Hunter X-Core Residential Irrigation Controller

X-Core Components

The X-Core controller features an LCD display, control buttons, a wiring compartment, and dial settings for various functions.

A. LCD Display

B. Wiring Compartment

C. Control Buttons

D. Dial Settings

D. External Transformer (Indoor Model Only): A plug-in transformer supplies AC power to the controller.

Mounting the Controller to Wall

Note: The indoor version of the X-Core is not waterproof or weather resistant and must be installed indoors or in a protected area.

1. Secure one screw into the wall. Install screw anchors if attaching to drywall or masonry wall.
2. Slide the keyhole on top of the controller over the screw.
3. Secure the controller in place by installing screws in the holes below the terminal strip.

Important Safety Notes:

• Do not plug the transformer into the power source until the controller is mounted and all valve wiring has been connected.
• For XC-x01-A: If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer or service agent, or a similarly qualified person to avoid hazard.

Connecting Valves and Transformer

Installation should be done by trained personnel.

1. Route valve wires between the control valve location and the controller.
2. At the valves, attach a common wire to either solenoid wire. Attach a separate control wire to the remaining wire of each valve. Use waterproof connectors for all wire connections.
3. Route the valve wires through the conduit, attaching the conduit through the bottom right side of the controller.
4. Secure the white valve common wire to the C (Common) screw on the terminal strip. Attach each individual valve control wire to the appropriate station terminals and tighten screws.
5. Indoor Models: Route the transformer cable through the hole on the left side of the controller and connect wires to the two screws marked 24 VAC.
6. Outdoor Models: Transformer wires are pre-connected to the AC terminals. Connect primary power to the junction box.

High Voltage Wiring (Outdoor Model only):

1. Route AC power cable and conduit through the 1/2" (13 mm) conduit opening on the left side bottom of the cabinet.
2. Connect one wire to each of the two wires inside the junction box. The ground wire should connect to the green wire. Use provided wire nuts.
3. Note for -E models: Connect wires to the AC terminal block inside the junction box. AC supply wires must be 14 AWG (1.85 mm) or larger with an appropriate circuit breaker. A switch or circuit-breaker shall be included in the building installation, in close proximity to the controller, marked as the disconnecting device.
4. Replace the junction box cover.

Note: X-Core outdoor models are water and weather resistant. Connecting the outdoor X-Core to primary AC power should only be done by a licensed electrician following all local codes. Improper installation could result in shock or fire hazard.

Activating the Battery

After installing your X-Core, remove the battery contact insulator to allow the X-Core to keep time during power outages.

Replacing the Battery

A high-energy lithium battery is included for remote programming without AC power and for backup timekeeping during power outages.

To replace the battery:

1. Remove the screw from the battery holder.
2. Slide the battery holder down to access the battery.
3. Remove and replace the new battery into the battery holder and reinstall the battery holder.

Note: The positive(+) side of the battery should face the inside of the battery holder. Battery type: CR2032 3V.

Connecting a Master Valve

Note: Complete this section only if a master valve is installed. A master valve is a normally closed valve at the supply point of the main line that opens only when the controller initiates a watering program.

1. At the Master Valve, attach the common wire to either solenoid wire of the valve. Attach a separate control wire to the remaining solenoid wire.
2. The common wire should be attached to the C terminal inside the controller. The other wire from the master valve should be attached to the P terminal inside the controller. Tighten each terminal screw.

Connecting a Pump Start Relay

Note: Complete this section only if a pump start relay is installed. A pump start relay uses a signal from the controller to actuate a separate electrical circuit to energize a pump.

The controller should be mounted at least 15 ft (4.5 m) away from both the pump start relay and pump to minimize potential electrical interference.

1. Route a pair of wires from the pump relay into the controller.
2. Connect a common wire to the C (Common) terminal inside the controller and connect the remaining wire from the pump start relay to the P (Pump) terminal.

Relay holding current draw must not exceed 0.3 A. Do not connect the controller directly to the pump or damage to the controller will result.

Connecting a Hunter "CLIK" Weather Sensor

Hunter weather sensors or other micro-switch type weather sensors can be connected to the X-Core to stop automatic watering when weather conditions dictate.

