Hunter Pro-C Irrigation Controller: Owner's Manual and Installation Instructions

Introduction

Hunter Industries introduces the Pro-C Professional Controller, an affordable, full-featured indoor/outdoor irrigation controller designed for commercial and residential applications. It offers simplified dial programming and a comprehensive feature set, including a rain sensor bypass circuit, power surge protection, seasonal adjustment/water budgeting, a programmable pump/master valve circuit, programmable rain delay, three independent programs with four daily scheduling choices, and four start times each. The Pro-C is designed for ease of use, requiring minimal reference to the manual after installation.

Pro-C Components

A. LCD Display

• 1. Program Selector: Identifies the active program (A, B, or C).
• 2. Station Number: Displays the currently selected station.
• 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. Running: A sprinkler icon indicates when watering is active.
• 8. Days of the Week: Identifies days selected for watering or not watering, supporting specific days, odd/even, or interval schedules.
• 9. Odd/Even Watering: Indicates if odd or even day watering is selected.
• 10. Interval: Indicates if interval watering has been selected.
• 11. Seasonal Adjust: Displays seasonal adjustment percentage in 10% increments.
• 12. Start Time: Appears on the main display when "Set Program Start Times" is selected.

B. Control Buttons and Switches

• 13. [+] Button: Increases the selected flashing display value.
• 14. [-] Button: Decreases the selected flashing display value.
• 15. [<-] Button: Returns to the previous display item.
• 16. [->] Button: Advances to the next display item or starts a manual cycle.
• 17. [PRG] Button: Selects programs (A, B, C) or initiates a test program.
• 18. Rain Sensor Switch: Bypasses the weather sensor if installed.

C. Control Dial

The dial controls various functions:

• Run: Normal position for automatic and manual operation.
• Set Current Date/Time: Sets the current date and clock time.
• Set Program Start Times: Sets 1 to 4 start times per program.
• Set Station Run Times: Sets the watering duration for each station.
• Set Days to Water: Selects watering days (specific days, interval, odd/even).
• Set Pump Operation: Turns pump or master valve ON/OFF for specific stations.
• Manual - Single Station: Activates a one-time watering of a single station.
• Manual - All Stations: Activates a one-time watering of all stations or selected stations in a program.
• System Off: Discontinues all programs and stops watering.

Pro-C Components – Wiring Cabinet

The wiring cabinet houses the controller's internal connections:

• 20. 9-Volt Battery: (Optional, not included) Allows programming without AC power. Non-volatile memory retains programs during power outages.
• 21. Reset Button: Resets the controller; programmed data remains intact.
• 22. Power Area: Connects transformer, sensor wires, and other system sources.
• 23. Transformer: (Outdoor models) Routes AC power from the cable to the terminal strip. (Indoor models use a plug-in transformer).
• 24. Junction Box: (Outdoor models) Area for connecting primary power.
• 25. Station Modules: Expansion slots for PCM-300 (3 stations) or PCM-900 (9 stations) modules, increasing capacity up to 15 stations. The controller automatically recognizes installed modules.
• 26. Base Module: Contains terminals for stations 1-3, master valve/pump connection, and common wire.
• 27. Power-Lock Slide: Locks modules in place and controls power to them. Slide to "ON" to activate power and secure modules.

Terminals include:

• SEN: For rain sensor connection.
• REM: For remote control connection.
• AC1, AC2: For 24VAC transformer connection.
• GND: Ground connection.
• Station Terminals (1-12): Connect individual station valve wires.
• P/MV: For Pump/Master Valve connection.
• COM: Common wire connection for valves.

Installation

Mounting the Indoor Controller to a Wall

All necessary hardware is included. The indoor unit is not weather-resistant and must be installed in a protected area away from moisture and direct sunlight. Maintain a 15-foot distance from other electrical devices to prevent interference.

1. Select a location near a standard electrical outlet, protected from elements.
2. Remove the front panel by disconnecting the ribbon connector and releasing the hinge.
3. Mount the controller at eye level using a 25mm screw (A) into the wall (use anchors for drywall/masonry).
4. Align the controller's keyhole (B) over the screw.
5. Secure the controller with screws (C) in the designated holes.

Note: Do not connect the transformer to power until the controller is mounted and all valves are connected.

Mounting the Outdoor Controller to a Wall

The outdoor model is water and weather resistant. Installation involving primary power connection should be performed by a licensed electrician following local codes.

