.

Once the test is complete, the sample and reagent are expelled to an external waste container, and the measured value is logged into the Apex. This process repeats automatically based on the testing schedule you define.

Apex Integration & Alerts

All Trident test results are displayed in Apex Fusion, where data is stored, graphed, and analyzed over time. Users can configure alerts to notify them if alkalinity, calcium, or magnesium move outside of a defined safe range.

Beyond notifications, Trident data can also be used to trigger automated responses such as pausing dosing, adjusting output, or activating other connected equipment to help protect the aquarium from instability.

Automatic Dosing Control with Neptune DŌS

When paired with one or more Neptune Systems DŌS dosing pumps, the Trident allows you to enable optional Automatic Dosing Control (ADC). ADC takes results from the Trident and uses them to gradually adjust what the DŌS delivers. Built-in safeguards protect your aquarium by comparing measured changes against dosing adjustments. Dosing changes are limited to ±35% per adjustment. If no expected change is detected, ADC will shut down auto tuning, notify you, and revert to the original dosing levels.

Setup & Operation

Installation is designed to be quick and straightforward. The Trident connects via a single cable to the Apex's EB832 Power Bar, uses two lengths of tubing for sample intake and waste output, and is configured through guided setup tasks in Apex Fusion. No manual calibration, reagent mixing, or probe tuning is required.

Testing is quiet and compact enough to run inside most aquarium cabinets without drawing attention.

Compatible Neptune Systems Apex Controllers

A3 Apex (Apex Pro, Apex, Apex Jr.*)

A2 Apex (Apex, Apex EL)

*Note: If you're using an A3 Apex Jr., you'll need a 36W 24VDC Power Supply and Aquabus cable.

Requires:

Open 1Link port or 24V power supply + Aquabus cable

Neptune Systems DŌS or DŌS QuietDrive required for automated dosing

Specifications

• Dimensions: 9.8" x 12.4" x 4.9"
• Alkalinity Precision: ±0.05 dKH
• Calcium Precision: ±15 ppm
• Magnesium Precision: ±15 ppm
• Test Duration: Approximately 7 minutes per test
• Sample Volume: ~8 mL per test
• Maximum Head Height: Must be less than 4 ft from water source

What's Included?

Neptune Systems Trident ACM Tester

1Link Cable

Black Sample Tubing (5 feet)

Clear Waste Tubing (5 feet)

Note: This version of the Trident is sold without reagents.