Hunter Pro-C Controller

Product Overview

The Hunter Pro-C Controller is presented as a complete family of full-featured residential and light commercial controllers. It is designed to be remarkably easy to handle for both end-users and contractors. Borrowing from the modular design of its predecessor, the ICC, the Pro-C aims to be a leading controller in its market segment. Starting with a base model of 3 stations, it can be expanded up to 15 stations using plug-in modules, eliminating the need to stock multiple controller sizes. The Pro-C offers flexibility, modularity, and contractor-friendly inventory management with only three core units to stock: indoor cabinets, outdoor cabinets, and station modules. Key features include three programs with multiple start times, independent day scheduling, "one touch" manual start, a programmable event day off, a robust heavy-duty locking plastic cabinet, and superior surge protection, making it ideal for landscapes requiring a flexible number of stations.

Diagram: Image of the Pro-C controller front panel with the door open, showing the dial and buttons. A circular seal reads "PRO-C CONTROLLER".

Features and Benefits

Outdoor or Indoor Models Available

The Pro-C controller is offered in both outdoor models for weather resistance and indoor models for installations where protection from elements is available. Both models are listed with UL and CE.

Modular Design

A single controller can manage multiple units, reducing the need to stock or carry multiple devices. Hunter's modular design allows for easy expansion. Contractors can start with a 3-station base model (PC-300 outdoor or PC-300i indoor) and add PCM-300 (3-station) or PCM-900 (9-station) plug-in modules to reach up to 15 stations. This customization ensures the controller fits the specific project size, and contractors only need to stock three types of units (indoor cabinets, outdoor cabinets, and station modules).

Diagram: Images showing the outdoor and indoor controller models. Another diagram illustrates the controller's internal layout with plug-in modules.

Easy Inventory Management

With its modularity, the Pro-C can be configured for 3, 6, 9, 12, or 15 stations, making it the only controller necessary to keep on hand. Stocking the base unit and a box of modules simplifies inventory.

Modular Design Eliminates Service Hassles

In case of electrical surges or damage, the Pro-C's modular design allows for easy servicing. Primary power and station modules are readily removable, enabling simple replacement without removing the entire controller from the wall.

Future Expansion

The modular concept allows for easy addition of stations as landscapes are expanded in future projects by adding PCM station modules.

Large LCD Display

The large LCD display simplifies programming, making it easy to read and verify schedules, especially in low light conditions.

Diagram: Image of the Pro-C controller's LCD display showing "88 88:88".

Non-volatile Memory

Programs are held indefinitely without a backup battery. In case of power failure or AC power suspension, the Pro-C's non-volatile memory retains all programs. Watering resumes automatically when AC power is restored.

No Battery Required

The Pro-C's low power consumption allows it to accurately track the time of day for up to four weeks after AC power is removed, without needing a battery. Timekeeping is maintained, and watering resumes on schedule when power is restored.

Self-Diagnostic Electronic Short Circuit Protection

The Pro-C automatically skips shorted stations, allowing the rest of the system to operate. This feature aids in identifying field wiring problems. When a short circuit is detected on a station, the controller displays the station number followed by "ERR". The controller will skip this zone during subsequent watering cycles until it is repaired. The "ERR" message can be cleared by turning the dial or pressing any button.

Diagram: Image of the Pro-C controller's LCD display showing "Err".

Intuitive Dial Programming

The controller offers step-by-step programming with a dial design. Users turn the dial to the desired section and use plus/minus buttons for adjustments, making programming straightforward.

Removable Front Panel for Remote Programming

A removable hinge design allows the front panel to be detached without disturbing field wiring. Using a 9-volt battery, the program can be set away from the cabinet. This feature allows contractors to program before arriving at a job site or to let homeowners try programming early.

Diagram: Image of the Pro-C controller's front panel with dial and buttons. Another image shows a hand holding the detached front panel.

3 Programs (A, B, C) with Multiple Start Times

The Pro-C supports three independent programs, each allowing up to four start times per day. This flexibility accommodates various plant watering needs, such as new lawns, low infiltration soils, slopes, and specific watering windows.

Up to Six-hour Station Run Times

Each station can run for up to six hours. Run times can be programmed in one-minute increments from 0-120 minutes, and then in ten-minute increments up to six hours. The factory default is 0 minutes.

