Intermatic EI600WC Decorator Digital In-Wall 7-Day Astronomic Timer Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, programming, operation, and maintenance of your Intermatic EI600WC Decorator Digital In-Wall 7-Day Astronomic Timer. This device is designed to provide automatic control of lighting and other electrical loads, enhancing energy efficiency, security, and convenience through its advanced scheduling features.

2. Safety Information

WARNING: Risk of electric shock. Improper installation can result in serious injury or death.

• Always disconnect power at the circuit breaker or fuse box before installing or servicing the timer.
• Installation should be performed by a qualified electrician or in accordance with all local and national electrical codes.
• Do not use this timer with loads exceeding its specified ratings (15 Amps, 120-277 VAC).
• Ensure all wire connections are secure and properly insulated.
• This device is intended for indoor use only.

3. Product Overview and Features

The Intermatic EI600WC is a sophisticated digital in-wall timer designed for versatile control of electrical loads. Key features include:

• Astronomic Feature: Automatically adjusts ON/OFF times based on local sunset and sunrise, eliminating the need for manual seasonal adjustments.
• 7-Day Programming: Offers up to 40 ON/OFF operations per week, allowing for unique schedules each day.
• Automatic Daylight Saving Time (DST) Adjustment: Automatically updates for DST changes.
• No Neutral Wire Required: Simplifies installation in older homes or where a neutral wire is not readily available.
• 3-Way Switch Compatible: Can be used in both single-pole and 3-way (multi-way) switch configurations.
• Battery Backup: Maintains timekeeping and program settings for up to three years during power outages using an included CR2 lithium battery.
• Non-Volatile Memory: Stores all user program selections permanently.
• Low Battery Indicator: Alerts when battery replacement is needed.
• Isolated Single Pole Single Throw Switch: Allows the timer to switch various load types.
• Operating Frequency: 50/60Hz.
• Voltage Compatibility: 120-277 VAC, up to 15 Amps.

Figure 3.1: Front view of the Intermatic EI600WC timer installed in a standard decorator wall plate.

Figure 3.2: Front view of the Intermatic EI600WC timer module, showing the digital display and the cover for programming buttons.

Figure 3.3: Front view of the Intermatic EI600WC timer with the lower cover opened, revealing the 'mode', 'on/off', '+', and '-' programming buttons.

4. Installation

Before beginning installation, ensure power is disconnected at the circuit breaker. This timer is designed for single-pole or 3-way switch applications and does not require a neutral wire connection.

4.1. Tools Required

• Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)
• Wire strippers
• Electrical tape
• Voltage tester

4.2. Wiring Instructions

Refer to the wiring diagrams below and on the product label for correct connections. The EI600WC is a 3-wire design, compatible with both single-pole and 3-way switch setups.

Figure 4.1: Excerpt from the instruction manual showing wiring diagrams and programming steps.

4.2.1. Single-Pole Switch Installation

1. Turn OFF power at the circuit breaker.
2. Remove the existing wall switch.
3. Identify the two wires connected to the switch. One is the BLACK WIRE from the power source, and the other is the RED WIRE to the load.
4. Connect the BLACK WIRE from the wall to the timer's BLACK WIRE.
5. Connect the RED WIRE from the wall to the timer's RED WIRE.
6. Connect the timer's GREEN WIRE to the grounding screw in the box.
7. Mount the timer into the wall box and install the wall plate.
8. Restore power.

4.2.2. 3-Way Switch Installation

For 3-way applications, the EI600WC replaces one of the existing 3-way switches. The other 3-way switch will be replaced with a standard single-pole switch or remain as a 3-way switch if desired, but only one timer can control the load.

1. Turn OFF power at the circuit breaker.
2. Remove both existing 3-way switches.
3. At the location where the EI600WC will be installed:
   • Identify the COMMON WIRE (usually darker or marked) from the power source or load.
   • Connect the timer's BLACK WIRE to the COMMON WIRE from the wall.
   • Connect the timer's RED WIRE to one of the remaining traveler wires.
   • Cap the other traveler wire with a wire nut; it will not be used by the timer.
   • Connect the timer's GREEN WIRE to the grounding screw in the box.
4. At the other 3-way switch location:
   • Connect the COMMON WIRE to the traveler wire that was connected to the timer's RED WIRE.
   • Connect the other two wires together with a wire nut (these are the remaining traveler and the unused common from the original 3-way switch).
   • Install a standard single-pole switch or a 3-way switch wired as a single-pole switch.
5. Mount the timer and the other switch into their respective wall boxes and install wall plates.
6. Restore power.

Note: If the timer clock and the load lamp operate when the timer is removed from the wall box, but the timer does not operate the load lamp when installed, then the inverter wires 'A' and 'B' are reversed. Reverse the timer's 'A' and 'B' wires and retest.

5. Initial Setup and Configuration

After installation and power restoration, the timer display will show "12:00" and "PM". The battery indicator will flash if the battery needs replacement. Open the lower cover to access the programming buttons.

