Hunter Wireless Solar Sync ET Sensor

Introduction

The Solar Sync is a sensor system that, when connected to a compatible Hunter controller, automatically adjusts watering based on local climate conditions. It uses a solar and temperature sensor to measure evapotranspiration (ET), the rate at which plants and turf use water. Additionally, Solar Sync includes Hunter Rain-Clik™ and Freeze-Clik™ sensors to shut down the irrigation system during rain or freezing conditions. A small module connects the sensor to the controller, increasing or decreasing watering run times based on weather changes, promoting water conservation and healthier plants. Users program their controller as usual, and the Solar Sync manages watering adjustments automatically.

This Owner's Manual applies to the following kits:

• WSS: Wireless Solar Sync kit for Hunter Pro-C, PCC, ICC, and I-Core controllers
• WSSSEN*: Wireless Solar Sync kit for Hunter ACC and X-Core controllers

*Note: WSSSEN does not include the Solar Sync Module. ACC and X-Core controllers have built-in Solar Sync software and do not require a separate module. Therefore, WSSSEN is used with ACC and X-Core Controllers.

System Overview and Operation

The Wireless Solar Sync System is easily installed on any compatible Hunter Irrigation controller. The Wireless Solar Sync Sensor measures solar radiation and temperature to calculate the daily evapotranspiration (ET) factor for irrigation, representing the water lost by plants due to climate conditions. The system also includes Hunter Rain-Clik™ and Freeze-Clik® sensors for automatic shutdown during rain or freezing events.

Program a mid-summer watering schedule into your controller. The Wireless Solar Sync Sensor sends weather data daily, applying it to the controller's water schedule via the seasonal adjust feature.

Sensor Details

Installing the Sensor

Mount the Solar Sync sensor on a surface exposed to unobstructed sun and rainfall, away from sprinkler spray. Ensure the sensor is oriented upright; the swivel bracket allows for mounting on angled surfaces. Loosen the locknut and screw before swiveling the bracket, then retighten.

Note: The Wireless Solar Sync Sensor operates up to 800 feet (228 m) from the Wireless Receiver.

Note: Place the Solar Sync where it can receive full sun.

An optional Sensor Gutter Mount (SGM) can be used to mount the sensor directly to a gutter edge. Install the SGM by removing the sensor's extension arm and securing the SGM with the thumb screw.

Clik Operation

The Rain-Clik™ sensor prevents irrigation during rainfall. Its Quick Response™ technology shuts off the system within minutes of rain. The vent ring adjusts the sensor's dry-out time. Opening the vent speeds up dry-out; closing it slows it down.

The built-in temperature sensor shuts down the system in freezing conditions (approximately 37°F / 3°C and below). A "sensor off" indication appears on the controller. When temperatures rise above 37°F / 3°C, automatic irrigation resumes at the next scheduled start time.

Bypassing the Sensor

If the Rain or Freeze Sensor prevents operation, a "SENSOR OFF" message displays on the controller. Move the Bypass switch on the controller to "BYPASS" to disable the Solar Sync's Rain and Freeze Sensor. The Solar Sync will continue to adjust the watering schedule.

Ensure the controller's Rain Sensor switch is in the "ACTIVE" position for the sensors to interrupt watering during rain or freezing conditions.

Maintaining the Sensor

Keep the Solar Sync sensor clean for optimal function. Wipe the clear dome covering the solar radiation sensor every 6 months. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasives on the dome.

Connecting to the Controller

Installing and Wiring the Module

Activate the CR2032 backup battery by pulling the insulator. The battery provides date/time backup for ten years. To replace, access the compartment on the back of the module. Install the new battery with the positive side (+) facing you.

Note: Battery may explode if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble, or dispose of in fire. Use only CR2032 type batteries.

The Solar Sync module is designed for wall mounting next to the irrigation controller. Use the provided rubber cover for outdoor installations to protect the module from weather. Secure the module to the wall using two anchors or self-tapping screws, placing the rubber cover's mounting tab behind the module before screwing it in place.