1. Select a location near a power supply, maintaining a 15-foot distance from other electrical devices.
2. Adhere to all electrical and installation codes.
3. Remove the front panel as described for the indoor model.
4. Align the controller's keyhole (A) at eye level and mark the spot, along with three other holes (B) at the bottom.
5. Drill 6mm holes at each mark.
6. Install screw anchors (C) if needed for drywall, masonry, or plaster walls.
7. Align the controller cabinet with the wall anchors or pilot holes.
8. Secure with screws, ensuring not to overtighten.

Note for PC-301-A: If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer or a qualified service agent.

Connecting Valves and AC Power

General Valve Wiring:

• Route valve wires from the control valves to the controller.
• At each valve, connect a common wire (typically white) to one solenoid wire. Connect a separate control wire to the remaining solenoid wire. Use waterproof connectors for splices.
• Strip 1½" (13 mm) of insulation from wire ends.
• Connect the common valve wire to the "COM" terminal on the base module.
• Connect individual station control wires to the appropriate station terminals (1-12).

Indoor Cabinet Wiring:

• Route the transformer cable through the bottom left conduit opening.
• Connect the two yellow transformer wires to the "AC1" and "AC2" terminals.
• Connect the green wire to the "GND" terminal.
• Ensure wires are neatly arranged in slotted areas before closing the compartment door to prevent damage.

Outdoor Cabinet Wiring:

• Route the AC power cable and conduit through the ½" (13 mm) conduit opening on the left side of the bottom cabinet.
• Connect wires to the transformer wires inside the junction box.
• International units have a built-in terminal strip; domestic units use wire nuts or approved connectors.
• Use a UL-listed ½" (13 mm) conduit male adapter for AC wiring. Insert it into the bottom hole and secure with the nut inside the enclosure.

Installing Station Modules

The Pro-C comes with a base module for up to 3 stations. Station capacity can be expanded to 15 stations using PCM-300 (3-station) or PCM-900 (9-station) modules. These are sold separately.

Note: To reach 15 stations, a PCM-300 must be in the first slot (stations 4-6), and the PCM-900 in the upper two slots.

The controller automatically recognizes installed modules, eliminating the need for manual resets.

Installing PCM Modules:

• Slide the Power Lock to the "Power Off" (unlocked) position.
• Insert PCM modules into their sequential slots. (Ensure modules are BLACK PCM expansion modules).
• Slide the Power Lock to the "Power On" (locked) position to secure and energize modules. The controller automatically recognizes the station count.

Connecting the Battery for Programming Without AC Power (Optional)

A 9-volt alkaline battery (not included) can be connected to the battery terminals to allow programming without AC power. Watering will not occur without AC power. The controller's non-volatile memory retains program data and clock/calendar settings during power outages, even without a battery.

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 that opens only when the automatic system is activated.

1. At the master valve, attach the common wire to one solenoid wire and a separate control wire to the remaining solenoid wire.
2. Route wires through the field wire conduit to the controller.
3. Connect one wire from the master valve to the "P/MV" terminal.
4. Connect the remaining wire to the "COM" (Common) terminal.

Connecting a Pump Start Relay

Note: Complete this section only if a pump and pump start relay are installed. A pump start relay uses a signal current from the controller to activate a pump.

• Mount the controller at least 15 feet (4.5 m) away from the pump start relay and pump.
• Route a wire pair from the pump relay into the controller housing.
• Connect the pump common wire to the "COM" terminal.
• Connect the remaining wire from the pump relay to the "P/MV" screw slot.

Relay holding current draw must not exceed 0.28 amps. Do not connect the controller directly to the pump, as this can damage the controller.

Connecting a Weather Sensor (Not Included)

A Hunter Mini-Clik® rain sensor or similar micro-switch weather sensor can be connected. The sensor stops watering during precipitation. It connects directly to the controller, and can be bypassed using the Rain Sensor bypass switch.

1. Route sensor wires through the same conduit used for valve wiring.
2. Remove the flat jumper from the two "SEN" terminals.
3. Connect one sensor wire to one "SEN" terminal and the other wire to the second "SEN" terminal.

Note: If the rain sensor switch is set to ACTIVE and no sensor is connected (or the jumper is removed), the display will show "SEN OFF" and no irrigation will occur. To avoid this, leave the switch in the BYPASS position or install a short jumper wire between the sensor terminals.

Rain Sensor Bypass: The built-in bypass feature allows manual operation when needed. If the sensor prevents operation, "SENSOR OFF" will display. Moving the switch to BYPASS allows the system to run.

Testing a Weather Sensor

The Pro-C allows simplified testing of the rain sensor. Manual "all stations" cycles or the one-touch manual method can be used. Pressing the test button on the Mini-Clik® during a manual cycle will interrupt watering, confirming sensor operation.

