Hunter Pro-C Irrigation Controller

Mounting the Indoor Controller to a Wall

NOTE: The indoor Pro-C is not weather or water resistant and must be installed indoors or in a protected area. This device is not intended for use by young children. Never let children play with this device.

1. Select a location near a standard electrical outlet, protected from moisture and direct sunlight. Maintain a 15-foot distance from other electrical devices to prevent interference.
2. Remove the front panel by disconnecting the ribbon connector and releasing the hinge.
3. Place the controller at eye level. Use the top hole as a reference, secure 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 in the remaining holes (C).

NOTE: Do not plug the transformer into the power source until the controller is mounted and all valves are connected.

Mounting the Outdoor Controller to a Wall

NOTE: Outdoor models are water and weather resistant. Connecting 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. Never let children play with this device.

1. Select a location conveniently close to a power supply, maintaining a 15-foot distance from other electrical devices to prevent interference.
2. Abide by all electrical and installation codes when attaching to an external wall.
3. Remove the front panel by disconnecting the ribbon connector and releasing the hinge.
4. Place the controller at eye level, align keyhole (A) on top, and mark the spot along with the three bottom holes (B).
5. Drill 6 mm holes at each mark.
6. Install screw anchors (C) if attaching to drywall, masonry, or plaster walls.
7. Align the controller cabinet holes with the wall anchors or pilot holes.
8. Drive screws through each hole to secure, but do not overtighten.

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

Connecting Valves and AC Power

General Steps:

1. Route valve wires between the control valve location and the controller.
2. At the valves, attach a common wire (usually white) to one solenoid wire of all valves. Attach a separate control wire to the remaining solenoid wire of each valve. Use waterproof connectors for splices.
3. Open the hinged faceplate on the controller to access the terminal strip.
4. Route valve wires through conduit and attach to the controller via the large conduit opening on the bottom right. Refer to conduit sizing charts if unsure.
5. Strip 1½" (13 mm) of insulation from wire ends. Secure the common wire to the “COM” terminal on the first module. Attach individual valve control wires to the appropriate station terminals.

Indoor Cabinet: Route transformer cable through the bottom left hole. Connect the two Yellow Wires to the AC terminals and the Green Wire to GND. Ensure wires are neatly arranged to allow the door to close without damage.

Outdoor Cabinet: Route AC power cable and conduit through the ½" (13 mm) conduit opening on the left side of the bottom. Connect wires to the transformer wires inside the junction box. Use a UL-listed conduit adapter. Domestic units use wires requiring wire nuts or approved connectors.

Diagram Description: Shows valve wiring from multiple valves to station terminals (1-4) and the COM terminal. Transformer wires connect to AC and GND terminals.

Installing Station Modules

The Pro-C controller 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. The controller automatically recognizes installed modules.

Installing PCM Modules:

1. Slide the Power Lock to the “Power Off” (unlocked) position. Insert PCM modules into the appropriate sequential slots. (Note: Use only BLACK PCM expansion modules.)
2. Once all modules are inserted, slide the Power Lock to the “Power On” (locked) position to energize and secure them.

Connecting the Battery

A 9-volt alkaline battery (optional, not included) can be connected to the battery terminals for programming without AC power. Watering will not occur without AC power. The controller's memory is non-volatile, retaining program data 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 into the controller via the field wire conduit.
3. Connect one wire from the Master Valve to the P/MV terminal and the remaining wire to the “COM” (Common) terminal.

Diagram Description: Shows a Master Valve connected to the P/MV and COM terminals, with its wire routed alongside individual station valve wires.

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.

The controller should be mounted at least 15 feet (4.5 m) away from the pump start relay and pump. A pump start relay is required for pump operation.

1. Route a wire pair from the pump relay into the controller housing.
2. Connect the pump common wire to the “COM” terminal and 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 cause damage.

Diagram Description: Illustrates a pump start relay connected to the controller's P/MV and COM terminals via pump relay wires.

Connecting a Weather Sensor

A Hunter Mini-Clik® rain sensor or similar micro-switch weather sensor can be connected. The sensor stops watering when precipitation is sufficient. It can be bypassed using the Rain Sensor bypass switch on the controller.

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 wire to one SEN terminal and the other wire to the other SEN terminal.

Rain Sensor Bypass: This feature allows bypassing the sensor without an additional switch. If the sensor prevents operation, the display shows “SENSOR OFF”. Move the switch to BYPASS to resume system operation.

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.

Diagram Description: Shows a weather sensor connected to the SEN terminals on the controller. The Rain Sensor Bypass switch (ACTIVE/BYPASS) is visible on the front panel.

Connecting an SRR or ICR Remote Control

The Pro-C includes a SmartPort® wiring harness for use with Hunter SRR or Long Range ICR remote controls, allowing remote operation without returning to the controller.

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” and 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 screw slot.

The SmartPort is now ready for remote control use. Refer to the SRR or ICR owner's manual for details.

