I managed to get the DC8 configured to the Head Unit using the original phone cable from the photo above. I must have had the switches wrong in my first attempts. The outlets are all "virtual" as well, which I didn't expect to see the first time I got them added. Anyhow, I consider my system Apex ready now. I have added the DC8 to go along with the EB8, added modules WXM (only running a single MP10 right now), PM2 (still need to find PH and Conductivity probes so this module is useless at the moment), LSM module (can't get it to update firmware yet, but may still be possible).
So basically I'm afloat and have some user friendly outlets I have been tinkering with and attempting to program for some fail safes and feed modes (feed and maintenance).
It is an amazing system and has so many capabilities that I'll never see a use for a fraction of them, but it sure does add to the fun of the hobby. I can even check in and work on the tank while I'm away now too which is scary.
Thanks for the help thus far guys, appreciate the feedback! Cheers