Hunter Pro-C Irrigation Controller User Manual and Installation Guide

Introduction

The Hunter Pro-C is a professional irrigation controller designed for residential and commercial installations. It offers simplified programming and a wide range of features. The Pro-C is modular, allowing expansion from 3 to 15 stations by adding plug-in modules, simplifying inventory for installers. Key features include a durable, lockable plastic case, rain sensor bypass, surge protection, seasonal adjustment, pump/master valve circuit, programmable rain delay, and three independent programs with four daily watering times each.

Elements of the Pro-C

A. Screen

• 1. Program Selector: Identifies the current program (A, B, or C).
• 2. Station Number: Shows the selected station number.
• 3. Main Display: Shows various times, values, and programmed information.
• 4. Year: Displays the current calendar year.
• 5. Month: Displays the current calendar month.
• 6. Day: Displays the current calendar day.
• 7. Watering Icon: Indicates watering times.
• 8. Days of the Week: Shows watering and non-watering days; allows selection of odd/even or interval watering.
• 9. Odd/Even Watering: Indicates if watering is set for odd or even days.
• 10. Interval: Indicates if watering is set for intervals.
• 11. Seasonal Adjustment: Displays seasonal adjustment percentage in 10% increments.
• 12. Cycle Start: Shows the start time for a watering cycle.

B. Buttons and Control Dial

• 13. + Button: Increases the flashing display value.
• 14. - Button: Decreases the flashing display value.
• 15. < Button: Returns to the previous flashing display.
• 16. > Button: Advances to the next flashing display; also starts a manual cycle.
• 17. PRG Button: Selects programs A, B, and C.
• 18. Rain Sensor Switch: Allows the user to bypass the rain sensor.
• 19. ▲ and ▼ Buttons: Adjust seasonal adjustment settings.

C. Control Dial Functions

• MARCHE (RUN): Normal position for automatic and manual operation.
• RÉGLAGE JOUR/HEURE (SET DAY/TIME): Sets the current date and time.
• RÉGLAGE DÉPART CYCLE D'ARROSAGE (SET WATERING START TIMES): Allows 1 to 4 start times per program.
• RÉGLAGE TEMPS D'ARROSAGE STATIONS (SET STATION RUN TIMES): Sets watering duration for each station.
• RÉGLAGE JOURS D'ARROSAGE (SET DAYS TO WATER): Selects individual watering days, or odd/even/interval watering.
• RÉGLAGE FONCTIONNEMENT POMPE (SET PUMP OPERATION): Sets pump or master valve operation for specific stations.
• MARCHE MANUELLE - UNE STATION (MANUAL SINGLE STATION): Activates a single watering cycle for one station.
• MARCHE MANUELLE - CYCLE COMPLET (MANUAL CYCLE COMPLETE): Activates a single watering cycle for all stations or selected stations within a program.
• ARRÊT (OFF): Stops all programs and watering operations until the dial is returned to MARCHE (RUN), or sets a programmable rain delay.

Elements of the Pro-C - Wiring Compartment

The wiring compartment houses the main control board and terminals for connecting valves, sensors, and power. Key components include:

• 20. 9V Battery: (Optional, not included) Allows programming without AC power.
• 21. Reset Button: Resets the controller to factory defaults without erasing programmed data.
• 22. Power Arm: Connects wires from the transformer, rain sensor, and other systems to the controller.
• 23. Transformer: (Outdoor models) Supplies AC power from the mains. (Indoor models use a plug-in transformer).
• 24. Junction Box: (Outdoor models) For main power connection.
• 25. Station Modules: Expandable slots for up to 3 modules, supporting 3 to 15 stations.
• 26. Base Module: Includes terminals for stations 1-3, master valve/pump connection, and common wire.
• 27. Easy-Lock™ Slide Mechanism: Simplifies module installation and removal.

Mounting

Indoor Mounting

The Pro-C indoor model is not weather-resistant and must be mounted indoors or in a sheltered location. Choose a location near a standard electrical outlet, protected from humidity and direct sunlight. Mount the controller level, using a 25 mm (1 inch) screw as a guide. Use wall anchors if mounting on drywall or masonry. Ensure the controller is mounted and all valves are connected before plugging in the transformer.

Outdoor Mounting

The outdoor model is weather-resistant. Electrical connections must be made by a qualified electrician according to local codes. Choose a location near a power source. Mount the controller level, marking mounting holes. Drill 6 mm holes and install anchors if needed. Align the controller with the mounting holes and secure with screws. Do not overtighten.

Wiring Connections

Valve Wiring

Route valve wires from the valve location to the controller. Connect a common wire to one solenoid wire on each valve (typically white). Connect a separate control wire to the remaining wire of each valve. Use waterproof connectors for all splices. Route valve wires through the conduit opening on the right side of the controller. Connect the common wire to the 'C' terminal on the first module. Connect individual station control wires to their respective station terminals.

