Hunter Pro-C

Introduction and Installation

Pro-C Components

The Pro-C controller features several key components:

• A. LCD Display: Shows program status, station numbers, time, date, and various settings.
• B. Control Buttons and Switches: Includes buttons for increasing/decreasing values, returning to previous screens, advancing to the next item or starting a manual cycle, selecting programs (PRO button), and a Rain Sensor Bypass Switch.
• C. Control Dial: A rotary dial used to select operating modes such as RUN, SET CURRENT DATE/TIME, SET PROGRAM START TIMES, SET STATION RUN TIMES, SET DAYS TO WATER, SET PUMP OPERATION, MANUAL - SINGLE STATION, SEASONAL ADJUSTMENT, and SYSTEM OFF.
• D. Wiring Compartment: Houses terminals for connecting AC power transformer, sensor wires, valve wires, pump start relay, and a 9-volt battery. Includes a ground lug.

Diagram Description: The front panel of the Pro-C controller is depicted, showing the LCD screen at the top, followed by control buttons, and a large central dial with various programming options. The rain sensor bypass switch is also visible. The wiring compartment is shown on the side/back, illustrating connection points.

Mounting the Controller to a Wall

All necessary hardware is included for most installations. The indoor Pro-C is not weather or water resistant and must be installed indoors or in a protected area. The outdoor model is water and weather resistant.

1. Select a location near an electrical outlet or power supply not controlled by a light switch.
2. Remove the front panel by disconnecting the ribbon connector and pulling down the hinge release.
3. Use the top hole on the controller as a reference, secure a 1" (25 mm) screw into the wall. Use screw anchors if attaching to drywall or masonry.
4. Align the controller with the screw and slide the keyhole on top over the screw.
5. Secure the controller in place using screws in the provided holes.

Note: Connecting the outdoor Pro-C to primary power should be done by a licensed electrician following local codes. Improper installation can result in shock or fire hazard. This device is not intended for use by young children.

For PC-301-A: If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, service agent, or similarly qualified person to avoid hazard.

Connecting Valves and AC Power

General Wiring:

• Route valve wires between the control valve location and the controller.
• At each valve, attach a common wire to one solenoid wire. Attach a separate control wire to the remaining solenoid wire of each valve. Use waterproof connectors for splices.
• Route valve wires through conduit and attach the conduit to an opening on the bottom of the cabinet.
• Strip 1/2" (13 mm) of insulation from all wires. Connect the common valve wire to the "COM" (Common) terminal. Connect individual valve control wires to the appropriate station terminals.

Indoor Cabinet Wiring:

Route the transformer cable through the bottom left hole of the controller. Connect the two Yellow wires from the transformer to the AC terminals and the Green wire to the GND terminal.

Outdoor Cabinet Wiring:

Route AC power cable and conduit through the 1/2" (13 mm) conduit opening on the bottom left. Connect wires to the transformer wires inside the junction box. Use a UL listed conduit 1/2" (13 mm) male adapter for AC wiring. Insert the adapter into the 1/2" (13 mm) hole and secure with a nut inside the enclosure.

Note: It is recommended that a licensed electrician perform the power installation. Pro-C/PCC controllers require AC power supplied with a 15A rated over-current protective device.

Diagram Description: Illustrates wiring connections for both indoor and outdoor cabinets. For indoor, it shows the transformer connected to AC terminals and GND. For outdoor, it shows the AC power input, junction box, and connections to transformer wires, with specific wire colors (Black for HOT, White for NEUTRAL, Green for GROUND).

Installing Station Modules

The Pro-C controller supports expansion modules (PCM-300 for 3 stations, PCM-900 for 9 stations) to increase capacity up to 15 stations. The PCM-900 requires a PCM-300 in the first expansion slot (stations 4-6).

The controller uses automatic module recognition. To install modules:

1. Slide the Power Lock to the "Power Off" (unlocked) position.
2. Insert PCM modules into the sequential positions in the controller cabinet.
3. Once modules are in place, slide the Power Lock to "Power On" (locked) to energize and secure them.
4. The controller automatically recognizes the number of stations.

Note: Your Pro-C controller is designed to work only with BLACK PCM expansion modules.

