Product Description
Product Description
Focustronic Mastertronic Essential
The Focustronic Mastertronic Essential is a multi-parameter automatic aquarium water testing system that brings laboratory-style chemical analysis into the everyday maintenance of a reef aquarium. Designed to measure calcium, magnesium, nitrate, phosphate, alkalinity, and Focustronic's Organic Level Index, the Mastertronic Essential automates many of the repetitive testing tasks normally performed with individual liquid test kits. Its integrated reagent storage, colour-based measuring technology, programmable testing schedules, and compatibility with other Focustronic equipment make it an advanced solution for aquarists seeking detailed water chemistry records and more consistent reef maintenance.
Six Water Quality Measurements in One Automated System
Maintaining a thriving reef aquarium involves more than checking alkalinity alone. Calcium and magnesium must remain balanced with coral consumption, while nitrate and phosphate require monitoring to avoid undesirable nutrient conditions. The Mastertronic Essential brings these measurements together in one programmable testing platform.
- Calcium (Ca): Tracks an essential component of coral skeletal growth and helps identify changing supplementation requirements. Manufacturer-listed accuracy is approximately ±6 mg/L.
- Magnesium (Mg): Monitors an important element involved in maintaining balanced reef water chemistry and supporting stable calcium and alkalinity conditions.
- Nitrate (NO3): Measures a major nutrient parameter used to evaluate feeding, filtration, and nutrient export. Manufacturer-listed accuracy is approximately ±0.5 mg/L.
- Phosphate (PO4): Measures a nutrient particularly important in reef aquariums where phosphate management influences coral performance and algae growth. Manufacturer-listed accuracy is approximately ±0.01 mg/L.
- Alkalinity (dKH): Provides a daily alkalinity measurement for tracking carbonate hardness alongside the other major reef parameters, with manufacturer-listed accuracy of approximately ±0.1 dKH.
- Organic Level Index (OLI): Focustronic's proprietary measurement of water discolouration, providing a trend indicator that can help assess organic buildup and the possible need for maintenance or activated carbon replacement.
The Organic Level Index is an optical trend measurement rather than a direct laboratory analysis of individual dissolved organic compounds.
Automated Colour-Based Testing Without Multiple External Testers
The Mastertronic Essential uses a precision liquid handling system and colourimetric photosensor to perform programmed chemical tests. A multi-pipette assembly with 12 independent reagent positions allows multiple testing solutions to be stored inside the unit, reducing the need for separate external reagent containers and extensive tubing arrangements.
- Integrated 12-vial reagent system: Keeps the necessary liquid testing reagents organized inside the instrument.
- Precision sample handling: Uses high-precision stepper and DC pumps together with a dedicated reaction chamber and automated stirring.
- Colourimetric analysis: Measures colour changes produced during chemical testing rather than depending on the aquarist to interpret manual colour charts.
- Automatic test scheduling: Allows supported parameters to be tested at selected intervals through the Focustronic app.
- Integrated display: Provides information and operational feedback directly from the testing unit.
- Maintenance-focused design: Includes accessible reagent positions, a leakage sensor, and components designed to support routine cleaning and servicing.
Compatible Reagents and Practical Running Costs
Unlike automated testing systems that require an exclusive proprietary chemical supply, the Mastertronic Essential supports Focustronic reagents and selected compatible third-party aquarium test reagents through the appropriate software profiles. This gives users additional flexibility when selecting testing supplies, although reagent selection, preparation, and test configuration must follow Focustronic's supported instructions.
Focustronic publishes approximate test capacities for its Essential reagent kits, including 200 calcium tests, 83 magnesium tests, 600 phosphate tests, 200 nitrate tests, and 133 alkalinity tests. Actual consumption depends on the selected reagents, test frequency, and operating configuration. Reagents are sold separately.
