🎛️ Gecko IN.K450 Topside Panel – Premium Six-Button Main Control for IN.XM, IN.XE & YE Series Spa Systems
Feature-rich six-button main topside with three-pump control, LED display, and full temperature management for Gecko spa systems
📋 Product Overview
The Gecko IN.K450 Topside Panel (TS-AE451) is a premium main topside control panel offering comprehensive spa control through its six-button interface. Designed for Gecko IN.XM, IN.XE, and YE series spa systems, the IN.K450 provides control of up to three pumps plus lighting and temperature, making it ideal for feature-rich hot tubs requiring extensive functionality.
Measuring 181 mm × 73 mm, the IN.K450 features an LED screen for temperature display and status information along with six dedicated buttons: Power, 1, 2, 3, Light, and Temp. This configuration allows users to control multiple pump zones independently while maintaining easy access to temperature adjustment and lighting controls.
Operating at 12V and connecting via Gecko’s proprietary IN.LINK system, the IN.K450 delivers safe, reliable control for your spa. This panel is commonly found in premium spa brands including Gulf Coast Spas and Passion Spas, among others. Comprehensive documentation is available including a drilling template, quick reference card, and full technical manual.
⭐ Key Features
- ✅ Six-Button Interface – Power, 1, 2, 3, Light, Temp
- ✅ Three-Pump Control – Operate up to 3 pump zones independently
- ✅ LED Screen Display – Temperature and status information
- ✅ Temperature Control – Dedicated Temp button for adjustment
- ✅ Power Button – System on/off control
- ✅ Multi-System Compatible – IN.XM, IN.XE, and YE systems
- ✅ Premium Spa Brands – Found in Gulf Coast Spas, Passion Spas
- ✅ IN.LINK Connection – Gecko’s proprietary plug-and-play system
- ✅ 12V Operation – Safe low voltage design
- ✅ Comprehensive Documentation – Technical manual, quick reference, drilling template
⚙️ Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Gecko Alliance |
| Model | IN.K450 |
| SKU | TS-AE451 |
| Product Type | Topside Panel (Main) |
| Number of Buttons | 6 |
| Button Functions | Power, 1, 2, 3, Light, Temp |
| Maximum Pumps Controlled | 3 |
| Blower / Aux | 0 |
| Display Type | LED Screen |
| Panel Length | 181 mm |
| Panel Height | 73 mm |
| Operating Voltage | 12V |
| Connection Type | IN.LINK |
| Compatible Systems | IN.XM, IN.XE, YE Systems |
| Common Spa Brands | Gulf Coast Spas, Passion Spas |
🔌 Compatibility Guide
This Topside Panel is Compatible With:
| Spa Pack Model | Type | Confirmed |
|---|---|---|
| IN.XM | Gecko Spa Pack | ✅ |
| IN.XE | Gecko Spa Pack | ✅ |
| YE Series | Gecko Spa Pack | ✅ |
Found in These Spa Brands:
- ✅ Gulf Coast Spas
- ✅ Passion Spas
- ✅ Other spas using IN.XM, IN.XE, or YE systems
NOT Compatible With:
- ❌ Gecko Y Series or X Series (use IN.K1000)
- ❌ Gecko IN.Clear (use IN.K200 In.Clear variant)
- ❌ Balboa systems (BP, GS, GL Series)
- ❌ Other manufacturer spa packs
Connection Requirements:
- Spa pack must be IN.XM, IN.XE, or YE series
- Spa pack must have IN.LINK topside port available
- 12V power supply from spa pack
📍 How to Verify Compatibility:
- Confirm your spa pack is IN.XM, IN.XE, or YE series
- Check your spa brand (Gulf Coast, Passion, etc.)
- Locate the IN.LINK topside port on your Gecko spa pack
- Check existing topside model if replacing
⚠️ Important: The IN.K450 uses Gecko’s proprietary IN.LINK connection. This panel will NOT work with Balboa or other manufacturer systems.