Note: For ACC or X-Core Controllers, the Solar Sync Module is not required. Use the WSSSEN kit for these controllers.

Pro-C Conventional Controller (PCC Series)

Mount the Solar Sync module inside the controller cabinet using the provided screws.

1. Connect the red wire from the Solar Sync module to the AC1 terminal.
2. Connect the white wire from the Solar Sync module to the AC2 terminal.
3. Connect the blue wire from the Solar Sync module to the REM terminal.
4. Remove the flat metal jumper from the two SEN terminals.
5. Connect the yellow wire to one of the SEN terminals.
6. Connect the orange wire to the other SEN terminal.

Note: Provisions exist inside the Pro-C PCC Series controllers to mount the Solar Sync module.

Pro-C Controller (PC Series)

Mount the Solar Sync module on the wall next to the controller cabinet. Use the additional knockout on the right side of the cabinet to route wires.

1. Connect the red wire from the Solar Sync module to the AC1 terminal.
2. Connect the white wire from the Solar Sync module to the AC2 terminal.
3. Connect the blue wire from the Solar Sync module to the REM terminal.
4. Remove the flat metal jumper from the two SEN terminals.
5. Connect the yellow wire to one of the SEN terminals.
6. Connect the orange wire to the other SEN terminal.

Mount the Wireless Receiver on the controller cabinet or wall using the provided bracket and conduit nut. Route wires into the cabinet. Ensure controller power is off before connecting wires.

1. Connect the black Receiver wire to the black Module wire.
2. Connect the green Receiver wire to the green Module wire.
3. Initialize communication as described in the "Addressing Wireless Receiver/Sensor" section.

ICC Controller

Connect the Solar Sync module wires to the ICC controller terminals as follows:

1. Connect the red wire to AC1.
2. Connect the white wire to AC2.
3. Connect the blue wire to REM.
4. Remove the flat metal jumper from the two SEN terminals.
5. Connect the yellow wire to one SEN terminal.
6. Connect the orange wire to the other SEN terminal.

Mount the Wireless Receiver on the controller cabinet or wall. Ensure controller power is off before connecting wires.

1. Connect the black Receiver wire to the black Module wire.
2. Connect the green Receiver wire to the green Module wire.
3. Initialize communication as described in the "Addressing Wireless Receiver/Sensor" section.

I-Core Controller

Connect the Solar Sync module wires to the I-Core controller terminals:

1. Connect the red wire to AC1.
2. Connect the white wire to AC2.
3. Connect the blue wire to REM.
4. Remove the flat metal jumper from the two SEN terminals.
5. Connect the yellow wire to one SEN terminal.
6. Connect the orange wire to the other SEN terminal.

Mount the Wireless Receiver on the controller cabinet or wall. Ensure controller power is off before connecting wires.

1. Connect the black Receiver wire to the black Module wire.
2. Connect the green Receiver wire to the green Module wire.
3. Initialize communication as described in the "Addressing Wireless Receiver/Sensor" section.

X-Core Controller

The X-Core Controller has built-in Solar Sync technology and does not require the Solar Sync module. Mount the Wireless Receiver on the controller cabinet or wall.

1. Ensure controller power is off.
2. Connect the black Receiver wire to the "SEN" Terminal location.
3. Connect the green Receiver wire to the other "SEN" terminal location.

Refer to the X-Core owner's manual for further details.

ACC Controller

The ACC Controller also has built-in Solar Sync technology and does not require the Solar Sync module. Mount the Wireless Receiver on the controller cabinet or wall.

1. Ensure controller power is off.
2. Connect the black Receiver wire to the black "ET" terminal on the master module.
3. Connect the green Receiver wire to the green "ET" terminal on the master module.

Refer to the ACC owner's manual for further details.