Connected Water Testing and Aquarium Automation
The Focustronic All in One app allows aquarium owners to configure supported testing schedules, review historical measurements, and receive notifications when results move outside selected reference values. This can help identify gradual changes in nutrient levels, increased coral demand, or unexpected deviations that might otherwise go unnoticed between manual tests.
When connected to a compatible Dosetronic dosing system, supported Mastertronic Essential measurements can also be used to influence selected dosing channels. The system supports compatible Focustronic equipment such as Alkatronic, Powertronic, and Solartronic for additional monitoring and automation functions.
Important alkalinity distinction: Mastertronic Essential is limited to one scheduled alkalinity test per day, and its alkalinity result is not used to control Dosetronic dosing. Aquarists requiring frequent alkalinity measurements and active dKH correction should use a dedicated Alkatronic or Alkatronic Professional alongside the Mastertronic Essential.
Technical Specifications and Testing Performance
- Measured parameters: Calcium, magnesium, nitrate, phosphate, alkalinity, and Organic Level Index.
- Testing method: Automated colourimetric analysis with precision liquid handling.
- Reagent positions: 12 internal reagent vials.
- Sample connections: Two external hoses for water intake and waste discharge.
- Internal equipment: High-precision stepper and DC pumps, multi-pipette assembly, reaction chamber, stirrer, colourimetric sensor, and leakage sensor.
- Control: Integrated display and Focustronic app.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi and compatible Focustronic system communication.
- Dimensions: 315 x 225 x 350 mm (12.40 x 8.86 x 13.78 inches), length x width x height.
Directions
Place the Mastertronic Essential on a stable, level surface in a dry, accessible location near the aquarium or sump. Connect the supplied 3 m (9.84 ft) sample and waste hoses according to the manufacturer's instructions, maintaining the specified hose lengths and internal diameters. Install the stirring components and fill the numbered reagent vials with supported testing solutions, following the appropriate reagent profiles and preparation requirements. Download the Focustronic app, connect the unit to Wi-Fi, and complete the initial configuration and calibration procedures. Select the required testing parameters and schedules, then verify initial results against suitable reference measurements. Maintain reagent levels, clean the reaction and liquid handling components, and replace consumable parts according to the Focustronic maintenance schedule.
What's Included
- Focustronic Mastertronic Essential automated testing unit
- Two external hoses, each 3 m (9.84 ft) long
- Two microfilters
- 12 reagent vials
- Three magnetic stirring bars
- 10 ml measuring cylinder
- AC/DC power adapter
Reagents Sold Separately: Chemical test reagents are not included. Compatible Focustronic or manufacturer-supported third-party reagents are required to operate the corresponding testing functions.
Shipping Info
Shipping Info
FREE SHIPPING OVER $119!*
- does not apply to livestock -
$11.99 FLAT RATE FOR LESS THAN $119.00 - CANADA WIDE!
*EXCEPTIONS:
- Any heavy or bulky items will incur a 100% charge of the actual shipping cost (valid for both Canada and the US). Heavy bulky items include (but are not limited to): salt, dry rock, sand, chillers, sumps, aquariums, stands, and some filter media.
- Frozen or perishable food can only be shipped via UPS Express. We have discounted the express shipping of these items to help the hobbyist out.
- Livestock is covered by a different shipping policy. To view the policy and further information regarding shipping livestock, click here.
GENERAL NOTES:
- We always make our best effort to ship your order via the carrier chosen during the check-out process; however, for some multi-piece shipments and/or remote destinations, we must reserve the right to use another carrier at our discretion (and without prior notice). If you require notice of any changes made to the carrier, please mention it in the special instructions during check-out.
- Upon request, we will ship your dry goods as per your specifications (courier, airlines, on your account, etc.).
- Quoted rates are the carriers live discounted shipping rates after adjusting for any/all shipping promotions.
Returns / Exchanges
Returns / Exchanges
Return Policy — Aquarium Equipment & Supplies
- All returns and/or exchanges must be made within 30 days of receipt of product.
