1. Product Overview
The Briidea Automatic Chicken Feeder Timer Kit is designed to automate the feeding schedule for poultry and other small animals. It features a programmable digital timer, durable construction, and flexible power options to ensure consistent and reliable feed distribution.
Image 1: Briidea Automatic Chicken Feeder Timer Kit in operation, dispensing feed.
Key Features:
- Programmable Digital Timer: Schedule up to 6 feedings per day, with durations from 1 to 60 seconds.
- Durable Construction: Galvanized steel spin plate for rust and corrosion resistance, flame-retardant ABS plastic housing.
- Adjustable Mount: Includes additional 8mm length studs for height adjustment.
- Dual Power Options: Compatible with a 12-volt solar panel (sold separately) or 4*2AA batteries (not included).
- User-Friendly Interface: LED screen with clock function and engraved operational instructions.
- Wide Application: Suitable for chickens, ducks, geese, fish, and other birds.
2. Components Included
Please ensure all components listed below are present in your package:
- Programmable Digital Timer
- Feeder Motor with Metal Spin Plate
- Adjustable Mounting Brackets
- Additional 8mm Length Studs
- Mounting Hardware (screws, nuts, washers)
Image 2: Overview of the Briidea Automatic Chicken Feeder Timer Kit components.
3. Setup and Installation
Follow these steps to properly set up and install your feeder kit.
3.1 Preparing the Feed Container
- Select a suitable feed container (e.g., bucket, barrel).
- Mark and drill a 1-1/2 inch hole in the center of the bottom of the feed container. This hole is essential for feed to drop out.
- Center the included drop funnel over the drilled hole and mark the four mounting holes on the drop funnel.
- Drill the marked holes with a 1/8 inch drill bit and secure the drop funnel using the provided screws.
Video 1: This video demonstrates the process of preparing a feed container by drilling the necessary holes and attaching the drop funnel. It shows the steps for marking and drilling a 1-1/2 inch hole for feed dispensing and securing the drop funnel.
3.2 Installing the Feeder Motor and Timer
- Insert the 10mm bolts and 10mm flanges into the 1/4 inch holes on both sides of the feeder motor housing and tighten.
- Place the adjustable mounting brackets into the side channels of the feeder motor housing and adjust them to the desired position. The recommended height between the spinner plate and the bottom of the drop funnel is 1/2 inch to 5/8 inch.
- Tighten the mounting brackets to secure the feeder motor to the feed container using washers and wing nuts.
- Ensure the spinner plate is directly under the drop hole of the feed container.
- Connect the timer to the motor. The motor's connector can be directly plugged into the timer.
- Connect the timer to a 6V battery (not included) or a 12V solar panel (sold separately).
Video 2: This video illustrates the installation of the feeder motor and timer, including securing mounting brackets and connecting the timer to the motor and power source. It highlights the recommended spacing between the spinner plate and the drop funnel.
Image 3: Illustration of the two power options: 12V solar panel input and 4*2AA battery compartment.
4. Operating Instructions
The digital timer allows for precise control over feeding schedules.
4.1 Setting the Time and Feed Schedule
- Press the ▲ (Up) or ▼ (Down) key to wake up the screen if it's off.
- To Set Current Time: Short press the clock button. The hour will flash. Use the ▲ (Up) or ▼ (Down) buttons to adjust the hour. Press the clock button again to move to minutes, adjust with ▲ (Up) or ▼ (Down). Press the clock button once more to save.
- To Set Feed Programs: Hold the clock button for 3 seconds to enter program mode. The display will show 'PRG' and the first feed program (e.g., '06:00 103' for 6:00 AM, 10 seconds, program 3).
- Use the clock button to cycle through up to 6 available feed programs. For each program, adjust the feed time (hour and minute) and feed duration (1-60 seconds) using the ▲ (Up) or ▼ (Down) buttons.
- To disable a feed program, set its duration to 0 seconds.
Image 4: Table illustrating the relationship between run time and approximate feed dispensed.
Video 3: This video provides a detailed guide on how to set the timer and program the feeding schedule, including adjusting feed times and durations.
4.2 Manual On/Off
To manually turn the feeder on or off, simultaneously hold the ▲ (Up) and ▼ (Down) buttons for 3 seconds.
Image 5: Close-up of the digital timer display and control buttons.
5. Maintenance
- Battery Replacement: The unit features a low battery indicator on the screen. Replace the 4*2AA batteries promptly when indicated to prevent feeder failure.
- Cleaning: Regularly inspect and clean the spin plate and feed chute to prevent blockages and ensure smooth operation.
- Weather Protection: While the unit is designed with weather-resistant components (galvanized steel, ABS plastic), ensure it is adequately protected from extreme weather conditions to prolong its lifespan.
6. Troubleshooting
- Feeder Not Dispensing:
- Check battery level; replace if low.
- Ensure feed container is not empty, especially if feed level is low, as the design may cause a hollow in the center.
- Verify timer settings for correct feed times and durations.
- Inspect the spin plate and chute for any blockages from feed or debris.
- Timer Display Issues:
- If the screen is black, press the ▲ (Up) or ▼ (Down) key to wake it up.
- If the clock time is incorrect, reset it as per section 4.1.
- Inconsistent Feed Distribution:
- Ensure the feeder is securely mounted and stable.
- Check the recommended height between the spinner plate and the drop funnel (1/2" to 5/8").
- Consider the type and size of feed; larger or irregularly shaped feed may affect distribution.
7. Specifications
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | briidea |
| Model Number | BR-113 |
| Material | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Metal |
| Special Features | Rust Resistant, Weatherproof |
| Mounting Type | Adjustable Mount |
| Power Source | 4*2AA batteries (not included) or 12V Solar Panel (sold separately) |
| Product Dimensions | 3.9 x 5.4 x 2.8 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.19 pounds (0.54 Kilograms) |
| Color | Black |
8. Safety Information
- Ensure the feeder is securely mounted to prevent access by larger animals.
- Avoid feeding harmful food types to wildlife.
- Keep batteries out of reach of children and pets.
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the documentation included with your product packaging or visit the official Briidea website. Some users have reported a 2-year warranty being offered with the product.
