XP8 Energy Bar Aquarium Controller - Hydros

The Hydros Control XP8 is designed around a straightforward premise: system-critical equipment deserves a dedicated, overbuilt power solution. Rather than relying on a generic power strip, the XP8 integrates eight individually controllable 120V AC outlets directly into a HYDROS controller chassis, each with its own power monitoring. The built-in 60W universal voltage Meanwell power supply handles both 110V and 220V installations, and the 14A total capacity with an 8A per-relay maximum covers the demands of heaters, return pumps, protein skimmers, and similar life-support loads. The unit is designed to pass ETL/UL certification and is engineered, assembled, and supported in the USA.

Beyond raw power management, the XP8 functions as a full HYDROS system brain. Its two Command Bus ports allow wired integration with other HYDROS controllers, creating a collective that can share data and take over decision-making automatically if a primary controller goes offline. This wired redundancy layer is the core value proposition for hobbyists running complex or high-bioload systems where a single point of failure is unacceptable. The XP8 can also communicate with up to eight HYDROS WiFi devices—smart plugs, WiFi power strips, fish feeders—extending its reach to equipment that doesn't sit on the same bench.

Passive cooling and optical isolation between the power and control circuitry mean the XP8 runs silently and keeps electrical noise out of the controller logic. The only sounds you'll hear are the relay clicks when outlets switch. All configuration, scheduling, and monitoring are handled through the HYDROS cloud app, accessible remotely from any location.

The XP8 fits naturally into any existing or new HYDROS ecosystem. If you're starting fresh, it can serve as the central hub. If you already run a HYDROS Collective, it adds Command Bus redundancy and expands your controllable outlet count. WiFi Power Strips and Smart Plugs (sold separately) extend control to additional equipment without requiring additional Command Bus runs. Note that this listing covers the Control XP8 unit only—no additional accessories are included.