1. Remove the metal jumper plate attached across the two SEN terminals inside the controller.
2. Connect one wire to one SEN terminal and the other wire to the other SEN terminal.

When the weather sensor has deactivated automatic watering, the OFF, and ☔ icons will appear on the display.

Testing the Weather Sensor

The X-Core provides simplified testing of a rain sensor. You can manually test proper operation by running a MANUAL CYCLE or by activating the system using the One Touch MANUAL START (see page 22). During the Manual cycle, pressing the test button on the Mini-Clik® will interrupt watering.

Manually Bypassing the Weather Sensor

If the rain sensor is interrupting irrigation, you can bypass it using the bypass switch on the front of the controller. Slide the switch to the SENSOR BYPASS position to disable the rain sensor for controller operation. You can also bypass the weather sensor for manual operation using the MANUAL – ONE STATION function. The Bypass switch does not affect the Seasonal Adjust update when using Solar Sync sensor.

Connecting a Hunter Solar Sync ET Sensor

The X-Core is compatible with Solar Sync and Wireless Solar Sync systems. Solar Sync automatically adjusts the X-Core's watering schedule based on changes in local climate conditions using the Seasonal Adjust function. It uses solar and temperature sensors to determine evapotranspiration (ET) and includes Hunter Rain Clik and Freeze Clik technology to shut down irrigation during rain or freezing conditions.

Note: Solar Sync applies a default seasonal adjust value of 100% until the first full day (24-hour period) of weather measurements are received.

Note: Enabling the Sensor Bypass switch bypasses the Rain Clik and Freeze Clik functionality but does not affect seasonal adjust updates from the Solar Sync sensor.

Installing Solar Sync Sensor

Connect the Green and Black wire from the Wireless Solar Sync Receiver to the “SEN” wiring terminals on the X-Core controller. Turn the dial to the "Solar Sync Settings" position. The display will initially show dashed lines, then the default Region setting (3) and default Water Adjustment setting (5).

Adjust the Region using the ▲ and ▼ buttons (refer to page 13 for explanation). Use the ▶ button to adjust the Water Adjust setting (see page 14 for explanation).

Installing the Wireless Solar Sync

Connect the Green and Black wire from the Wireless Solar Sync Receiver to the “SEN” wiring terminals on the X-Core controller. Turn the dial to the "Solar Sync Settings" position. The display will initially show dashed lines, then the default Region setting (3) and default Water Adjustment setting (5).

Adjust the Region using the ▲ and ▼ buttons (refer to page 13 for explanation). Use the ▶ button to adjust the Water Adjust setting (see page 14 for explanation).

Solar Sync Settings

When the Solar Sync sensor is connected, the display shows two numbers in the "Solar Sync Settings" position: the left number is the Region setting, and the right number is the Water Adjustment setting.

Region

For accurate Solar Sync measurements, program the controller for the average peak season ET for your region. Use the table below to determine your region. The table assists in identifying your region based on ET and temperature characteristics.

Choose your region using methods A, B, or C:

• A: Based on average July ET or peak summer ET (inches/mm per day).
• B: Based on average July temperature or driest month high temperature.
• C: Based on general description of your region.

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

Water Adjustment

The Water Adjustment (1-10 scale) allows easy adjustment of the Seasonal Adjust value from the Solar Sync ET Sensor. The default setting is 5. If the seasonal adjust value is lower or higher than expected, modify the Water Adjustment value. See Calibration/Setup on page 15 for details.

Note: If an individual zone is "wetter" or "drier" than the rest of the system, simply increase or decrease the amount of run time on the controller.

Uninstalling a Solar Sync Sensor

If a Solar Sync sensor is installed and no longer used, it must be uninstalled. If not uninstalled, the controller will not allow manual changes to the seasonal adjust value. To uninstall, disconnect the green and black wires from the controller terminal and turn the dial to "Solar Sync Settings". The display should show dashes, indicating the sensor is no longer recognized. The seasonal adjust value can now be changed manually using the "Seasonal Adjust" position and the +/- buttons.

Calibration/Setup

After Solar Sync installation, allow the system to run for a few days at the initial setting. Site conditions may require adjustment of the Region and/or Water Adjustment settings.

1. Install Solar Sync sensor.
2. Program Region and allow system to operate for a minimum of 3 days (see page 13 for Region setting instructions).
3. Observe the Seasonal Adjust on the controller. If it appears lower or higher than expected, adjust the Solar Sync settings.
• Seasonal Adjust too low: Turn dial to Solar Sync settings. Increase Water Adjustment value (10 is max). If maxing out at 10 still requires more Seasonal Adjust, move down one Region (e.g., 4 to 3) and increase Water Adjustment.
• Seasonal Adjust too high: Turn dial to Solar Sync settings. Decrease Water Adjustment value (default is 5). If minimizing to 1 still requires reduction, move up one Region (e.g., 2 to 3) and start at Water Adjustment setting 5.

Station Run Times: Solar Sync provides a global seasonal adjustment. Enter run times representing peak season watering schedules. If a station's run time appears too long/short after adjustment, adjust the station run time in the controller program.

Connecting a Hunter Remote

The X-Core Controller is compatible with Hunter Remote Controls. The SmartPort® wiring harness allows for easy use of Hunter controls, enabling system operation without returning to the controller.

To install the SmartPort connector:

1. Install a 1/2" female threaded "Tee" in the field wiring conduit approximately 12" below the Pro-C.
2. Feed the red, white, and blue wires of the harness through the base of the "Tee" and into the wiring compartment.
3. Screw the SmartPort harness housing into the "Tee".
4. Attach the red, white, and blue SmartPort wires to the controller terminals: Red to left "24 VAC", White to right "24 VAC", Blue to "REM".

Note: P/N 258200 can be used as an alternate method to mount the SmartPort connector.

Power Failures

The controller has non-volatile memory; programmed information is not lost during power outages. The lithium battery maintains the correct time without AC power. Normal watering resumes when AC power is restored.

Programming the Controller

The X-Core display shows the time and day when idle. The display changes based on dial rotation. Flashing portions of the display can be changed using the +/- buttons. Non-flashing items require pressing the ▶ button until the desired field flashes.

Note: Flashing characters indicate the item being programmed. For illustration, flashing characters are shown in GRAY type.

Three programs (A, B, C) with up to four daily start times each allow for different watering requirements.

Setting the Date and Time

1. Turn the dial to the CURRENT TIME/DAY position.
2. The current year flashes. Use +/- buttons to change the year. Press ▶ to proceed to the month.
3. The month flashes. Use +/- buttons to change the month. Press ▶ to proceed to the day.
4. The day flashes. Use +/- buttons to change the day. Press ▶ to proceed to the time.
5. The time is displayed. Use +/- buttons to select AM, PM, or 24-hour format. Press ▶ to move to hours. Hours flash. Use +/- buttons to change the hour. Press ▶ to move to minutes. Minutes flash. Use +/- buttons to change the minutes. Date, day, and time are now set.

Setting the Program Start Time(s)

1. Turn the dial to the START TIMES position.
2. The factory preset is program A. Select B or C by pressing the PRG button.
3. Use +/- buttons to change the start time (advances in 15-minute increments).
4. Press ▶ to add an additional start time, or press PRG for the next program.

Note: One start time activates all stations sequentially in that program. Multiple start times can be used for different watering cycles (morning, afternoon, evening). Start times are sorted automatically.

Eliminating a Program Start Time

With the dial set to START TIMES, press +/- until 12:00 AM (Midnight) is reached. Press ▶ once to reach the OFF position.

Setting Station Run Times

1. Turn the dial to RUN TIMES position.
2. The display shows the last program selected (A, B, or C), station number, ⏱ icon, and the station flashes. Switch programs using the PRG button.
3. Use +/- buttons to change the station run time (0 to 4 hours).
4. Press ▶ to advance to the next station.

Setting Days To Water

1. Turn the dial to the WATER DAYS position.
2. The display shows the last program selected (A, B, or C). Switch programs using the PRG button.
3. The controller displays the seven days of the week. Each day has a ♦ (On) or ☔ (Off) icon above it.

Selecting Specific Days of the Week to Water

1. With the cursor on a specific day (starts with MO), press ▶ to activate watering for that day. Press ◀ to cancel watering. The cursor advances automatically.
2. Repeat step 1 for all desired days. Selected days show a ♠ to indicate ON status. The last selected day is indicated.

Selecting Odd or Even Days to Water

This feature uses numbered days of the month for watering (odd days: 1st, 3rd, 5th; even days: 2nd, 4th, 6th).

1. With the cursor on SU, press ▶. The ? icon and "Odd" are displayed.
2. If odd day watering is desired, turn the dial to the RUN position.
3. If even day watering is desired, press ▶ again. The ? icon and "EVEN" are displayed. Move between ODD and EVEN using the +/- buttons.

Note: The 31st of any month and February 29th are always "off" days if Odd watering is selected.

Selecting Interval Watering (1-31)

This option allows interval watering from 1 to 31 days.

1. With the cursor on EVEN, press ▶. The 1-31 icon and a flashing "1" appear. The interval watering schedule is displayed.
2. Press +/- buttons to select the number of days between watering (1 to 31 days). The controller waters at the next start time and then at the programmed interval.

Setting Event Day(s) Off

Program "No Water Day(s)" to inhibit watering on specific days (e.g., Saturday mowing).

1. Turn the dial to the WATER DAYS position.
2. Enter an interval watering schedule (page 19).
3. Press ▶ to scroll to "No Water Days" at the bottom of the display. MO will be flashing.
4. Use the cursor to select the desired day.
5. Press ▶ to set the day as a no water day. The ? icon will illuminate over this day.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 for all desired event days off.

Note: Interval watering schedules can also program Odd or Even days off.

Automatic Watering

After programming, set the dial to the RUN position to enable automatic execution of watering programs and start times.

System Off

Turning the dial to SYSTEM OFF for two seconds shuts off all watering. All active programs are discontinued. Return the dial to RUN for normal automatic operation.

Programmable Rain Off

This feature stops all programmed waterings for a designated period (1 to 7 days). The controller resumes normal operation after the period ends.

1. Turn the dial to the SYSTEM OFF position. Wait for OFF to be displayed.
2. Press the ▶ button as many times as needed to set the number of days off (up to 7 days).
3. Turn the dial back to the RUN position. The display shows OFF, a number, the ? and 1-31 icons. The days off remaining decrease daily. When it reaches zero, normal irrigation resumes at the next scheduled start time.

Seasonal Adjustment %

Seasonal Adjustment makes global run time changes without reprogramming the entire controller.

1. Turn the dial to the SEASONAL ADJUSTMENT position.
2. The display shows a flashing percentage and a bar graph (each bar represents 10%). Press +/- buttons to adjust the percentage (10% to 150% of original program).

To view adjusted run times, turn the dial to RUN TIMES. The displayed run time updates accordingly.

Note: The controller should initially be programmed at 100%.

When using a Hunter "Clik" weather sensor, Seasonal Adjustment can be adjusted as described. When using the Solar Sync ET sensor, Seasonal Adjustment is automatically updated daily. This value can be manually overridden using the +/- buttons, but will be replaced by the Solar Sync value at midnight. To revert to manual mode, uninstall the Solar Sync sensor (see page 14).

Manually Run a Single Station

1. Turn dial to MANUAL – ONE STATION position.
2. Station run time flashes. Use ▶ to move to the desired station. Use +/- to select the amount of time for watering.
3. Turn the dial clockwise to the RUN position to run the station. The controller returns to automatic mode after watering.

Also see One Touch Manual Start and Advance.

One Touch Manual Start and Advance

Activate all stations to water without using the dial.

1. Hold down the ▶ button for 2 seconds. Defaults to program A. Select B or C by pressing the PRG button.
2. The station number flashes. Press ▶ to scroll through stations and use +/- to adjust run times. (If no buttons are pressed for a few seconds, watering begins automatically).
3. Press ▶ to scroll to the station you wish to begin with. After a 2-second pause, the program begins. Use +/- buttons to navigate manually during the cycle.

Advanced Features

Programmable Sensor Override

Program the controller to disable sensor watering on only desired stations (e.g., patio gardens under overhangs).