- Before returning or exchanging any goods, you must contact J&L Aquatics to obtain a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA). Items returned without prior authorization will be declined.
- Returned items must be unused, in original packaging, in as-new condition, and in perfect sellable condition. All returns are subject to inspection upon receipt.
- A 15% restocking fee applies to all online returns. This fee includes the cost of outbound shipping.
- Customer is responsible for return shipping costs on standard returns.
- Order cancellations made before shipping are not subject to a restocking fee.
Non-Returnable Items
- Special order items
- Clearance / final sale items
- Open box items
Regular sale items (non-clearance) are returnable within the 30-day return window, subject to our standard return conditions.
Defective, Warranty & DOA Items
- If you receive an item that is defective, not working, or dead on arrival (DOA), please contact us as soon as possible.
- Confirmed defective and warranty returns have no restocking fee. Customer does not pay return shipping — J&L Aquatics will provide a prepaid return label.
- All defective claims are subject to inspection. Items showing signs of customer damage, improper installation, or misuse are not covered under warranty.
Carrier Damage & Lost in Transit
- If your order arrives damaged by the carrier or is lost in transit, please contact us right away with photos of the damaged product and the damaged box/packaging (if applicable), plus a short description of the issue.
- Important — Do not throw out any packaging! Please keep all original packaging, boxes, and packing materials. These are required to process your claim. Discarding packaging may affect our ability to resolve your claim.
High-Value Items ($100+)
- For items valued at $100 or more, customers must provide a return tracking number before a replacement will be shipped.
Affirm & Financing Orders
- Refunds on orders paid with Affirm or another financing provider are processed back through that provider, which will update your payment plan.
- Our standard return conditions above apply to financed orders the same as any other order.
J&L Aquatics strives to maintain the lowest prices economically possible. In most cases we have the lowest price in the Canadian marketplace, but in the rare occasion that we do not, please feel free to contact us at 604-444-1161 or through e-mail to discuss an opportunity to price match.
Focustronic Mastertronic Essential
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Product Description
Product Description
Focustronic Mastertronic Essential
The Focustronic Mastertronic Essential is a multi-parameter automatic aquarium water testing system that brings laboratory-style chemical analysis into the everyday maintenance of a reef aquarium. Designed to measure calcium, magnesium, nitrate, phosphate, alkalinity, and Focustronic's Organic Level Index, the Mastertronic Essential automates many of the repetitive testing tasks normally performed with individual liquid test kits. Its integrated reagent storage, colour-based measuring technology, programmable testing schedules, and compatibility with other Focustronic equipment make it an advanced solution for aquarists seeking detailed water chemistry records and more consistent reef maintenance.
Six Water Quality Measurements in One Automated System
Maintaining a thriving reef aquarium involves more than checking alkalinity alone. Calcium and magnesium must remain balanced with coral consumption, while nitrate and phosphate require monitoring to avoid undesirable nutrient conditions. The Mastertronic Essential brings these measurements together in one programmable testing platform.
- Calcium (Ca): Tracks an essential component of coral skeletal growth and helps identify changing supplementation requirements. Manufacturer-listed accuracy is approximately ±6 mg/L.
- Magnesium (Mg): Monitors an important element involved in maintaining balanced reef water chemistry and supporting stable calcium and alkalinity conditions.
- Nitrate (NO3): Measures a major nutrient parameter used to evaluate feeding, filtration, and nutrient export. Manufacturer-listed accuracy is approximately ±0.5 mg/L.
- Phosphate (PO4): Measures a nutrient particularly important in reef aquariums where phosphate management influences coral performance and algae growth. Manufacturer-listed accuracy is approximately ±0.01 mg/L.
- Alkalinity (dKH): Provides a daily alkalinity measurement for tracking carbonate hardness alongside the other major reef parameters, with manufacturer-listed accuracy of approximately ±0.1 dKH.
