Sometimes, bad things happen. Things like a leak, splashed water, an electronic component failure, etc, can result in a need to swap out an Apex Classic controller base unit or Apex JR controller. In the past, it was usually necessary to configure the new controller from scratch. In recognition of the challenges faced by some customers when doing a one-for-one controller swap, Neptune has enhanced the Apex firmware to make it much faster and easier to replace an Apex Classic or Apex Jr with an identical model of controller.

In APEX Classic-family firmware version 4.40 and newer, a special feature called REPLACEMENT MODE has been added to facilitate cloning of an APEX configuration. REPLACEMENT MODE, in conjunction with the Load/Save features of the APEX, will allow you to quickly and easily swap one APEX base unit with another APEX base unit or swap an APEX JR with another APEX JR, and preserve all existing programming, profiles, AquaBus module addresses, and most other APEX settings.

The cloning process and APEX REPLACEMENT MODE may only be used for direct replacement of an identical controller model. It cannot not be used as an upgrade or migration tool if changing from one model of APEX to another, such as upgrading from an APEX JR to an APEX Classic, upgrading from an APEX LITE to an APEX Classic, or upgrading to an APEX (2016 model). The label on the face of the controller does not matter; an APEX Classic or APEX JR with an old black label and an APEX Classic or APEX JR with the newer white label both have the same hardware, so the label color is not a factor here.

In conjunction with the availability of Replacement Mode, a document is now available to guide you through the process if you should ever need to clone your Apex. It is called the APEX Cloning Guide and may be downloaded from the Support->Documentation page on the Neptune Systems web site.

This process is only for Apex Classic models; it is not applicable to the Apex 2016 model.

Below is additional important info extracted from the Apex Cloning Guide:

There are three critical requirements which must be met before using the procedure in the APEX Cloning Guide and REPLACEMENT MODE:

1. You must already have, or be able to make a configuration backup file from the original APEX
2. You must have a functional APEX display module
3. The new APEX must be of the exact same model as the APEX being replaced

There is one more requirement applicable only to APEX base units (this does not apply to APEX JR):

4. You must have a 12-volt AC adapter for APEX

Additionally, this process requires the use of a desktop or notebook computer running Windows or Mac OS.

If you use an APEX but do not have a 12-volt adapter:
  • You may purchase one directly from Neptune Systems
  • You may purchase one from your preferred retailer of Neptune Systems products
  • You may acquire and use one from other sources if it meets these specifications:
    • 12-volt DC output
    • 2.1mm plug
    • Plug has positive (+) on the center pin
    • DC output rating is 0.5 amps (500 milliamperes), or greater

      Many home Internet routers, other home network gear, and some consumer electronics use similar AC adapters; you might already have one on hand which may be used temporarily during the cloning process.