Introduction

This Get Started Guide will assist you in connecting and configuring your Ecotech Marine Vortech Pumps with the Neptune Systems WXM module.

If you haven’t already done so, then please make sure your WXM is connected to your Apex and has a green status light

Clear Vortech Memory

With each of your Vortech pumps you’ll need to clear their memory.  To clear the pumps memory:

  • Press and Hold the Mode and Set Buttons-(Red, White, and Blue)
  • Press and Hold the Mode Button – It will flash Purple and Red
  • Press and Hold the Set Button- It will restart to solid green

Attach Vortech Pumps

To connect the pumps to the WXM. ie “attach” them:

  1. Press and hold Mode and Set- Should be red/white/blue
  2. Now tap Set-  Should be Blue/Yellow

Repeat this step for any other Vortech pumps

Note: If you are unable to attach the pump please Contact Neptune Systems Support. Do NOT attempt to update the Firmware on the pump unless it was manufactured before April 2010.

Vortech Outlet

Navigate to your Apex Fusion Dashboard by going to

https://apexfusion.com

Select your output icon in Apex Fusion

Select your Vortech Pump

In your outlet list you will see outlets distinguished as the “Vortech” Type.

Select the first pump in your outlet list.

Note: In this example these pumps have been given custom names.  The default name are Vortech_3_1 and Vortech_3_3 in this example.

Rename the Vortech

Select the configuration icon on the top right, then rename it.  For example: “Vortech_MP10”  and click OK

Configure your Vortech

The Vortech’s is configured through dragging and dropping the different points on the graph.  Each point represents a different Vortech mode.

X-Axis: Time in 24-hour scale

Y-Axis: Pump Intensity

Note: The minimum output intensity of a Vortech pump is 20%.  Below 20% the pump will operate at 20%.

Fine Tuning your Configuration

You can adjust, add, or remove points by selecting the gear on the plot list below the configuration graph

Vortech Modes of Operation

The Vortech mode can be be selected in the plot list.  Please consult your EcoTech Marine documentation for a detailed description of the different Vortech modes.

Example Configuration

Here is an example of a completed Vortech configuration.  Apex Fusion will open up creative options for how to control your pumps over a 24 hour period.  Each point included in the example configuration will help to bring variation to the environment in your aquarium.

Set Feed Mode Controls

After completing your configuration it is a good idea to add some more advanced features (like feed mode).  To get started with this select the configuration icon.

Set Feed Mode Controls (cont.)

Click on the Advanced Tab.

In the advanced input screen add “If Feed” statements to turn your pump off during a feed mode.  In this example the Vortech will turn off if Feed Mode A or B activated.

Select OK when finished.

 

Upload your Configuration

When you are satisfied with your Vortech’s configuration, update it to your Apex by selecting the orange cloud button on the top right.

Configure Additional Pumps

 

Its easy to configure additional Vortech pumps with your “master” Vortech pump.

Select your “slave” pump in your output list and then select the copy button.

Select Source

Select your “master” pump as the source to copy a configuration from.

Adjust the modes to sync, anti-sync, and eco-back as appropriate.  Use the “master” pump as a point of reference.

Conclusion

Thank you for reading through our ‘Vortech Programming Guide’ guide. Your Apex System is the best-value aquarium controller on the market today. We appreciate your passion and feedback as we continue working toward bringing you the gold standard for aquatic control systems. Spend less time reading manuals and more time enjoying your aquarium!

 

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