I've picked up a original smoker knowing I want to add a PID. I've ordered a Maverick ET-375 off Amazon for reading the temps (hoping the bluetooth range is adequate) but am a bit confused on the PID.
Is it better to just get the Auber unit for the Bradley smoker like http://www.auberins.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=14_28&products_id=380, or to put together the components like in this thread http://www.susanminor.org/forums/showthread.php?315-PID-Controller
Seems the components are a lot cheaper. And they have a "commonly bought items" setup on Amazon.ca for about $60, not Auber though. Can't seem to find a retailer in Canada for Auber.
Probably going to use the smoker most for fish.
For those of us who like to tinker, the DIY unit is a fun project and is certainly a lot less expensive than the plug-n-play PID controller. I installed mine in the SG. The plug-n-play does have more features, none of which I would ever use. I think I paid around $70 for all the parts to build mine.
(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b355/roadijeff/Food/IMG_0594_zpsfd6577ea.jpg)
(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b355/roadijeff/Food/PA070029_zps9d0b3d85.jpg)
Does one setup work better than another? Or is it just a case of the same performance, but cheaper to DIY?
Quote from: tacklewasher on January 05, 2016, 07:55:39 AM
Does one setup work better than another? Or is it just a case of the same performance, but cheaper to DIY?
Either setup will maintain the chamber temp to within a couple of degrees, if that's all you want it for. The plug-n-play is obviously easier to install (just plug it in) but not as much fun if you like to build and modify things.
I don't really want to build one myself, but a dual probe one from Auber is going to run me over $300 Cdn, including shipping, exchange etc.
I can get a dual probe controller, SSR and one TC for about $65 Cdn. I'd like to go with Auber but that price difference is pretty substantial. Be ~$100 with the box, heat sink and stuff.