- Organic Level Index (OLI): Focustronic's proprietary measurement of water discolouration, providing a trend indicator that can help assess organic buildup and the possible need for maintenance or activated carbon replacement.
The Organic Level Index is an optical trend measurement rather than a direct laboratory analysis of individual dissolved organic compounds.
Automated Colour-Based Testing Without Multiple External Testers
The Mastertronic Essential uses a precision liquid handling system and colourimetric photosensor to perform programmed chemical tests. A multi-pipette assembly with 12 independent reagent positions allows multiple testing solutions to be stored inside the unit, reducing the need for separate external reagent containers and extensive tubing arrangements.
- Integrated 12-vial reagent system: Keeps the necessary liquid testing reagents organized inside the instrument.
- Precision sample handling: Uses high-precision stepper and DC pumps together with a dedicated reaction chamber and automated stirring.
- Colourimetric analysis: Measures colour changes produced during chemical testing rather than depending on the aquarist to interpret manual colour charts.
- Automatic test scheduling: Allows supported parameters to be tested at selected intervals through the Focustronic app.
- Integrated display: Provides information and operational feedback directly from the testing unit.
- Maintenance-focused design: Includes accessible reagent positions, a leakage sensor, and components designed to support routine cleaning and servicing.
Compatible Reagents and Practical Running Costs
Unlike automated testing systems that require an exclusive proprietary chemical supply, the Mastertronic Essential supports Focustronic reagents and selected compatible third-party aquarium test reagents through the appropriate software profiles. This gives users additional flexibility when selecting testing supplies, although reagent selection, preparation, and test configuration must follow Focustronic's supported instructions.
Focustronic publishes approximate test capacities for its Essential reagent kits, including 200 calcium tests, 83 magnesium tests, 600 phosphate tests, 200 nitrate tests, and 133 alkalinity tests. Actual consumption depends on the selected reagents, test frequency, and operating configuration. Reagents are sold separately.
Connected Water Testing and Aquarium Automation
The Focustronic All in One app allows aquarium owners to configure supported testing schedules, review historical measurements, and receive notifications when results move outside selected reference values. This can help identify gradual changes in nutrient levels, increased coral demand, or unexpected deviations that might otherwise go unnoticed between manual tests.
When connected to a compatible Dosetronic dosing system, supported Mastertronic Essential measurements can also be used to influence selected dosing channels. The system supports compatible Focustronic equipment such as Alkatronic, Powertronic, and Solartronic for additional monitoring and automation functions.
Important alkalinity distinction: Mastertronic Essential is limited to one scheduled alkalinity test per day, and its alkalinity result is not used to control Dosetronic dosing. Aquarists requiring frequent alkalinity measurements and active dKH correction should use a dedicated Alkatronic or Alkatronic Professional alongside the Mastertronic Essential.
Technical Specifications and Testing Performance
- Measured parameters: Calcium, magnesium, nitrate, phosphate, alkalinity, and Organic Level Index.
- Testing method: Automated colourimetric analysis with precision liquid handling.
- Reagent positions: 12 internal reagent vials.
- Sample connections: Two external hoses for water intake and waste discharge.
- Internal equipment: High-precision stepper and DC pumps, multi-pipette assembly, reaction chamber, stirrer, colourimetric sensor, and leakage sensor.
- Control: Integrated display and Focustronic app.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi and compatible Focustronic system communication.
- Dimensions: 315 x 225 x 350 mm (12.40 x 8.86 x 13.78 inches), length x width x height.
Directions
Place the Mastertronic Essential on a stable, level surface in a dry, accessible location near the aquarium or sump. Connect the supplied 3 m (9.84 ft) sample and waste hoses according to the manufacturer's instructions, maintaining the specified hose lengths and internal diameters. Install the stirring components and fill the numbered reagent vials with supported testing solutions, following the appropriate reagent profiles and preparation requirements. Download the Focustronic app, connect the unit to Wi-Fi, and complete the initial configuration and calibration procedures. Select the required testing parameters and schedules, then verify initial results against suitable reference measurements. Maintain reagent levels, clean the reaction and liquid handling components, and replace consumable parts according to the Focustronic maintenance schedule.