Overriding the Rain Sensor

A Hunter remote control (single station operation only) or the manual single station function on the Pro-C dial can override the rain sensor, allowing system operation even if the sensor is active.

Connecting an SRR or ICR Remote Control (Not Included)

The Pro-C includes a SmartPort® wiring harness for use with Hunter SRR or Long Range ICR remote controls, enabling remote system operation.

1. Install a ½" female threaded "Tee" in the field wiring conduit, approximately 12" below the Pro-C.
2. Feed the red, white, and blue harness wires through the "Tee" into the wiring compartment.
3. Screw the SmartPort harness housing into the "Tee".
4. Connect the red wire to the bottom AC screw slot, the white wire to the upper AC screw slot, and the blue wire to the "REM" slot.

Note: Extending SmartPort wiring may cause radio interference. Use shielded cable (Hunter part #SRR-SCWH) for extensions.

Connecting to the Hunter ET System

The Hunter ET System creates automatic irrigation programs based on local climate conditions. It uses an ET sensor to determine the local "evapotranspiration" (ET) rate, resulting in water-efficient programs. Contact your local Hunter dealer for more information.

Connecting to the Hunter Irrigation Management and Monitoring System™

The Irrigation Management and Monitoring System™ (IMMS™) allows centralized programming and monitoring of multiple irrigation systems or controllers. It can manage irrigation schedules, pumps, and sensors, and adapt to changing conditions using sensors like flow, rain, and weather sensors. IMMS is cost-effective and compatible with various Hunter controllers.

Power Failures

The Pro-C controller features non-volatile memory to preserve programs indefinitely, even during power outages. It also retains the current time and date for extended periods during power loss.

Controller Programming and Operation

Sprinkler System Fundamentals

Automatic sprinkler systems consist of three main components: the controller, valves, and sprinklers. The controller acts as the system's brain, instructing valves when and how long to supply water. Sprinklers distribute water to plants and lawns. Each valve controls a group of sprinklers, known as a watering station, laid out based on plant type, location, and water needs. Valves are wired to corresponding station numbers in the controller. The controller operates valves sequentially, moving to the next programmed station after the current one completes its cycle. This sequence and duration information constitutes a program.

Example Station Layout:

• Station 1 (Valve 1): Rotors water front yard lawn.
• Station 2 (Valve 2): Sprays water side lawn and bubblers water flowers.
• Station 3 (Valve 3): Rotors water back yard lawn.
• Station 4 (Valve 4): Bubblers water garden.
• Station 5 (Valve 5): Sprays water side lawn and bubblers water flowers.
• Station 6 (Valve 6): Sprays water front corner lawn.

Creating a Watering Schedule

It is recommended to plan your watering schedule on paper before programming the controller. Factors influencing the schedule include soil type, landscape type, weather conditions, and sprinkler types. Guidelines are provided to assist in creating a personalized schedule.

Note: Watering one to two hours before sunrise is optimal for water pressure and absorption, minimizing evaporation. Watering midday can damage plants or cause mildew.

Note: Monitor for signs of under- or over-watering. Adjust programming as needed.

How to Fill Out the Watering Schedule

Use a pencil and the provided example/information to create your schedule.

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

Keep the completed schedule for easy reference.

Watering Schedule Form Example

The form includes sections for Program A, B, and C, detailing Day of the Week (MTWTFSS), Interval, Program Start Times, Station Number, Location, and Station Run Time for each station.

Programming Fundamentals

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

1. Select a program (A, B, or C) using the [PRG] button.
2. Set a program start time (one start time activates all stations in that program).
3. Set the run time for each valve.
4. Set the days for the program to run.

The controller automatically advances between stations. Multiple programs (A, B, C) can be used independently, but cannot run simultaneously. Overlapping programs are stacked chronologically.

Programming Fundamentals Example

An example illustrates a program starting at 6:00 AM, running Station 1 for 15 minutes, Station 2 for 15 minutes, and Station 3 for 20 minutes. The total cycle time is 50 minutes.

Programming the Controller

The Pro-C features an easy-to-read LCD display and a dial for programming. The display shows time and day when idle, and changes to reflect programming information when the dial is rotated. Flashing display elements can be adjusted using the [+] and [-] buttons.

Note: Flashing characters on the display indicate the item being programmed.

To activate a program:

1. Set current day and time via the "SET CURRENT DATE/TIME" dial position.
2. Set program start times via the "SET PROGRAM START TIMES" dial position.
3. Set station run times via the "SET STATION RUN TIMES" dial position.
4. Set watering days via the "SET DAYS TO WATER" dial position.

