1. Introduction
The INKBIRD IIC-400-WIFI Smart Indoor Sprinkler Controller is designed to provide intelligent and efficient watering for your garden or lawn. With Wi-Fi connectivity, you can control and monitor your irrigation system remotely via a smartphone application. This manual provides detailed instructions for installation, operation, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance of your device.
2. What You Will Get
Upon unboxing your INKBIRD IIC-400-WIFI Smart Sprinkler Controller, you should find the following items:
- Protective Face Plate
- Smart Sprinkler Controller Unit
- 3x Screws with Anchors for mounting
- Power Adapter
- Screwdriver
- 4x Threaded Wiring Connectors
3. Tools You Will Need
Before beginning the installation, ensure you have the following tools and access:
- 2.4GHz Wi-Fi Access
- Smartphone or Tablet (iOS 13/Android 7.1 or later)
- Screwdriver (included)
- Hammer
- Electric Drill
4. Specifications
4.1. Electrical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Adapter Input | US - AC120V 60Hz AU - AC230~240V 50Hz EU - AC230V 50Hz UK - AC240V 50Hz |
| Adapter Output | AC24V 1000mA |
| Controller Input | AC24V 1000mA |
| Zone Output | Compatible with AC24V control valve |
| Master/Pump Valve Output | AC24V |
4.2. App Installation Requirements
- iOS or Android compatible device (iOS 13/Android 7.1 and later)
- 2.4GHz wireless network signal available at the installation location
- Support WEP/WPA/WPA2/WPA2 PSK(AES) security modes
4.3. Product Dimensions
- Controller Size: 6.11inch*4.67inch*1.45inch / 155.2mm*118.5mm*36.9mm
- Product Weight: 224g / 7.9oz
5. Product Diagram
The INKBIRD IIC-400-WIFI controller features a clear layout for easy identification of components and wiring terminals.
5.1. LED Indicator Light
- Zone 1~4 indicator lights: Stays on when watering is in progress; Flashes when watering is paused; Flashes in turn when soaking is in progress. Flashes simultaneously when no schedules are running; All off when the controller shuts down.
- All indicator lights: Always on and the buzzer beeps once per second to indicate that the device time has been reset. Wi-Fi needs to be re-paired to calibrate the device time.
- Delay indicator light: Stays on when rain, freezing weather, or manual skips are detected; Schedules with these features enabled will be delayed.
- Wi-Fi indicator light: Flashes when in pairing mode; Stays on when connected and online.
5.2. Operation Buttons
- Wi-Fi button: Press and hold for 2 seconds to enter pairing mode.
- SET button: Used for settings adjustments.
- Start/Skip Button: Press and hold for 2 seconds to turn the controller on/off.
5.3. Wiring Terminals
The controller features clearly labeled terminals for various connections:
- C (Common): For common wires.
- M (Master Valve/Pump Start Relay): For master valve or pump start relay wires.
- 1, 2, 3, 4 (Zone Outputs): For individual zone wires.
- S (Rain Sensor): For rain sensor wires.
- 24VAC: For 24V AC power connections.
- PWR IN: Power input port.
6. Installation Steps
Before installation, ensure the device can connect to Wi-Fi without issues.
6.1. Step 1: Download the APP
Search for “INKBIRD” in your device's App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android) to download and install the application. Create an account once the app is installed.
Alternatively, you can scan the QR code below to download the app:
6.2. Step 2: Connect to Wi-Fi
- Plug the device into a power socket. The LED light will fully illuminate for one second.
- After 5 seconds, the Wi-Fi indicator light will flash, indicating that the device has entered Wi-Fi connection state. If it does not flash, press and hold the Wi-Fi button for two seconds to reset the Wi-Fi connection.
- Open the INKBIRD app, click “+” in the top right corner, and follow the in-app instructions to complete the Wi-Fi connection. Note that this controller supports 2.4GHz Wi-Fi networks only.
- Once successfully connected, the Wi-Fi indicator on the controller will remain on.
6.3. Step 3: Remove Your Old Controller
- First, test your existing sprinkler system to ensure all sprinklers are working correctly.
- Label each wire from your old controller using the provided label stickers to avoid confusion during re-installation.
6.4. Step 4: Mark Screw Locations
- Ensure the distance between the new controller and the power socket is less than 6 feet (1.8 meters).
