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Created page with " The '''Eclipse Gtek''', also styled '''GTEK''' or '''GTek''', is a family of spool-valve paintball markers manufactured by Planet Eclipse, a British paintball equipment manufacturer based in Manchester, England. Introduced in late 2015, the original Gtek was developed as a mid-range electronic tournament marker and introduced the company's Gamma Core drivetrain.[1][2] The family subsequently expanded to include the Gtek 160R in 2016, the 170R a..."
 
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The '''Eclipse Gtek''', also styled '''GTEK''' or '''GTek''', is a family of spool-valve [[paintball marker|paintball markers]] manufactured by [[Planet Eclipse]], a British paintball equipment manufacturer based in Manchester, England. Introduced in late 2015, the original Gtek was developed as a mid-range electronic tournament marker and introduced the company's Gamma Core drivetrain.[1][2]
The '''Eclipse Geo''' is a family of electronic spool-valve [[paintball marker|paintball markers]] manufactured by [[Planet Eclipse]], a British paintball equipment company based in Manchester, England. Introduced in 2008, the Geo provided a spool-valve alternative to the manufacturer's ram-driven [[Eclipse Ego]] series.[1]


The family subsequently expanded to include the Gtek 160R in 2016, the 170R and mechanical M170R in 2019, and the 180R in 2023. The 180R introduced the OP-R Core, a revised spool-valve system derived from the OP Core used in Planet Eclipse's CS3 marker.[3][4][5]
The Geo family developed through successive numbered models, the Geo CS range and the Geo R5. Its operating systems evolved from the original Geo drivetrain to the IV Core, introduced through the limited-edition GSL and Geo 3.5, and the GR drivetrain introduced with the Geo R5 in 2024.[2][3]


== History ==
== History ==


=== Original Gtek (2015) ===
=== Original Geo (2008) ===


Planet Eclipse introduced the original Gtek in late 2015.
Planet Eclipse introduced the original Geo in 2008, expanding its electronic marker range beyond the ram-driven Ego platform.


The marker incorporated a new spool-valve operating system known as the '''Gamma Core''', which was subsequently adopted in several other Planet Eclipse marker families.
Unlike the Ego, which used a pneumatic rammer and poppet valve, the Geo incorporated a spool-valve operating system.


The original Gtek used a combination of aluminium and composite components, an electronic trigger system and an LED-based programming interface.
The marker used electronic firing controls, a solenoid-operated pneumatic drivetrain and compressed air.


It was designed to provide electronic tournament-marker functionality at a lower price than Planet Eclipse's premium Geo and Ego models.[1][2]
The original Geo was followed by revised versions incorporating changes to its pneumatic components and electronic systems.


The Gamma Core subsequently became an important component of the company's electronic and mechanical marker development, including the [[Eclipse Etha]] and EMEK families.
A related model, the '''Geo SL91''', was developed as a limited prototype during early 2009. Planet Eclipse reported in November 2009 that ten prototypes had been manufactured, but the model had not entered regular production.[1]


=== Gtek 160R (2016) ===
=== Geo 2 and Geo 2.1 (2010–2011) ===


The '''Gtek 160R''' was announced in August 2016 and formally detailed on 1 September 2016.
The '''Geo 2''' was introduced in 2010.


It retained the original Gtek's Gamma Core operating system while incorporating a revised aluminium body, electronic controls and air-transfer system.
It incorporated revisions to the original Geo platform, including changes to the body, pneumatic system and electronics.


Unlike the original Gtek, the 160R used an all-aluminium external construction.
The '''Geo 2.1''' followed in 2011, with further changes to the air-system arrangement and external components.


The model introduced an OLED display as standard equipment and incorporated an AT Pipe system to transfer compressed air between the marker's regulator and grip assembly without an external macroline hose.
Both retained an electronically operated spool-valve drivetrain.


Its published operating pressure was approximately 135 psi.[3]
=== Geo 3 and Geo 3.1 (2012–2013) ===


The 160R remained a spool-valve electronic marker despite its more elaborate construction.
Planet Eclipse introduced the '''Geo 3''' in 2012.


=== Gtek 170R (2019) ===
The marker incorporated revised pneumatic components and an adjustable solenoid flow restrictor, allowing the user to change aspects of the bolt's operating speed.