Choice of Independent Day Scheduling Options

Programs A, B, or C can be set up independently. Options include Custom (day of the week), Interval (up to 31 days), Odd days, or Even days. This allows for precise watering schedules based on specific needs or restrictions.

Diagram: Image of the Pro-C controller's LCD display showing a watering schedule selection.

365-day Calendar with Leap Year Intelligence

The controller features a 365-day calendar with leap year intelligence, enabling true Odd/Even day watering and automatically correcting for 31-day months. Interval or Day of the Week scheduling is also supported.

Superior Surge Protection

All microcircuits are protected from electrical spikes and lightning using Metal-Oxide Varistors (MOVs). These MOVs shunt electrical surges away from microcircuits through the controller's grounding circuit, protecting both primary (110/230VAC) and secondary (24VAC) sides.

Diagram: Image showing Metal Oxide Varistors (MOVs) on a circuit board. A note indicates that for proper results, the ground circuit must measure 10 ohms or less.

Global Water Budget/Seasonal Adjustment

This feature allows global changes to station run times from 10% to 150% in 10% increments. It's ideal for adjusting watering based on changing weather conditions without reprogramming the entire controller. A bar graph on the LCD display shows the percentage adjustment.

Diagram: Image of the Pro-C controller's LCD display showing "80" with a thermometer-like bar graph, indicating seasonal adjustment.

Note: The controller should always be initially programmed in the seasonal adjustment at the 100% position.

Weather Sensor Compatible

The Pro-C allows easy connection of rain or weather sensors, including the Hunter Rain-Clik™. A built-in bypass switch is included to turn off the sensor for maintenance. The controller displays "Sen Off" when the sensor is interrupting irrigation. Sensor use does not alter programmed schedules.

Diagram: Image of the Rain-Clik™ sensor. Another diagram shows the controller's sensor terminals.

Programmable Event Day(s) Off

This feature allows users to prevent watering on specific days of the week, such as for lawn mowing. The "Event Day Off" programming overrides interval functions to keep the controller off on selected days.

One Touch Manual Start and Rapid Advance

This feature simplifies activating stations by using fewer steps. It's useful for quick checks or when extra watering is needed.

Remote Ready

The Pro-C is compatible with Hunter's SRR and ICR remote control systems, allowing operation away from the controller. The SRR offers features for residential/light commercial sites, while the ICR provides longer range for larger commercial sites.

Heavy-Duty Cabinet

The Pro-C features a robust, heavy-duty plastic cabinet (UL listed and NEMA 3R rated) resistant to UV degradation. It includes a removable hinge pin for easier installation and professional key locks. Knockout options are provided for wiring.

Diagram: Image of the Pro-C controller with its door open, showing wiring access points and knockout options.

Programmable 0-7 Day Rain Delay

Users can turn off the controller for a specified period (1-7 days) during rainy weather. The controller automatically resumes normal watering after the delay period elapses.

Diagram: Image of the Pro-C controller's LCD display showing "OFF 7 DAYS LEFT".

Programmable Delay Between Stations

This feature adds a programmable delay between station run times, which helps manage slow-closing valves or systems operating off slow-filling wells. Delays can be set from 0 to 60 seconds in 5-second increments, and then up to 4 hours in 1-minute increments.

Diagram: Image of the Pro-C controller's LCD display showing "Hr 1:15".

Pump Start/MV Circuit, Programmable By Station

A programmable pump start circuit can activate a pump relay or master valve by individual zone. This is useful for systems requiring a pump boost only for specific zones.

Internal Junction Box (on Outdoor Model Only)

The outdoor model includes a primary power junction box inside the cabinet, reducing installation time by eliminating the need for an external electrical box.

Diagram: Image showing the internal junction box (J-Box) within the controller.

24VAC Valve Test

A 24VAC valve test terminal post simplifies zone arrangement during wire hookup. Touching the valve wire to this terminal helps determine numbered zones without programming a manual start.

Primary Voltage Source Choices

Pro-C models can be supplied with a 115VAC/60 Hz transformer for domestic use or a 230VAC/50 Hz transformer for international use, allowing installation worldwide.

AM/PM or 24 Hour Clock Settings

Users can select their preferred timekeeping format, either AM/PM or 24-hour mode.

