Wireless Valve Output Module

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Key Benefits
• Installation
• WVOM-E LED Light Indications
• P/MV Connection
• WVL Station Programming
• Basic Troubleshooting
• Other Application Features and Diagnostics
• Dashboard
• Details Screen
• Status
• Battery Indicator
• Signal
• Last Update
• Settings
• WVOM-E Info
• Channel ID
• Site ID
• Repeater
• Passcode
• Recover Database (Replacing a WVOM-E)
• Factory Reset (WVOM-E)
• App Info
• Firmware Updates

Introduction

The Hunter Wireless Valve Output Module (WVOM-E) is designed for installation in any compatible controller output module slot. It installs like any other Hunter output module, and its specific slot placement is not critical. The WVOM-E can coexist with conventional Hunter ICM and/or EZDM Output Modules. It is recommended to install ICMs in the lowest-numbered slots to align station numbering with output terminals. Adding the WVOM-E in the next available slot simplifies future service.

The WVOM-E is exclusively designed to operate with Hunter Wireless Valve Link (WVL) devices. It is not compatible with other manufacturers' devices. WVLs require Hunter DC-Latching Solenoids (P/N 458200), which can be retrofitted to existing Hunter valves. The Hunter WVL System provides a wireless output option for Hunter ICC2 and HCC Controllers, requiring a WVOM-E installation in a controller output module slot.

Key Benefits

Simple, Wire-Free Connections

This wireless valve technology simplifies installation, saving time, money, and labor. Key benefits include:

• Compatibility with Hunter ICC2 and HCC Controllers, and Centralus™ and Hydrawise® Software.
• Support for up to 54 valves (+P/MV) with a range of up to 600 meters line-of-sight, extendable with a Repeater.
• License-free LoRa® Wireless Radio Technology for direct wireless communication to the valve box, eliminating copper field wiring.
• Flexibility to combine with conventional ICM or EZDS Output Modules.
• Simplified installation by removing the need for costly field wiring or hardscape cutting.

Note: Wireless range is subject to terrain, foliage, buildings, and other site factors. Consult product documentation before installing.

Installation

You will need:

• A free Bluetooth® enabled Hunter WVL App (available on Apple App Store or Google Play).
• 9 V DC batteries (2 per WVL).
• Irrigation-grade, waterproof connectors for DC-Latching Solenoid connections.
• A 38 mm hole saw, included with the WVOM-E for mounting WVL in valve box lids.

⚠️ Note: Do not use the hole saw on the controller enclosure. The hole saw is intended for installing individual WVL devices in valve boxes.

Installation Steps:

1. Engage the tabs in the output module slot and tip the module into place until the connector is fully seated.
2. Move the locking lever to the horizontal position to secure the module.
3. Press and release the Reset button on the back of the facepack to enable the controller to recognize the WVOM-E and its 54-station configuration.
4. When the controller is powered on, the LED lights will emit a constant green light, indicating power and readiness for communication.
5. If the WVOM-E is installed in a metal enclosure, extend the antenna outside the enclosure using the Hunter ANTEXTKIT (up to 3 m).

WVOM-E LED Light Indications:

After installation, LEDs display module status during power-up and operation:

P/MV Connection

The WVOM-E can be used with a normally wired Pump/Master Valve (P/MV) output. It can also be used with a WVL if it has a DC-Latching Solenoid (P/N 458200). For wireless P/MV control, connect a jumper wire from the P/MV terminal on the WVOM-E to the P/MV output on the controller power module.

Diagram Description: A simplified wiring diagram shows the WVOM-E unit with connections labeled P/MV and a jumper wire connecting it to the controller's P/MV terminal.

WVL Station Programming

The WVOM-E features no built-in controls, relying solely on LEDs for status indication. All programming and diagnostics are performed using the free Hunter WVL App, available for iOS® or Android®.

App Usage:

• The Hunter WVL App automatically uses the phone's language settings. If the selected language is not available, the app defaults to English.
• Upon opening the app on a smartphone, it scans for nearby WVOM-Es (approximately 15 m line-of-sight).
• A list of available WVOM-Es, identified by serial number, will appear.
• Select the WVOM-E to program and click 'Connect'. The blue LED on the selected WVOM-E will illuminate upon connection.
• The app then displays connected WVL station links. If none are connected, a blank screen is shown.

