Rain Bird WPX 9V Battery-Operated Irrigation Controller

Introduction

The Rain Bird WPX 9V Battery-Operated Irrigation Controller is a robust and convenient solution for managing your irrigation system without the need for AC power. This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation, programming, and maintenance of your WPX controller to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

The WPX controller is designed for durability, featuring an IP68 certified waterproof casing, making it suitable for installation in valve boxes. Its user-friendly interface allows for quick and easy programming of watering schedules.

Product Features

• Battery-Operated: Operates on one or two 9V alkaline batteries for up to two years of operation.
• Waterproof Design: IP68 certified for protection against dust and water, ideal for outdoor installation in valve boxes.
• Easy Programming: Large LCD screen with an intuitive interface for setting run times, start times, and watering days.
• Manual Watering: Dedicated button for immediate manual watering.
• Contractor Rapid Programming: Quickly copies start times and watering days from Zone 1 to other zones (for multi-zone models, this feature simplifies setup for the single zone on this model).
• Flexible Scheduling: Offers 6 independent start times per zone and 4 watering day options (custom days, cyclical, calendar days, odd/even days).
• Rain Sensor Input: Compatible with rain sensors for automatic watering suspension, with bypass option.
• Permanent Program Memory: Retains programming settings for up to 100 years, even without battery power.
• Seasonal Adjustment: Adjust watering duration from 10% to 200%.

Safety Information

• Always disconnect the battery before performing any maintenance or installation.
• Ensure the battery compartment is sealed correctly after battery installation to maintain waterproofing.
• Do not expose the controller to extreme temperatures outside its operating range.
• Use only recommended 9V alkaline batteries.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Setup

1. Battery Installation

The WPX controller operates on one or two 9V alkaline batteries (not included). Using two batteries extends the operational life.

1. Locate the battery compartment on the back of the controller.
2. Open the battery compartment cover.
3. Insert one or two fresh 9V alkaline batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
4. Securely close the battery compartment cover to maintain the IP68 waterproof rating.

Image: The Rain Bird WPX controller showing its compact design, LCD screen, and control buttons. This image illustrates the general appearance of the device.

2. Controller Mounting

The WPX controller is designed for installation in a valve box or other suitable outdoor location. Its IP68 rating ensures protection against water and dust.

1. Choose a location that provides easy access for programming and maintenance.
2. Mount the controller securely using appropriate fasteners (not included) if not placing directly in a valve box.
3. Ensure the wiring connections are protected from physical damage.

3. Wiring to Solenoid Valve

Connect the controller to a 9V latching solenoid valve.

1. Connect one wire from the controller to one wire of the solenoid valve.
2. Connect the other wire from the controller to the other wire of the solenoid valve.
3. Ensure all connections are waterproofed using appropriate connectors (e.g., waterproof wire nuts) to prevent corrosion and ensure reliable operation.

Operating Instructions

The WPX controller features a large LCD display and intuitive buttons for easy navigation and programming.

1. Basic Programming Overview

The display shows run time, start times, and watering days for the selected zone at a glance.

2. Setting Run Times

1. Press the "PROGRAM" button to enter programming mode.
2. Navigate to the "RUN TIME" setting using the arrow buttons.
3. Adjust the watering duration from 1 to 240 minutes using the +/- buttons.
4. Confirm the setting.

3. Setting Start Times

The controller supports up to 6 independent start times per zone.

1. In programming mode, navigate to "START TIMES".
2. Select a start time slot (e.g., 1, 2, 3...).
3. Set the desired start time using the +/- buttons.
4. Repeat for additional start times if needed.

4. Setting Watering Days

Choose from four options for watering days:

• Custom Days: Select specific days of the week (e.g., Mon, Wed, Fri).
• Cyclical: Water every 1 to 30 days.
• Calendar Days: Water on specific dates.
• Odd/Even Days: Water on odd or even calendar days.

1. In programming mode, navigate to "WATERING DAYS".
2. Select your preferred option and set the parameters using the +/- buttons.

5. Manual Watering

To initiate manual watering:

1. Press the dedicated "MANUAL" button.
2. The controller will begin watering for the default manual duration or the last set manual duration.
3. To stop manual watering, press the "MANUAL" button again or wait for the set duration to complete.

6. Seasonal Adjustment

Adjust watering duration for all programs from 10% to 200% to compensate for seasonal changes.

1. Access the "SEASONAL ADJUST" setting in programming mode.
2. Use the +/- buttons to set the desired percentage.

7. Rain Sensor Connection and Bypass

The controller has an input for a rain sensor to automatically suspend watering during rainfall.

1. Connect the rain sensor wires to the designated sensor terminals on the controller.
2. To bypass the rain sensor for a specific zone or all zones, navigate to the "SENSOR" setting in programming mode and select the bypass option.

Maintenance

1. Battery Replacement

Replace 9V alkaline batteries annually or when the low battery indicator appears on the display. Using two batteries can extend life up to two years.

1. Open the battery compartment.
2. Remove old batteries and dispose of them responsibly.
3. Insert new 9V alkaline batteries, observing polarity.
4. Close the compartment securely.

2. Cleaning

Wipe the controller's exterior with a damp cloth as needed. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.

3. Winterization

In regions with freezing temperatures, it is recommended to remove the controller and batteries for winter storage to prevent damage.

Troubleshooting

• Controller not powering on: Check battery installation and ensure batteries are fresh.
• No watering: Verify programming settings (run times, start times, watering days). Check solenoid valve connection. Ensure rain sensor is not active or bypassed if needed.
• Display issues: If the display is dim or unresponsive, replace batteries. If issues persist, contact support.
• Watering at incorrect times: Review start times and watering day settings. Check the controller's internal clock.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Rain Bird website or contact your local Rain Bird distributor. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

Rain Bird Official Website: www.rainbird.com