Connecting the Battery (optional)

A 9-volt battery (not included) can be installed in the front panel compartment to allow programming without AC power. Watering requires AC power. The controller's non-volatile memory retains programs and the clock/calendar during power outages, even without a battery.

Connecting a Master Valve

If a master valve is installed, connect its common wire to either solenoid wire and a separate control wire to the remaining solenoid wire. Route these wires to the controller. Connect one wire to the [P/MV] terminal and the other to the [COM] terminal.

Note: Complete this section only if a master valve is installed. A master valve opens only when the automatic system is activated.

Diagram Description: Shows a master valve connected to the controller's [P/MV] and [COM] terminals, with valve wires running from the master valve to the controller's wiring compartment.

Connecting a Pump Start Relay

A pump start relay is used to activate a pump via a signal from the controller. Route a wire pair from the pump relay into the controller. Connect the pump common wire to the [COM] terminal and the remaining wire to the [P/MV] screw slot. Relay holding current must not exceed 0.28 amps (24 VAC). Do not connect the controller directly to the pump.

Diagram Description: Illustrates wiring a PSR Series Pump Start Relay. Wires from the relay connect to the controller's [COM] and [P/MV] terminals. High voltage input to the relay and output to the pump are shown.

Connecting a Weather Sensor

A Hunter Mini-Clik® rain sensor or similar micro-switch weather sensor can be connected to stop watering when precipitation is sufficient. Route sensor wires through the same conduit as valve wiring. Remove the metal jumper plate from the two [SEN] terminals. Connect one wire to each [SEN] terminal. The display will show "OFF" and a sensor icon when watering is deactivated by the sensor.

Manually Bypassing the Weather Sensor: The [RAIN SENSOR] switch on the front panel can be set to [BYPASS] to disable the sensor for controller operation or manual use.

Note: If the [RAIN SENSOR] switch is left in the [ACTIVE] position with no sensor connected and the jumper removed, the display will show "SEN OFF" and no irrigation will occur. To avoid this, leave the switch in [BYPASS] or install a jumper wire between the sensor terminals.

Connecting a Hunter Remote Control

A SmartPort® wiring harness allows for remote control operation. Install a 1/2" female threaded "Tee" in the field wiring conduit approximately 12 feet below the Pro-C. Feed the harness wires (red, white, blue) through the "Tee" and into the wiring compartment. Attach the red wire to [AC1], the white wire to [AC2], and the blue wire to the [REM] slot.

Note: Extending SmartPort wiring may cause radio interference. Use shielded cable for extensions.

Connecting to the Hunter Solar Sync

The Solar Sync sensor system automatically adjusts watering based on local climate conditions (solar and temperature data for evapotranspiration). It also includes Rain-Clik™ and Freeze-Clik™ sensors to shut down the system during rain or freezing temperatures. A small module connects the sensor to the controller, automatically adjusting run times for water efficiency and plant health. Program the controller normally; Solar Sync manages adjustments.

Power Failures

The controller has non-volatile memory to preserve programs indefinitely. It also retains the current time and date during power outages without needing a battery.

Controller Programming and Operation

Sprinkler System Fundamentals

Automatic sprinkler systems consist of three main components: the controller, valves, and sprinklers. The controller is the "brain," instructing valves when and how long to supply water. Sprinklers distribute water to plants and lawns. A valve controls a group of sprinklers, called a watering station, based on plant type, location, and water needs. Each valve connects to the controller via a wire corresponding to its station number. The controller operates stations sequentially, one at a time, in a process called a watering cycle. The watering times and durations for stations form a program.

Diagram Description: A schematic shows a Pro-C controller connected via wires to multiple valves, each controlling a watering station. Stations are depicted with different landscape types (front yard lawn, side lawn, back yard lawn, garden, front corner lawn).

Creating a Watering Schedule

Consider soil type, landscape part, weather, and sprinkler types when determining watering times and duration. A watering schedule form is provided for reference.

• Station Number and Location: Identify station, location, and plant type.
• Watering Day: Choose calendar day, interval, or odd/even day schedule. Circle days for calendar, indicate interval number for interval.
• Program Start Times: Set 1-4 start times per program. One start time activates the entire program. Write "OFF" for unused pump start times.
• Station Run Time: Set run time (1 minute to 6 hours) for each station. Use "0:00" for stations not to be operated in the program.

