Summary #

This guide explains how to connect, assign, and configure EcoTech Marine VorTech pumps using the GHL VorTech Controller.

Applies to #

• VorTech Controller
• Compatible controller:
  • ProfiLux 4 Series (incl. Industrial Line / IL)
  • ProfiLux 3 Series
• Software:
  • GHL Connect (App, Webinterface, myGHL)
  • GHL Control Center

Before you start #

Please review the following requirements to ensure your VorTech pumps are compatible with the GHL VorTech Controller:

• Firmware Compatibility: The GHL VorTech Controller communicates via RF (Radio Frequency). It is compatible with VorTech firmware versions up to v.1.4.1. Pumps running Mobius firmware (v.2.0.0 or higher) use Bluetooth and are not compatible.
• Downgrade: If your pump is running Mobius, it must be downgraded to the legacy “EcoSmart Live” firmware using the Mobius App.
  • Note: For assistance with the firmware downgrade, please refer to the official EcoTech Marine Downgrade Video Guide.
• Important Manufacturing Date: VorTech pumps with a manufacture date of December 02, 2021, or later cannot be downgraded at this time and are therefore incompatible with the GHL VorTech Controller.

Step 1: PAB Connection and Assignment #

Use a PAB cable to connect the VorTech Controller to an available PAB port on your ProfiLux or to another existing PAB device in your daisy-chain. Before the ProfiLux can control the pumps, it must recognize the VorTech Controller on the PAB network through the following assignment process:

• In GHL Control Center: Go to the System page and click Assign devices.
• In GHL Connect: Go to the System page, select Assign and configure connected PAB devices, and then click Assign devices.
• Check the box next to the newly found VorTech Controller and save the assignment.

Step 2: Assigning the Pumps #

This process pairs your physical VorTech pumps with the GHL VorTech Controller. If you have multiple pumps, you will prepare all of them first before saving the entire configuration.

2.1 (Optional) Clear Existing Assignments #

If you want to start fresh or remove previously assigned pumps that are no longer in use:

• In GHL Connect: Navigate to VorTech Controller and tap Delete assignments.
• In GHL Control Center: Navigate to VorTech overview and click Delete assignments of all VorTech pumps now.

2.2 Prepare the VorTech Pump (Reset) #

Each pump must be cleared of its previous pairing configurations before it can be paired with the GHL interface:

1. On the VorTech pump driver, press and hold Mode + Set until the dial blinks Red / White / Blue.
2. Press and hold Mode until the dial blinks Red / Purple.
3. Press and hold Set until the pump driver resets.

2.3 Enter Pairing Mode #

Immediately after the reset, put the pump into pairing mode so it can be found by the GHL Controller:

1. On the pump driver, press and hold Mode + Set until the dial blinks Red / White / Blue.
2. Press and hold the Set button. The dial will now blink Blue / Yellow. This indicates the pump is searching for the controller.

If you have more than one pump, repeat steps 2.2 and 2.3 for all additional pumps now.

2.4 Finalize and Save #

Once all pumps are blinking Blue / Yellow, you must lock in the assignments in the software:

• In GHL Connect: Tap Save assignments.
• In GHL Control Center: Click End and save assignments of all VorTech pumps now.

Step 3: Configuration #

After successful assignment, you can define the daily behavior and safety settings for each pump.

3.1 Daily Schedule and Operating Modes #

Navigate to the settings of the respective pump (e.g., VorTech pump 1) to define its routine:

• Time Periods: You can create up to 12 individual time periods to vary the flow throughout the day.
  • In GHL Connect: Use Add to create a new period; use the Gear icon to edit or delete.
  • In GHL Control Center: Use the New, Edit, or Delete buttons.
• Operating Modes: For each period, select the desired behavior from the dropdown menu:
  • Native VorTech Modes: Modes like Constant Speed, Reef Crest Random, or Lagoon Random allow you to set native mode configuration directly.
  • Off: Disables the pump during the specified time.
  • ProfiLux controlled: Hands over the control logic to the ProfiLux. When using this mode, you must select a ProfiLux pump channel (1-16).

3.2 Special Events and Fallback Behavior #

The schedule list includes entries for global system states like Maintenance, Feed pause, AWC, and Thunderstorm.

• Pre-configuration: These entries are always visible in the schedule list. This allows you to define exactly how the pump should behave (e.g., “Off” or a low “Constant Speed”) before an event is even triggered.
• Activation: For the pump to actually react when an event starts, you must enable the corresponding trigger under the Activate special modes for section at the bottom of the page.
• Fallback Event: This is a critical safety setting. The Fallback mode defines the pump’s behavior if communication between the VorTech Controller and the pump driver fails (e.g., due to signal interference or a controller power loss). Ensure a safe operating mode is selected here to maintain basic circulation in the aquarium during a connection failure.

Notes & Troubleshooting #

• Mobius Firmware Check: If the assignment process fails, verify that your VorTech pump is not running the newer Mobius firmware (V2.0.0+). The VorTech Controller is only compatible with the legacy EcoSmart Live (ESL) firmware (v1.4.1 or lower).
• Legacy Support: Pumps manufactured after December 02, 2021, are generally not compatible as they cannot be downgraded to the required ESL firmware. Always check the manufacturing label on your VorTech driver before attempting a setup.
• Wireless Connectivity and Placement: The controller communicates with the pump drivers via Radio Frequency (RF). To ensure a stable connection, avoid placing the VorTech Controller and the pump drivers too far apart. Dense materials or other high-power wireless equipment between the devices can weaken the signal and cause intermittent connection issues.
• Fallback Safety: Always configure the Fallback mode. This ensures that the pump continues to operate at a safe speed if the wireless link to the GHL controller is ever interrupted.
• RF Module Updates: If a firmware update for the internal RF module is required, this can only be performed using the GHL Control Center.