Galcon 61042 DC-4 Battery-Operated Irrigation Controller Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Galcon 61042 DC-4 is a battery-operated digital irrigation controller designed for managing sprinkler systems in lawns and gardens, particularly in locations without an electrical power supply. This controller offers flexible programming options for up to four valves plus a master valve, making it suitable for various irrigation needs. This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your Galcon 61042 DC-4 controller.

2. What's in the Box

• Galcon 61042 DC-4 Irrigation Controller Unit
• Universal Mounting Bracket
• Wall Mounting Bracket
• Owner's Manual
• Note: A 9V alkaline battery is required and not included.

3. Features

• Waterproof IP68 and Humidity Resistant: Designed to withstand harsh outdoor environments and can be installed in a valve box.
• Battery Operated: Operates on a single 9V alkaline battery (not included) with a lifespan of up to one year, ideal for off-grid sites.
• Installation Options: Mounts directly to a valve's solenoid with the universal mounting bracket or to a wall surface with the included wall-mounted plate.
• Flexible Scheduling: Program irrigation by day of the week (daily or weekly), or in cycles. Duration can be set from 1 minute to 12 hours.
• Independent Valve Control: Supports up to 4 independent start times per valve.
• Cyclic Programming: Set cycles from every day to every 30 days.
• Water Budgeting: Adjust watering duration up to 90%.
• Manual Operation: Includes manual operation and rain off buttons.

4. Setup Instructions

4.1. Battery Installation

The Galcon 61042 DC-4 controller requires one 9V alkaline battery (not included) for operation. Ensure the battery is fresh for optimal performance.

1. Locate the battery compartment on the controller.
2. Open the battery compartment cover.
3. Connect a new 9V alkaline battery to the battery terminals.
4. Carefully place the battery into the compartment and close the cover securely. Ensure the cover is horizontal with the valve for a proper seal.

Figure 1: Galcon 61042 DC-4 Controller with battery compartment visible.

4.2. Wiring the Valves

The controller supports up to four valves and one master valve. Each pair of red and black wires is clearly marked for its corresponding valve (1, 2, 3, 4) and the master valve (yellow loop).

1. Identify the red and black wires for each valve you intend to connect.
2. Connect the red wire from the controller to the positive terminal of your DC latching solenoid valve.
3. Connect the black wire from the controller to the negative terminal of your DC latching solenoid valve.
4. For the master valve, connect the yellow loop wires to your master valve's solenoid.
5. Ensure all connections are secure and waterproof.

Figure 2: Labeled wiring for connecting multiple valves to the controller.

4.3. Mounting the Controller

The controller offers two primary mounting options: directly onto a solenoid or to a wall surface.

1. Solenoid Mounting: The controller base is designed to slide directly onto a compatible solenoid. Ensure it clicks securely into place.
2. Wall Mounting: Use the provided wall mounting bracket. Secure the bracket to a wall using appropriate screws, then clip the controller onto the bracket.

Figure 3: Controller demonstrating both solenoid and wall mounting options.

4.4. Initial Power-Up and Time Setting

After battery installation, the display will activate. The time will likely be flashing, indicating it needs to be set.

1. Use the Right Arrow button to navigate through the settings.
2. Use the Plus (+) and Minus (-) buttons to adjust the hour and minute values.
3. Press the Enter (C) button to confirm each setting and move to the next.
4. Set the current day of the week using the Plus (+) and Minus (-) buttons.

Figure 4: Close-up of the controller's display and control buttons.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. Programming Irrigation Cycles

The controller allows for flexible programming of each valve. The following steps outline how to set duration, frequency, and start/stop times.

1. Select Valve: Press the Right Arrow button until the desired valve number (1-4) is flashing. Press Enter (C) to select.
2. Set Duration: Use the Plus (+) and Minus (-) buttons to set the watering duration in minutes or seconds. Press Enter (C).
3. Set Frequency (Days/Cycles):
   • Days of the Week: Use Plus (+) to select specific days (M, Tu, W, Th, F, Sa, Su).
   • Cyclic: Use Plus (+) to set the cycle interval (e.g., every 2 days, every 5 minutes).
   Press Enter (C).
4. Set Start Times: The controller allows for multiple start times per valve. Use Plus (+) and Minus (-) to set the desired start time(s). Press Enter (C) after each.
5. Set Window Open/Close (for Misting/Propagation): For applications like misting, you can define a window during which irrigation can occur. Set the start and end times for this window.
6. Repeat for all desired valves.

5.2. Rain Sensor Loop

The yellow loop wires are for connecting an optional rain sensor. If a rain sensor is connected, the controller can be programmed to shut off irrigation for a specified period when rain is detected, preventing overwatering.

5.3. Manual Operation

The controller features a manual operation button to temporarily activate or deactivate a zone outside of the programmed schedule. Refer to the display for manual control options.

6. Maintenance

• Battery Replacement: Replace the 9V alkaline battery annually or when the low battery indicator appears on the display.
• Cleaning: Periodically clean the controller's exterior with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals.
• Winterization: In freezing climates, remove the controller and battery for winter storage to prevent damage.

7. Troubleshooting

• Controller Not Powering On: Check battery installation and ensure the battery is new and correctly inserted.
• Valves Not Activating:
  • Verify that the controller is programmed correctly with appropriate start times and durations.
  • Ensure the valves are compatible DC latching solenoids. The controller is not compatible with AC valves.
  • Check all wiring connections for security and proper polarity.
  • Before pressurizing the system, briefly touch the red wire of a valve to the minus terminal of a 9-volt battery and the black wire to the plus terminal to set the valve to the OFF position.
• Inaccurate Watering: Review your programming settings for duration, frequency, and start times.
• Physical Damage: Inspect the unit upon arrival for any damage, such as broken battery terminals, to ensure proper functionality.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or to purchase replacement parts, please refer to the official Galcon website or contact Galcon customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.