Diagram: Image of the Pro-C controller's LCD display showing "3:00" and "15:00".

Single Station Manual Start

Allows users to add extra water to a particular zone by manually starting it. The user selects the station and run time, and the controller returns to automatic mode afterward.

Start Time Stacking

Prevents hydraulic overload by ensuring start times do not overlap. The Pro-C automatically sequences start times chronologically, preventing more than one zone from operating simultaneously.

Multi-language Capability

The Pro-C line is available as a multi-language controller family with separate customization kits for Spanish, French, Italian, and German, including manuals and faceplate overlays.

Operate Three 7.2 VA Solenoids Simultaneously

The Pro-C has the power capacity to operate up to three 7.2 VA solenoids simultaneously, accommodating larger water volume systems or specific zone requirements.

Assign Zones to Any or All Programs

Any station can be assigned to any or all programs, providing complete versatility for watering requirements and allowing multiple watering schedules per landscape.

Automated Chronological Ordering of Start Times

When multiple start times are entered, the Pro-C automatically shifts them in ascending order, preventing "phantom" starts and simplifying programming.

Easy Access Wire Compartment

The spacious wiring compartment and sturdy terminal block facilitate fast and easy connection of wiring. The primary terminal block has dedicated screws for sensor hookup and 24VAC accessories, accommodating two 20-12 gauge wires per terminal.

Diagram: Image showing the controller's wiring compartment with terminal blocks.

Upgrade to Centralized Control Network through IMMS™

The Pro-C can be networked to a computer via the Hunter Irrigation Management and Monitoring System™ (IMMS) for remote programming, monitoring, and system condition changes using options like flow sensors.

Test Program

A built-in test program feature allows users to run all stations for a predetermined number of minutes for quick system checks or winterization valve activation. Activation is simple with one button and single run time entry.

Product Comparisons

A comparison table outlines the features of the Hunter Pro-C Controller against various models from Rain Bird, Irritrol, Nelson, and Toro, highlighting features like modular design, non-volatile memory, surge protection, programming options, and sensor compatibility.

Note: Rain Bird® is a registered trademark of Rain Bird Sprinkler Manufacturing Corp. Irritrol® is a registered trademark of Irritrol Systems. Rain Dial™ Plus is a registered trademark of Irritrol Systems. Rain Dial™ is a registered trademark of Irritrol Systems. Nelson® is a registered trademark of L. R. Nelson Corporation. Weathermatic® is a registered trademark of Weathermatic Corp. Toro® is a registered trademark of the Toro Company.

Technical Information

Operating Specifications

• Outdoor models: 115VAC transformer with internal junction box
• Indoor model: 115VAC two prong plug-in transformer
• Station output: 24VAC .56 Amps
• Transformer output: 24VAC 1.0 Amps
• Capable of operating equivalent of 3 solenoids simultaneously
• Operating Temperature: 0 - 150 degrees F
• NEMA rated outdoor cabinet
• UL Listed

Dimensions

• Indoor Model: 8.3" H x 9.6" W x 3.7" D
• Outdoor Model: 8.9" H x 9.9" W x 4.3" D

Models

• PC-300i: Base model indoor plastic cabinet with plug-in 115VAC transformer, expands to 15 stations.
• PC-300: Base model outdoor locking plastic cabinet with 115VAC transformer, expands to 15 stations.
• PCM-300: 3 station plug-in module for use with any PC controller model.
• PCM-900: 9 station plug-in module for use with any PC controller model (expands Pro-C station capability to 15 stations with 1 PCM-300 installed).

Diagram: A specification guide example for the PC-300i model, detailing model codes and features.

Installation

Connecting Valves and AC Power

Route valve wires from the control valve location to the controller. At the valves, attach a common wire to one solenoid wire of each valve (typically white). Attach a separate control wire to the remaining wire of each valve, using waterproof connectors for splices. Route valve wires through the conduit to the controller's large conduit opening. Strip ½" (13 mm) of insulation from wire ends. Secure the valve common wire to the C (Common) terminal and individual valve control wires to appropriate station terminals.

Note: It is recommended that a licensed electrician perform the power installation.

Diagram: Wiring diagrams showing connections for valves, common wire, and station wires to the controller modules. Also shows AC power connections for both outdoor and indoor cabinets, including transformer connections and ground wiring.

