DIG RBC 7000 Battery Powered Inline Valve with Watering Timer

1. Introduction

Thank you for purchasing DIG's RBC 7000 Single Station Battery Operated Timer. This manual describes how to get the RBC-series timer up and running quickly. After reading this manual and becoming familiar with the basic functionality of the timer, use the manual as a reference for less common tasks in the future.

2. About the RBC 7000 Battery Operated Timer

The RBC 7000 watering timer employs the latest irrigation programming features to allow for complete control of any irrigation system and can be installed on either an outdoor faucet or a PVC main water line. The RBC 7000 is available as a single station with a rain sensor connection, and is powered by two AA batteries that can last up to three years [using name brand alkaline batteries]. The timer is enclosed in a compact, waterproof housing to protect it from the elements.

3. Component Identification

The RBC 7000 timer consists of the following components:

1. Timer cover
2. Quick reference label
3. LCD Display: Displays icon-based applications/programs.
4. Seven-button programming keypad: Used for programming, system on/off, manual run, and reviewing programs.
5. Battery compartment cap: Houses two AA alkaline batteries (not included).
6. Rain sensor yellow wire connection.
7. Collapsible 36" solenoid wire.
8. DC solenoid.
9. Manual flow control.
10. Solenoid Adapter.
11. Professional-grade 3/4" in-line valve.

Diagram Description: The diagram shows the timer unit with numbered components. The LCD screen is visible, along with the keypad and battery compartment. The solenoid and valve assembly are shown connected to the timer via wires.

4. LCD Display and Controls

The LCD display provides information about the timer's status and settings. Key icons and indicators include:

• Time and Date Icon: Indicates the current time and day.
• Sensor Icon: Appears when a rain sensor is active or when the yellow wire loop is cut, halting watering.
• Watering Icon: Appears when the valve is open by program.
• Set Watering Days Icon: Indicates selection of specific days, odd/even days, every X hours, or up to once every 30 days.
• Start Time Icon: Shows that up to four start times per day are available.
• Run Time Icon: Displays watering duration from 1 minute to 5 hours and 59 minutes.
• Rain Delay Icon: Indicates a delay in the irrigation program start, from 1 to 99 days.
• Manual Run Icon: Appears when the manual run button is pressed.
• Battery Level Indicator: Flashes when batteries are low and need replacement.
• Day of the Week Underscore: Shows which day(s) of the week the timer will operate.
• Month Indicator: Represents the current month.
• Year Indicator: Represents the current year.

Control Buttons:

• [Select programming mode] button: Used to enter programming modes.
• [Turn program(s) ON/OFF] button: Used to turn programs on or off.
• [Start/stop a manual cycle] button: Initiates or stops a manual watering cycle.
• [Move left/right to select a value] buttons (arrows): Navigate through options or values.
• [Raise/lower the selected value] buttons (arrows): Adjusts selected values (e.g., time, duration).

5. Installing the Batteries

To install batteries:

1. Open the battery compartment cap by turning it counterclockwise.
2. Install two fresh, brand-name, AA alkaline batteries (not included), ensuring correct positive (+) and negative (-) orientation as indicated on the timer's underside.
3. Insert and screw the battery cap clockwise. Tighten firmly by hand only.

The timer display will then show the day, PM, and the hour digit flashing, indicating it is ready for installation and programming.

Diagram Description: Shows the battery compartment cap being unscrewed counterclockwise, followed by inserting two AA batteries with correct polarity, and finally screwing the cap back on clockwise.

6. Installation

The RBC 7000 timer features a 3/4" inlet and outlet with female pipe thread, allowing direct installation onto 3/4" PVC male pipe thread fittings as part of a sprinkler valve manifold or as a stand-alone unit (Figure 1). Alternatively, it can be attached to a hose or faucet/spigot using the included adapters (Figure 7).

Warning: Wrap all male pipe thread fittings with Teflon tape. Do not use pipe dope or pipe cement on the valve, as this will damage the valve and void the warranty.

Attention: Ensure the valve's direction is noted during installation. The solenoid and timer mount should be positioned towards the outlet side of the valve.

In-Line Installation

Rated operating pressure: 10-125 PSI

Recommended Operating Pressure: 10-80 PSI

1. Shut off the main water supply.
2. Install a 3/4" ball or gate valve onto the PVC pipe or valve manifold before installing the timer (Figures 2 and 3). This valve serves as an emergency backup to shut off the system, a common practice among professional installers.
3. Turn the water supply on to flush the line, then shut off the water using the ball or gate valve.
4. Install the timer, wrapping Teflon tape on all male pipe thread fittings.
5. Turn the water supply on to pressurize the system. The timer will momentarily open and then shut off.
6. The unit is now ready for programming.