Assigning Stations:

• Click the WVL button in the app to add or edit a WVL device; a '+' button will appear.
• Bring the WVL close to the controller for reliable communication and remove its battery cover.
• ⚠️ Note: Assign one WVL at a time to prevent confusion or accidental multiple addresses.
• Install one 9 V DC battery in the left compartment of the WVL. The 'Left' compartment is identified by the manual start finger icon on the left, with solenoid wires extending to the right. The right button is marked with a gear icon. LEDs are located on top, with buttons below.
• To enter Assignment Mode, press and hold the right (gear) button inside the WVL battery compartment for 2 seconds until the right LED lights up yellow. The WVL remains in this mode for up to 5 minutes or until assignment is complete.
• In the app, navigate to the WVL screen. Existing WVLs are displayed; station numbers can be edited via a pencil icon.
• To add a new WVL, click the '+' button and then the 'Scan' button to find the WVL in Assignment Mode.
• Found WVLs in Assignment Mode will display current station information. New WVLs will show 'Null' for stations until assigned.
• Use the app to select controller station numbers (or P/MV) for each WVL output. Single-station WVLs have one choice, while multi-station controllers allow individual assignment per output.
• ☑️ Note: Unused stations can be set to 'Null' or left unassigned for future use.
• If using the optional Solar Panel Kit (SP-WVL), enable the 'Solar Powered' slider in the app to correctly display battery status.

Troubleshooting

After station assignment, click 'Save' in the app. The WVOM-E sends programming via LoRa Radio, indicated by a rapidly blinking LED. Successful saves are confirmed by the WVL's assignment light blinking amber several times, with an app notification following.

Use a permanent marker to record successful station number assignments on each WVL's battery cover or side for longevity.

Proceed with physical installation of programmed WVLs in valve boxes as detailed in the WVL Installation Guide.

Basic Troubleshooting (Beeping and Error Messages)

LoRa Radio communications between the WVOM-E and WVLs/Repeaters are two-way, requiring a response to commands. This response confirms the command and updates battery/signal information. These communications occur each time the controller attempts to activate a WVL station.

If the WVOM-E does not receive a response after retries, it will announce the error via the controller display and emit two internal beeps every 2 minutes (audible up to 15 m away in quiet conditions).

• The display will show the station number (or 'P' for Pump) with 'Err' indicating a failed response.
• Beeping continues until:
  • The WVOM-E successfully communicates with the unresponsive WVL again, or
  • The Reset button on the controller facepack is pressed.

If the controller is connected to the Centralus web application, alarms can be sent as text messages (worded as 'Overload') to mobile devices, indicating an alarm condition at the location. Site visits and diagnostics via the Hunter WVL App are required to resolve issues.

For HCC Controllers connected to Hydrawise Software, additional reporting includes:

• Station communication errors.
• Low battery states.
• Critically low batteries requiring immediate replacement.

Common Communication Failures:

Foliage growth or new landscape features (plants, structures, vehicles) can affect wireless signals and disrupt communications with distant devices.

Features and Diagnostics

Messages related to WVL status also appear in the Hydrawise App, webpage, and events log.

Connect to the WVOM-E via the Hunter WVL App and go to the WVL screen. Press 'Details'. WVLs with a red status icon indicate a failure to respond. Use the 'Refresh' button to update battery and signal information.

A WVL unable to communicate will not water its assigned stations; other WVLs will function normally.

Dashboard:

Connecting to a controller WVOM-E via the app displays the Dashboard, showing current station status, data age, and activity. A 'Fail' message for any station indicates a problem, requiring further information from the Details screen.

Details Screen:

Summarizes recent information for each WVL and Repeater, including output station assignments, serial numbers, and firmware versions.

Status:

Indicates if a WVL is functioning correctly (green) or has a problem (red). More details are available in station details.

Battery Indicator:

Shows the approximate status of internal batteries, crucial for WVL operation. A low-battery indicator warns to replace batteries promptly. Solar-powered WVLs display a special battery icon with a partial sun indicator; they do not show a battery percentage. Internal bars indicate charge state, and an empty battery icon appears if voltage is critically low.

