If the controller worked in its current location, then the electric/hydraulic converter will work in the same location. In the case of the normally closed system, which is quite rare since the 1960's (anywhere in the world), water pressure from the controller will open the valve. Lack of pressure will cause it to stay closed. A leaking control tube will probably cause the valve to remain closed even when actuated by the controller.
Most hydraulic systems installed since the 60's were either Hydraulic Normally Open (HNO) or normally open pin-type (PT). Controllers, for both, release pressure from the valve tube through a drain at the controller to open the valve. The difference is that HNO has a supply source tube to pressurize the system. PT gets its water pressure directly from the valve. I am still repairing both normally open and pin-type systems in Spokane, Washington even though the end is in sight and they are somewhat compatible when combined in many systems (although it makes repairs more confusing).
The Hotmail account I have used for many years to answer personal questions, I am told by Microsoft, is about to be declared obsolete, so with permission, I would like to give this address as replacement
danielssprinklersolutions@gmail.com. If anyone would like to contact me with questions I am very happy to reply.