NOTE: Extending SmartPort wiring may cause display errors or malfunction due to radio interference. Use shielded cable for extensions.

Connecting to the Hunter ET System

The Hunter ET System creates automatic irrigation programs based on local climate conditions and evapotranspiration (ET) rates. This results in water-efficient irrigation tailored to turf and plant needs.

Diagram Description: Shows an ET MODULE connected to the controller and an ET SENSOR installed in the field.

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, lighting, pumps, and sensors, and adapt to changing conditions using sensor data.

The IMMS is cost-effective and integrates with various Hunter controllers. Contact your local Hunter dealer for more information.

Power Failures

The controller has non-volatile memory to preserve programs indefinitely during power failures. It also retains the current time and date for an extended period during power outages.

Sprinkler System Fundamentals

Automatic sprinkler systems consist of three main components: the controller, valves, and sprinklers. The controller manages the system, instructing valves when to supply water to sprinklers for specific durations. Valves control groups of sprinklers called watering stations, laid out based on plant life, location, and water needs. Each valve is wired to a corresponding station number in the controller. The controller operates valves sequentially, moving to the next station after the current one completes its watering cycle. The program defines watering times and durations for each station.

Diagram Description: Illustrates a typical sprinkler system with a Pro-C controller connected to multiple valves (Valve 1-6) controlling different watering stations (Station 1-6) serving various lawn and garden areas.

Creating a Watering Schedule

Planning your watering schedule on paper before programming the controller is recommended for ease of use and record-keeping. Consider factors like soil type, landscape, weather, and sprinkler types when determining watering times and durations.

NOTE: Watering one to two hours before sunrise is generally 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. Over-watering may result in water pools, while under-watering causes discoloration and dryness. Adjust programming as needed.

How to Fill Out the Watering Schedule

Use a pencil and the provided example and information to create your personal watering schedule. Key fields include:

• Station Number and Location: Identify the station, plant type, and location.
• Watering Day: Select calendar days, interval, or odd/even days. 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 the duration (1 minute to 6 hours) for each station. Use “0:00” for stations not to be operated.

Keep the completed schedule for easy reference.

Watering Schedule Form Example

A sample schedule demonstrates programming for Programs A, B, and C, including day selection (Every 1 day, Every 3 days, Every 20 days), start times (7:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 1:00 PM), station locations (Front Lawn, Shrub, etc.), and run times.

Watering Schedule Form

A template is provided for users to create their own watering schedules, with fields for Program A, B, C, Day of the Week, Interval, Program Start Times, Station Location, and Station Run Time.

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.
3. Set the run time for each valve assigned to the program.
4. Set the days the program should run.

Example: A program starting at 6:00 AM with Station 1 running for 15 minutes, Station 2 for 15 minutes, and Station 3 for 20 minutes. The controller automatically advances to the next station. The total cycle time for this example is 50 minutes.

The Pro-C offers three independent programs (A, B, C) to accommodate different watering needs. Programs can overlap and will run in alphabetical order if scheduled simultaneously.

Programming Fundamentals Example

Diagram Description: Illustrates the sequential watering process for a program. Station 1 runs for 15 minutes starting at 6:00 AM, followed by Station 2 for 15 minutes, and then Station 3 for 20 minutes, concluding the cycle at 6:50 AM.

Programming the Controller

The Pro-C features an easy-to-read LCD display and a dial for simple programming. The display shows time and day when idle, and changes to reflect programming information as the dial is rotated. Use the +/- buttons to change flashing values and the ←/→ buttons to navigate.

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

To activate a program, follow these steps:

1. Turn the dial to SET CURRENT DATE/TIME to set the current date and time.
2. Turn the dial to SET PROGRAM START TIMES to set the desired start time(s).
3. Turn the dial to SET STATION RUN TIMES to set how long each valve will water.
4. Turn the dial to SET DAYS TO WATER to select the watering days.

NOTE: All stations operate in numerical order. Only one program start time is required to activate a watering program.

The Pro-C offers flexibility with three programs, each supporting up to 4 daily start times, allowing for varied watering requirements and schedules (morning, afternoon, evening).

Setting the Current Date and Time

1. Turn the dial to SET CURRENT DATE/TIME.
2. The year will flash. Use the +/− buttons to adjust, then press → to proceed.
3. The month will flash. Use the +/− buttons to adjust, then press → to proceed to the day.
4. The day will flash. Use the +/− buttons to adjust (day of the week is automatic), then press → to proceed to the time.
5. The time will display. Use +/− to select AM/PM or 24-hour format. Press → to adjust hours (flashing), then use +/− to set. Press → to adjust minutes (flashing), then use +/− to set. The date, day, and time are now set.