Planet Eclipse introduced the '''Gtek 170R''' at the Paintball Extravaganza trade exhibition in February 2019.
The '''Geo 3.1''' followed in 2013.


The marker retained the Gamma Core drivetrain while incorporating substantial changes to its body and air-transfer arrangement.
This version introduced an external air-transfer pipe between the regulator and grip assembly, replacing the conventional exposed macroline arrangement of earlier models.


The 170R eliminated the 160R's exposed AT Pipe in favour of an internal air-transfer system routed through the grip frame.
The Geo 3 platform preceded the development of the IV Core system used in subsequent models.[2]


The regulator was incorporated into the grip frame, while the battery was repositioned into the foregrip.
=== Geo GSL and Geo 3.5 (2014) ===


Other features included an OLED display, revised ergonomics, updated feedneck and a light-pipe breech sensor system.
The limited-edition '''Geo GSL''' introduced the IV Core drivetrain and a quick-release bolt assembly.


The 170R was designed for compatibility with an optional mechanical trigger frame.[4][6]
The IV Core incorporated a breech-sensing mechanism designed to improve pneumatic efficiency by controlling the discharge of air during the firing cycle.


=== Gtek M170R (2019) ===
Planet Eclipse subsequently introduced the '''Geo 3.5''' in August 2014.


The '''Gtek M170R''' was announced alongside the electronic 170R in February 2019.
The Geo 3.5 incorporated technology developed for the GSL, including the IV Core and quick-release bolt system.


It was a mechanically operated version of the same general marker platform.
In an interview published by Planet Eclipse on 4 August 2014, lead designer Jack Wood explained that the Geo 3.5 was intended to make the GSL's technical improvements available to a wider range of players.[2]


Unlike the electronic model, the M170R used a mechanical three-way valve to operate the Gamma Core drivetrain without an electronic firing board or battery.
=== Geo CS1 (2015) ===


The mechanical version was intended for recreational play and mechanical tournament competition.
The '''Geo CS1''' was introduced in September 2015, with commercial availability announced for October.


Planet Eclipse also offered a mechanical frame kit allowing compatible electronic 170R markers to be converted for mechanical operation.[6][7]
The CS1 represented a substantial redesign of the Geo platform.


=== Gtek 180R (2023) ===
It retained an updated IV Core drivetrain but introduced a new body and grip arrangement.


The '''Gtek 180R''' was introduced in April 2023.
Among its principal changes were:


It represented a substantial revision of the Gtek R-series platform, incorporating the '''OP-R Core''' drivetrain.
* Internal air transfer without an external macroline or air-transfer pipe.
* An SL5 inline regulator integrated into the grip arrangement.
* Tool-free eye covers.
* Revised ergonomic grips.
* Two AA batteries housed in the foregrip.
* Updated electronic controls.
* Integrated POPS air-system fitting.


The OP-R Core was derived from the OP Core used in the Planet Eclipse CS3, rather than being a direct continuation of the earlier Gamma Core mechanism.
The CS1 became the basis for several subsequent Geo-derived models.[4]


Planet Eclipse described the OP-R Core as a double-decoupled spool-valve system.
=== CS1.5 and CSR ===


The 180R operated at a nominal pressure of approximately 120 psi and incorporated revised pneumatic components, electronic controls and ergonomics.
Planet Eclipse subsequently developed revised CS-series markers incorporating improvements to the original CS1 platform.


Its standard features included:
These included the '''CS1.5''' and the limited-edition '''CSR'''.


* OP-R Core spool-valve drivetrain.
Both retained the general electronic spool-valve architecture and IV Core operating system associated with the CS1.
* Quick-release bolt mechanism.
 
* OLED electronic display.
The CSR incorporated specialised body milling and selected component changes, while the CS1.5 provided further revisions to the standard model.
 
The CS range also included the CS2 and CS3, which adopted different Gamma-derived and OP-derived operating systems rather than continuing the IV Core architecture.[5]
 
=== Geo 4 (2020) ===
 
Planet Eclipse introduced the '''Geo 4''' on 18 February 2020, with deliveries scheduled to begin in March.
 