- Use the mounting template (if provided, or measure the controller) to mark the installation location on the wall.
- Drill holes at the marked locations using an electric drill.
- Insert the screw anchors into the drilled holes using a hammer.
6.5. Step 5: Install Your New Controller
- Secure the top screw, leaving enough space between the screw head and the wall for the controller to hang.
- Hang the new controller onto the top screw.
- Secure the controller with two additional screws at the bottom.
6.6. Step 6: Wire Connection
Insert the labeled wires into the appropriate terminals on the new controller.
- Common Wires (C): Insert common wires (usually labeled 'C') into any of the 'C' terminals.
- Master Valve / Pump Start Relay (M): If you have a master valve or pump start relay (wires usually labeled 'M' or 'Pump'), wire it into the 'M' terminal. Note: The pump should never be wired directly to the controller; doing so will damage the controller and void your warranty.
- Zone Wires (1~4): Insert the wires corresponding to your landscape's zones into terminals 1 through 4.
- Rain Sensor (S) (Optional): If you are using a rain sensor (wires usually labeled 'S'), wire it into the 'S' and '24-' terminals. The '24-' terminal is equivalent to the 'C' terminal. Remember to enable the rain sensor in the app.
- Power-in (P): Insert the power connector upwards into the power jack, then plug the adapter into a power outlet. Note: Do not turn on the power before all wires are securely connected. If any wire is damaged, cut off power to the controller and replace the damaged wire to avoid hazards.
7. Operation (Function Description)
The INKBIRD app provides comprehensive control over your sprinkler system.
7.1. Automatic/Manual Watering
- Automatic Mode: Makes daily watering visible, efficient, and scientific.
- Manual Watering: Allows you to provide extra water as needed. The default manual watering time on the device is 180 minutes.
7.2. Smart Irrigation Features
- Rain Skip: Intelligently skips watering schedules during rainy weather to prevent overwatering.
- Seasonal Adjustment: Adjusts watering amounts for hot summers or cold winters with a single click.
7.3. Managing Watering Schedules and History
The app allows you to view upcoming watering plans and review past watering activities.
7.4. Power-off Memory Function
The controller has a built-in time chip that automatically runs the time without needing spare batteries. It supports non-volatile storage, saving all settings even if power is cut off. The timer will automatically resume once power is restored.
7.5. OTA Function
The device supports Over-The-Air (OTA) updates, ensuring lifetime satisfactory use with continuous improvements.
8. Troubleshooting Guide
If you encounter issues with Wi-Fi connection or irrigation facilities, refer to the table below for common problems and solutions. For further assistance, please contact support@inkbird.com.
| Issue | Possible Reasons & Solutions |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi Connection Issue |
|
| Device Issue |
|
| Setting Issue (How to enter pairing mode/reset Wi-Fi?) | Press and hold the Wi-Fi button for 2 seconds; the Wi-Fi icon will flash. |
| Buzzer beeps once per second, and Zone 1-4 indicator lights are always on? | The clock chip's time has reset due to power disconnection for about 10 days. Reconnect the controller via Wi-Fi using the INKBIRD app to calibrate the clock time. |
9. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your INKBIRD IIC-400-WIFI Smart Sprinkler Controller, follow these simple maintenance guidelines:
- Keep the controller clean and free from dust and debris. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
- Ensure the controller is installed in a dry location, as it is not waterproof.
- Periodically check all wiring connections to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion or damage.
- Regularly check for app updates to benefit from new features and performance improvements.
10. User Tips
No specific user tips from reviews or Q&A were provided for this product.
11. Warranty and Support
11.1. Warranty
This item carries a 2-year warranty against defects in components or workmanship. During this period, products found to be defective will be repaired or replaced without charge, at the discretion of INKBIRD.
11.2. Customer Service
For any problems or questions regarding the use of your INKBIRD IIC-400-WIFI Smart Sprinkler Controller, please feel free to contact us at support@inkbird.com. We are committed to providing the best possible assistance.
A detailed user manual in PDF format is also available for download: INKBIRD IIC-400-WIFI User Manual (PDF)
12. FCC Requirement
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
- This device may not cause harmful interference.
- This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy, and if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20cm between the radiator & your body. This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.
