The AquaIllumination (AI) Blade series has quickly become one of the most popular aquarium lighting solutions for reef aquariums, planted tanks, and marine fish-only systems. Combining a slim, modern design with advanced LED technology and wireless control, AI Blade fixtures provide exceptional lighting performance while remaining incredibly easy to customise.
One of the biggest advantages of the Blade range is its integration with the myAI® app, allowing hobbyists to control spectrum, intensity, schedules, acclimation modes, and lighting effects directly from their smartphone or tablet.
If you’ve recently purchased an AI Blade fixture—or are considering one—this guide will walk you through the entire setup process, from installation to creating your first lighting schedule.
What Is the AI Blade Series?
The AI Blade range is designed to provide flexible, high-performance lighting for a wide variety of aquariums.
Popular models include:
- AI Blade Grow
- AI Blade Glow
- AI Blade Freshwater
- AI Blade Refugium
Each model is designed with specific livestock and lighting goals in mind.
AI Blade Grow
Optimised for coral growth.
AI Blade Glow
Enhances coral fluorescence and colour pop.
AI Blade Freshwater
Designed for planted aquariums.
AI Blade Refugium
Supports macroalgae growth in refugium systems.
All models utilise the myAI® ecosystem for wireless control.
Before You Begin
Before setting up your AI Blade, make sure you have:
Equipment Checklist
- AI Blade fixture
- Power supply
- Mounting hardware
- Smartphone or tablet
- Stable Wi-Fi connection
- myAI® app installed
Having everything ready before installation will make setup much smoother.
Step 1: Install the AI Blade Fixture
The first stage is physically mounting your light.
Mounting Options
Depending on your aquarium, you may be using:
- Included tank mounts
- Hanging kit
- Custom mounting solution
- Hybrid lighting setup
Position the fixture according to AI’s recommendations.
General Guidelines
For reef aquariums:
- Centre the fixture evenly over the tank.
For planted aquariums:
- Ensure full front-to-back coverage.
Proper placement ensures even light distribution and reduces shadowing.
Step 2: Connect the Power Supply
Once mounted:
Connect the Fixture
Attach the supplied power cable.
Check Connections
Ensure:
- All plugs are secure
- No cables are under tension
- Power supply remains dry
When powered, the fixture should illuminate using its default settings.
Step 3: Download the myAI® App
If you haven’t already:
iOS Users
Download from the Apple App Store.
Android Users
Download from Google Play.
The app is free and serves as the primary control interface for all compatible AI devices.
Step 4: Create or Log Into Your Account
Open the myAI® app.
You’ll be prompted to:
Create an Account
Or
Log In
Creating an account allows:
- Device management
- Cloud storage
- Backup settings
- Future firmware updates
Using an account is highly recommended.
Step 5: Enable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
The app communicates with your fixture wirelessly.
Ensure:
Bluetooth Is Enabled
On your phone or tablet.
Wi-Fi Is Available
For device updates and cloud functions.
Strong wireless connectivity improves setup reliability.
Step 6: Discover Your AI Blade
Inside the app:
Select Devices
The app will begin searching for nearby compatible equipment.
Your AI Blade should appear automatically.
If not:
- Move closer to the fixture
- Verify power is connected
- Restart the app if necessary
Most fixtures are detected within seconds.
Step 7: Add the Fixture
Once detected:
Select Your AI Blade
Tap:
Add Device
You may be asked to:
- Name the fixture
- Assign it to a tank profile
Examples include:
- Mixed Reef
- SPS Reef
- Nano Reef
- Planted Aquarium
Naming devices becomes particularly useful if you run multiple fixtures.
Step 8: Update Firmware
Before programming your lighting schedule:
Check for Updates
The app may automatically prompt you.
Firmware updates often include:
- Performance improvements
- Bug fixes
- New features
Allow updates to complete fully before proceeding.
Do not disconnect power during the update process.
Step 9: Choose a Preset Schedule
The easiest way to get started is with a preset.
Popular options may include:
Reef Presets
Suitable for marine aquariums.
SPS Profiles
Higher intensity settings.
LPS Profiles
Moderate intensity.
Freshwater Presets
Optimised for planted aquariums.
These presets provide a solid starting point.