Figure 1 Description: Shows the RBC 7000 timer connected to a 3/4" pipe fitting, illustrating its inline installation.

Figure 2 Description: Depicts an in-line installation setup on a PVC pipe, highlighting the water flow direction and the placement of a ball or gate valve before the timer.

Figure 3 Description: Illustrates a below-ground installation of the timer and valve assembly.

Faucet Installation

To convert the controller with pipe thread into a hose thread:

1. Wrap the swivel adapter and the nipple male pipe threads with four to six layers of Teflon tape in a clockwise direction.
2. Screw the swivel adapter male threads into the inlet side of the controller valve and tighten with a wrench or pliers. Repeat for the 3/4" MPT x MHT nipple (see Figure 4).
3. Note: Do not apply Teflon tape to the male hose thread faucet.
4. Ensure the washer is in place inside the female swivel adapter. Screw the female swivel thread clockwise onto the faucet and tighten by hand only. Do not use pliers or a wrench (Figure 5).
5. Open the faucet and check for leaks.

Warning: Do not tighten the swivel nut with pliers or a wrench. Overtightening can cause damage to the swivel and washer, leading to leaks or disconnection from the faucet.

Figure 4 Description: Shows the components for faucet installation: a 3/4" FHT x MNPT swivel adapter and a nipple pipe x hose thread, with water flow indicated.

Figure 5 Description: Illustrates the completed connection of the timer to a faucet using the swivel adapter.

Hose End Drip System Installation

If a backflow preventer is part of the faucet (common in new houses), do not install another backflow preventer to the faucet. If backflow preventers are required by city code for your drip system, install the device on the downstream side of the RBC 7000 (Figures 6 and 6a).

It is recommended to include a filter on a drip system to clean small particles that could clog drippers. Filters can also apply fertilizer automatically (Figures 7 and 8).

Figure 6 & 6a Description: Diagrams showing a hose end drip system installation with a pressure regulator and a backflow preventer.

Figure 7 & 8 Description: Diagrams showing a hose end drip system installation with a filter, pressure regulator, and backflow preventer.

7. Programming

The RBC 7000 timer can be programmed for various watering schedules:

• Any day of the week.
• Odd or even days.
• Cyclical mode: every 1 to 12 hours, or once a day up to every 30 days.

The timer supports up to four start times per day, with durations ranging from 1 minute to 5 hours and 59 minutes.

To program the timer, use the [Select programming mode] button to choose the desired mode, the [Make entry flash] button to make data flash for editing, and the [Raise/lower the selected value] buttons to change values.

Note: Only flashing values can be changed.

Note: If the last entered data stops flashing, press the [Make entry flash] button again to resume programming and repeat the steps.

8. Setting Current Time and Date

The timer can display time in either 12-hour or 24-hour format. To change the format from the home screen, press the [Select programming mode] button for three seconds until the display switches format (AM/PM disappears).

To enable proper operation, the current time and date must be set:

1. Press the [Select programming mode] button until the Time and Date Icon appears along with the time and day of the week.
2. If the current time is not set or needs updating, press the [Move left/right to select a value] button, and the hour digit will flash.
3. To set the current hour, press the [Raise/lower the selected value] buttons (note AM and PM designations).
4. To set the minutes, press the [Make entry flash] button again, and the minute digit will flash. Press the [Raise/lower the selected value] buttons to set the current time in minutes.
5. Press the [Make entry flash] button again and repeat the steps to set the current date (month, day, and year). The day of the week will update automatically to correspond with the entered date.

Display Examples: Shows the LCD displaying time in 12-hour format (e.g., 12:00 PM) and 24-hour format (e.g., 24:00). Another display shows the date setting process, with arrows indicating how to adjust Month, Day, and Year.

9. Setting Watering Day Schedules

This setting determines which days the RBC 7000 timer will operate. Options include specific days, odd/even days, or cyclical watering.

Option 1: Setting Specific Days of the Week

The timer's default setting is to water on all days of the week.