Note: Watering one to two hours before sunrise is optimal for water absorption and minimal evaporation. Mid-day or evening watering can damage plants or cause mildew.

Note: Monitor for under- or over-watering. Over-watering causes water pools; under-watering causes discoloration and dryness. Adjust programming immediately.

Watering Schedule Form Example

A sample form is provided to help plan watering schedules for Programs A, B, and C, detailing day of the week, program start times, station numbers, locations, and station run times.

Programming Fundamentals

A watering program operates valves sequentially. To create a program:

1. Select Program A, B, or C using the [PRO] button.
2. Set a program start time (one is sufficient for the program).
3. Set the run time for each valve.
4. Set the watering days.

The Pro-C offers three independent programs (A, B, C) to accommodate different plant needs. Programs do not run concurrently; overlaps are stacked.

Diagram Description: An example illustrates Program A with a 6:00 AM start time. Station 1 runs for 15 minutes, then Station 2 for 15 minutes, followed by Station 3 for 20 minutes. The total cycle time is 50 minutes. The controller automatically advances between stations.

Programming the Controller

Setting the Current Date and Time

1. Turn the dial to [SET CURRENT DATE/TIME].
2. Use the [+] and [-] buttons to set the current year, then press [PRO] to move to the month.
3. Use [+] and [-] to set the month, then press [PRO] to move to the day.
4. Use [+] and [-] to set the day, then press [PRO] to move to the time.
5. Use [+] and [-] to select AM/PM or 24-hour format. Use [+] and [-] to set the hour, then press [PRO] to move to minutes. Use [+] and [-] to set the minutes.

Setting Program Start Times

1. Turn the dial to [SET PROGRAM START TIMES].
2. Select Program A, B, or C using the [PRO] button if needed.
3. Use [+] and [-] buttons to set the start time (15-minute increments). One start time activates all stations sequentially for that program.
4. Press [PRO] to add another start time or move to the next program.

Note: Start times are automatically arranged chronologically.

Eliminating a Program Start Time: Set dial to [SET PROGRAM START TIMES], use [+] and [-] to reach 12:00 AM (Midnight), then press [PRO] to reach the OFF position.

Note: If all start times for a program are OFF, the program is inactive.

Setting Station Run Times

1. Turn the dial to [SET STATION RUN TIMES].
2. The display shows the selected program, station number, and flashing run time. Press [PRO] to switch programs.
3. Use [+] and [-] buttons to set the run time (1 minute to 6 hours).
4. Press [PRO] to advance to the next station. Repeat for all stations.

Setting Days to Water

1. Turn the dial to [SET DAYS TO WATER].
2. Select Program A, B, or C using the [PRO] button if needed.
3. The controller displays the current schedule. You can choose specific days, interval watering, or odd/even days. Each program uses only one watering day option.

Selecting Specific Days of the Week to Water

Press the [PRO] button to select a watering day (starts with Monday). Press the [-] button to cancel a day. The display advances automatically. A [water-icon] indicates a watering day; a blank space indicates no watering.

Selecting Odd or Even Days to Water

This feature uses calendar days (odd/even) instead of days of the week. With the cursor on SU, press the [PRO] button to select ODD. Press the [PRO] button again to select EVEN. Use [+] and [-] to switch between ODD and EVEN.

Selecting Interval Watering

This feature allows consistent watering without tracking specific days. The interval is the number of days between watering, including the watering day.

1. Turn the dial to [SET DAYS TO WATER]. The water drop above Monday should flash.
2. Press the [PRO] button until the drop over EVEN flashes, then press it again. The display enters interval mode with the Interval Day number flashing.
3. Use [+] or [-] to select the desired interval.
4. Press [PRO] to select NO WATER DAYS.

Note: Interval watering excludes days marked as "no water days."

Run

After programming, turn the dial to [RUN] for automatic execution.

System Off

Turning the dial to [SYSTEM OFF] stops all watering and active programs. Return the dial to [RUN] for normal operation.

