From IceCap:
I have two on my 180G reef. I'm using low tech digital timers to make 7 on/off cycles per day. Most of the time both run at about 70 - 80% of max speed. When one timer shuts off the flow makes an impressive change.
Having roots in lighting I was slow to appreciate higher flow rates but the health of my tank has made a convincing argument. The BB (backup battery) was IceCap's original idea and when we met ETM (EcoTech Marine) the two products seemed like a perfect match up.
At MACNA I found visitors to our booth more receptive to a $500.00 backup system that came with a pump then the other way of explaining the possibilities. I would likely have fallen into the crowd that puts more of a premium on the BB. The thing about the pump is; minimal tank space is used, they're very efficient and by turning a knob it's like engaging a turbo charger. Keeping wires and pump heat outside the tank is nice too. All those powerheads can require a chiller just to counter the heat they deposit in your tank.
Thales descriptions are on target re the 5 year swap out of batteries, IC recycling the old one and reusing the original aluminum shell for the new battery. As battery technology gets better the BB we sell and swap out will improve. For now we can offer 30 - 36 hours of operation, but by connecting another BB (there's an extra port to link them) you can double or triple that.
Sales of BB start next week. All VorTech pump drivers are compatible with the BB. When they sense an outage they switch to BB and when power returns it switches back. You don't have to be there to activate anything or switch it back when power returns.
The video for the 2nd year (Pump Rock II) was more to show off the power of the controller to sequence pumping speed changes and the huge effect it can produce. We don't recommend splashing waves over the sides of your tank.
Any questions, post here or on the IC forum on RC.
Andy