Example: To water every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday:

1. Press the [Select programming mode] button until the Set Watering Days Icon and the days of the week appear on the screen.
2. Press the [Move left/right to select a value] button once, and 'M' (Monday) starts flashing.
3. Press the [Raise/lower the selected value] button, and the underscore under 'M' disappears, de-selecting Monday.
4. Press the [Move left/right to select a value] button twice, and 'W' (Wednesday) starts flashing.
5. Press the [Raise/lower the selected value] button, and the underscore under 'W' disappears, de-selecting Wednesday.
6. Press the [Move left/right to select a value] button twice, and 'F' (Friday) starts flashing.
7. Press the [Raise/lower the selected value] button, and the underscore under 'F' disappears, de-selecting Friday.
8. Press the [Move left/right to select a value] button, and the underscore under 'Sa' (Saturday) starts flashing.
9. Press the [Raise/lower the selected value] button, and the underscore under 'Sa' disappears, de-selecting Saturday.

Press the [Select programming mode] button to proceed to the next step (Start Time) or to review the program.

Option 2: Setting Even or Odd Days

To select EVEN or ODD days:

1. Press the [Select programming mode] button until the Set Watering Days Icon and the days of the week appear.
2. Press the [Move left/right to select a value] and [Raise/lower the selected value] buttons to skip all days of the week (ensure underscores are removed beneath all days).
3. Press the [Move left/right to select a value] button, and 'EVEN' appears flashing.
4. Press the [Raise/lower the selected value] button, and 'ODD' appears flashing.

Press the [Select programming mode] button to proceed to the next step (Start Time) or to review the program.

Option 3: Setting every X hours

Example: To water once every seven hours:

1. Press the [Select programming mode] button until the Set Watering Days Icon and the days of the week appear.
2. Press the [Move left/right to select a value] and [Raise/lower the selected value] buttons to skip all days of the week.
3. Press the [Move left/right to select a value] button, and 'EVEN' appears flashing.
4. Press the [Make entry flash] button again, and '1:00' hour appears flashing. To set the number of hours between watering to seven hours, press the [Raise/lower the selected value] buttons until '7:00' appears on the display.

Press the [Select programming mode] button to proceed to the next step (Start Time) or to review the program.

Option 4: Setting every X days

Example: To water once every 10 days:

1. Press the [Select programming mode] button until the Set Watering Days Icon and the days of the week appear.
2. Press the [Move left/right to select a value] and [Raise/lower the selected value] buttons to skip all days of the week.
3. Press the [Move left/right to select a value] button, and 'EVEN' appears flashing.
4. Press the [Make entry flash] button again, and '1 hour' appears flashing.
5. Press the [Make entry flash] button again, and '1 DAY' appears flashing. To select the number of days between watering to 10 days, press the [Raise/lower the selected value] buttons until '10' appears on the display.

In this case, the cycle will start 10 days from the current day.

Note: See section 12 for setting the start day in cyclical mode.

To set the timer back to specific days mode:

1. Push the [Select programming mode] button until 'START EVERY' and the Set Watering Days Icon appear on the bottom left of the screen.
2. Push the [Move left/right to select a value] button until the days of the week appear at the top of the screen.

Press the [Select programming mode] button to proceed to the next step (Start Time) or to review the program.

10. Setting Watering Start Times

The RBC 7000 smart timer supports up to four separate irrigation start times per day. If the timer is set to water every X hours, only one start time is available.

To set a start time:

1. Press the [Select programming mode] button until the Start Time Icon appears. 'START 1' displays 'OFF', or the last start time programmed in START 1 appears.
2. Press the [Move left/right to select a value] button, and 'OFF' (or the first start time programmed) begins flashing.
3. To set the desired first start time hour (note AM and PM designations), press the [Raise/lower the selected value] buttons.
4. Press the [Make entry flash] button, and the minutes start flashing.
5. Press the [Raise/lower the selected value] buttons to set the desired start time minutes.
6. Press the [Make entry flash] button again; the second start time and 'OFF', or the last start time programmed, appear flashing. Repeat the steps to set the second, third, and fourth start times if needed. During programming, if set to water on specific days, the screen will show which days the timer will operate with an underline.

To delete a start time:

1. Press the [Select programming mode] button until 'START 1' appears.
2. Press the [Move left/right to select a value] button until the start time you want to delete appears (hour digits will be flashing).
3. Press the [Make entry flash] button until the word 'OFF' appears.

Press the [Select programming mode] button to proceed to the next step (Run Time) or to review the program.

11. Setting Watering Run Time Duration

This setting determines how long the RBC 7000 smart timer will keep the valve open. Duration ranges from 1 minute to 5 hours and 59 minutes. For example, setting a 10-minute run time on specific days will program the timer to water for 10 minutes on those chosen days at each selected start time. If the timer is set to water every X hours, the maximum duration is 59 minutes.