Manually Run a Single Station

1. Turn the dial to [MANUAL - SINGLE STATION].
2. Station run time will flash. Use [PRO] to select the station and [+] / [-] to set the run time.
3. Turn the dial to [RUN] to start the selected station. The controller returns to automatic mode afterward.

Note: Manual single station function overrides the sensor.

Seasonal Adjustment

This feature allows global run time adjustments (5% to 300%) without reprogramming. It's useful for weather-related changes. Increase for hotter weather, decrease for cooler weather.

1. Turn the dial to [SEASONAL ADJUSTMENT].
2. Use [+] or [-] buttons to set the percentage.

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

One Touch Manual Start and Advance

Activate watering without the dial. Hold the [MANUAL START] button for 2 seconds. The feature defaults to Program A. Use the [PRO] button to select Program B or C. Use [PRO] to scroll through stations and [+] / [-] to adjust run times. Press the [PRO] button to select the starting station. The program begins after a 2-second pause.

Advanced Features

Set Pump/Master Valve Operation

The master valve/pump start circuit is ON by default for all stations. It can be set ON or OFF per station:

1. Turn the dial to [SET PUMP OPERATION].
2. Use [+] or [-] to toggle ON/OFF for the specific station.
3. Press [PRO] to advance to the next station. Repeat for all stations.

Programmable Rain Off

Stop all programmed watering for a set period (1 to 31 days). After the period, normal operation resumes.

1. Turn the dial to [SYSTEM OFF].
2. Press the [PRO] button; '1' and the [DAYS LEFT] icon will display.
3. Use [+] as needed to set the number of days off (up to 31).
4. Turn the dial to [RUN]. The display will show OFF, the number of days, and the [DAYS LEFT] icon.
5. The days off count down daily. Normal irrigation resumes when the count reaches zero.

Setting Specific Day(s) Off

Designate specific days as "No Water Day" (e.g., for mowing). Turn the dial to [DAYS TO WATER]. Enter an interval schedule. Press [PRO] until MON flashes. Use [PRO] to move the cursor to the desired day. Press [PRO] to set it as a "No Water Day" (a [water-icon] will illuminate). Repeat for all desired days.

Hidden Features

Program Customization

Customize which programs (A, B, C) are displayed. To hide programs:

1. Press and hold the [PRO] button.
2. Turn the dial to [SET DAYS TO WATER].
3. Release the buttons.
4. Use [+] and [-] to change program modes (Advanced: 3 programs/4 start times; Normal: 2 programs/4 start times; Limited: 1 program/1 start time).

Programmable Delay Between Stations

Insert a delay between station shut-off and the next station start. Useful for slow valves or pump recovery.

1. Start with the dial in [RUN].
2. Press and hold the [PRO] button while turning the dial to [SET STATION RUN TIMES].
3. Release the button. The display shows delay time in seconds, with a [DELAY] icon.
4. Use [+] and [-] to set delay from 0-59 seconds, then 0-4 hours. 'Hr' indicates hours.
5. Return the dial to [RUN].

Note: The Master Valve/Pump Start circuit operates for the first 15 seconds of any programmed delay.

Programmable Sensor Override

Disable the sensor for specific stations (e.g., patios under overhangs). Turn the dial to [RUN]. Press and hold the [PRO] button while turning the dial to [START TIMES]. Release the button. The display shows station number, ON/OFF, and a [water-icon]. Use [+] or [-] to enable ([ON]) or disable ([OFF]) the sensor for the station. Use [PRO] to scroll to other stations.

Note: By default, the sensor disables watering on all zones.

Total Run Time Calculator

In [SET STATION RUN TIME] mode, use the [PRO] button to advance to the highest station. Press [PRO] again to review total run times for the program. Use [PRO] to review additional programs.

Test Program

Run a test program for each station sequentially. To initiate:

1. Press and hold the [PRO] button. The station number flashes.
2. Use [+] or [-] to select the starting station. Use [+] and [-] to set a run time (up to 15 minutes).
3. After a 2-second pause, the test program begins.

Easy Retrieve™ Program Memory

Save preferred programs for later retrieval. To save:

1. With the dial in [RUN], press and hold [+] and [PRO] for 5 seconds. A [saving-icon] will scroll across the display.
2. Release the buttons.