The Geo 4 returned to the IV Core operating system rather than using the Gamma Core platform found in several other contemporary Planet Eclipse markers.
 
It incorporated a revised frame angle, updated ergonomics and an SL5 inline regulator.
 
The model used the Shaft FL barrel system and operated at a nominal pressure of approximately 135 psi.[6]
 
The Geo 4 was marketed as a continuation of the traditional Geo spool-valve design.
 
=== Geo R5 (2024) ===
 
Planet Eclipse introduced the '''Geo R5''' in June 2024.
 
The R5 incorporated a new '''GR drivetrain''', replacing the IV Core used in the Geo 3.5, CS1 and Geo 4.
 
Planet Eclipse described the GR system as a development of its previous breech-sensing technology, incorporating changes to the internal air volume, valve operation and operating pressure.[3]
 
The Geo R5 also introduced a redesigned body, frame and foregrip arrangement.
 
Its principal features include:
 
* GR spool-valve drivetrain.
* Nominal operating pressure of 95–105 psi.
* Adjustable solenoid flow restrictor.
* Quick-release bolt assembly.
* Internal air-transfer system.
* Internal air-transfer system.
* S63 three-piece barrel with interchangeable PWR inserts.
* Concealed, tool-free eye and detent covers.
* Tool-free grip and foregrip access.
* MME electronic control system.
* Light-pipe breech sensors.
* OLED display and Bluetooth connectivity.
* POPS air-system fitting.
* S63 Pro barrel with interchangeable PWR inserts.
* Two AA batteries.
* Integrated POPS air-system fitting.


The marker was also compatible with an optional 180R-specific mechanical trigger frame, allowing conversion from electronic to mechanical operation.[5][8]
The manufacturer lists a marker weight of approximately 906 grams, including the barrel and batteries.[3]


== Operating systems ==
== Operating systems ==


=== Gamma Core ===
=== Original Geo drivetrain ===


The original Gtek, 160R, 170R and M170R used Planet Eclipse's Gamma Core.
The original Geo used an electronically controlled spool-valve mechanism.


The Gamma Core is a spool-valve mechanism in which the movement of a bolt assembly controls the release of compressed air used to propel the paintball.
Unlike the Ego's ram-driven poppet-valve arrangement, the Geo used a moving bolt assembly to control the release of compressed air.


In the electronic models, the firing sequence is controlled by an electronic board and solenoid.
Subsequent early Geo models incorporated revisions to the drivetrain, electronic controls and solenoid operation.


In the M170R, a mechanical valve replaces the electronic firing controls.
=== IV Core ===


The Gamma Core was subsequently used in other Planet Eclipse marker families, including the Etha 2, Etha 3 and EMEK.[1][4]
The IV Core was introduced through the limited-edition Geo GSL and subsequently used in the Geo 3.5, CS1 and Geo 4.


=== OP-R Core ===
The system incorporated breech-sensing technology intended to improve air efficiency.


The Gtek 180R introduced the OP-R Core.
According to Planet Eclipse, the drivetrain used the pressure pulse behind a fired paintball to help close the main valve before the firing chamber was completely exhausted.


This mechanism is a revised spool-valve design derived from the OP Core used in Planet Eclipse's CS3.
This reduced the amount of compressed air released after it could no longer contribute significantly to the paintball's velocity.[2][3]


The OP-R Core uses a double-decoupled operating arrangement and is designed to operate at a lower pressure than the earlier Gamma Core Gtek models.
=== GR drivetrain ===


Planet Eclipse's official specifications identify a nominal operating pressure of 120 psi for the 180R.[5]
The Geo R5 introduced the GR drivetrain in 2024.
 
The new system retained breech-sensing principles but incorporated revised valve geometry, internal air volumes and operating characteristics.
 
Planet Eclipse identified improved efficiency, reduced operating pressure and easier maintenance among its design objectives.
 
