Overview

To configure 2 VorTech Propeller Pumps in a Parent and Child relationship, reference the video below.  Please note, this video is for all models and generations of VorTech which are not controlled via EcoSmart Live or Mobius.

When using two or more VorTech pumps, you will want to establish pump groups to coordinate the operation of multiple pumps. A pump group consists of one master pump and at least one slave pump. There can only be one master pump per group which can include an unlimited number of child pumps. In order to set a pump as a Parent or a Child, the aquarist must first enter the VorTech Pump’s configuration mode. Within configuration mode one can do one of three things: 

•Reset the pump’s memory back to independent mode 
•Set the pump as a Parent
•Set the pump as a Child 

Parent and Children pumps must be set as groups and each group must be programmed separately. You must perform the following steps in the order listed to correctly program your EcoSMART driver. You may set up a maximum of seven separate groups, each having a unique Parent pump. 

1. Clear Driver Memory - The internal memory of each unit must be cleared before setting up a group. Hold Mode and Set together until the control dial blinks red/white/blue. Then hold mode until the dial blinks red/purple. Then hold Set until the pump resets. 

 

2. Enter Setup Mode - All pumps in a group must then be set into configuration mode before the assignment of Child or Parent status. This configuration must be performed with the drivers in close proximity to ensure proper assignment. Hold Mode and Set together until the drivers blink red/white/blue. 

 

3. Assign the Master - Set the master pump by pressing the mode button. The control dial will then blink blue and green. You are now ready to assign slave pumps. 

 

4. Assign the Child- Set the child pump by pressing the set button on the driver. The control dial will then blink blue and yellow. NOTE: If the slave blinks blue and red, it was too far away from the master driver and could not communicate properly. Repeat this step for all slaves you want to assign to the parent. 

 

5. Reset the Parent- Hold the mode button on the parent pump after completing ALL the Parent/child assignments. The pump will reset and begin operation in the previous mode you had programmed. You can then change modes with the parent pump like normal and the child pumps will operate according to what the parent pump defines. Child pump speeds can be defined by the parent or can be locally defined, a Local Max Speed to a child. 

 

6. Begin Normal Operation - Use the controls on the Parent Pump to operate all pumps in the group. Child pumps can only be set to sync or anti-sync modes, or the three options in EcoSmart modes. 

• Program Subsequent Groups - Now that the first group is programmed, repeat these steps on the next group of pumps, if so desired. 

• Un-assign a Child Pump - If you would like to un-assign a pump as a child and use it independently, follow instructions for clearing driver memory and perform those steps on the slave pump which you would like to un-assign. 

NOTE: The subsequent pump groups must be programmed near the original group. For example, if running two different groups in separate areas of your house, the second group must be programmed within 5 feet of the first group to ensure proper communication.