Note: X-Core and ACC controllers have built-in Solar Sync software. Consult their respective owner's manuals for programming instructions.

Addressing Wireless Receiver/Sensor

The Wireless Solar Sync Receiver and Sensor are pre-paired for easy installation. Upon installation, the receiver enters a "search" mode for the paired sensor's signal. Manual initialization is recommended to verify signal transmission.

To initialize communication manually:

• After connecting the receiver's green and black wires, restore power to the controller.
• The red LED on the wireless receiver will illuminate solid for 10 seconds, indicating search mode.
• While the LED is solid, press and hold the spindle on the wireless sensor. The receiver's LED will blink 4 times and turn off, confirming acknowledgment.

To Validate Receiver/Sensor Communication or Re-address:

• Press and hold the spindle on the wireless sensor.
• The LED on the wireless receiver will blink twice, confirming proper addressing.

Note: In case of power outage or lost contact, the receiver automatically enters search mode upon power restoration. The controller may enter rain shut-off mode for up to 60 minutes until communication is re-established. Validating communication manually can expedite this process.

Programming Controller Run Times

Program your Hunter controller according to its Owner's Manual. Set station run times for peak summer watering. The Solar Sync adjusts all run times daily based on on-site weather conditions via the controller's seasonal adjustment feature. It is recommended to set the controller's Seasonal Adjustment to 100% during programming.

Note: Set station run times for peak summer watering with the seasonal adjustment set at 100%.

Programming the Solar Sync Module

The Solar Sync module is simple to program. Upon initial power-up, the display shows the time of day. Pressing the ➔ button cycles through programming functions, indicated by an arrow at the bottom of the display.

(For ACC and X-Core Controllers, consult the controller's owner's manual for programming details, as they do not use the Solar Sync module.)

Current Time ?

Press the ➔ button until the arrow is over the ? icon. The time will flash. Use the +/- buttons to set the current time. The arrow to the right indicates AM or PM.

Note: 24-hour mode is enabled with a 50 Hz power input.

Controller Type ⚙️

Press the ➔ button until the arrow is over the ⚙️ icon. Use the +/- buttons to select the correct Hunter controller type.

Region ?

Program the Solar Sync module for your region's typical ET (average July ET) using the table provided. Press the ➔ button until the arrow is over the ? icon. Use the +/- buttons to select your region (1-4).

Region Selection Table:

* For Southern hemisphere locations, use the month of January.

Watering Adjustment ?

If the landscape is wetter or drier than desired, use the watering adjustment function. Press the ➔ button until the arrow is over the ? icon. Use the +/- buttons to adjust watering from 1 (less water) to 10 (more water). Hunter recommends observing performance before adjusting.

Note: For individual zone adjustments, modify run times directly on the controller.

No Water Window ?

This hidden feature prevents irrigation during a specific period. Press and hold the ➔ button for 5 seconds to program. An arrow will flash at "Start"; use +/- to set the start time. Press ➔ again; an arrow will flash at "End"; use +/- to set the end time.

Calibration / Setup Period

After installation and programming, allow the system to run for a few days at initial settings. Adjust the Region and/or Water Adjustment settings to calibrate the Solar Sync to your specific site conditions (sensor location, sunlight, reflective heat).

1. Install the Solar Sync sensor and program the module (pages 10-12).
2. Allow the system to operate at initial settings for at least 3 days.
3. Observe the controller's Seasonal Adjust. If it appears lower or higher than expected for the time of year, adjust the Solar Sync settings.
   • Seasonal Adjust too low: Ensure the controller dial is in "Run". Increase the Water Adjustment value (1-10). If maxing out at 10 still requires more adjustment, move to the next lower Region (e.g., 4 to 3).
   • Seasonal Adjust too high: Ensure the controller dial is in "Run". Decrease the Water Adjustment value (default is 5). If minimizing to 1 still requires reduction, move to the next higher Region (e.g., 2 to 3).

