Hunter NODE600 6-Station Irrigation Controller

Introduction

The Hunter NODE600 is a battery-powered irrigation controller designed for isolated sites or areas without AC power. This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, programming, and maintenance of your NODE600 controller to ensure efficient and reliable operation of your irrigation system.

Product Overview

The NODE600 controller is built with a robust, waterproof exterior, making it suitable for installation within a valve box. It operates on 9V batteries and features an LCD screen for easy programming. The controller supports up to 6 stations, offering flexible scheduling options.

Figure 1: Hunter NODE Controller Interface. This image displays the front panel of a Hunter NODE controller, showing the LCD screen, programming buttons (PRG, plus, minus, arrow keys, enter), and wiring connections for common (COM) and sensor (SEN) inputs. The screen shows a time of 3:43 PM and battery status.

Setup and Installation

1. Battery Installation: The NODE600 requires one or two 9V alkaline batteries for operation. Open the battery compartment, insert the batteries, ensuring correct polarity, and securely close the compartment.
2. Mounting: The controller is designed to mount directly to a valve's solenoid or within a valve box. Ensure the mounting location is secure and allows for easy access for programming and maintenance.
3. Wiring Connections:
   • Common Wire (COM): Connect the common wire from your irrigation valves to the terminal labeled 'COM' on the controller.
   • Station Wires: Connect each station wire from your valves to the corresponding numbered terminal (1-6) on the controller.
   • Sensor Wires (Optional): If using a rain or soil moisture sensor, connect its wires to the terminals labeled 'SEN'. Refer to your sensor's manual for specific wiring instructions.

Operating Instructions

The NODE600 utilizes standard Hunter controller programming logic, featuring 3 programs (A, B, C) and 4 start times per program.

Basic Programming Steps:

1. Set Current Time and Day:
   • Press the PRG button until the time display flashes.
   • Use the + or - buttons to adjust the hour, then press the arrow right button to move to minutes and adjust.
   • Press the arrow right button again to set the current day of the week. Use + or - to select.
   • Press PRG to save and exit.
2. Program Start Times:
   • Press PRG until 'START TIME' appears.
   • Use the arrow right button to select Program A, B, or C.
   • Use + or - to set the desired start time for the first cycle.
   • Press arrow right to move to the next start time (up to 4 per program). Set or leave blank if not needed.
   • Press PRG to save.
3. Set Station Run Times:
   • Press PRG until 'RUN TIME' appears.
   • Use the arrow right button to select the desired station (1-6) and program (A, B, or C).
   • Use + or - to set the run time in minutes for that station.
   • Repeat for all active stations in each program.
   • Press PRG to save.
4. Set Watering Days:
   • Press PRG until 'WATER DAYS' appears.
   • Use the arrow right button to select Program A, B, or C.
   • Choose your watering schedule: specific days of the week (MO, TU, WE, TH, FR, SA, SU), Odd/Even days, or Interval watering. Use + or - to select and the arrow right button to confirm or move between options.
   • Press PRG to save.

For detailed programming sequences, refer to the official Hunter Industries support resources or video tutorials, as the interface can require careful navigation.

Maintenance

• Battery Replacement: Replace 9V batteries annually or when the low battery indicator appears on the LCD screen. Use high-quality alkaline batteries for optimal performance.
• Environmental Protection: While the NODE600 has a waterproof exterior, ensure it is installed in a location that minimizes direct exposure to extreme weather conditions and physical damage.
• Cleaning: Periodically clean the exterior of the controller with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Do not use harsh chemicals.

Troubleshooting

• Controller Not Powering On: Check battery installation and ensure batteries are fresh. Replace if necessary.
• No Water Flow:
  • Verify that the main water supply is on.
  • Check wiring connections to valves and the common wire.
  • Ensure run times and start times are correctly programmed.
  • If a sensor is connected, check its status; it might be preventing watering.
• Programming Difficulties: The programming interface can be complex. Refer to the detailed programming steps in this manual or consult Hunter's official support resources for visual guides and further assistance.
• Inconsistent Operation: Ensure batteries are not low. Check for loose wiring connections.

Specifications

Warranty Information

Hunter Industries typically offers a warranty on its products. For specific warranty terms and conditions applicable to your NODE600 controller, please refer to the official documentation provided with your purchase or visit the Hunter Industries website. Warranty periods may be based on the product's manufacturing date code.

Customer Support

For further assistance, technical support, or detailed programming guidance, please contact Hunter Industries customer support. A reported support number is 1-800-733-2833, available from 6 AM to 4 PM Pacific Time. It is recommended to verify current contact information on the official Hunter Industries website.