🔘 Button Functions & LED Display
Six-Button Operation:
| Button | Function | Action |
|---|---|---|
| POWER | System Control | Turn spa system on/off |
| 1 | Pump 1 Control | Activate/cycle Pump 1 speeds |
| 2 | Pump 2 Control | Activate/cycle Pump 2 speeds |
| 3 | Pump 3 Control | Activate/cycle Pump 3 speeds |
| LIGHT | Lighting Control | Activate/cycle spa lighting |
| TEMP | Temperature Control | Access temperature adjustment |
LED Display Features:
| Display Element | Shows |
|---|---|
| Temperature | Current water temperature |
| Set Point | Desired temperature when adjusting |
| Status Icons | Heating, filtering, pump indicators |
| Error Codes | System diagnostic messages |
| Power Status | System on/off state |
Operating Notes:
- Press Power to turn the spa system on or off
- Press 1, 2, or 3 to activate respective pump zones
- Press again to cycle pump speeds or turn off
- Press Light to activate lighting or cycle colours/modes
- Press Temp to access temperature adjustment mode
- LED screen shows real-time status for all functions
- All three pumps can operate simultaneously
🔄 Gecko Main Topside Comparison
How IN.K450 Compares:
| Feature | IN.K200 | IN.K300 | IN.K450 | IN.K1000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max Pumps | 1-2 | 1 | 3 | Full |
| Buttons | 4 | 4 | 6 | Touch |
| Power Button | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Display | LED | LED | LED | Touch |
| Compatible | Various | IN.YE | IN.XM/XE/YE | Y/X Series |
Choose IN.K450 When:
- Your spa has IN.XM, IN.XE, or YE system
- You need control of 3 pump zones
- You want dedicated Power button access
- You have a Gulf Coast or Passion Spa (or similar)
- You need comprehensive control without touchscreen
💡 Three-Pump Control Benefits
Why Control Three Pumps?
| Scenario | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Zone-based massage | Target specific body areas independently |
| Intensity levels | Use 1, 2, or all 3 pumps for varied intensity |
| Energy efficiency | Run only needed pump zones |
| Full hydrotherapy | All pumps for maximum massage power |
| Therapeutic targeting | Focus jets on specific therapy areas |
Typical Pump Configurations:
- Pump 1: Primary/foot jets
- Pump 2: Secondary/back jets
- Pump 3: Tertiary/shoulder or lounger jets
Usage Combinations:
- Single pump for gentle, targeted massage
- Two pumps for medium-intensity therapy
- All three pumps for full hydrotherapy experience
- Add Light for complete spa ambience
🎛️ Purpose & Application
What is the IN.K450?
The IN.K450 is a premium main topside control panel providing comprehensive spa control:
- System power on/off
- Three independent pump zone control
- Temperature monitoring and adjustment
- Lighting control
- System status display
- Error code visibility
Premium Spa Applications:
The IN.K450 is commonly found in premium spa brands that utilise Gecko IN.XM, IN.XE, and YE systems, including:
| Brand | Typical Application |
|---|---|
| Gulf Coast Spas | Premium hot tubs with multi-zone jets |
| Passion Spas | Feature-rich spa models |
| Other brands | Spas using Gecko IN.XM/XE/YE systems |
🛠️ Installation Guide
Before Installation:
- ⚠️ Disconnect power to spa at the isolator/breaker before any work
- ⚠️ Verify your spa pack is IN.XM, IN.XE, or YE series
- ⚠️ Download and review the drilling template
- ⚠️ Plan cable routing to spa pack
- ⚠️ Prepare mounting location for 181 mm × 73 mm panel
- ⚠️ Review the technical manual before starting
Installation Steps:
- Turn off power at the isolator/breaker
- Use the drilling template to mark cutout position
- Prepare cutout according to template specifications
- Remove existing topside panel if replacing
- Route cable from installation point to spa pack
- Connect the IN.LINK connector to the spa pack’s topside port
- Mount the IN.K450 panel in the prepared cutout
- Ensure watertight seal around panel
- Restore power and test all six buttons
Mounting Information:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Panel Size | 181 mm × 73 mm |
| Connection | IN.LINK |
| Drilling Template | Available for download |
| Technical Manual | Available for download |
| Quick Reference | Available for download |
⚠️ Professional installation recommended for proper mounting, watertight sealing, and electrical safety.
🔗 Wiring & Connection
Connector Information:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Connector Type | IN.LINK |
| Operating Voltage | 12V |
Connection Location:
The IN.K450 connects to the IN.LINK topside port on Gecko IN.XM, IN.XE, and YE series spa packs. As a main topside panel, it connects to the primary topside port, not an auxiliary port.
⚠️ Never force the connector. The IN.LINK plug should connect smoothly. If it doesn’t fit, verify you’re connecting to the correct port on a compatible system.
🔍 Troubleshooting
Common Issues:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| LED screen blank | No power or loose connection | Check power and reseat IN.LINK connector |
| Power button not responding | System fault | Check spa pack power supply |
| Pump 1/2/3 not responding | Pump fault or configuration | Check pump and spa pack settings |
| Incorrect temperature | Sensor issue | Check temperature sensor connection |
| Light not working | Bulb/LED faulty | Check light unit |
| Error codes displayed | Various system issues | Refer to technical manual for meanings |
Error Code Display:
The IN.K450 LED screen displays error codes from the spa pack. Refer to the downloadable technical manual (ink450_techbook_en.pdf) or quick reference card for specific error code meanings and solutions.