To set the watering run time:

1. Press the [Select programming mode] button until the Run Time Icon appears, showing 'OFF' or the last run time setting. ('OFF' appears if duration is set to 0).
2. Press the [Move left/right to select a value] button, and '0:05' (or the last programmed run time) appears.
3. To set a desired watering run time in hours, press the [Raise/lower the selected value] buttons to select the number of hours.
4. If only watering duration in minutes is required, press the [Make entry flash] button to skip the hour digit, and the minutes will start flashing.
5. To set the desired watering duration in minutes (e.g., 10 minutes), press the [Raise/lower the selected value] buttons to select minutes. When programming watering duration for specific days, the screen will also show the days the timer will operate with an underline.

At this point, the controller's normal programming is concluded. Press the [Select programming mode] button to proceed to the next step (Rain Delay) or to review the program or exit.

12. Setting Rain Delay – Optional Feature

The Rain Delay setting temporarily suspends all irrigation for a defined number of days (1-99 days). Regularly scheduled programs will resume automatically at the end of the designated period. This is useful during rainy weather.

To set a temporary suspension of the program:

1. Press the [Select programming mode] button until the Rain Delay Icon and 'OFF' appear.
2. Press the [Move left/right to select a value] button, and 'OFF' starts flashing.
3. To set the desired temporary suspension period (1-99 days), press the [Raise/lower the selected value] buttons.

The temporary suspension can be cancelled at any time by re-entering the Rain Delay screen and changing the setting to 'OFF' (press the [Raise/lower the selected value] buttons until 'OFF' appears).

Note: 'OFF' appears between a numeric value of 99 and 1.

Press the [Select programming mode] button to review the program or to exit.

13. Manual Watering

Manual mode allows testing the system and watering for a specified duration. The timer automatically stops watering at the end of the defined period. The programmed schedule continues to function, and sensor conditions are disregarded in this mode.

To start a manual run:

1. Press the [Select programming mode] button. The Watering Icon and Manual Run Icon appear. 'ON' displays momentarily, followed by the last watering duration. The timer opens the valve, and in five seconds, a countdown of the remaining irrigation duration appears, indicating when the timer will close the valve.

Display Examples: Shows the LCD displaying 'On', then '0:05', then '0:03' during a manual run.

2. Press the [Start/stop a manual cycle] button to end manual run.
3. After five seconds, the display reverts to the current time screen.

To activate manual watering without the timer, turn the solenoid a 1/4 turn counterclockwise. To stop, tighten the solenoid clockwise by hand only; do not overtighten (Figure 9).

Figure 9 Description: Shows the valve solenoid being turned counterclockwise to activate manual watering.

14. Connecting a Rain Sensor

Most "normally closed" rain sensors can be connected to the RBC 7000 timer. The sensor prevents automatic watering due to excessive rainfall.

To connect the sensor to the timer:

1. Cut the yellow wire loop that exits the timer in the middle of the loop.
2. Strip approximately 1/2" of insulation from the end of each wire.
3. Splice one yellow wire to each of the wires coming from the sensor, using waterproof wire connectors to secure the connections.
4. When the sensor is active and preventing automatic operation, the Sensor Icon will appear on the display.

Note: The Sensor Icon appears when the sensor is active or if the wire has been cut.

Diagram Description: Shows a rain sensor connected to the timer via yellow sensor wires, with waterproof wire connectors used for the splices. Recommended sensors include Rain Bird RSD and Hunter Mini-Clik.

15. Changing the Batteries

The RBC 7000 timer's batteries can last up to three years with name-brand AA alkaline batteries. Actual battery life depends on battery sensitivity, temperature, and the number of valve operations.

For proper operation, check the timer regularly and replace batteries when the low battery indicator starts flashing.

The timer is designed to maintain current time settings for up to 60 seconds with batteries removed. Refer to Section 5 for battery replacement.

Note: If batteries are dead or drained, manual operation can be achieved by turning the solenoid counterclockwise to open the valve. The valve will remain open until the solenoid is turned clockwise.

16. Maintenance, Troubleshooting and Repairs

To restore the timer to default settings:

1. Press the [Select programming mode] button until 'START EVERY' and the Set Watering Days Icon appear on the bottom left of the screen.
2. Press and hold the [Turn program(s) ON/OFF] button for three seconds.
3. The screen returns to the home screen (clock), and all default settings are restored. The current time and date are retained.