The GR drivetrain should be distinguished from the IV Core used in preceding Geo models and the OP-R Core used in the [[Eclipse Gtek]] 180R.[3]


== Models ==
== Models ==
Line 112: Line 157:
! Model
! Model
! Introduction
! Introduction
! Operating system
! Principal development
! Firing controls
|-
| Geo
| 2008
| Original electronic spool-valve marker
|-
| Geo SL91
| 2009
| Prototype only; no regular production
|-
| Geo 2
| 2010
| Revised drivetrain and body
|-
| Geo 2.1
| 2011
| Updated air system and components
|-
| Geo 3
| 2012
| Revised pneumatic system and flow adjustment
|-
| Geo 3.1
| 2013
| External air-transfer pipe
|-
| Geo GSL
| 2014
| Limited edition introducing IV Core
|-
|-
| Gtek
| Geo 3.5
| 2014
| IV Core and quick-release bolt
|-
| Geo CS1
| 2015
| 2015
| Gamma Core
| Redesigned body and internal air transfer
| Electronic
|-
|-
| Gtek 160R
| Geo CSR
| 2016
| 2016
| Gamma Core
| Limited CS-series variant
| Electronic
|-
|-
| Gtek 170R
| Geo CS1.5
| 2019
| 2017
| Gamma Core
| Revised CS1 platform
| Electronic
|-
|-
| Gtek M170R
| Geo 4
| 2019
| 2020
| Gamma Core
| Updated IV Core platform
| Mechanical
|-
|-
| Gtek 180R
| Geo R5
| 2023
| 2024
| OP-R Core
| New GR drivetrain and redesigned electronics
| Electronic, with optional mechanical frame
|}
|}


The chronology is based on contemporary product announcements and manufacturer documentation.[1][3][4][5][6]
The table covers the principal Geo models and closely related IV Core CS-series variants. The CS2 and CS3 are not included because they use different operating systems.[1][2][3][4][5][6]


== Position within the Planet Eclipse range ==
== Position within the Planet Eclipse range ==


The Gtek family was developed to occupy a position between Planet Eclipse's entry-level and premium tournament markers.
The Geo was introduced as Planet Eclipse's premium spool-valve alternative to the Ego.


Its Gamma Core operating system distinguished the original Gtek and subsequent 160R and 170R from the company's earlier ram-driven platforms.
The company's other electronic marker families include:


Related Planet Eclipse families include:
* '''[[Eclipse Ego]]:''' Ram-driven poppet-valve markers.
* '''[[Eclipse Etek]]:''' Lower-priced markers derived from the Ego architecture.
* '''[[Eclipse Etha]]:''' A separate marker family aimed at recreational and intermediate players.
* '''[[Eclipse Gtek]]:''' Spool-valve markers initially using Gamma Core technology.


* '''[[Eclipse Ego]]:''' Premium ram-driven electronic markers using a poppet-valve operating system.
The development of the Geo family also overlapped with the CS-series markers, several of which incorporated technologies originally associated with the Geo.
* '''[[Eclipse Etek]]:''' Electronic markers derived from the Ego architecture.
* '''[[Eclipse Geo]]:''' Premium spool-valve tournament markers.
* '''[[Eclipse Etha]]:''' A lower-priced marker family, with later generations using the Gamma Core.
* '''[[Eclipse EMEK]]:''' Mechanical paintball markers using the Gamma Core operating system.
 
The Gtek also provided a platform for mechanical competition through the M170R and optional mechanical conversion frames for later R-series models.


== See also ==
== See also ==
Line 165: Line 233:
* [[Eclipse Etek]]
* [[Eclipse Etek]]
* [[Eclipse Etha]]
* [[Eclipse Etha]]
* [[Eclipse Geo]]
* [[Eclipse Gtek]]
* [[History of paintball markers]]
* [[Paintball marker]]
* [[Paintball marker]]
* [[History of paintball markers]]


