NICREW Dual Channel Aquarium Light Timer (Model N15120)

Introduction

The NICREW Dual Channel Aquarium Light Timer, Model N15120, is designed to provide automated control over your aquarium lighting. This digital dimmer allows for independent control of two lighting channels, typically white and blue, enabling simulation of natural sunrise and sunset effects. It is compatible with NICREW ClassicLED G2, Round 30W Reef LED, and HyperReef 30 aquarium lights.

Key features include a 24-hour light cycle with gradual ramp-up and ramp-down, separate control for white and blue light channels, dimming functionality, and automatic saving of programmed settings in case of a power outage.

Image: NICREW Dual Channel Aquarium Light Timer, showing the main unit and cables.

Setup

1. Unpacking: Carefully remove the timer and any accessories from the packaging. Inspect for any damage.
2. Compatibility Check: Ensure your aquarium light is compatible with the NICREW Dual Channel Timer. This timer is designed for lights that share the same positive wire on two separate DC power plugs. It is not compatible with lights that share the same negative wire.
3. Connecting the Light: Connect the output cables of the timer (labeled CH1 and CH2) to the corresponding input ports of your aquarium light.
4. Connecting Power: Connect the power adapter to the timer's input port, then plug the power adapter into a suitable electrical outlet.
5. Initial Power-On: The timer's LCD display will illuminate. If the display does not light up, check all connections and the power source.

Image: Diagram showing the NICREW Dual Channel Timer connected to an aquarium light and its power adapter.

Image: Various DC plug adapters (2.5mm female to 2.1mm male and 2.1mm female to 2.5mm male) for compatibility.

Operating Instructions

Setting the Current Time

1. Press the SET button once. The hour digits will flash.
2. Use the + and - buttons to adjust the hour.
3. Press SET again. The minute digits will flash.
4. Use the + and - buttons to adjust the minute.
5. Press SET a third time to confirm the current time.

Programming the Light Schedule

The timer allows you to program independent schedules for two channels (CH1, typically white light, and CH2, typically blue light).

1. Enter Program Mode: Press and hold the SET button for 3 seconds until the display shows "CH1 ON".
2. Set CH1 ON Time: Use + and - to set the desired hour for CH1 to turn on. Press SET to confirm hour, then set minutes. Press SET again.
3. Set CH1 Intensity: The display will show "CH1 INT". Use + and - to set the desired intensity (0-100%). Press SET.
4. Set CH1 OFF Time: The display will show "CH1 OFF". Set the desired hour and minute for CH1 to turn off. Press SET.
5. Set CH2 ON Time: The display will now show "CH2 ON". Repeat steps for CH2 ON time, intensity, and OFF time.
6. Choose Mode (F1/F2): After setting CH2 OFF time, press SET again. The display will show "F1" or "F2".
   • F1 (Sunrise/Sunset Mode): Provides a 15-minute gradual ramp-up to full brightness and a 15-minute gradual ramp-down to complete darkness. This is the recommended mode for a natural light cycle.
   • F2 (Straight ON/OFF Mode): The lights will turn on and off instantly at the programmed times without dimming effects.
   Use + and - to select your preferred mode. Press SET to confirm and exit programming.

Image: Close-up view of the timer's LCD display and control buttons (SET, HOUR+, MINUTE-, Power, Settings).

Image: A graph illustrating a 24-hour light cycle with sunrise and sunset effects, alongside a table showing a 12-hour light schedule example (8 hours daylight, 4 hours moonlight) for CH1 (White) and CH2 (Blue).

Manual ON/OFF

Press the Power button once to manually turn the lights on or off. This will temporarily override the programmed schedule. The timer will revert to the schedule at the next programmed event.

Automatic Settings Save

The lighting schedule is automatically saved in the device's memory, even in the event of a power outage. However, the real-time clock may need to be reset manually after a prolonged power interruption.

Maintenance

• Cleaning: To clean the timer, gently wipe the surface with a dry, soft cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or immerse the unit in water.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, disconnect the timer from power and store it in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight.

Troubleshooting

• Timer Display is Off:
  • Ensure the power adapter is securely connected to both the timer and the electrical outlet.
  • Verify the electrical outlet is functioning correctly.
• Lights Not Turning On/Off as Programmed:
  • Check that the current time is set accurately.
  • Review your programmed ON/OFF times and intensity settings for both CH1 and CH2.
  • Ensure the timer is not in manual ON/OFF mode.
  • Confirm that the light itself is functioning when directly connected to power without the timer.
• Sunrise/Sunset Effect Not Working (F1 Mode):
  • Verify that F1 (Sunrise/Sunset Mode) is selected in the programming.
  • Ensure the light supports dimming functionality.
• Incompatibility with Light:
  • This timer is designed for lights that share the same positive wire on two separate DC power plugs. If your light shares the same negative wire, it will not be compatible.
• Real-Time Clock Reset After Power Outage:
  • While programmed schedules are saved, the internal clock may require manual resetting after a power interruption. Follow the "Setting the Current Time" instructions.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

The NICREW Dual Channel Aquarium Light Timer comes with a hassle-free 12-month warranty from the date of purchase. For any questions, technical assistance, or warranty claims, please contact NICREW customer service. Our team is available to provide friendly support.

Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty validation.