To retrieve a saved program:

1. With the dial in [RUN], press and hold [+] and [PRO] for 5 seconds. A [saving-icon] will scroll from right to left.
2. Release the buttons.

Hunter Quick Check™

This diagnostic procedure identifies "shorts" caused by faulty solenoids or wires. To initiate:

1. Press [+], [-], and [PRO] buttons simultaneously. The LCD displays all segments.
2. Press the [PRO] button to start the test. The system checks for high current paths. An [ERR] symbol will flash if a short is detected. The controller returns to automatic mode after the test.

Clearing Controller's Memory/Resetting Controller

To reset to factory defaults, press and hold the [PRO] button, then press and release the [RESET] button on the back of the front panel. Wait until the display shows 12:00 AM, then release the [PRO] button. All memory will be cleared.

Winterizing Your System

In areas with frost, systems may need "winterizing" to drain water. If using the "blow out" method, it is recommended to use a qualified licensed contractor.

WARNING! WEAR ANSI APPROVED SAFETY EYE PROTECTION! Compressed air can cause serious injury, including eye injury from flying debris. Always wear safety eye protection and do not stand over irrigation components during blow out.

Troubleshooting and Specifications

Troubleshooting Guide

Refer to the following table for common problems, their causes, and solutions:

• Controller repeats/waters continuously: Cause: Too many start times. Solution: Use only one start time per active program.
• No display: Cause: Check AC power wiring. Solution: Correct any errors.
• Display reads "ERR": Cause: Electrical noise. Solution: Check SmartPort® wiring harness; use shielded cable if extended.
• Display reads "P ERR": Cause: Faulty pump start or master valve wire. Solution: Check wire continuity, repair/replace shorted wire, ensure connections are tight.
• Display reads station number + "ERR" (e.g., "2 ERR"): Cause: Faulty station wire. Solution: Check station wire continuity, repair/replace shorted wire, ensure connections are tight.
• Display reads "NO AC": Cause: No AC power. Solution: Check transformer installation.
• Display reads "SENSOR OFF": Cause: Rain sensor interrupting or jumper not installed. Solution: Set Rain Sensor switch to [BYPASS] or install sensor jumper.
• Rain sensor not shutting off system: Cause: Incompatible sensor or jumper not removed. Solution: Ensure micro-switch sensor (e.g., Mini-Clik®) and correct jumper installation.
• Controller has no start time for each station: Cause: Programming error or incorrect dial position. Solution: Ensure dial is in correct position; check station count in [SET STATION RUN TIMES].
• Valve will not turn on: Cause: Short in wiring or bad solenoid. Solution: Check field wiring, replace solenoid if necessary.

Specifications

• Operating Specifications: Station Run Time: 1-6 hours per program. Start Times: Up to 4 per day, per program (12 daily starts total). Watering Schedule: 7-day, interval, or odd/even day programming.
• Electrical Specifications: Transformer Input: 120 VAC, 60 Hz (230 VAC, 50/60 Hz International). Transformer Output: 25 VAC, 1.0 amp. Station Output: 24 VAC, 0.56 amps per station. Maximum Output: 24 VAC, 0.84 amps. Battery: 9V alkaline (optional, for non-AC programming). Internal CR2032 Lithium battery for real-time clock.
• Dimensions: Indoor Cabinet: 8.25" H x 9.5" W x 3.75" D. Outdoor Cabinet: 9" H x 10" W x 4.5" D (NEMA 3R, IP44 rated).
• Default Settings: Stations set to zero run time. Non-volatile memory retains data during power outages.
• Cleaning: Clean with a damp cloth and mild soapy water.

FCC Notice

This controller generates radio frequency energy and complies with FCC Class B limits for computing devices. It is designed to provide reasonable protection against interference in residential installations. If interference occurs, try reorienting the antenna, moving the controller, or using different outlets. Consult a dealer or technician for further assistance. A booklet on "How to Identify and Resolve Radio-TV Interference Problems" is available from the U.S. Government Printing Office.

Certificate of Conformity to European Directives

Hunter Industries declares that the Model Pro-C irrigation controller complies with European Directives for electromagnetic compatibility (87/336/EEC) and low voltage (73/23/EEC).