Only one program start time is needed to activate a watering program. Stations operate in numerical order.

The Pro-C offers flexibility with three programs, each supporting up to four daily start times, allowing for varied watering needs.

Setting the Current Date and Time

1. Turn dial to "SET CURRENT DATE/TIME".
2. Adjust the year using [+] and [-] buttons, then press [->] to set.
3. Adjust the month using [+] and [-] buttons, then press [->] to set the day.
4. Adjust the day using [+] and [-] buttons, then press [->] to set the time.
5. Adjust AM/PM or 24-hour format, then hours and minutes using [+] and [-] buttons, pressing [->] to advance between fields.

Setting Program Start Times

1. Turn dial to "SET PROGRAM START TIMES".
2. Select Program A, B, or C using the [PRG] button if needed.
3. Use [+] and [-] buttons to set the start time (15-minute increments). One start time activates all stations in sequence for that program. Multiple start times can be used for different watering periods (morning, afternoon, evening).
4. Press [->] to add another start time or [PRG] for the next program.

Start times are automatically arranged chronologically when the dial is moved from this position.

Eliminating a Program Start Time

With the dial at "SET PROGRAM START TIMES", press [+] and [-] until 12:00 AM is displayed. Press [->] to reach the "OFF" position.

If all start times for a program are OFF, the program is inactive but retained.

Setting Station Run Times (Length of Watering for Each Area)

1. Turn dial to "SET STATION RUN TIMES".
2. The display shows the selected program (A, B, or C), station number, and flashing run time. Use [PRG] to switch programs.
3. Use [+] and [-] buttons to adjust the run time for the displayed station.
4. Press [->] to advance to the next station.
5. Repeat steps 4 and 5 for each station.
6. Run times can be set from 1 minute to 6 hours.
7. It is recommended to complete one program before moving to the next to avoid confusion.

Setting Days to Water

This position allows selection of watering days:

• Specific Days of the Week: Press [->] to cycle through days (starting with Monday). Press [+] to mark a day for watering (indicated by a water drop icon) or [-] to mark it as a non-watering day. Repeat for all desired days.
• Interval Watering: Set the interval (e.g., every 3 days). The display shows "Days Left" until the next watering. Select the interval and "Days Left" using [+] and [-] buttons. A "0 Days Left" indicates the next watering day.

Note: If specific days are marked as non-watering days, interval watering will skip them. For example, watering every 5 days will skip Mondays if Monday is marked as a non-watering day.

• Odd or Even Days: Set the interval to one. Use [+] and [-] to select "ODD" or "EVEN" as watering days. The controller will water only on odd or even days of the month, respectively. The 31st and February 29th are always "off" days if Odd watering is selected.

After setting watering days, turn the dial to "RUN" to enable automatic operation.

Run

Turn the dial to "RUN" to enable automatic execution of all programmed start times and watering days.

System Off

Turning the dial to "SYSTEM OFF" stops all current watering and discontinues active programs. Return the dial to "RUN" for normal operation.

Manually Run a Single Station

1. Turn dial to "MANUAL-SINGLE STATION".
2. Station run time will flash. Use [->] to select the desired station.
3. Use [+] and [-] buttons to set the watering duration for that station.
4. Turn dial to "RUN". The selected station will water, and the controller will return to automatic mode.

Note: This function overrides the rain sensor.

Manually Run All Stations

1. Turn dial to "MANUAL-ALL STATIONS".
2. Select Program A, B, or C using [PRG].
3. Press [->] until the desired starting station is displayed.
4. Station run time will flash. Use [+] and [-] to adjust run time if needed.
5. Use [->] to move to the next station. Repeat steps 3 and 4 for customization.
6. Press [->] until the desired starting station is displayed.
7. Turn dial to "RUN". The program will begin with the displayed station and proceed sequentially.

The station displayed when turning the dial to RUN is the first to operate. It will not water previous stations.

One Touch Manual Start and Advance

Activate a program without using the dial:

1. Hold the [->] button for 2 seconds.
2. The feature defaults to Program A. Use [PRG] to select Program B or C.
3. The station number flashes. Use [+] and [-] to scroll through stations and adjust run times. If no buttons are pressed, Program A starts automatically.
4. Press [->] to scroll to the desired starting station. After a 2-second pause, the program begins.

This is useful for quick cycles or system inspection.

Seasonal Adjustment

Allows global run time changes without reprogramming. Adjust percentages from 10% to 150% using the [+] and [-] buttons. This is useful for compensating for weather changes (e.g., increasing water in hot periods, decreasing in cooler periods).

