Ecogate greenBOX Nxt Block #5 – Now Shipping with Key Improvements

Introducing Block Numbers

With every major update to the greenBOX, Ecogate assigns a new block number. Think of it as the version of the hardware. Each new block reflects design refinements, service improvements, and functional upgrades.

Up until now, Ecogate hasn’t shared block numbers publicly. That changes with this release. The current generation of the greenBOX Nxt is Block #5, and units are already shipping. Publishing block numbers gives customers a clear reference point to know exactly which generation they’re working with—and what upgrades are built in.

Upgrades for Streamlined Installation and Simple Servicing

Ecogate has begun shipping Block #5 greenBOX Nxt control units, each with a series of important hardware upgrades. These enhancements improve cooling performance, expand Modbus capacity, simplify service access, and prepare the enclosure for more demanding installation environments.

Key improvements include:

• Redesigned cooling air filters for easier cleaning and higher performance

• Updated Ecogate Interface Board Version 8 with expanded Modbus connectivity

• Industrial NUC computer redesigned with a locked keyhole mount for faster service access

• 24V DC industrial power supply now with DIN rail quick-mount

• Pre-drilled conduit connector holes, sealed with silicone plugs when not in use

Together, these upgrades deliver better performance, easier installation, and simplified servicing for facilities using Ecogate’s On-Demand Control System.

Block #5 greenBOX Nxt units with multiple improvements

NEW: Improved Cooling and Filter Cleaning

The greenBOX Nxt Block #5 enclosure now features enhanced cooling through redesigned air inlet and outlet filters. These filters are easier to clean and deliver higher cooling performance.

• The new cooling air inlet is seamlessly integrated into the enclosure with Ecogate’s signature hexagonal design.

• The filter assembly is 3D printed using UL Prusament PETG V0, a certified self-extinguishing filament (per IEC 60695-11-10, UL94 V0).

These improvements are already included in all Block #5 shipping units.

New cooling air inlet (front view of enclosure) integrated into enclosure with Ecogate hexagonal design

NEW: Ecogate Interface Board Version 8

Version 8 of the Ecogate Interface Board introduces several hardware and functional upgrades:

• Three Modbus ports, each with 24V DC power, supporting up to 25 gates plus five additional Modbus devices. A single greenBOX Nxt can now control up to 75 gates.

• Integrated measurement of voltage and current, with electronically adjustable fuses.

• Expanded digital and relay I/O: four programmable digital inputs, four programmable relay outputs, and outputs for red/yellow/green status lights.

• Dedicated power supply outputs for the Industrial NUC and touchscreen monitors, with USB-C Power Delivery support. All outputs follow Limited Power Source (LPS) safety standards.

• Updated cooling fan terminal to the Intel PWM standard, supporting precise speed control and RPM monitoring. Two fan outputs are now included for greenBOX Max and Master models.

• Redundant power supply support with dual 24V DC inputs and new lever-action power terminals for simpler connections.

Ecogate Industrial NUC computer (black box on left side of Nxt enclosure) with keyhole mounting system

NEW: Industrial NUC with Keyhole Mount

The redesigned Ecogate Industrial NUC computer now uses a keyhole mounting system with a fast lock. This allows the NUC to be installed or removed within seconds, improving both assembly speed and service access.

NEW: Industrial Power Supply with DIN Rail Fast Mount

The 24V DC industrial power supply now mounts directly on a DIN rail fast holder. Service technicians can quickly snap the supply into place or remove it for service, streamlining both installation and long-term maintenance.

NEW: Prepared Holes for ¾” Conduit Connectors

Some installations—such as in schools, prisons, or military facilities—require conduit fittings for secure cable runs.

Block #5 greenBOX Nxt enclosures now feature two pre-drilled conduit knockouts designed for ¾” connectors. When not in use, the openings are sealed with silicone plugs to maintain enclosure integrity.

Silicone plugs can be removed to install the ¾” conduit knockouts

Important Note: The greenBOX is not an electrical panel. Do not drill additional conduit holes. Doing so introduces metal shavings that may cause shorts in the power supply, interface board, or NUC motherboard, and will void the warranty.

Summary

Ecogate’s ongoing improvements to the greenBOX Nxt reflect our commitment to both functional upgrades and serviceability.

Recent software advancements include:

• Automatic calibration of air velocities at gates, branches, and system-wide

• Programmable I/O through Ecogate’s user-friendly listbox programming

• Support for Precision Smart Gates as adjustable bleed gates, with control options based on pressure, air velocity, air volume, or temperature

• Ability to maintain minimum and maximum airflow across ten duct zones, with new detailed Airflow Monitoring overview views that color-code airflow values by zone for easier commissioning

Alongside these software updates, Block #5 delivers a stronger hardware platform for the future. In addition, Ecogate has recently launched the Dust Collector Controller and Dust Collector Interface, extending intelligent control and monitoring to dust collectors themselves.

Ecogate remains committed to continuous innovation—delivering smarter, safer, and more efficient On-Demand Control Systems for dust, fume, and mist collection. Customers can expect further improvements later this year.

Ales Litomisky