Station Run Times: Solar Sync provides global seasonal adjustments. Program run times representing peak season watering. If adjustments are needed for specific stations, modify the station run times in the controller program, ensuring the seasonal adjust valve is set to 100%.

Troubleshooting Guide

For technical assistance, contact Hunter Technical Service at 1-800-733-2823 or visit www.hunterindustries.com/Support/Ask_Expert/default.htm.

Specifications / Dimensions / FCC Notice

Controller Compatibility

The Solar Sync is designed for Hunter controllers with a Smart Port connection.

• WSS: Wireless Solar Sync kit for Hunter Pro-C, PCC, ICC, and I-Core Controllers.
• WSSSEN: Wireless Solar Sync kit (no module) for Hunter ACC and X-Core controllers.

Specifications

• Power Input: 24 VAC 50/60 HZ (from controller)
• Current draw: 25 mA at 24 VAC
• Memory: Non-Volatile
• Battery: Replaceable 10-year lithium battery (CR2032 in module); 10-year battery (wireless sensor)
• Distance (Module to Controller): Max 6 ft (2 m)
• Distance (Receiver to Module): Max 6 ft (2 m)
• Distance (Sensor to Receiver): Max 800 ft (228 m)
• Wiring: 18 AWG/1 mm or 20 AWG/0.8 mm diameter minimum (Sensor to Module)
• Approvals: UL Listed, Direct Burial and UV approved

Dimensions

• Sensor: 3" H x 9" W x 1" D (7.6 cm x 22.9 cm x 2.5 cm)
• Module: 1¾" H x 5" W x ⅝" D (4.4 cm x 12.7 cm x 0.6 cm)
• Receiver: 5½" H x 1½" W x ½" D (14 cm x 3.8 cm x 3.8 cm)
• Receiver with Wall Mount Bracket: 6⅛" H x 2¾" W x 3½" D (15.5 cm x 7 cm x 8.9 cm)

FCC Notice

Transmitter FCC ID: M 3USSW. This device complies with FCC Rules Part 15, subject to two conditions: (1) it may not cause harmful interference, and (2) it must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. This equipment has been tested and complies with Class B digital device limits, providing reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations. It generates, uses, and radiates radio frequency energy. If interference occurs, try reorienting/relocating the antenna, increasing separation between equipment, using a different circuit, or consulting a dealer/technician. Modifications not approved by the manufacturer void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Trade Name: Wireless Solar Sync
Model Number: WSSR
Compliance Test Report Number: B00217D4
Compliance Test Report Date: 1/29/2010
Responsible Party: Hunter Industries Incorporated
Address: 1940 Diamond St, San Marcos, CA 92078
Telephone: 760-744-5240

I, the undersigned, declare that the equipment specified above conforms to the above requirements.

Signature: [Signature]
Place: San Marcos, CA
Date: March 22, 2010
Full Name: Peter Woytowitz
Position: Engineering Manager

Industry of Canada Notice

Sensor - IC: 2772A-SSW
Receiver - IC: 2772A-SSWR
Operation is subject to the following conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

CE and Australia Notice

Hunter Industries declares this remote control device complies with essential requirements and provisions of Directive 1999/5/CE.

Declaration of Conformity: Hunter Industries Incorporated, 1940 Diamond Street, San Marcos, CA 92078, declares that the Wireless Solar Sync, model numbers WSSTR and WSSR, conforms with relevant standards:

• Emissions: ETSI EN 300 220-1 V2.1.1, ETSI EN 300 220-2 V2.1.1, ETSI EN 301 489-1 (per EN55022), EN 61000-3-2, EN 61000-3-3
• Immunity: ETSI EN 301 489-1 V1.4.1 (per IEC61000-4-2 through IEC61000-4-6, and IEC61000-4-11)

Signature: [Signature]
Place: San Marcos, CA
Date: March 22, 2010
Full Name: Peter Woytowitz
Position: Engineering Manager

Notes