Note: Initially program the controller at 100%.

Advanced Features

Three advanced features customize watering:

1. Set Pump/Master Valve Operation: By default, the master valve/pump start is ON for all stations. This can be set ON or OFF per station, useful for systems where a booster pump should not operate with certain zones.
2. Programmable Rain Off: Stops all programmed watering for 1 to 7 days. Turn dial to "SYSTEM OFF", press [->] to set days (1-7). Turn dial back to "RUN" to validate. The "Days Left" count decreases daily.
3. Setting Specific Day(s) Off: Inhibit watering on specific days (e.g., mowing days). Set interval to one, then use the day selection to mark days as "No Water Day" (indicated by a filled circle).

Hidden Features

Programmable Delay Between Stations: Inserts a delay between station shut-off and the next station's start. This is beneficial for systems with slow-closing valves or pump systems with slow well recovery.

1. Start with the dial in the "RUN" position.
2. Press and hold the [->] button while turning the dial to "SET STATION RUN TIMES".
3. Release the [->] button. The display shows a delay time in seconds, blinking. The "DELAY" icon is lit.
4. Use [+] and [-] buttons to adjust the delay time (0-59 seconds, then minutes/hours). "Hr" indicates hour display.
5. Return the dial to "RUN".

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

Test Program

Run a simplified test program for each station sequentially.

1. Press and hold [PRG]. 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.

Hunter Quick Check™

Diagnose field wiring for shorts. Press [+] and [-] buttons simultaneously. Then press [->] to start the procedure. An "ERR" symbol will flash if a short is detected. The controller returns to automatic watering mode after the test.

Clearing Controller's Memory/Resetting Controller

To reset to factory defaults: Press and hold [-], [+], and [PRG] buttons simultaneously. While holding them, press and release the RESET button on the back panel. Then release the other buttons. The display should show 12:00 AM.

Winterizing Your System

In regions with frost, systems may need winterizing to drain water. The blow-out method is common, but should be performed by a qualified contractor. Always wear ANSI-approved safety eye protection during blow-out procedures to prevent serious injury from flying debris.

Troubleshooting and Specifications

Troubleshooting Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

What size field wiring conduit should I use?

Consult the table below for conduit size recommendations based on wire gauge:

For more FAQs, visit www.HunterIndustries.com.

Specifications

Operating Specifications

• Station Run Time: 1 minute to 6 hours on programs A, B, and C.
• Start Times: 4 per day, per program, for up to 12 daily starts.
• Watering Schedule: 7-day calendar, interval watering up to a 31-day interval, or true odd/even day programming, supported by a 365-day clock/calendar.

Electrical Specifications

• Transformer Input: 120VAC, 60Hz (230VAC, 50/60 Hz for International Use).
• Transformer Output: 25 VAC, 1.0 amp.
• Station Output: 24VAC, 0.56 amps per station.
• Maximum Output: 24VAC, 0.84 amps (includes Master Valve Circuit).
• Battery: 9-volt alkaline battery (not included) for non-AC programming; non-volatile memory maintains program information.

Dimensions

• Indoor Cabinet: Height: 8.25", Width: 9.5", Depth: 3.75".
• Outdoor Cabinet: Height: 9", Width: 10", Depth: 4.5".

Default Settings

All stations are set to zero run time. The controller has non-volatile memory that retains all entered program data during power outages, without needing a battery.

Information About Your Sprinkler System

This section is intended for users to record details about their installed system:

• Date of Installation: _________________________
• Contractor Installing System: _________________________
• Address: _________________________________________________________________________
• Phone: _________________________
• Location of Control Valves: ___________________________________________________________
• Location of Weather Sensor: ___________________________________________________________
• Location of Main Water Supply Shutoff: ________________________________________________

FCC Notice

This controller generates radio frequency energy and may cause interference to radio and television reception. It complies with FCC Part 15 Subpart J limits for Class B computing devices, designed to provide reasonable protection against interference in residential installations. However, interference may still occur. If interference is detected, try the following measures:

• Reorient the receiving antenna.
• Move the controller away from the receiver.
• Plug the controller into a different outlet on a separate branch circuit.

For additional suggestions, consult a dealer or qualified radio/television technician. The booklet "How to Identify and Resolve Radio-TV Interference Problems" (U.S. Government Printing Office, Stock No. 004-000-00345-4, $2.00) may be helpful.

Hunter Industries Incorporated • The Irrigation Innovators
1940 Diamond Street • San Marcos, California 92078
www.HunterIndustries.com

© 2006 Hunter Industries Incorporated

P/N 700761 LIT-329 3/06