== References ==
== References ==


# [https://paintballruinedmylife.com/2016/09/01/planet-eclipse-gtek-106r-pictures-info/ Paintball Ruined My Life, "Planet Eclipse Gtek 160R Pictures and Info", 1 September 2016. Contemporary product announcement documenting the original Gtek's 2015 introduction and the 160R.]
# [https://eclipsehq.blogspot.com/2009/11/sl91-1-of-10.html Planet Eclipse, "SL91....... 1 of 10 !!!!", 27 November 2009. Manufacturer account documenting the Geo SL91 prototype.]
# [https://punisherspb.com/blogs/news/the-gi-stealth-paintball-marker-a-better-gtek-160r Punishers Paintball, "The GI Stealth Paintball Marker: A Better Gtek 160R?", 2018. Historical discussion of the original Gtek, Gamma Core and 160R.]
# [https://eclipsehq.blogspot.com/2014/08/the-new-geo35-lowdown.html Planet Eclipse, "The new GEO3.5 – The lowdown", 4 August 2014. Interview with Jack Wood documenting development of the IV Core and Geo 3.5.]
# [https://paintballruinedmylife.com/2016/08/24/planet-eclipse-releasing-gtek-2/ Paintball Ruined My Life, "Is Planet Eclipse Releasing a Gtek 2? Updated: Gtek 160R", 24 August 2016. Documents the initial 160R announcement.]
# [https://planeteclipse.com/marker/geo-r5/ Planet Eclipse, "GEO R5". Official manufacturer specifications and history of the IV Core and GR drivetrain.]
# [https://paintball.media/first-look-planet-eclipse-170r/ Paintball Media, "First Look: Planet Eclipse 170R", 28 February 2019. Contemporary examination of the 170R's design and operating system.]
# [https://www.paintball.de/blog/Planet-Eclipse-GEO-CS1-The-Power-of-One/b-103/ Paintball.de, "Planet Eclipse GEO CS1 – The Power of One!", 17 September 2015. Contemporary CS1 product announcement.]
# [https://planeteclipse.com/marker/gtek-180r/ Planet Eclipse, "GTEK 180R". Official specifications and OP-R Core technical description.]
# [https://woodlandforum.com/lexicon/index.php/Entry/102-Geo/ Woodlandforum, "Geo". Historical model chronology and descriptions.]
# [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IIsHj-mUEXQ Paintball Ruined My Life, "Planet Eclipse Gtek 170R and M170R Preview", 19 February 2019. Contemporary introduction of both models.]
# [https://paintballruinedmylife.com/2020/02/18/planet-eclipse-geo-4-released/ Paintball Ruined My Life, Brad Johnson, "Planet Eclipse Geo 4 Released!", 18 February 2020.]
# [https://shopusa.planeteclipse.com/products/eclipse-gtek-170r-hde-earth Planet Eclipse, "Eclipse GTek 170R". Manufacturer specifications, including mechanical conversion compatibility.]
# [https://trademygun.com/blog/the-newest-planet-eclipse-paintball-marker-the-gtek-180r/ TradeMyGun, "The Newest Planet Eclipse Paintball Marker: The Gtek 180R", 25 April 2023.]


== External links ==
== External links ==


* [https://planeteclipse.com/ Planet Eclipse official website]
* [https://planeteclipse.com/marker/geo-r5/ Planet Eclipse Geo R5]
* [https://planeteclipse.com/marker/gtek-180r/ Planet Eclipse Gtek 180R]
* [https://eclipsehq.blogspot.com/2014/08/the-new-geo35-lowdown.html Planet Eclipse: Geo 3.5 development history]
* [https://planeteclipse.com/kb/guides/air-tank-pressures/ Planet Eclipse marker air-system specifications]
* [https://eclipsehq.blogspot.com/2009/11/sl91-1-of-10.html Planet Eclipse: Geo SL91 prototype]


[[Category:Paintball markers]]
[[Category:Paintball markers]]
[[Category:Paintball equipment]]
[[Category:Paintball equipment]]

Latest revision as of 04:21, 22 October 2026

The Eclipse Geo is a family of electronic spool-valve paintball markers manufactured by Planet Eclipse, a British paintball equipment company based in Manchester, England. Introduced in 2008, the Geo provided a spool-valve alternative to the manufacturer's ram-driven Eclipse Ego series.[1]

The Geo family developed through successive numbered models, the Geo CS range and the Geo R5. Its operating systems evolved from the original Geo drivetrain to the IV Core, introduced through the limited-edition GSL and Geo 3.5, and the GR drivetrain introduced with the Geo R5 in 2024.[2][3]

History

[edit]

Original Geo (2008)

[edit]

Planet Eclipse introduced the original Geo in 2008, expanding its electronic marker range beyond the ram-driven Ego platform.

