Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Ferrex GT-BWC-01 Irrigation Computer. This device is designed to automate your garden watering, ensuring efficient and precise irrigation. It features adjustable watering intervals, a rain sensor, and is suitable for common tap connections. Please read this manual carefully before installation and operation to ensure proper use and longevity of the product.
Safety Instructions
- This device is intended for outdoor use only.
- Ensure the tap connection is secure to prevent leaks.
- Do not immerse the device in water. It is splash-proof (IPX4), but not waterproof.
- Use only the specified battery type (2 x 1.5V AA). Do not mix old and new batteries or different battery types.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the unit yourself. Contact qualified personnel for service.
- Protect the device from frost during winter months by disconnecting it from the tap and storing it indoors.
Package Contents
Please check that all items are present in the package:
- Ferrex GT-BWC-01 Irrigation Computer
- Rain Sensor with approximately 5m cable
- System adapter (1/2")
- Adapter with 26.5 mm (G3/4") thread
- User Manual
Product Features
- Compatible with common taps with 33.3 mm (G1") thread. Includes adapters for 26.5 mm (G3/4") and 1/2" connections.
- Adjustable for up to 4 separate irrigation intervals per day.
- Freely selectable irrigation days.
- Manual water extraction function with a single button press.
- Splash-proof housing (IPX4) for outdoor durability.
- Adjustable irrigation time from approximately 1 to 240 minutes.
- Wired rain sensor (approx. 5m cable) to interrupt watering during rainfall.
- Operating voltage: 3V (2 x 1.5V AA batteries).
- Operating pressure: Maximum 6 bar.
Setup and Installation
1. Battery Installation
- Open the battery compartment on the back of the irrigation computer.
- Insert two 1.5V AA batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
- Close the battery compartment securely to maintain splash protection.
2. Connecting to the Tap
- Ensure your tap has a G1" (33.3 mm) thread. If not, use the provided G3/4" (26.5 mm) or 1/2" adapter.
- Screw the irrigation computer firmly onto the tap. Hand-tighten only; do not overtighten.
- Connect your garden hose or irrigation system to the outlet of the irrigation computer.
3. Connecting the Rain Sensor
- Plug the rain sensor cable into the designated port on the side of the irrigation computer.
- Place the rain sensor in an open area where it can accurately detect rainfall, away from direct spray from sprinklers.
- The rain sensor will automatically interrupt watering cycles when sufficient rain is detected.
Image: The Ferrex GT-BWC-01 Irrigation Computer connected to a tap, with the rain sensor positioned nearby. The display shows various settings.
Operating Instructions
The irrigation computer features an LCD display and several buttons for navigation and setting adjustments.
Display Overview (Refer to product image for visual reference)
- Uhrzeit (Time): Displays the current time.
- Wochentag Bewässerungstag (Weekday Irrigation Day): Shows current day and selected irrigation days (SU MO TU WE TH FR SA).
- Zyklus (Cycle): Indicates the current watering cycle (1, 2, 3, 4).
- Startzeit (Start Time): Displays the programmed start time for a cycle.
- Zeitdauer (Duration): Shows the programmed watering duration in minutes.
- Sparfunktion (Special Function): Displays settings for water-saving features (e.g., WATER 4 MIN PAUSE 2 MIN).
- Programmwahl (Program Selection): Indicates the current program mode (e.g., AUTO).
Button Functions
- OK Button: Confirms selections and moves to the next setting.
- Up/Down Buttons (+/-): Adjust values or navigate through options.
- Manual Watering Button (Tap icon): Initiates or stops manual watering.
Programming the Irrigation Computer
Follow these steps to program your desired watering schedule:
- Set Current Time: Press the OK button until 'Uhrzeit' (Time) is highlighted. Use the +/- buttons to set the current hour and minute, then press OK to confirm.
- Set Current Day and Irrigation Days: Navigate to 'Wochentag Bewässerungstag'. Use +/- to select the current day. Then, select the days you wish to water. Press OK to confirm each selection.
- Select Watering Cycle: Go to 'Zyklus'. You can program up to 4 independent watering cycles (1, 2, 3, 4). Select a cycle to program.
- Set Start Time: For the selected cycle, navigate to 'Startzeit'. Use +/- to set the desired start time for watering. Press OK.
- Set Watering Duration: Navigate to 'Zeitdauer'. Use +/- to set the watering duration from 1 to 240 minutes. Press OK.
- Configure Special Function (Sparfunktion): If available, adjust water-saving settings. For example, 'WATER 4 MIN PAUSE 2 MIN' might mean 4 minutes of watering followed by a 2-minute pause, repeated.
- Select Program Mode: Ensure 'Programmwahl' is set to 'AUTO' for automatic operation based on your programmed schedule.
Manual Watering
To manually water, press the button with the tap icon. Press it again to stop manual watering. This function does not affect the programmed schedule.
Maintenance
- Battery Replacement: Replace batteries when the low battery indicator appears on the display or if the device stops functioning. Always replace both batteries simultaneously.
- Cleaning: Clean the exterior of the device with a damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents. Ensure the rain sensor is free of debris for accurate operation.
- Winter Storage: Before the first frost, disconnect the irrigation computer from the tap, remove the batteries, and store the unit and rain sensor in a dry, frost-free location.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Device does not turn on. | Batteries are dead or incorrectly inserted. | Replace batteries, ensuring correct polarity. |
| No water flow. | Tap is closed; low water pressure; program not set; rain sensor active. | Open the tap fully; check water supply; ensure program is active (AUTO); check rain sensor for accumulated water. |
| Water leaks from connection. | Connection not tight enough; missing or damaged washer. | Ensure connection is hand-tight; check and replace washer if necessary. |
| Rain sensor not working. | Sensor port dirty; sensor placed incorrectly; cable damaged. | Clean sensor and port; reposition sensor; check cable for damage. |
Specifications
- Model: GT-BWC-01
- Operating Voltage: 3 V (2 x 1.5 V AA batteries)
- Current Consumption: 300 mA
- Operating Pressure: Max. 6 bar
- Tap Connection: G1" (33.3 mm) with G3/4" (26.5 mm) and 1/2" adapters
- Watering Time: Approx. 1 – 240 minutes
- Watering Intervals: Up to 4 per day
- Protection Class: IPX4 (splash-proof)
- Rain Sensor Cable Length: Approx. 5 m
- Material: Plastic
- Display Type: LCD
- Dimensions (Package): 19.99 x 16 x 11 cm
- Weight (Package): 712 g
Warranty and Support
This product comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty details, please refer to the warranty card included in your package or contact your retailer. For technical support or inquiries, please contact Ferrex customer service through the contact information provided with your purchase documentation.
