The K500 Flow Controller is used to precisely meter water flow into our Emriver river models at the specified rate. It also can run pre-programmed or user defined hydrographs to simulate flood events or other flow regimes. It is a product replacement for the Alix controller. The controller is powered by a 24V DC desktop adapter, or universal battery for use in the field. It passes DC power to the pump and controls the pump speed, and the flow rate of the water into our Emriver models, using an analog voltage output, and a hall-effect sensor flow rate input. The knob/button combination is used to navigate the LCD menu, adjust the flow rate, run hydrographs, zero flow, and maximize flow. It features 2 LEDs visible through the clear lid to check power status and pump speed. It clamps to the edge of the river models and has an adjustable arm for easy screen viewing.

Partly this controller was created because of migration to a new submersible pump with a different control style, but also to improve product quality and accuracy. The Alix controller didn't have a paddlewheel sensor to measure flow rates. It had a pre-programmed table that compared flow rate and pump speed. This isn't ideal because as head changes or if the pump filter becomes partially clogged, the flow rate displayed on screen becomes very inaccurate. The user has a digital display with a flat menu style for easy navigation and control.