Connecting Station Modules

The Pro-C comes with a factory-installed base module for up to 3 stations. Additional modules (PCM-300 for 3 stations, PCM-900 for 9 stations) can expand capacity to 15 stations. The Pro-C uses automatic module recognition firmware (for models manufactured Nov. 2003 and after) to detect installed or removed modules. The Easy-Lock™ feature secures all modules simultaneously.

Diagram: Illustration showing how to install modules using the Easy-Lock feature, sliding them into place and securing them.

Connecting the Battery (Optional)

A 9-volt alkaline battery can be connected to the battery terminals to allow programming without AC power. While the controller has non-volatile memory to retain programs during power outages, the battery enables timekeeping and programming when AC power is unavailable.

Connecting a Master Valve

If a master valve is installed, connect its common wire to the C (Common) terminal and the other solenoid wire to the P/MV terminal on the controller.

Diagram: Wiring diagram illustrating the connection of a master valve wire to the P/MV terminal and common wire to the C terminal.

Connecting a Pump Start Relay

For systems requiring a pump, mount the controller at least 15 feet (4.5 m) away from the pump start relay and pump. Connect a wire pair from the pump relay into the controller housing. Connect the common wire to the C (Common) terminal and the remaining wire from the pump relay to the P/MV screw slot. Relay holding current draw must not exceed 0.28 amps. Do not connect the controller directly to the pump.

Diagram: Wiring diagram showing connections for a pump start relay, including common wire to C and pump relay wire to P/MV.

Connecting a Weather Sensor (Not Included)

Rain sensors (like the Hunter Mini-Clik®) or other micro-switch weather sensors can be connected to the Pro-C. The sensor stops watering when precipitation is sufficient. The sensor connects directly to the controller, and the sensor can be bypassed using the Rain Sensor bypass switch on the controller. The controller displays "SENSOR OFF" when the sensor is active.

Diagram: Illustration showing the Mini-Clik® rain sensor and its connection wires to the controller's SEN terminals. A note indicates the minimum distance for wiring.

Connecting an SRR or ICR Remote Control (Not Included)

The Pro-C controller is shipped with a SmartPort® wiring harness for Hunter remote controls. Install a 1/2" female threaded "Tee" in the field wiring conduit. Feed the red, white, and blue wires of the harness through the "Tee" and into the controller's wiring compartment. Attach the wires to the terminal block: red to SEN, white to AC2, and blue to REM. Extending the wiring harness may require shielded cable due to potential radio interference.

Diagram: Shows the SmartPort wiring harness connection to the controller's terminal block (SEN, AC2, REM). Also includes diagrams for indoor and outdoor installation of the receiver and a diagram for extending the wiring harness with shielded cable.

Programming

Programming the Controller

The Pro-C features an easy-to-read LCD display and a user-friendly dial design. The display shows time and day when idle, and changes to show programming information when the dial is rotated. Flashing portions of the display can be adjusted with the [+] and [-] buttons. The Pro-C offers three programs (A, B, C) with up to 4 daily start times each, supporting various watering needs. It includes a 365-day calendar for odd/even watering restrictions and offers interval watering options.

Note: Flashing characters indicate the item being programmed. For example, if the hour is flashing, it can be changed.

Setting the Current Date and Time

Turn the dial to the [SET CURRENT DATE/TIME] position. Use the [+] and [-] buttons to set the year, then press the button. Set the month and day similarly. Finally, set the time by selecting AM/PM or 24-hour format, then adjusting hours and minutes using the [+] and [-] buttons. Press the button to advance between fields.

Diagram: Images of the Pro-C controller's LCD display showing year, month, day, and time setting interfaces.

Setting Watering Start Times

Turn the dial to the [SET WATERING START TIMES] position. Select program A, B, or C using the [PRG] button. Use the [+] and [-] buttons to set the start time (advances in 15-minute increments). One start time activates all stations sequentially within that program. Multiple start times can be set for different watering cycles.

Diagram: Image of the Pro-C controller's LCD display showing start time setting for Program A.

Eliminating a Program Start Time

With the dial set to [SET WATERING START TIMES], press the [+] and [-] buttons until 12:00 a.m. (Midnight) is displayed. Then, press the button to reach the [OFF] position. If a program has all start times turned off, that program will not water.

