Run a Maxspect 250 and 350 together

Jan 02, 2020
Paul Wright wrote
I currently have 2 Maxspect XF250 Gyres running on my tank. I noticed that during the last cleaning that one has a fraying power cable and I am considering purchasing a new XF350 to replace the one pump.

I wanted to confirm whether:
- I can run a XF250 and XF350 using the same ICV6 controller?
- Will I need to update the firmware to a specific rev level to do so?
- Does the XF350 use different parts ( bushings, flow cages, mesh covers ) ?

Is there any benefit in features to switch out both to the 300 series pumps while continuing to use my current ICV6 controller?

Thanks in advance
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9 Answers
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Jan 03, 2020
Angie Brumfield agent wrote
- I can run a XF250 and XF350 using the same ICV6 controller? Yes
- Will I need to update the firmware to a specific rev level to do so? The latest firmware is 2.2 - you can find the update and instructions here: http://blog.coralvue.com/gyre-advanced-controller-firmware-updates/
- Does the XF350 use different parts ( bushings, flow cages, mesh covers ) ? Yes

Is there any benefit in features to switch out both to the 300 series pumps while continuing to use my current ICV6 controller? The 300 pumps are a bit stronger than the 200 series.



Jan 07, 2020
Will Kirk wrote
Hi,
Would Paul also require a new XF3– controller after replacing XF250 pump with an XF350 pump, and then his remaining XF250 pump and new XF350 could be controlled with the ICV6?
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Jan 08, 2020
Angie Brumfield agent wrote
Actually, he could get the new Wave Engine and be able to control both pumps with an app and be able to do away with the other controllers and ICV6: https://www.coralvue.com/hydros-waveengine-3537
The Wave Engine also offers more options than the advanced controller/ Syna-G app.
Jan 08, 2020
Will Kirk wrote
Hi,
The wave engine looks great.
Can I purchase the wave engine in the UK, is it compatible with UK electricity supply 240V 50/60Hz?
Thanks for your help.
Will
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Jan 08, 2020
Angie Brumfield agent wrote
We can ship to the UK if you don't mind paying for the shipping. The power supply is 240V 50/60Hz so it is compatible, you would just need an adapter. If you want to purchase one please contact me at angie@coralvue.com
Jan 11, 2020
Paul Wright wrote
Hi Angie -

I ended up purchasing the XF350 replacement Gyre pump BUT the connector is different and it won't connect to my existing ICV-6 controller.

I included a picture for reference with the series 200 end connector on the left and the new series 300 end connector on the right.
- Is there some kind of of adapter that I need/can purchase to make this work?
- Do I need a different ICV6 controller ? ( Hope not because then my other XF250 won't be able to connect ). My controller has 2 connectors for 2 pumps and one for the power brick.

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Jan 13, 2020
Angie Brumfield agent wrote
Are you referring to an advanced controller? You do not plug any pumps into the ICV6. The Advanced controller comes in the 200 series version and the 300 series version, they are not interchangeable so you will need a separate controller for your pumps. The ICV6 eliminates the controller and allows you to control the pumps through WiFi using the Syna-G app on your phone.
Jan 13, 2020
Will Kirk wrote
I feel your pain and confusion Paul, I'm just at the point where I needed a new pump and was looking for a replacement for an XF250.

1. The 300 series pump has different fittings as you have discovered, a new controller is required for the pump and whilst the controller 'controls' the pump, its main purpose is as the power supply.

With a 200 series pump and controller, and a 300 series pump and controller, you should be able to control both pumps using an ICV6. The ICV6 is designed to act as a network hub for Maxspect products.

I reckon a viable option for you is to follow Angie Brumfields comments earlier and opt to buy a Wave Engine https://www.coralvue.com/hydros-waveengine-3537

Options.

1. Return the XF350 pump and source an XF250 pump - the simplest option. You can then just plug in the new XF250 pump to your existing controller.

2. Keep the XF350 pump but you will also need to buy a XF350 Controller. With this option, when your existing XF250 pump retires you can buy new XF350 pump to use alongside your original one on the XF350 controller, and then sell on the 200 series Advanced Controller.

3. Sell your ICV6 and 200 series Advanced Controller (if you can), and buy a Hydros WaveEngine. This will power both XF250 and XF350 pumps (doing away with the Advanced controller and multiple power bricks). There is a Hydros app you can then use to control both pumps, and optionally EcoTech Vortech and Vectra pumps.

Make sense?

I don't work for CoralVue but am interested in how you get on, happy reefing.
Jan 13, 2020
Paul Wright wrote
Thanks Angie and Will -

I see my error in confusing the Advanced controller with the ICV6.

Although the Hydros WaveEngine sounds good, I really just need to replace a pump with a fraying cable so I'll return the XF350 and look for a replacement XF250.

Thanks