Station Modules

The Pro-C comes with a base module for up to 3 stations. Additional 3-station modules can be added to expand capacity up to 15 stations. Install modules when the controller is powered off. Slide modules into the appropriate slots on the back of the controller. Restore power to allow the microprocessor to recognize the new modules. The Easy-Lock™ mechanism simplifies installation.

Battery Connection (Optional)

A 9V alkaline battery (not included) can be installed in the battery compartment to allow programming without AC power. Watering will not occur without AC power, but the battery preserves the clock and calendar programming during power outages.

Master Valve Connection

If your system has a master valve (normally closed, opens when automatic system is active), connect its common wire to the valve's solenoid wire. Route the wires to the controller. Connect one master valve wire to the P/MV terminal and the other to the C (common) terminal.

Pump Start Relay Connection

If your system includes a pump and pump start relay, route wires from the relay to the controller. Connect one wire to the C (common) terminal and the other to the P/MV terminal. The relay's holding current should not exceed 0.28 amp. Do not connect the controller directly to the pump, as this can damage the controller. Maintain a minimum distance of 4.50 m (15 ft) between the controller, pump start relay, and pump.

Rain Sensor Connection

The Pro-C is compatible with Hunter Mini-Clik® and other micro-switch rain sensors. Route sensor wires through the conduit. Remove the jumper wire between the two SEN terminals. Connect each sensor wire to a SEN terminal. If the rain sensor switch is set to ACTIVE without a sensor connected, the display will show SEN OFF, and irrigation will be prevented. To bypass the sensor, set the switch to DERIVATION (BYPASS) or install a short jumper wire between the SEN terminals.

Programming Principles

Successful automatic watering relies on three key elements: when to water (Start Times), how long to water (Run Times), and which days to water (Watering Days). The Pro-C offers three independent programs (A, B, C) to manage different watering needs. Each program can have up to four daily start times. For example, a program might start at 6 AM, with Station 1 watering for 15 minutes, followed by Station 2 for 15 minutes, and Station 3 for 20 minutes, completing the cycle by 6:50 AM.

Creating Your Watering Plan:

It is recommended to prepare your watering plan on paper before programming the controller. Consider factors like soil type, area to be watered, weather conditions, and sprinkler types. General guidelines suggest watering one to two hours before sunrise for optimal water absorption and reduced evaporation. Check for over- or under-watering signs (puddles or dry, discolored soil) and adjust programs accordingly.

Key Planning Steps:

• Station Number & Location: Note station numbers, locations, and plant types.
• Watering Days: Specify days of the week, odd/even days, or intervals.
• Start Times: Set the program start time(s) (1-4 per program).
• Run Times: Set watering duration for each station (1 minute to 6 hours). Use 'OFF' for stations not participating in a program.

Example Watering Plan Form: A table is provided to help users plan their watering schedule, detailing programs (A, B, C), days of the week, start cycles, station locations, and run times.

Programming the Pro-C

Setting Day and Time

1. Turn the dial to RÉGLAGE JOUR/HEURE (SET DAY/TIME).
2. Set the current year using the + and - buttons, then press >.
3. Set the current month and day using the + and - buttons, pressing > to advance. The day of the week is automatic.
4. Set the current hour and minutes using the + and - buttons, and select AM/PM or 24-hour format. Press > to advance.

Setting Start Times

1. Turn the dial to RÉGLAGE DÉPART CYCLE D'ARROSAGE (SET WATERING START TIMES).
2. Select Program A, B, or C using the PRG button.
3. Use the + and - buttons to set the start time (in 15-minute increments). One start time activates all stations in sequence for that program. Multiple start times can be set for morning, afternoon, or evening watering.
4. Press > to add another start time or PRG to switch programs.

Setting Run Times

1. Turn the dial to RÉGLAGE TEMPS D'ARROSAGE STATIONS (SET STATION RUN TIMES).
2. The display shows the selected program, station number, and flashing run time. Use PRG to switch programs.
3. Use the + and - buttons to adjust the run time for the current station (1 minute to 6 hours).
4. Press > to move to the next station. Repeat for all stations.

Setting Watering Days

1. Turn the dial to RÉGLAGE JOURS D'ARROSAGE (SET DAYS TO WATER).
2. The display shows the selected program (A, B, or C).
3. Choose from four options: specific days of the week, intervals, or odd/even days.
4. Specific Days: Press the button to select a day (e.g., Monday). Press again to deselect. A bullet (•) indicates a watering day.
5. Intervals: Select an interval (e.g., 2 days) and the number of remaining days until the next watering.
6. Odd/Even Days: Select ODD or EVEN to water on those days of the month. Note: the 31st and Feb 29th are always 'off' days for odd watering.

