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Tunze

Osmolator Nano 3

Flow · ATO

ATO with optical sensor — salinity stability.

Sensor type
Optical (photodiode)
Pump
5W DC dosing pump
Max lift
1.5 m
Tubing
4/6 mm flexible silicone
Power
12V DC, 5W controller + 5W pump
See it in the Atlantis tank build →
Osmolator Nano 3
$127.49 at Bulk Reef Supply
Buy →

Summary

Tunze's compact optical-sensor ATO. Optical (not float) means no mechanical sticking — the photodiode reads water surface refraction. Tiny footprint, suits nano sumps and small builds. Atlantis ran a float-based ATO for 6 months before swapping to this — never went back.

Best forany tank up to 600 L (159 US gal) with a 4-6 L reservoir Mountmagnetic glass clip, sump or tank rim Skill beginner
Tank-size fit (log scale)
50L 100L 200L 400L 800L 1500L
Best-fit range: 4-6 L
★ Atlantis verdict

"Replaced a JBL float ATO at Atlantis Q1 2026. No salinity drift since. Optical sensors are the right call."

See it in the Atlantis tank build →

Full specifications

Sensor type Optical (photodiode)
Pump 5W DC dosing pump
Max lift 1.5 m
Tubing 4/6 mm flexible silicone
Power 12V DC, 5W controller + 5W pump
Mount Magnetic clip up to 12mm glass
Safety 30-sec runtime cutoff per cycle
Warranty 2 years (Tunze EU)

What sells it / What holds it back

Pros
Optical sensor — no stuck float, no mechanical failure mode
30-second per-cycle cutoff prevents flood-the-tank failures
Tiny footprint vs traditional dual-float ATOs
Tunze long-term parts support
Cons
Optical sensor can get fouled by algae — needs monthly wipe
Reservoir not included — bring your own (4-6 L jug works)
Pump runtime audible (faint whirring) — annoying in living room if not isolated

What's in the box

  • Optical sensor module
  • DC pump
  • Controller + 12V PSU
  • Silicone tubing (2m)
  • Magnetic clip + suction cup backup

Pairs with / Replaces

Featured in famous tanks

This piece of gear is in the documented build of 2 tank tours.

Where to buy

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Retailer Price Stock Checked
Bulk Reef SupplyAff bulkreefsupply.com
$127.49 In stock today Buy →

Side-by-side compare

This product
Tunze
Osmolator Nano 3
$127.49
AutoAqua
See site
Sensor type Optical (photodiode) Optical (photodiode)
Pump 5W DC dosing pump 4W DC dosing pump (included)
Max lift 1.5 m 1.5 m
Tubing 4/6 mm flexible silicone 4/6 mm silicone
Power 12V DC, 5W controller + 5W pump 12V DC, 4W controller + 4W pump
Mount Magnetic clip up to 12mm glass Magnetic clip up to 12mm glass

More flow to consider

External resources