Setting Station Run Times (Length of Watering for Each Area)

Turn the dial to the [SET STATION RUN TIMES] position. Select the program (A, B, or C) and station number. Use the [+] and [-] buttons to set the run time for that station, from 1 minute to 6 hours. Press the button to advance to the next station. Repeat for all stations. It is recommended to complete one program before moving to the next.

Diagram: Images of the Pro-C controller's LCD display showing station run time setting.

Setting Days to Water

Turn the dial to the [SET DAYS TO WATER] position. This position offers four watering day options: specific days of the week, interval watering (1-31 days), odd days, or even days. Each program can use only one type of water day option.

Diagram: Images of the Pro-C controller's LCD display showing options for selecting days to water, including interval and odd/even day selections.

Weather Sensor Bypass

The built-in weather sensor bypass switch allows users to override the sensor when necessary. If the sensor is active and preventing operation, move the switch to [BYPASS]. The display will show "SENSOR OFF" when bypassed.

Diagram: Image of the Rain Sensor Bypass switch on the controller, showing [ACTIVE] and [BYPASS] positions.

Run

After programming is complete, turn the dial to [RUN] to enable automatic execution of all selected programs and start times. Watering will not occur unless the dial is in the [RUN] position.

System Off

Turning the dial to the [SYSTEM OFF] position for two seconds shuts off all valves. All active programs are discontinued. Return the dial to [RUN] for normal operation.

Manually Run a Single Station

Turn the dial to [MANUAL-SINGLE STATION]. Select the desired station and set the run time using the [+] and [-] buttons. Turn the dial to [RUN] to start the station. The controller will return to automatic mode after the station runs.

Diagram: Images of the dial positions for [MANUAL-SINGLE STATION] and the LCD display showing station run time.

Manually Run All Stations

Turn the dial to [MANUAL-ALL STATIONS]. Select program A, B, or C. Set the start station and adjust run times for each station as needed. Turn the dial to [RUN] to start the program.

Diagram: Images of the dial positions for [MANUAL-ALL STATIONS] and the LCD display showing program selection and run time adjustments.

One Touch Manual Start and Advance

Activate all stations without using the dial by holding the [PRG] button for 2 seconds. Select program A, B, or C. Use the [+] and [-] buttons to scroll through stations and adjust run times. Press the button to start the sequence. This is useful for quick checks or extra watering.

Seasonal Adjustment

This feature allows global run time adjustments from 10% to 150% without reprogramming the entire controller. Use the [+] and [-] buttons to adjust the percentage. The displayed run time will update when the dial is turned to [Set Run Times].

Diagram: Image of the Seasonal Adjust display showing a graph and adjustment buttons. A note states the controller should initially be programmed at 100%.

Test Program

Activate all stations for a set number of minutes (1-15). Hold the [PRG] button for 2 seconds, then use [+] and [-] to select run time. The test program runs each station for the selected duration, useful for system checks or winterization.

Advanced Features

Three advanced features are available:

1. Programmable Delay Between Stations: Insert a delay between station run times (0-59 seconds, then 0-4 hours) for slow valves or well recovery.
2. Clearing Controller's Memory/Resetting Controller: A factory reset can be performed by pressing and holding the [+] , [PRG], and [RESET] buttons simultaneously.
3. Hunter Quick Check™: A diagnostic procedure to detect high current paths (shorts) in field wiring. An "ERR" symbol will flash if a short is detected.

Diagram: Image of the Pro-C controller's LCD display showing delay time setting and the "DELAY" icon.

SRR Remote Control

Product Overview

Hunter introduces the SRR (Simple and Reliable Remote) Control for use with Pro-C, ICC, and SRC controllers. It offers advanced features at a competitive price, simplifying tasks like starting manual watering cycles or winterizing systems. The SRR allows contractors to leave the remote with property owners for easy manual watering by homeowners or building managers.

Diagram: Image of the SRR Remote Control transmitter and receiver units.