Unlike the Ego, which used a pneumatic rammer and poppet valve, the Geo incorporated a spool-valve operating system.

The marker used electronic firing controls, a solenoid-operated pneumatic drivetrain and compressed air.

The original Geo was followed by revised versions incorporating changes to its pneumatic components and electronic systems.

A related model, the Geo SL91, was developed as a limited prototype during early 2009. Planet Eclipse reported in November 2009 that ten prototypes had been manufactured, but the model had not entered regular production.[1]

Geo 2 and Geo 2.1 (2010–2011)

[edit]

The Geo 2 was introduced in 2010.

It incorporated revisions to the original Geo platform, including changes to the body, pneumatic system and electronics.

The Geo 2.1 followed in 2011, with further changes to the air-system arrangement and external components.

Both retained an electronically operated spool-valve drivetrain.

Geo 3 and Geo 3.1 (2012–2013)

[edit]

Planet Eclipse introduced the Geo 3 in 2012.

The marker incorporated revised pneumatic components and an adjustable solenoid flow restrictor, allowing the user to change aspects of the bolt's operating speed.

The Geo 3.1 followed in 2013.

This version introduced an external air-transfer pipe between the regulator and grip assembly, replacing the conventional exposed macroline arrangement of earlier models.

The Geo 3 platform preceded the development of the IV Core system used in subsequent models.[2]

Geo GSL and Geo 3.5 (2014)

[edit]

The limited-edition Geo GSL introduced the IV Core drivetrain and a quick-release bolt assembly.

The IV Core incorporated a breech-sensing mechanism designed to improve pneumatic efficiency by controlling the discharge of air during the firing cycle.

Planet Eclipse subsequently introduced the Geo 3.5 in August 2014.

The Geo 3.5 incorporated technology developed for the GSL, including the IV Core and quick-release bolt system.

In an interview published by Planet Eclipse on 4 August 2014, lead designer Jack Wood explained that the Geo 3.5 was intended to make the GSL's technical improvements available to a wider range of players.[2]

Geo CS1 (2015)

[edit]

The Geo CS1 was introduced in September 2015, with commercial availability announced for October.

The CS1 represented a substantial redesign of the Geo platform.

It retained an updated IV Core drivetrain but introduced a new body and grip arrangement.

Among its principal changes were:

  • Internal air transfer without an external macroline or air-transfer pipe.
  • An SL5 inline regulator integrated into the grip arrangement.
  • Tool-free eye covers.
  • Revised ergonomic grips.
  • Two AA batteries housed in the foregrip.
  • Updated electronic controls.
  • Integrated POPS air-system fitting.

The CS1 became the basis for several subsequent Geo-derived models.[4]

CS1.5 and CSR

[edit]

Planet Eclipse subsequently developed revised CS-series markers incorporating improvements to the original CS1 platform.

These included the CS1.5 and the limited-edition CSR.

Both retained the general electronic spool-valve architecture and IV Core operating system associated with the CS1.

The CSR incorporated specialised body milling and selected component changes, while the CS1.5 provided further revisions to the standard model.

The CS range also included the CS2 and CS3, which adopted different Gamma-derived and OP-derived operating systems rather than continuing the IV Core architecture.[5]

Geo 4 (2020)

[edit]

Planet Eclipse introduced the Geo 4 on 18 February 2020, with deliveries scheduled to begin in March.

The Geo 4 returned to the IV Core operating system rather than using the Gamma Core platform found in several other contemporary Planet Eclipse markers.

It incorporated a revised frame angle, updated ergonomics and an SL5 inline regulator.

The model used the Shaft FL barrel system and operated at a nominal pressure of approximately 135 psi.[6]

The Geo 4 was marketed as a continuation of the traditional Geo spool-valve design.

Geo R5 (2024)

[edit]

Planet Eclipse introduced the Geo R5 in June 2024.

The R5 incorporated a new GR drivetrain, replacing the IV Core used in the Geo 3.5, CS1 and Geo 4.

Planet Eclipse described the GR system as a development of its previous breech-sensing technology, incorporating changes to the internal air volume, valve operation and operating pressure.[3]

The Geo R5 also introduced a redesigned body, frame and foregrip arrangement.

Its principal features include:

  • GR spool-valve drivetrain.
  • Nominal operating pressure of 95–105 psi.
  • Adjustable solenoid flow restrictor.
  • Quick-release bolt assembly.
  • Internal air-transfer system.
  • Concealed, tool-free eye and detent covers.
  • MME electronic control system.
  • OLED display and Bluetooth connectivity.
  • S63 Pro barrel with interchangeable PWR inserts.
  • Two AA batteries.
  • Integrated POPS air-system fitting.

The manufacturer lists a marker weight of approximately 906 grams, including the barrel and batteries.[3]

Operating systems

[edit]

Original Geo drivetrain

[edit]

The original Geo used an electronically controlled spool-valve mechanism.

Unlike the Ego's ram-driven poppet-valve arrangement, the Geo used a moving bolt assembly to control the release of compressed air.

Subsequent early Geo models incorporated revisions to the drivetrain, electronic controls and solenoid operation.

IV Core

[edit]

The IV Core was introduced through the limited-edition Geo GSL and subsequently used in the Geo 3.5, CS1 and Geo 4.

The system incorporated breech-sensing technology intended to improve air efficiency.

According to Planet Eclipse, the drivetrain used the pressure pulse behind a fired paintball to help close the main valve before the firing chamber was completely exhausted.

This reduced the amount of compressed air released after it could no longer contribute significantly to the paintball's velocity.[2][3]

GR drivetrain

[edit]

The Geo R5 introduced the GR drivetrain in 2024.

The new system retained breech-sensing principles but incorporated revised valve geometry, internal air volumes and operating characteristics.

Planet Eclipse identified improved efficiency, reduced operating pressure and easier maintenance among its design objectives.

The GR drivetrain should be distinguished from the IV Core used in preceding Geo models and the OP-R Core used in the Eclipse Gtek 180R.[3]

Models

[edit]
Model Introduction Principal development
Geo 2008 Original electronic spool-valve marker
Geo SL91 2009 Prototype only; no regular production
Geo 2 2010 Revised drivetrain and body
Geo 2.1 2011 Updated air system and components
Geo 3 2012 Revised pneumatic system and flow adjustment
Geo 3.1 2013 External air-transfer pipe
Geo GSL 2014 Limited edition introducing IV Core
Geo 3.5 2014 IV Core and quick-release bolt
Geo CS1 2015 Redesigned body and internal air transfer
Geo CSR 2016 Limited CS-series variant
Geo CS1.5 2017 Revised CS1 platform
Geo 4 2020 Updated IV Core platform
Geo R5 2024 New GR drivetrain and redesigned electronics

The table covers the principal Geo models and closely related IV Core CS-series variants. The CS2 and CS3 are not included because they use different operating systems.[1][2][3][4][5][6]

Position within the Planet Eclipse range

[edit]

The Geo was introduced as Planet Eclipse's premium spool-valve alternative to the Ego.

The company's other electronic marker families include:

  • Eclipse Ego: Ram-driven poppet-valve markers.
  • Eclipse Etek: Lower-priced markers derived from the Ego architecture.
  • Eclipse Etha: A separate marker family aimed at recreational and intermediate players.
  • Eclipse Gtek: Spool-valve markers initially using Gamma Core technology.

The development of the Geo family also overlapped with the CS-series markers, several of which incorporated technologies originally associated with the Geo.

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. Planet Eclipse, "SL91....... 1 of 10 !!!!", 27 November 2009. Manufacturer account documenting the Geo SL91 prototype.
  2. Planet Eclipse, "The new GEO3.5 – The lowdown", 4 August 2014. Interview with Jack Wood documenting development of the IV Core and Geo 3.5.
  3. Planet Eclipse, "GEO R5". Official manufacturer specifications and history of the IV Core and GR drivetrain.
  4. Paintball.de, "Planet Eclipse GEO CS1 – The Power of One!", 17 September 2015. Contemporary CS1 product announcement.
  5. Woodlandforum, "Geo". Historical model chronology and descriptions.
  6. Paintball Ruined My Life, Brad Johnson, "Planet Eclipse Geo 4 Released!", 18 February 2020.
[edit]
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