Current MP40w VorTech pump owners can upgrade to the Generation 2 version by ordering the magnet upgrade kit for only around $10. The MP40w Gen2 features a new magnet, high performance plastic drive shaft screw, and revised wet frame cover.
MP40w Gen2 VorTech Pump Driver New features for the MP40w Gen 2 include:
* A new Long Pulse Mode allows for wave pulse timings of between 2 and 60 seconds, enabling the creation of slow alternating flow throughout the tank.
* A new Night Mode enables the pump to operate for 14 hours in whichever mode is selected for the day and go back to Night Mode for 10 hours. Master pumps will tell their slaves to go into Night Mode as well.
* Pump Disconnect feature that automatically shuts down the pump if the dry and wet sides become separated.
Enhancements to existing modes include:
* Feed Mode has been slowed from 1000gph to 500gph to make it easier than ever to spot feed corals and slow moving fish with the push of a button.
* A modified range of adjustment for Short Pulse Mode makes it easier to fine tune wave form.
* A novel save function for Pulse Mode enables users to save their wave settings, providing an even higher level of customization.
* A more sporadic Reef Crest Mode for both single pump systems and multi pump systems enables more pronounced speed changes constantly throughout the day.
* A more sporadic Lagoon Mode for both single pump systems and multi pump systems provides enhanced variability to better simulate a lagoon environment.
In addition, the Generation 2 is backwards compatible with all VorTech pumps. “We are always working to upgrade and improve upon our products and we will continue to do so,” Marks said from Nürnberg. “As we have done in the past, we strive to make all upgrades backwards compatible at nominal costs so that our customers are able to have the latest and greatest EcoTech products in their aquariums.”
Generation 2 magnet upgrade kits can be purchased directly from EcoTech Marine for $9.45 plus shipping by calling 1.800.954.8480 then dialing for service, or emailing
service@ecotechmarine.com. EcoTech will start shipping magnet upgrade kits late next week. Customers that purchase a first generation VorTech MP40w after May 23 can contact EcoTech at
sales@ecotechmarine.com and include a scanned copy of their sales receipt and completed warranty registration card and EcoTech will waive the $9.45 charge. Customer will only pay for shipping.
Existing drivers can be upgraded to Gen2 through a simple code re-flash. Because of the programmability of the driver, once a driver is upgraded to Gen2, that driver can upgrade other Wireless Wave Drivers. The code upgrade itself is free though depending on the way a customer chooses to upgrade, shipping fees may apply. Customers can:
* Mail in their existing VorTech Wireless Wave Driver to EcoTech, along with their address and credit card information. Upon receipt, EcoTech will load the Gen2 code onto the driver and ship it back. The credit card will only be billed for the actual shipping rates. If new magnets are purchased at the same time, both driver and magnets will be shipped back together, helping customers reduce shipping cost.
* Take their driver to an EcoTech Marine dealer that has a Gen2 demo and upgrade at their location. If they do not already have a demo model available with the new code to perform the upgrade, the dealer can contact EcoTech Marine directly.
* Find a local reefer that has a Generation 2 driver. All Gen2 drivers have the ability to perform the re-flashing process on other MP40w pumps.
* Purchase a new driver from your favorite vendor or EcoTech Marine. All drivers purchased from EcoTech Marine will have the Generation 2 code.
MP40w Gen2 VorTech Pump by EcoTech Marine 