Manual Operation

• Manual Single Station: Turn dial to MARCHE MANUELLE - UNE STATION. Select station and run time using buttons. Press > to start.
• Manual Cycle Complete: Turn dial to MARCHE MANUELLE - CYCLE COMPLET. Select program, start station, and run times. Press > to advance through stations.

Seasonal Adjustment

Adjusts watering times by a percentage (10% to 150%) without reprogramming. Useful for changing weather conditions. Turn dial to Seasonal Adjustment, use adjustment buttons, then check run times by turning dial to SET STATION RUN TIMES.

Advanced Features

Pump/Master Valve Operation

Set pump or master valve operation to ON or OFF for individual stations, independent of the program. Turn dial to SET PUMP OPERATION, use buttons to toggle ON/OFF for each station.

Rain Delay

Stops all scheduled watering for a set period (1 to 7 days). Turn dial to ARRÊT (OFF). Use + button to set the number of days. Return dial to MARCHE (RUN) to confirm. The controller will resume normal operation after the delay period.

Special Day Watering

Skip watering on specific days (e.g., lawn mowing day). Turn dial to SET DAYS TO WATER. Select an interval plan. Use the buttons to select the day of the week to skip, and press the button to mark it as a non-watering day. A symbol will appear above the selected day.

Hidden Features

Programmable Delay Between Stations

Insert a delay between station shut-off and the next station's start. Useful for systems with slow-closing valves or slow pump recovery. Start with dial on MARCHE. Press and hold the button while turning the dial to SET STATION RUN TIMES. Release the button. The display shows delay in seconds. Use + and - buttons to adjust delay (0-59 seconds, then minutes up to 4 hours). Return dial to MARCHE.

Memory Reset

To reset the controller to factory defaults, press and hold the , , and PRG buttons simultaneously. While holding them, press and release the reset button on the front panel. Release the other buttons. The display should show 24:00 (midnight).

Troubleshooting

A guide is provided to help diagnose common problems:

• No display: Check AC power wiring.
• ERR display: Check wiring, especially if using extensions; use shielded cables.
• P ERR display: Check pump/master valve start wire continuity. Repair or replace faulty wires. Ensure all connections are secure.
• Station ERR display: Check station wire continuity. Repair or replace faulty wires.
• NO AC display: Check AC power supply.
• SEN OFF display: Rain sensor is active or jumper is missing. Bypass sensor by moving switch to BYPASS or installing a jumper wire.
• System not stopping with rain sensor: Ensure sensor is compatible (micro-switch type like Mini-Clik®). Check SEN terminals for jumper.
• Controller recognizes 15 stations but only shows 6: Ensure AC power is connected. Perform memory reset. Verify module connections.
• Controller only recognizes 3 stations: Ensure dial is in the correct position (SET STATION RUN TIMES). Check station count by setting dial and pressing >.
• Continuous watering: Too many start times set. Only one start time per active program is needed. Refer to 'Setting Start Times' section.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conduit Sizing

A table provides guidance on the number of wires of different gauges (AWG) that can fit into various conduit sizes (mm). For example, 49 wires of 18 AWG fit into a 48 mm conduit.

Specifications Table

Operating Specifications: Station run times: 1 min to 6 hrs. Start times: Up to 4 per program (12 per day). Watering programs: 7-day, interval up to 31 days, odd/even days, 365-day calendar. Electrical Specifications: Transformer input: 120 VAC, 60 Hz (230 VAC, 50/60 Hz for international). Transformer output: 25 VAC, 1 Amp. Station output: 24 VAC, 560 mA per station. Max output: 24 VAC, 840 mA. Dimensions: Indoor: H 21cm, W 24cm, D 10cm. Outdoor: H 23cm, W 25cm, D 11cm.

System Information

Installation Details

A section is provided for recording installation date, installer name, address, phone number, and locations of control valves, rain sensor, and main shut-off valve.

Notices

FCC Notice

This controller generates radio frequencies that may interfere with radio/TV reception. It complies with FCC Part 15 regulations for Class B digital devices. If interference occurs, try adjusting the antenna orientation, moving the controller away from the receiver, or using a different outlet. Consult the FCC publication 'How to Identify and Resolve Radio-TV Interference Problems' for more information.

EU Declaration of Conformity

Hunter Industries declares that the PRO-C irrigation controller conforms to European directives for electromagnetic compatibility (89/336/EEC) and low voltage (73/23/EEC).

Company Information: Hunter Industries Incorporated, San Marcos, CA, USA. Contact details for US, Europe, and Australia are provided.