🔩 Maintenance & Care
Routine Care:
| Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Wipe with soft damp cloth | Weekly |
| Check all six button responses | Monthly |
| Check LED display clarity | Monthly |
| Inspect watertight seal | Annually |
DO NOT:
- ❌ Use abrasive cleaners
- ❌ Use solvent-based cleaners
- ❌ Submerge the panel
- ❌ Press buttons with sharp objects
- ❌ Force button operation
♨️ Ideal Applications
| Application | Suitability |
|---|---|
| ♨️ Gecko IN.XM spa systems | ✅ Ideal |
| ♨️ Gecko IN.XE spa systems | ✅ Ideal |
| ♨️ Gecko YE spa systems | ✅ Ideal |
| ♨️ Gulf Coast Spas | ✅ Ideal |
| ♨️ Passion Spas | ✅ Ideal |
| ♨️ Multi-pump hot tubs (2-3 pumps) | ✅ Ideal |
| 🔄 Replacement for faulty IN.K450 | ✅ Direct replacement |
| ❌ Single-pump spas | ❌ Use simpler panel |
| ❌ Balboa systems | ❌ Use Balboa topside |
Common Installation Scenarios:
- 🛁 New premium Gecko spa builds
- 💆 Replacing damaged or faulty IN.K450
- ♨️ Multi-pump spa configurations
- 🔄 Gulf Coast or Passion Spa replacements
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between IN.K450 and other Gecko panels?
A: The IN.K450 is a premium 6-button panel with 3-pump control and dedicated Power button. Other panels like IN.K200 and IN.K300 have 4 buttons with 1-2 pump control. The IN.K1000 is a touchscreen interface.
Q: Is this the right panel for my Gulf Coast Spa?
A: If your Gulf Coast Spa uses a Gecko IN.XM, IN.XE, or YE system, then yes, the IN.K450 is the correct panel. Check your existing topside or spa pack label to confirm.
Q: What do the numbered buttons (1, 2, 3) control?
A: Buttons 1, 2, and 3 control the three pump zones. The exact jets each pump controls depends on your spa’s plumbing configuration. Typically, they correspond to different jet zones (foot, back, shoulder, etc.).
Q: Does this have a Power button?
A: Yes, the IN.K450 has a dedicated Power button for system on/off control, unlike simpler panels that may rely on timeout or other methods.
Q: Is my spa compatible?
A: The IN.K450 is compatible with Gecko IN.XM, IN.XE, and YE series spa packs. It’s commonly found in Gulf Coast Spas and Passion Spas. Check your spa pack label to confirm.
Q: What size is the panel?
A: The IN.K450 measures 181 mm × 73 mm.
Q: Is documentation available?
A: Yes, three documents are available for download: drilling template, quick reference card, and full technical manual.
Q: My spa only has 2 pumps – can I still use this?
A: Yes, the IN.K450 can control 1, 2, or 3 pumps. Button 3 simply won’t activate anything if pump 3 is not installed.
Q: Will this work with my Balboa spa?
A: No. The IN.K450 is a Gecko product and only works with Gecko IN.XM, IN.XE, and YE systems. For Balboa spas, you need a Balboa topside panel.
📄 Downloads & Resources
🏆 Why Choose the Gecko IN.K450 (TS-AE451)
- ✅ Six-Button Control – Power, 1, 2, 3, Light, Temp
- ✅ Three-Pump Capability – Operate 3 pump zones independently
- ✅ Power Button – Dedicated system on/off control
- ✅ LED Screen Display – Temperature and comprehensive status
- ✅ Multi-System Compatible – IN.XM, IN.XE, YE systems
- ✅ Premium Brand Support – Gulf Coast, Passion Spas
- ✅ IN.LINK Connection – Proprietary plug-and-play
- ✅ Full Documentation – Manual, quick reference, drilling template
- ✅ Genuine Gecko Quality – Manufactured to Gecko Alliance standards
🇬🇧 Why Buy from Parts4Tubs
- ✅ UK-based company with local support
- ✅ Fast UK delivery
- ✅ Expert advice from spa specialists
- ✅ Both Gecko and Balboa products available
- ✅ Compatibility assistance for all spa brands
- ✅ Full warranty support
- ✅ Easy returns within 30 days
✨ Summary
The Gecko IN.K450 Topside Panel (TS-AE451) is a premium six-button main topside control panel designed for Gecko IN.XM, IN.XE, and YE series spa systems. This feature-rich panel provides control of up to three pump zones plus lighting and temperature through dedicated Power, 1, 2, 3, Light, and Temp buttons with LED screen display. Commonly found in Gulf Coast Spas, Passion Spas, and other premium brands using Gecko systems. Measures 181 mm × 73 mm and connects via Gecko’s proprietary IN.LINK system at 12V. Comprehensive documentation available including drilling template, quick reference card, and full technical manual. Order from Parts4Tubs for fast UK delivery and expert compatibility advice.