5.1. Setting Current Time and Date

1. Press the MODE button until "SET TIME" appears on the display.
2. Use the + and - buttons to adjust the hour. Press MODE to confirm.
3. Adjust minutes using + and -. Press MODE to confirm.
4. Adjust the current day of the week (1=Monday, 7=Sunday). Press MODE to confirm.
5. Adjust the current year. Press MODE to confirm.
6. Adjust the current month. Press MODE to confirm.
7. Adjust the current day of the month. Press MODE to exit "SET TIME".

5.2. Setting Geographic Location (Latitude/Longitude)

This setting is crucial for the astronomic feature to function accurately. You will need your location's latitude and longitude. Many online resources can provide this information.

1. Press the MODE button until "SET LAT" appears.
2. Use the + and - buttons to adjust the latitude value. The display shows two digits, representing degrees. For example, "42" means 42.0 degrees. Press MODE to confirm.
3. "SET LONG" will appear. Use + and - to adjust the longitude value. Press MODE to confirm and exit.

Note: The timer assumes the right-most digit is after a decimal point for latitude and longitude. For example, if your latitude is 42.5, you would enter "425". If it's 42.0, you would enter "420".

5.3. Daylight Saving Time (DST) Adjustment

The timer can automatically adjust for Daylight Saving Time. This feature is typically enabled by default.

1. Press the MODE button until "DST" appears.
2. Use the + or - button to toggle between "ON" (automatic DST adjustment) and "OFF".
3. Press MODE to confirm and exit.

6. Operating Instructions and Programming

The EI600WC allows for flexible programming with up to 40 ON/OFF operations per week. Programs can be set for specific times or utilize the astronomic feature.

6.1. Setting Initial ON/OFF Times

You can set up to 20 ON/OFF programs. Each program can be assigned to specific days or all days of the week.

1. Press MODE until "SET PROG" appears. The display will show "PGM 1 ON".
2. Use + or - to select the desired program number (1-20). Press MODE.
3. The display will show "ON". Use + or - to set the ON time. You can select a specific time (e.g., 6:00 PM) or "DUSK" for astronomic ON. Press MODE.
4. Select the days for this ON event (e.g., "ALL" for all days, "WK" for weekdays, "WE" for weekends, or individual days). Press MODE.
5. The display will show "OFF". Use + or - to set the OFF time. You can select a specific time (e.g., 11:00 PM) or "DAWN" for astronomic OFF. Press MODE.
6. Select the days for this OFF event (must match the ON event days). Press MODE to save the program.
7. Repeat for additional programs. Press MODE repeatedly to exit programming mode.

6.2. Revising an ON or OFF Setting

1. Press MODE until "SET PROG" appears.
2. Use + or - to select the program number you wish to revise. Press MODE.
3. The display will show the current ON time. Use + or - to change it. Press MODE.
4. The display will show the current OFF time. Use + or - to change it. Press MODE to save.

6.3. Deleting an ON or OFF Setting

1. Press MODE until "SET PROG" appears.
2. Use + or - to select the program number you wish to delete. Press MODE.
3. When "ON" is displayed, press ON/OFF button. "SKIP" will appear, indicating the ON event is deleted. Press MODE.
4. When "OFF" is displayed, press ON/OFF button. "SKIP" will appear, indicating the OFF event is deleted. Press MODE to save.

6.4. Operating Modes: AUTO, RANDOM, MANUAL

The timer has three operating modes, selected by pressing the ON/OFF button when the cover is closed.

• AUTO: The timer operates according to the programmed ON/OFF times. This is the default mode.
• RANDOM: The timer will turn ON and OFF at random times, +/- 20 minutes from the programmed times. This feature can enhance security by simulating occupancy.
• MANUAL: The load is turned ON or OFF manually by pressing the ON/OFF button. The timer will remain in this state until the next programmed event, at which point it will revert to AUTO mode.

7. Maintenance

7.1. Battery Replacement

The EI600WC timer uses one CR2 lithium battery (included) for timekeeping and program retention during power outages. The battery typically lasts up to three years. A low battery indicator will appear on the display when replacement is needed.

1. Open the lower cover of the timer to access the battery compartment.
2. Carefully slide out the old CR2 battery.
3. Insert a new CR2 lithium battery, ensuring correct polarity.
4. Close the battery compartment cover.

Note: Replacing the battery does not erase programmed settings due to non-volatile memory.

8. Troubleshooting

9. Specifications

• Model: EI600WC
• Brand: Intermatic
• Voltage: 120-277 VAC
• Amperage: Up to 15 Amps
• Frequency: 50/60 Hz
• Switch Type: Single-pole or 3-way
• Mounting Type: Wall (in-wall)
• Dimensions (H x W x D): 4.12" x 1.81" x 1.75"
• Material: Metal, Plastic
• Color: White
• Battery: 1 x CR2 Lithium (included)
• Battery Life: Up to 3 years
• Operating Temperature: -4°F to 122°F (-20°C to 50°C)
• Certification: CSA (Canada and US)
• UPC: 078275101418

Figure 9.1: Dimensional drawing of the Intermatic EI600WC timer, showing height (4.12"), width (1.81"), and depth (1.75").

10. Warranty and Support

10.1. Warranty Information

This Intermatic product is covered by a warranty that typically involves product replacement for defects. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Intermatic website.

10.2. Customer Support

For technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or warranty claims, please contact Intermatic customer support. You can find contact information on the official Intermatic website or through your product retailer.