Product Features and Benefits

• One Transmitter, One Receiver: Portable and reusable, the SRR system is designed for efficient operation at various sites. The receiver can be left permanently mounted or removed after use.
• Internal Antenna on Transmitter: The transmitter features an internal antenna, preventing external parts from being broken or lost.
• Large LCD Display and Four-Button Operation: Easy-to-view display and simple button controls ([+] , [-] , [ON] , [OFF]) make operation straightforward. The SRR turns itself off after inactivity to save battery life.
• Sturdy ABS Construction: Made of heavy-duty ABS plastic, the transmitter and receiver are durable and built to withstand tough conditions and repeated use.
• Small and Compact Size: The transmitter and receiver are palm-sized and compact, easily fitting into a shirt or pants pocket.
• Standard 9V Alkaline Battery: Uses a readily available 9V alkaline battery for power.
• 8 Different Remote-Activated Run Time Settings: Offers quick or lengthy run times (1, 2, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 minute increments). The default setting is 10 minutes.
• User Programmable Address: Both transmitter and receiver have an address for secure communication. Addresses can be set from 0-127 for added security. The receiver must "learn" the transmitter's address.
• Programmable Number of Stations Controlled: The SRR is reprogrammable and can access up to 48 stations, offering flexibility for future controller products.

Installation and Programming

SmartPort® Wiring Harness

To use the SRR system, the controller must be equipped with the SRR SmartPort wiring harness. This harness provides the communication port for the receiver. Installation instructions are included with the Pro-C.

Installing the SRR Remote Wiring Harness

Install a 1/2" female threaded "Tee" in the field wiring conduit approximately 12" below the Pro-C controller. Feed the red, white, and blue wires of the harness through the "Tee" and into the controller's wiring compartment. Screw the harness housing into the "Tee". Attach the wires to the controller's terminal block: red to SEN, white to AC2, and blue to REM.

Note: The harness may be installed outdoors by first bringing the conduit through an exterior wall.

Diagram: Shows the SmartPort wiring harness connection to the controller's terminal block (SEN, AC2, REM). Also includes diagrams for indoor and outdoor installation of the receiver and a diagram for extending the wiring harness with shielded cable.

Preparing the Transmitter for Use

The SRR system is designed to work out of the box. Install the 9V alkaline battery in the transmitter. Users can customize the transmitter address and maximum station number for added functionality and security.

Changing the Transmitter Address

To change the transmitter address, power the transmitter on. Simultaneously press the [+] and [-] buttons until "RUN TIME" is displayed. Press the [ON] button until "ADDRESS" is illuminated and the current address blinks. Use the [+] and [-] buttons to change the address (0-127). Wait 5 seconds for the setting to save.

Diagram: Image of the SRR Transmitter display showing "RUN TIME" and "ADDRESS" settings.

Receiver

To learn a new transmitter address, hold the single button on the receiver while plugging it into an active wiring harness. The receiver will beep 4 times. Then, press either the [ON] or [OFF] button on the transmitter. The receiver will beep 4 more times, indicating it has learned the new address.

Run Time

Adjust the run time for a station on the transmitter. Power on the transmitter, press [+] and [-] simultaneously until "RUN TIME" blinks. Use [+] and [-] to select the desired run time (8 settings from 1-30 minutes). Wait 5 seconds for the setting to save.

Activating a Station with the SRR Remote Control System

Plug the receiver into an active wiring harness. Wait for 2 beeps. Power on the transmitter. Use the [+] and [-] buttons to select the station or program. Press the [ON] button to start. The transmitter will display "TRANSMIT" and flash. The receiver will beep twice. The SRR system turns one station on at a time. Pressing [OFF] turns off the current station.

Diagram: Image of the Receiver Unit and Transmitter Unit.

Changing the Maximum Station Number

The SRR transmitter defaults to a maximum station number of 9. To change this, power on the transmitter, press [+] and [-] simultaneously until "RUN TIME" is displayed, then press [ON] until "ADDRESS" is illuminated. Press [ON] again until "ADDRESS" is no longer illuminated. Use [+] and [-] to change the maximum station number (0-127). Wait 5 seconds for the setting to save.

Maximizing Operating Range

Factors influencing operating range include terrain, obstructions, signal strength, and receiver sensitivity. To maximize range:

• Do not install the receiver near large metal sources.
• Avoid basements or underground locations for the receiver.
• Point the receiver antenna vertically.
• Hold the transmitter vertically and face the receiver.

The SRR system is designed for a range of up to 450 feet. The transmitter uses maximum FCC-allowed power and maintains it until the battery is nearly depleted. The receiver uses a superior reception method.