For those with Vortech's...

[ZachB]

http://ecotechmarine.com/ecosmart/

Very cool.

Major features of the EcoSmart Controller include:

"¢ Convert any MP10 and MP40 to an EcoSmart driver, and to wireless
"¢ Increased master-slave pump relationship functionality
"¢ Easily auto-tune and program customized waves
"¢ New modes including tidal swell and nutrient transport for an even more realistic reef experience
"¢ Time and speed adjustable for feed and night modes
"¢ Sleek LED interface with on/off switch
"¢ Auto-dim automatically turns the LED's off after a user-set amount of time
"¢ Adjustable battery backup speed and remaining power indicator

 

[andywe]

Sweet!! I heard about this but haven't read up on it yet.

 

[ZachB]

Sweet!! I heard about this but haven't read up on it yet.

They look good. Wireless is greatly improved. $75 per driver, picking me up a set.

 

[andywe]

I just ordered for all 3 of mine. Be here nex week

 

[NeveSSL]

SWEET! Gonna have to pickup a new MP10 now instead of a used one for this. The wireless is great! I wonder if this will allow the MP10 to be compatible with the new reef controller modules? Hmmm... I hope so!

Brandon

 

[sandalscout]

Andy, who has them in stock (or even listed) yet? I can't find them online at the few bigger places I've checked. I'm sort of ticked off now, my has been in the tank like 2 weeks and this was announced earlier this week.

 

[NeveSSL]

They have a rebate on their website listed if you've bought your MP40 within 2010, FWIW.

Brandon

 

[andywe]

I saw..I missed the 1/10 date...ah well. Still an awesome deal on sale and then the rebate for those who qualify. I just hope they are in stock..

 

[sandalscout]

Oh, duh, I see, order it directly from them. haha, oops.

Didn't see the rebate the first time either. That's cool.

Okay, who can answer this then. If I purchase a new MP40wES and have Gen II MP40w, will the non-ES pump benefit from the new modes as well? I see that they are backwards compatible, but will the new modes work on the non-ES module?

 

[andywe]

I suspect not as the firmware is different, but you can always call Steve or Jeff in support and ask.

 

[NeveSSL]

The Auto Dim is a very good function to add! Just noticed that one...

Brandon

 

[andywe]

Woot!! Mine arrived today!

 

[ZachB]

Woot!! Mine arrived today!

Very cool! Let me know what you think of them.

 

[andywe]

So far I like them...the auto dim will help in the theatre room downstairs....but it will take a few days playing with the new modes to get a good feel.

 

[MVlk]

If you are busy, I'll test it on my tank for you.

 

[andywe]

Ok, results are in...

I like the ES..however, if you ar ehappy with reef crest or lagoon as it is, then stick with what you have. They are worth it only if one of the new features is something you want.

As an added caveat, the wirelss connection is much better so if you have had problems hiding the drivers becasue of connectivity loss, these may very well solve it.

 

[MVlk]

Thanks for the info Andy!

 

[sandalscout]

Thanks for the heads up Andy, I'm really happy with lagoon mode currently, so I won't rush to upgrade.

 

[andywe]

I had an issue with my 2 MP40Gen2's and the wireless range...lots of intereference around the tank so that was my primary factor for upgrading and worked out very well!