Signal:

Displays the quality of the radio connection between the WVOM-E and WVLs. Poor signals can cause unreliable operations due to antenna placement, low battery, or local radio noise. Signal quality is shown as a percentage (Signal-to-Noise Ratio - SNR), updated upon communication. A 0% indicates a complete failure to respond. A special Repeater icon appears for WVLs using a Repeater. Low, consistent SNR suggests signal improvement is needed.

Signal Improvement:

• Elevate the WVOM-E antenna (and WVL antenna if practical) up to 3 m using a Hunter ANTEXTKIT.
• Add a Hunter Repeater (RPT for North America, RPT-E for international markets using 433 MHz frequencies).
• Ensure WVL batteries are current.

Last Update:

Shows the date and time of the most recent successful communication with a WVL, updated at least every 24 hours. The 'Manual Refresh' button allows immediate updates for signal and battery life reports.

Settings:

Accessible via the app's Settings button, these include current app information and adjustable WVOM-E settings.

WVOM-E Info:

Provides more information, including Channel and Site ID settings and Repeater setup.

Channel ID:

Use this setting if radio interference on the LoRa channel is suspected. Up to 10 channels are available. Changing the channel affects the entire operating system. After selecting a new channel and pressing 'Submit', the WVOM-E attempts to update all known WVLs and the Repeater. A progress indicator shows the assignment status.

Site ID:

Use this setting if two different LoRa systems interfere on the same channel. Each WVOM-E has a Site ID (1-255) communicated to WVLs. Changing Channel ID is usually sufficient for separating systems; Site ID is for when multiple sites on the same channel interfere.

Repeater:

Required for improved radio coverage. When adding a Repeater, its serial number (engraved on the antenna) must be entered. WVLs automatically choose to use the Repeater based on signal strength. Repeater batteries are solar-powered; ensure solar panels are clean and correctly positioned for maximum sunlight.

Passcode

A passcode (PIN) can be set to prevent unauthorized Bluetooth access. The smartphone remembers the passcode. Other users with different phones will require the passcode. It is crucial to remember or safely store the passcode; forgetting it may prevent access to WVOM-E or WVL data until bypassed. Avoid using PINs used for other applications.

If you forget your PIN:

• Open the Hunter WVL App.
• Turn the controller power off, then back on.
• Reconnect the app to the WVOM-E within 10 seconds to bypass the PIN requirement. The WVOM-E will send a default code for access.
• Alternatively, go to Passcode settings in the app to enter a new passcode or disable it within 10 seconds.

Recover Database (Replacing a WVOM-E):

This feature is used when replacing a WVOM-E. The new unit requires relinking to all field WVLs. Recover Database automatically restores WVLs within range from the WVOM-E's internal database, avoiding manual readdressing.

1. Install the new WVOM-E and connect via the Hunter WVL App.
2. Select the 'Recover Database' feature.
3. Enter the serial number of a known device (WVL or Repeater) from the previous installation.
4. The WVOM-E uses this serial number to search for the device and rebuild its database.
5. The process can take up to 30 minutes, during which irrigation may be unreliable. Perform this outside of normal irrigation times.

Upon completion, a notification appears. If all WVLs are found, the WVOM-E is ready for irrigation.

Factory Reset (WVOM-E):

This option erases all WVOM-E information, including the WVL database, Channel/Site ID assignments, and Repeater configuration. The entire system must be set up again.

App Info:

Provides current app status, version number, and links to Hunter Support and other informational sites.

Firmware Updates:

Both WVOM-E and WVLs can be updated over-the-air (OTA). Updates are large downloads (up to 2 hours) and may interrupt irrigation. Do not start an update if irrigation is needed. Users receive notifications for new versions in the app. WVLs with older firmware versions will show an orange icon as a reminder. Firmware updates offer new features and fixes but can deplete battery life; updates may fail if WVL batteries are too low.

Notices

Certificate of Conformity to European Directives:

Hunter Industries declares that the radio equipment models WVOM-E comply with Directive 2014/53/EU. The full text of the EU declaration of conformity is available at: http://subsite.hunterindustries.com/compliance/.

[CE Mark] [European conformity symbol]

LoRa:

Bluetooth®: