Yard Force Classic 500 Robotic Mower Installation Guide

Introduction

This guide explains how to install the Yard Force Classic 500 Robotic Mower. Please read this completely before you start the installation.

We recommend creating a drawing of your lawn, including all obstacles and how these should be protected. This makes it easier to find a good position for the docking station and how to correctly place the boundary wire around your garden perimeter protecting bushes, flower beds etc. You will also need some tools, like a hammer and wire cutters, pliers or scissors.

Pre Cut your lawn

Your lawn needs to be prepared correctly, prior to installing the robot lawnmower. Pre cut your lawn to a height of 60 mm.

Diagram showing lawn height: Grass above 60 mm [❌], Grass below 60 mm [✔️].

Cutting limitations

The Robotic Mower is equipped with collision sensors. These detect all rigid and solid obstacles that are higher than 100 mm, such as walls, fences and garden furniture. When the sensors report an obstacle, the Robotic Mower stops, backs up and then mows in a different direction. As a long-term solution, it is recommended to lay the boundary wire accordingly using the ruler to protect obstacles and the device. Lay the boundary wire so that the Robotic Mower is not more than 20 m away from the boundary wire at any point in the mowing area.

Diagram showing obstacle detection: Obstacle height [100 mm] [✔️], Obstacle height less than 100 mm [❌].

Trees

The Robotic Mower treats trees as common obstacles, but if the roots of the tree are exposed and lower than 100mm, this area should be excluded using boundary wire in order to protect the tree root, cutting blades or rear wheels from damage.

Stones

We recommend clearing the lawn of small (less than 100 mm high) rocks and stones and any stones with a round or sloped edge. The Robotic Mower might try and climb such rocks instead of recognising them as a barrier. The Robotic Mower getting stuck on such a stone requires user intervention to restart mowing. Contact with stones can result in damage to the blades.

Slopes

The Robotic Mower can navigate slopes up to a maximum of 30% incline or decline. The boundary wire should never be perpendicular to an incline of more than 10%. Also, leave a strip of at least 2 m between a slope of 10% or steeper and the boundary wire. Otherwise, the higher speed going down the slope may cause the Robotic Mower to go over the boundary wire, especially on wet and slippery ground.

Diagram showing slope limits: Slope less than 30% [✔️], Slope greater than 30% [❌]. Slope incline less than 10% [✔️], Slope incline greater than 10% [❌]. Minimum 2m distance from slopes greater than 10%.

Paths, Driveways and Roads

If an elevated driveway crosses your lawn, it is best to keep it outside the boundary wire. Please allow a safety distance of 30 cm between the driveway and boundary wire.

If the driveway and lawn are at the same level, use the boundary wire to create a corridor. This allows your Robotic Mower to cross the driveway and reach the opposite lawn.

Diagram showing driveway: 30 cm safety distance for elevated driveway. Corridor for level driveway.

Installation

Uneven lawn surfaces

Uneven lawn areas may cause the blades to touch the ground. We recommend leveling the lawn before using your Robotic Mower or excluding uneven areas with the boundary wire.

Placing the docking station

Locate the best position for your docking station. Be aware that it needs a permanent connection to the mains, so take into account the location of the nearest power outlet.

To ensure the Robotic Mower can return to the docking station smoothly, leave 1.5 m of straight wire to the front of the docking station and 30 cm to the side facing the cutting area. Use a shaded location for the docking station, as a lower temperature while charging is beneficial to the battery.

Important: Place the docking station on an even, flat surface away from ponds, pools or stairs. We recommend suitable protection from the elements, for example a robot port or garage.

Do not place the docking station too close to a slope, such as at the top of a hill or the bottom of a furrow. Avoid left and right inclination in excess of 5 degrees.

Diagram showing docking station placement: minimum 1.5m straight wire in front, minimum 0.3m (30cm) to the side. Avoid inclinations greater than +/- 5 degrees.

If your lawn has a soft or uneven surface, we recommend fortifying the area around the docking station with a grass protection mesh. Otherwise, the repeated stress of the rear wheels can damage the turf.

Once the position of the docking station is confirmed and mains electrical connection is laid out, please do not connect to main power yet. Finish all boundary layout work before connecting the docking station to the power supply.

Pegging your boundary wire

We strongly recommend mowing the lawn to 60 mm or less before laying out the boundary wire. Burying the boundary wire is entirely optional. Still, the closer to the ground you lay out the boundary wire, the lower the chance of tripping over it or damaging it when mowing the lawn. Use the included ruler to ensure the required 30 cm distance between wire and obstacles.

Diagram showing boundary wire pegging: 30 cm distance from edges and obstacles. Pegs approximately 80 cm apart in straight lines, closer in curves. Peg hook and wire slit always face the outside of the boundary.

When first planting the pegs, do not drive them fully into the ground. Use a light hammer to drive them in a little bit. Also locate the fixing pegs and lay each one on the lawn at approximately the correct distance from lawn edges (30 cm) and obstacles.

Flowerbeds

Use the boundary wire to exclude any flowerbeds from the cutting area. There are two options for the two lengths of boundary wire running between the flowerbed and the outer boundary:

1. Keep the distance between the parallel wires above 5 cm. This way, the Robotic Mower will recognise the boundary wire as an ordinary obstacle. When cutting, it will "bounce" off it as usual. When following the boundary wire back to the docking station, it will take the detour around the flower bed.
2. Alternatively, keep the distance between the two parallel wires below 5 cm. Do not cross the wires. This way, the Robotic Mower will not recognise the wires and travel across them unhindered. This option requires placing an obstacle on the boundary wire around the flowerbed. Place the obstacle, e.g. a large rock or pole, near position A indicated on the illustration. The obstacle must be surrounded by a flat area of about 1 m x 1 m, without any slopes. This obstacle will allow the machine to exit the circle.

Diagrams illustrating the two flowerbed wire options: Option 1 shows wires > 5 cm apart. Option 2 shows wires < 5 cm apart with an obstacle at point A.

Ponds and Pools

While the Robotic Mower is protected against rain and spray water, being submerged is likely to cause severe damage to the electronic parts. Therefore, it is imperative to exclude any pools from the cutting area. For added safety, we recommend placing a fence around the pool.

Inventory and garage

If you have created a boundary corridor inside your working area, the corridor should be at least 2 m wide and a max length of 8 m. If a corridor is too narrow or too long, the Robotic Mower might not be able to navigate it from one end to the other.

Diagram showing corridor dimensions: minimum 2m width, maximum 8m length.

Connect the docking station to the boundary wire

Run the boundary wire underneath the front of the docking station and connect the end of the wire to the left (black) connector marked 'F' (front). After you have placed the wire around the garden, then place the other end into the right (red) connector marked "B" (back).

Diagram showing wire connection: Black wire to 'F' (front), Red wire to 'B' (back). Wire length 10-15 mm.

Signal selection

Note: the default signal is S1. No need to change the signal when there isn't an influence signal from neighbors.

If your neighbor is using the same mower, you will need to keep a distance of 0.5m between you and your neighbor's boundary wires to prevent the two devices interfering with each other. Ensure to position your docking station at least 10m away from your neighbor's boundary wires and that both products are using different signals. Please refer to section "Signal setting" in order to select signal S1 or S2 for your installation.

1. Press the "Signal" button on the charging station; the indicator will be switched to S2.
2. Press the "S2" button on the control panel; the indicator will be switched to S2.

Diagrams showing signal selection: S1, S2 options. Distances: >10m, >0.5m.

Operation

Control panel

Diagram of the control panel with numbered buttons.

Indicator meaning

• Flashing when the Robotic Mower is lifted or climbing an obstacle.
• Flashing when there is no correct signal detected.
• Flashing when battery is low.
• Flashing when the Robotic Mower is charging in the docking station.

Working time select button

Press the button to select the working time. The LED indicator will show under the working time button that has been selected. Robotic Mower will go back to docking station when the selected time is over.

Diagram showing time selection buttons: 2hr, 4hr, 6hr, 8hr.

Press the button to select the working date. The LED indicator will show under the working date button that has been selected. Robotic Mower will go back to docking station when the working date is not selected.

Diagram showing day selection buttons: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun.

Signal select button

Select either S1 or S2. NOTE: Signal selection must be the same as on the docking station.

Diagram showing S1/S2 selection.

Operation button

• Home button: First press the Home button, then press the OK button. Robotic Mower will return to docking station.
• Start button: First press the Start button, then press the OK button. Robotic Mower will start to work.
• OK button
• Lock/Unlock button: Indicator will show when pressed and will lock the control panel.

Rain sensor

When this sensor is activated while raining, the Robotic Mower will return to the docking station automatically.

NOTE: Rain sensor can be activated/deactivated manually. Press and hold the "Fri" button, then power on the Robotic Mower.

Before starting – Adjust the time setting

NOTE: The Robotic Mower should be out of the docking station when operating the time setting.

Step 1 - Hold the [button] and press the main power switch at the same time. The Robotic Mower will power ON. Hold the [button] until all LED lights are ON.

Step 2 - Day calibration: Choose the related day button. For example, if today is Monday, press [Mon], and then you would hear a beep.

After 3 seconds, all LEDs will flash off. Congratulations, all calibration has been completed. The mower will restart, now you can enjoy the scheduled mowing in your garden.

Step 3 - Hour calibration: The time cannot be exactly fixed, only roughly. To set the time, you need to follow steps below. When you make the hour calibration, please select the most close time from our time range according to your local time.

Available time slots: 8:00 (AM), 12:00 (AM), 16:00 (4PM), 20:00 (8PM), 10:00 (AM), 14:00 (2PM), 18:00 (6PM).

Example: if now is 08:25, please press [Mon], and then you would hear a beep. If now is 09:45, please press [Tue], and then you would hear a beep. If now is 14:25, please press [Thu], and then you would hear a beep. If now is 16:45, please press [Fri], and then you would hear a beep.

Start mowing

After finishing the time settings, you can start your Robotic Mower.

1. Press the [button] 4 times to unlock the panel.
2. Press the button [Start] and then press the button [OK]. The Robotic Mower will start to work.

Return to the docking station

1. Press the [button] 4 times to unlock the panel.
2. Press the button [Home] and then press the button [OK]. The Robotic Mower will back to the docking station.

Emergency Stop

Press [STOP] button to halt the mower at any time.

Diagram showing STOP button.

Cutting height adjustment

The cutting height can be adjusted by rotating the height adjustment dial located on the top of the machine. Cutting height range from 20 mm - 60 mm.

NOTE! We recommend using an ordinary lawn mower or trimmer to cut the lawn below 60 mm before using the Robotic Mower. This will ensure you get the optimum performance.

Changing the PIN Code

1. Switch Off the main power switch.
2. Hold down the [lock button] while switching ON the main power switch. After a few seconds, all indicators on the control panel will start flashing.
3. Release the [lock button].
4. Enter your new PIN-Code within 6 seconds; the Robotic Mower will confirm and change the PIN with a beep.
5. All indicators will turn off and the Robotic Mower will reboot, and the indicator of the lock button will flash, confirming that the reboot is complete.

NOTE: If you do not remember your PIN code, please set a new PIN code as described above, but it is not possible to reset the device to the default PIN-code of 4X.

Technical Data

* WARNING: For the purposes of recharging the battery, only use the detachable supply unit provided with this appliance.

Maintenance and storage

Maintenance

Maintenance work that has not been described in these instructions must be carried out by a servicing agency authorized by the manufacturer. Only use original parts.

Check and clean your Robotic Mower regularly and replace worn parts if necessary. Preferably use a dry brush, a damp cloth or a sharpened wooden piece. Never use flushing water. Following these maintenance instructions can extend your Robotic Mower's service life.

Battery Life

The Robotic Mower has a maintenance-free Li-ion battery, with an estimated life of more than 2 years (depending on treatment and usage).

Winter Storage

During winter, keep your mower, docking station, and power supply in a dry place. We recommend a shed, garage, or preferably store it indoors.

Prepare your device for winter storage as follows:

1. Fully recharge the battery.
2. Set the mains power switch to "OFF".
3. Thoroughly clean your Robotic Mower.
4. Unplug the power supply from the mains outlet.
5. Disconnect the power supply from the docking station.
6. Disconnect the boundary wire from the docking station. Lift up the docking station and clean.

The boundary wire can remain outside. However, it is imperative to protect the wire against corrosion. We recommend a water-free grease or suitable sealing tape.

If available, repack the product in the original packaging. Alternatively, our service center offers a winter service for your device. This will include a check-up of all parts and, if available, a software upgrade.

Preparing for spring

After winter storage, please clean the charging contacts on both the Robotic Mower and the docking station. Use a fine abrasion paper or a brass brush; this will help to achieve the best charging efficiency and avoid any charging interference.

Cleaning the mower body

As your Robotic Mower is battery-powered, you need to take care when cleaning. Remove rough dirt with a soft brush. Use a manual water spray with mild household detergent for intensive cleaning. Wipe off any residue after cleaning with a moist rag.

Disposal

To help the environment, please dispose of the product properly when it has reached the end of its useful life and not in the household waste. Information on collection points and their opening hours can be obtained from your local authority.

Environmental damage through incorrect disposal of batteries / rechargeable batteries. Remove the battery pack from the product before disposal. Batteries / rechargeable batteries may not be disposed of with the usual domestic waste. They may contain toxic heavy metals and are subject to hazardous waste treatment rules and regulations. Please dispose of batteries according to the relevant local requirements.

Cleaning the underside

Ensure the main power switch is in the OFF position. Wearing protective gloves, turn the Robotic Mower onto its side to expose its underside. Clean the blade disc and frame using a soft brush or damp cloth. Rotate the blade disc to make sure that it can move freely, check that the blades can turn on their pivots and that there is no grass obstructing them.

Diagram showing mower on its side for cleaning.

Clean the contact pins and the charging strips

Using wire wool, metal cleaner, or very fine grade emery paper, clean the contact pins and the charging strips on your mower and docking station. Remove any debris, leaves, or grass clippings around the contact pins and charging strips to ensure efficient charging.

Reversing or replacing the blades

WARNING! Ensure the Robotic Mower is completely shut off before cleaning, adjusting, or replacing the blades. Always wear protective gloves.

WARNING! To ensure maximum cutting efficiency and safety, always use recommended replacement blades and blade mounting parts when replacing.

Your Robotic Mower has three blades, fixed to the blades disk. Unless damaged by hard obstacles, these blades can last for up to five months of everyday use. Weekly inspection of the blades and the fixing screws is advised. Note that the blades are double-edged. When the first side becomes blunt, loosen the fixing screw and turn the blade upside down and re-fix. Check that the blade can move freely.

A set of spare blades is included with the Robotic Mower. More blades can be purchased via customer support. To ensure you get the best performance from your machine, always replace all three blades at the same time. Only use spare parts recommended by the manufacturer.

NOTE: If blades have been removed/changed, please ensure that the screw is firmly secured in place and that the blade is free to move.

Diagram showing spare blades and how to replace them.

Spare parts list

In case you need spare parts or any support with your device, please call our after-sales center.

Troubleshooting

Robotic Mower cannot dock with docking station

• Check that the boundary wire in front and underneath the charger is in a straight line.
• Check that the docking station's position is suitable as explained in this manual.

Robotic Mower runs in circles while mowing or while following boundary wire back to docking station

• Verify that no power cable runs parallel and in close proximity to the boundary wire. If necessary, reposition the boundary wire.
• Check if a front wheel is stuck.
• If a neighbor has a similar Robotic Mower, the signals may interfere. Try setting your docking station and Robotic Mower to the alternative boundary signal S1 to S2.
• Driving motor may be damaged; please contact customer support.

The Robotic Mower is noisy

• Inspect the blade fixing screws; tighten if necessary.
• Inspect the blades for damage; replace if necessary.
• Grass may be too high. Try increasing the cutting height, or mow the lawn with an ordinary lawnmower first.
• Cutting motor failure; please call after-sales service.

Mower remains at or returns to docking station when pressing START button

• Check if the mower has already completed the programmed working time for that day.
• Battery is low; the Robotic Mower needs to be charged.

LED signal indicator on docking station

Diagrams showing LED states:

• S1/S2 indicator lights on: Boundary wire signal in good condition.
• S1/S2 indicator flashes: Boundary wire broken, no signal.
• S1/S2 indicator flashing alternately: Mower is charging in the docking station.

Charging trouble shooting

Mowing trouble shooting

Function ON/OFF by key combination

Boundary mowing *: Function description: the mower will mow along the entire boundary wire with a maximum 2 days interval.

Auto multi-zone *: The mower will measure the complete boundary value and divide it into several points equally. Every time after charging, the mower will go to each point sequentially and then start cutting from this point.

Mower runs in circles

This issue can occur while mowing or while following the boundary wire back to the docking station.