What's Included
- Focustronic Mastertronic Essential automated testing unit
- Two external hoses, each 3 m (9.84 ft) long
- Two microfilters
- 12 reagent vials
- Three magnetic stirring bars
- 10 ml measuring cylinder
- AC/DC power adapter
Reagents Sold Separately: Chemical test reagents are not included. Compatible Focustronic or manufacturer-supported third-party reagents are required to operate the corresponding testing functions.
Shipping Info
Shipping Info
FREE SHIPPING OVER $119!*
- does not apply to livestock -
$11.99 FLAT RATE FOR LESS THAN $119.00 - CANADA WIDE!
*EXCEPTIONS:
- Any heavy or bulky items will incur a 100% charge of the actual shipping cost (valid for both Canada and the US). Heavy bulky items include (but are not limited to): salt, dry rock, sand, chillers, sumps, aquariums, stands, and some filter media.
- Frozen or perishable food can only be shipped via UPS Express. We have discounted the express shipping of these items to help the hobbyist out.
- Livestock is covered by a different shipping policy. To view the policy and further information regarding shipping livestock, click here.
GENERAL NOTES:
- We always make our best effort to ship your order via the carrier chosen during the check-out process; however, for some multi-piece shipments and/or remote destinations, we must reserve the right to use another carrier at our discretion (and without prior notice). If you require notice of any changes made to the carrier, please mention it in the special instructions during check-out.
- Upon request, we will ship your dry goods as per your specifications (courier, airlines, on your account, etc.).
- Quoted rates are the carriers live discounted shipping rates after adjusting for any/all shipping promotions.
Returns / Exchanges
Returns / Exchanges
Return Policy — Aquarium Equipment & Supplies
- All returns and/or exchanges must be made within 30 days of receipt of product.
- Before returning or exchanging any goods, you must contact J&L Aquatics to obtain a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA). Items returned without prior authorization will be declined.
- Returned items must be unused, in original packaging, in as-new condition, and in perfect sellable condition. All returns are subject to inspection upon receipt.
- A 15% restocking fee applies to all online returns. This fee includes the cost of outbound shipping.
- Customer is responsible for return shipping costs on standard returns.
- Order cancellations made before shipping are not subject to a restocking fee.
Non-Returnable Items
- Special order items
- Clearance / final sale items
- Open box items
Regular sale items (non-clearance) are returnable within the 30-day return window, subject to our standard return conditions.
Defective, Warranty & DOA Items
- If you receive an item that is defective, not working, or dead on arrival (DOA), please contact us as soon as possible.
- Confirmed defective and warranty returns have no restocking fee. Customer does not pay return shipping — J&L Aquatics will provide a prepaid return label.
- All defective claims are subject to inspection. Items showing signs of customer damage, improper installation, or misuse are not covered under warranty.
Carrier Damage & Lost in Transit
- If your order arrives damaged by the carrier or is lost in transit, please contact us right away with photos of the damaged product and the damaged box/packaging (if applicable), plus a short description of the issue.
- Important — Do not throw out any packaging! Please keep all original packaging, boxes, and packing materials. These are required to process your claim. Discarding packaging may affect our ability to resolve your claim.
High-Value Items ($100+)
- For items valued at $100 or more, customers must provide a return tracking number before a replacement will be shipped.
Affirm & Financing Orders
- Refunds on orders paid with Affirm or another financing provider are processed back through that provider, which will update your payment plan.
- Our standard return conditions above apply to financed orders the same as any other order.
J&L Aquatics strives to maintain the lowest prices economically possible. In most cases we have the lowest price in the Canadian marketplace, but in the rare occasion that we do not, please feel free to contact us at 604-444-1161 or through e-mail to discuss an opportunity to price match.