Troubleshooting Guide

Problem: Timer fails to open automatically or manually

• Cause: No water pressure. Solution: Open main water supply valve.
• Cause: Flow control knob is turned down. Solution: Turn flow-control knob counter-clockwise to open.

Problem: Valve/actuator functions via manual mode but not automatically

• Cause: Timer is set to OFF mode. Solution: Verify the timer does not show 'OFF' in current time mode.
• Cause: AM/PM not set correctly in current time mode. Solution: Check current time and change AM/PM if necessary.
• Cause: AM/PM not set correctly in start time mode. Solution: Check start time(s) and change AM/PM if necessary.
• Cause: Rain delay is preventing watering. Solution: Set rain delay to off.
• Cause: Yellow sensor wires have been cut. Solution: Re-connect sensor wires with a waterproof connector.
• Cause: Sensor is installed and in a state that prevents watering. Solution: Check sensor and wire splices and verify the sensor is normally closed.

Problem: The display is blank

• Cause: No buttons have been pushed in the previous 15 minutes. Solution: Push any button.
• Cause: No batteries are installed. Solution: Install two new AA alkaline batteries.

Problem: Valve fails to close

• Cause: Solenoid is loose. Solution: Tighten solenoid by turning it clockwise.
• Cause: Valve is installed backwards. Solution: Check flow arrow and verify it points away from the water source; reverse valve if necessary.
• Cause: Debris is blocking the solenoid port. Solution: Shut off water supply, unscrew and remove the solenoid, open water supply to flush the solenoid port, then re-install the solenoid.
• Cause: Flow control knob is too far open. Solution: Turn flow control knob clockwise and retest.
• Cause: Drip system flow rate is below minimum flow rate. Solution: Increase system flow rate by adding or changing drippers.

Problem: Rain sensor does not prevent watering

• Cause: Rain sensor is normally open, malfunctioning, or not wired correctly. Solution: Verify that the sensor icon appears on the display when the pin is pushed down and check all wire splices.

Problem: Timer waters more than once per day

• Cause: More than one start time has been programmed. Solution: Change start times 2, 3, and 4 to 'OFF'.

17. Warranty

DIG CORPORATION warrants these products to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of three years from the date of purchase. This warranty does not cover damage resulting from accident, misuse, neglect, modification, improper installation, or subjection to line pressure exceeding 125 lbs. per square inch for anti-siphon valves, in-line valves, and actuators.

The warranty extends only to the original purchaser. DIG CORPORATION's obligation is limited to repairing or replacing defective products returned to its factory within three years of purchase. DIG CORPORATION is not liable for any incidental or consequential damages. Some states may not allow these limitations.

Unattended use without inspection for proper operation is beyond the product's intended use, and DIG CORPORATION is not responsible for resulting damage. No warranties extend beyond the description provided.

For non-irrigation purposes, DIG CORPORATION disclaims implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. For personal, family, or household use, DIG CORPORATION disclaims such warranties to the extent permitted by law. Any implied warranties are limited to three years from the original purchase date.

To obtain warranty service, return the unit to the factory with proof of purchase, shipping prepaid, to:

DIG CORPORATION, 1210 Activity Drive, Vista, CA 92081.

Repaired or replaced units will be shipped prepaid. Allow four weeks for repairs and shipping. Damaged units not covered by warranty may be refused or repaired at a reasonable cost.

This warranty grants specific legal rights, and other rights may vary by state.

18. Technical Assistance

For any problems or questions regarding the product's features, please refer to this operating manual first. For further assistance, DIG offers the following customer support:

DIGPRO™ Technical Service USA

DIG's Technical Service Team is available to answer questions in English and Spanish from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (PST) Monday-Friday (except holidays) at 800-344-2281. Questions can be e-mailed to questions@digcorp.com or faxed to 760-727-0282. Specification documents and manuals are available for download at www.digcorp.com.

Customer Assistance Outside the USA

Contact your local distributor.

19. To Order Replacement or Spare Parts

PLEASE ORDER ONLINE AT WWW.DIGCORP.COM

DIG Corporation understands that most dealers do not carry spare parts. For your convenience, order online at www.digcorp.com.

Diagram Description: Shows various spare parts for the timer and valve assembly, including: Timer with Solenoid, 2-wire DC solenoid, Solenoid valve adapter, Screws, Flow control knob, Bonnet assembly, Spring, Diaphragm, In-line valve.