Setting Program Start Times

1. Turn the dial to SET PROGRAM START TIMES.
2. The factory preset is Program A. Select Program B or C by pressing the PRG button.
3. Use the +/− buttons to change the start time (in 15-minute increments). One start time activates all stations sequentially for that program. Multiple start times can be used for separate watering cycles (morning, afternoon, evening).
4. Press → to add another start time or PRG for the next program.

NOTE: The controller automatically arranges start times chronologically when the dial is moved from this position.

Eliminating a Program Start Time

With the dial set to SET PROGRAM START TIMES, press the +/− buttons until 12:00 AM (Midnight) is displayed. Press → once to reach the OFF position.

NOTE: If all four start times for a program are OFF, the program is inactive but retained. This is a convenient way to temporarily disable a program.

Setting Station Run Times

1. Turn the dial to SET STATION RUN TIMES.
2. The display shows the selected program (A, B, or C), station number, and flashing run time. Press PRG to switch programs.
3. Use the +/− buttons to adjust the station run time.
4. Press → to advance to the next station.
5. Repeat steps 4 and 5 for each station.
6. Station run times can be set from 1 minute to 6 hours.
7. You can switch between programs for the same station, but completing one program before moving to the next is recommended to avoid confusion and errors.

Setting Days to Water

This dial position offers four options: specific days, interval watering, odd days, or even days. Each program can use only one option.

Selecting Specific Days of the Week to Water

1. Press the → button to activate a day for watering (starts with Monday). Press ← to cancel watering for a day. A water day is indicated by a water drop icon (?); a no-water day by a crossed-out water drop (??).
2. Repeat step 1 for all desired days.

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

Selecting Interval Watering

This feature provides consistent watering without needing to track specific dates. The interval is the number of days between watering, including the watering day (e.g., an interval of 3 waters every third day).

1. Turn the dial to SET DAYS TO WATER. The water drop above Monday should be flashing.
2. Press → until the drop over Sunday is flashing, then press → again. The display changes to interval mode, and the Interval Day number flashes.
3. Use the +/− buttons to select the desired Interval Day(s).
4. Press → to advance to the Days Left number.
5. Use the +/− buttons to select the Days Left (0 Days Left means watering occurs at the next scheduled start time).
6. Turn the dial to RUN.

NOTE: If specific days are marked as non-water days, the interval watering will exclude them. For example, if the interval is 5 days and Monday is a non-water day, watering will skip Mondays.

Selecting Odd or Even Days to Water

This feature uses the day of the month (odd or even) for watering.

1. Follow instructions for Interval Watering, setting the interval to one.
2. In interval mode, the days at the bottom indicate No Water Days (??). Press the → button until the cursor is on EVEN or ODD. Select your choice by pressing the → button. Selecting ODD means watering occurs on even days; selecting EVEN means watering occurs on odd days.
3. Turn the dial to RUN for automatic watering.

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

Run

After programming, turn the dial to RUN to enable automatic execution of all selected programs and start times.

System Off

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

Manually Run a Single Station

1. Turn the dial to MANUAL-SINGLE STATION.
2. Station run time will flash. Use → to move to the desired station, then use +/− to set the watering time.
3. Turn the dial to RUN. The selected station will water, and the controller will return to automatic mode.

NOTE: This function will override the sensor.

Manually Run All Stations

1. Turn the dial to MANUAL-ALL STATIONS.
2. Select Program A, B, or C by pressing the PRG button.
3. Press → until the desired starting station is displayed.
4. Station run time will flash. Use +/− to adjust the run time if needed.
5. Press → to move to the next station.
6. Repeat steps 3 and 4 for each station.
7. Press → until the desired starting station is displayed.
8. Return the dial to RUN. The custom program will run from the last displayed station sequentially.

NOTE: The station displayed when turning the dial to RUN will be the first station to operate. The controller will water sequentially and will not water previous stations.

One Touch Manual Start and Advance

Activate a program without using the dial:

1. Hold the PRG button for 2 seconds.
2. The feature defaults to Program A. Select Program B or C using the PRG button.
3. The station number will flash. Use +/− to scroll through stations and +/− to adjust run times. If no buttons are pressed after step 2 or 3, 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

Seasonal Adjustment allows global run time changes without reprogramming the entire controller. It's ideal for minor adjustments due to weather changes. Hotter weather may require more water (increase seasonal adjust), while cooler weather may require less (decrease seasonal adjust).

NOTE: The controller should always be initially programmed in the 100% position.

Advanced Features

Three advanced features customize the Pro-C for complex watering needs, with one feature intentionally “hidden” to prevent accidental programming.

Troubleshooting and Specifications

Information About Your Sprinkler System

Record installation details below:

• 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 limits for Class B computing devices, designed to provide reasonable protection against interference in residential installations. However, interference may still occur.

If interference occurs, try these measures:

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

Consult a dealer or technician for further suggestions. The booklet “How to Identify and Resolve Radio-TV Interference Problems” from the U.S. Government Printing Office may be helpful.

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

©2006 Hunter Industries Incorporated