Multiple 4x8 tent EBB n Gro bucket questions

[p0opstlnksal0t]

Should I attempt to make my own controller? The plan is to use 1 or maybe 2 controllers and a single res. 55-100 gallon. Utilizing 3.5 gallon low profile buckets with 1" fittings. I'll have 18 buckets per 4x8 and two 4x8 tents right now. Each bucket will have a root pouch or similar fabric pot inside the bucket full of hydroton. I may place the buckets on some 5/8 in plywood or foam board to raise their elevation in relation to the controller but since I'm using only hydroton the flood schedules will be fairly close together so I won't have stagnant water very long in the bottoms

Should I make my own or buy a hydrofarm active aqua and modify it?

Is 36x 3.5 gal buckets too much for a single filling or should I use 2x buckets and have them alternate flood and drain? I'd prefer to stick with a single

 

[Vhghost]

How about three pumps in one large enough res for 18sites. 3 separate timers staggered so they have enough water when they fire on. You'd need to be topp9ing up the rest often with that many sites off of one res.