Step 10: Adjust Intensity
After selecting a preset:
Fine-Tune Output
Adjust overall intensity to suit your aquarium.
New Reef Tanks
Start conservatively.
Established SPS Reefs
May require higher output.
Avoid the temptation to run new lights at maximum intensity immediately.
Understanding the Different Channels
Depending on the Blade model, you may have control over multiple colour channels.
Common channels include:
Blue
Essential for coral growth.
Royal Blue
Supports photosynthesis and fluorescence.
Violet
Enhances coral coloration.
White
Provides natural appearance.
Red
Useful in planted systems.
Green
Adds visual balance.
Each channel contributes differently to the overall spectrum.
Step 11: Configure Your Daily Schedule
One of the most useful features of the myAI® app is automated scheduling.
Most aquarists create a schedule that includes:
Sunrise
Gradual increase in intensity.
Daylight Period
Peak lighting.
Sunset
Gradual reduction in intensity.
Moonlight (Optional)
Low-level nighttime illumination.
This creates a natural day-night cycle.
Typical Reef Lighting Schedule
Example:
08:00
Sunrise begins.
10:00
Reach peak intensity.
10:00–18:00
Maintain daylight period.
18:00–20:00
Gradual sunset.
20:00+
Moonlight or lights off.
Adjust based on livestock requirements.
Step 12: Enable Acclimation Mode
This is one of the most important features for new installations.
What Acclimation Mode Does
Gradually increases light intensity over time.
This helps prevent:
- Coral bleaching
- Plant shock
- Livestock stress
Recommended Duration
Typically:
- 2–6 weeks
depending on the livestock.
Always use acclimation when upgrading to more powerful lighting.
Step 13: Save Your Configuration
Once satisfied:
Save the Schedule
The fixture stores the programming internally.
This means it continues operating even if your phone is disconnected.
Your settings remain active automatically.
Using Multiple AI Blade Fixtures
Many larger aquariums utilise multiple Blade fixtures.
Examples include:
Grow + Glow Combination
Popular for reef tanks.
Multiple Grow Fixtures
For SPS systems.
Multiple Freshwater Fixtures
For planted aquariums.
The myAI® app allows fixtures to be grouped together for synchronised control.
Monitoring Light Performance
After installation:
Observe Coral Response
Look for:
- Polyp extension
- Colour improvement
- Healthy growth
Observe Plants
Watch for:
- New growth
- Improved coloration
- Reduced stretching
Lighting adjustments should always be made gradually.
Common Setup Mistakes
Running Lights Too Bright
One of the most common beginner errors.
Ignoring Acclimation Mode
Can stress corals significantly.
Constant Schedule Changes
Corals prefer consistency.
Chasing Visual Appearance
Focus on livestock health rather than personal preference alone.
Overusing Moonlight
Most aquariums benefit from a proper dark period.
Avoiding these mistakes improves long-term success.
Troubleshooting Connection Issues
If the app cannot find the fixture:
Check Power
Ensure the light is powered on.
Restart Bluetooth
On your device.
Restart the App
Then rescan.
Move Closer
Distance can occasionally affect detection.
Verify Firmware
Older firmware versions may require updates.
Most connection issues are resolved quickly using these steps.
Why the myAI® App Is So Popular
The myAI® platform offers several advantages:
Easy Setup
Minimal technical knowledge required.
Cloud Connectivity
Settings can be backed up.
Flexible Scheduling
Highly customisable.
Multiple Device Management
Ideal for larger systems.
Regular Updates
New features continue to be added.
This simplicity is one reason AI lighting remains popular among both beginners and experienced reef keepers.
Final Thoughts
The AI Blade series combines powerful LED performance with one of the most user-friendly lighting control platforms available. By using the myAI® app, hobbyists can easily customise spectrum, intensity, photoperiods, acclimation schedules, and advanced lighting effects without requiring complex controllers or additional hardware.
Whether you’re setting up an SPS reef, mixed reef, planted aquarium, or refugium, taking the time to properly configure your AI Blade lighting will help maximise growth, improve coloration, and create a healthier environment for your livestock.
At Charterhouse Aquatics, we stock the complete range of AI Blade LED fixtures, mounting systems, lighting accessories, and aquarium equipment to help you build the perfect lighting solution for your aquarium.