1. Turn the dial to the RUN position.
2. Press and hold the ▶ button while turning the dial to START TIMES position.
3. Release the ▶ button. The station number, ON, and the ☔ icon flash.
4. Press +/- buttons to enable (ON) or disable (OFF) the sensor for the station. ON suspends irrigation; OFF allows watering.
5. Use +/- buttons to scroll to the next station for override programming.

Note: The controller default disables watering on all zones when rain occurs.

When the X-Core receives sensor input to disable watering, the display indicates stations programmed to override the sensor. Overridden stations flash the ☔ and ☔ icons alternately.

Test Program of All Stations

Run a test program that operates each station in numerical sequence.

1. With the dial in RUN position, press and hold the ▶ button. The station number displays, and the time flashes.
2. Use +/- buttons to set run time (1 to 15 minutes).
3. After a 2-second pause, the test program starts.

Hunter Quick Check™ Diagnostics

Diagnose wiring problems quickly.

1. Press the +, -, and PRG buttons simultaneously. The LCD displays all segments.
2. Press the ▶ button once to begin the Quick Check procedure. The system checks all stations for circuit problems. An ERR symbol with the station number flashes if a short is detected. The controller returns to automatic watering mode after the test.

Easy Retrieve™ Program Memory

Save the preferred watering program into memory for later retrieval, allowing a quick reset to the original schedule.

To save the program into memory:

1. With the dial in RUN position, press and hold the + and PRG buttons for 5 seconds. The display scrolls three segments indicating the program is being saved.
2. Release the + and PRG buttons.

To retrieve a program previously saved into memory:

1. With the dial in RUN position, press and hold the + and PRG buttons for 5 seconds. The display scrolls three segments indicating the program is being saved into memory.
2. Release the + and PRG buttons.

Programmable Delay Between Stations

Insert a delay between stations when one station turns off and the next turns on.

1. Start with the dial in the RUN position.
2. Press and hold the ▶ button while turning the dial to the RUN TIMES position.
3. Release the ▶ button. The display shows a delay time for all stations in seconds, which flashes.
4. Press +/- buttons to increase or decrease the delay time (0 to 4 hours).
5. Return the dial to the RUN position.

Clearing the Controller's Memory/Resetting the Controller

Reset the memory to factory defaults and erase all entered programs and data.

1. Press and hold the + and PRG buttons.
2. Press and release the reset button on the side of the controller.
3. Wait 2 seconds and release the + and PRG buttons. The display shows 12:00 am. The controller is now ready for reprogramming.

Troubleshooting Guide

Specifications

Operating Specifications

• Station Run Times: 0 to 4 hours in 1-minute increments
• 3 Independent Watering Programs
• Start Times: 4 per day per program for up to 12 daily starts
• Watering Schedule: 365-day calendar, interval watering, odd/even watering
• AM/PM, 24-hour clock
• Simple manual operation
• Sensor override by station
• Programmable rain delay (1 to 7 days)
• Manual Seasonal Adjustment (10% to 150%)
• Automatic Seasonal Adjustment using Solar Sync sensor
• Sensor bypass switch
• X-Core-x00i for indoor use. X-Core-x00 for outdoor use
• Sea level to 6500 ft (2000 m) at 0°F to 140° F (-18° C to 60° C)

Electrical Specifications

• Transformer input: 120 VAC ±10% 60 Hz (230 VAC ±10% 50/60 Hz International Models)
• Transformer Output: 24 VAC 1.0 amp
• Station Output: 0.56 amps per station
• Maximum Output: 0.84 amps (includes master valve)
• Battery: 3 V Lithium (included) for remote programming and backup timekeeping. Use CR2032 3-volt.
• Electronic short circuit protection
• Non-volatile memory for program data
• UL Listed
• Model X-Core-x00 has an IP2X Rating
• Clean only with a cloth dampened with mild soap and water

Explanation of Symbols

• ~ AC
• ? Consult Documentation
• ⚠️ Hazardous Voltages Present
• ⏚ Ground

Certificate of Conformity to European Directives

Hunter Industries declares that the irrigation controller Model X-Core complies with the standards of the European Directives of “electromagnetic compatibility” 87/336/EEC and “low voltage” 73/23/EEC.

This product should not be used for anything other than what is described in this document. This product should only be serviced by trained and authorized personnel.

FCC part 15:

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.