Hunter Pro-C Irrigation Controller

Elements of the Pro-C Controller

The Pro-C controller features an intuitive design with a clear LCD screen and a user-friendly dial selector.

A: LCD Screen

• 1. Program Selector: Indicates the current program (A, B, or C).
• 2. Station Number: Displays the 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. Watering Icon (Sprinkler): Indicates watering times.
• 8. Days of the Week: Shows days selected for watering or non-watering. Options include specific days, odd/even days, or interval watering.
• 9. Odd/Even Days: Indicates if watering is set for odd or even days.
• 10. Interval: Indicates if watering is set for an interval.
• 11. Seasonal Adjustment: Displays the percentage adjustment (in 5% increments) for seasonal watering.
• 12. Cycle Start: Shows the start time for a watering cycle, visible when 'Set Cycle Start Times' is selected.

B: Buttons and Controls

• 13. + Button: Increases the flashing display value.
• 14. - Button: Decreases the flashing display value.
• 15. Back Button: Returns to the previous flashing display item.
• 16. Forward Button: Advances to the next flashing display item. Also used to start a manual cycle.
• 17. PRG Button: Selects programs (A, B, C) and can initiate a test program.
• 18. Rain Sensor Switch: Allows the user to bypass the rain sensor if installed.

C: Control Dial

The dial selector allows access to various programming and operational modes:

• RUN (Marche): Normal position for automatic and manual operation.
• Set Current Date/Time: For setting the current date and time.
• Set Program Start Times: To set up to four start times per program.
• Set Station Run Times: To set the watering duration for each station.
• Set Days to Water: To select watering days (specific days, interval, odd/even).
• Set Pump Operation: To enable or disable the pump or master valve for specific stations.
• Manual-Single Station: Activates a single station for manual watering.
• Manual-All Stations: Activates all stations sequentially for manual watering.
• System Off: Shuts down all active programs and stops watering.

D: Wiring Compartment

• 20. 9V Battery Compartment: For programming without AC power (battery not included).
• 21. Reset Button: Resets the controller to factory defaults.
• 22. Power Input: Connection point for transformer, sensor, and other wires.
• 23. Transformer: Integrated transformer (outdoor models) or external plug-in transformer (indoor models) to supply AC power.
• 24. Junction Box: For main power connection (outdoor models).
• 25. Station Modules: Three slots for PCM-300 (3-station) or PCM-900 (9-station) modules to expand capacity up to 15 stations.
• Base Module: Includes terminals for stations 1-3, master valve/pump, and common wire.

Installation

Mounting the Indoor Unit

The indoor Pro-C unit is not weatherproof and must be installed indoors or in a sheltered location. Keep out of reach of children.

1. Choose an indoor location near a standard electrical outlet, protected from humidity and direct sunlight. Maintain a distance of 4.5m (15 ft) from other electrical devices to prevent interference.
2. Remove the front panel by disconnecting the ribbon cable and pulling the hinge downwards.
3. Position the controller at eye level. Use the top mounting hole as a guide, screw a 25mm (1 inch) screw into the wall. Use wall anchors if installing on masonry.
4. Align the controller with the screw and slide the top opening (B) onto the screw.
5. Secure the controller by inserting screws into the bottom holes (C).

Diagram shows indoor unit mounting to a wall with screws.

Mounting the Outdoor Unit

The outdoor model is weatherproof. Electrical connections must be made by a qualified electrician, adhering to local codes. Incorrect installation can pose electrical shock or fire risks. Keep out of reach of children.

1. Choose a location near an electrical power source, maintaining a 4.5m (15 ft) distance from other electrical devices.
2. Ensure compliance with all local electrical and installation codes.
3. Remove the front panel by disconnecting the ribbon cable and pulling the hinge downwards.
4. Position the controller at eye level, align the top opening (A) with the mounting mark, and mark the three bottom holes (B).
5. Drill 6mm (1/4 inch) holes at each mark.
6. Install wall anchors (C) if mounting on brick, masonry, or plaster.
7. Align the controller's mounting holes with the anchors or pilot holes and secure with screws.

Diagram shows outdoor unit mounting to a wall with screws.

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

Electrical Wiring

Indoor Unit Wiring:

• Feed the transformer cable through the opening at the bottom left of the controller.
• Connect the yellow wires to the AC terminals and the green wire to the GND (ground) terminal. Ensure wires hang through the slots to allow the door to close properly.
• Connect valve wires: The common wire from the valves connects to the 'COM' terminal. Each station's control wire connects to the corresponding station terminal.

Diagram shows indoor wiring compartment with connections for transformer and multiple valves, labeled 'Vanne 1' through 'Vanne 4' and 'Fil commun des vannes' (Common wire of valves).

Outdoor Unit Wiring:

• Feed the AC power cable and conduit through the 13mm (1/2 inch) conduit opening at the bottom left.
• Connect wires to the transformer in the junction box. International units have a terminal block. Use a UL-listed 13mm (1/2 inch) male-threaded adapter for AC wiring.
• Secure the adapter inside the housing with its nut.

Diagram shows outdoor wiring compartment with connections for AC power (110 VAC or 230 VAC) and multiple valves.

Note: Hunter recommends using a licensed electrician for electrical installations.

Connecting Station Modules

The Pro-C comes with a 3-station base module. Expansion modules (PCM-300 for 3 stations, PCM-900 for 9 stations) can be added to support up to 15 stations. Modules must be black.

• Slide the Power Lock mechanism to 'Power Off' (unlocked).
• Insert PCM modules into the appropriate sequential slots.
• Slide the Power Lock mechanism to 'Power On' (locked) to secure and power the modules.
• The Pro-C automatically detects the number of stations.

Diagrams show PCM-300 and PCM-900 modules and the Power Lock mechanism.

Connecting a Battery for Programming (Optional)

A 9V alkaline battery (not included) can be used to program the controller without AC power. Watering will not occur without AC power. The controller's non-volatile memory retains program settings even without a battery.

Diagram shows a 9V battery connected to terminals.

Connecting a Master Valve

If your system has a master valve (normally closed valve at the main water supply), connect it as follows:

• At the master valve, connect the common wire to one solenoid wire and a separate control wire to the other solenoid wire.
• Route wires through the conduit to the controller.
• Connect the master valve wire to the P/MV terminal and the other wire to the 'COM' (common) terminal.

Diagram illustrates master valve wiring to the controller.

Connecting a Pump Start Relay

If your system includes a pump, a pump start relay is required to activate the pump. The controller must be mounted at least 4.5m (15 ft) from the pump and relay. The relay's holding current should not exceed 0.28 Amps. Do not connect the controller directly to the pump.

• Route a pair of wires from the pump relay to the controller.
• Connect the common pump wire to the 'COM' terminal and the remaining pump relay wire to the P/MV terminal.

Diagram shows pump start relay wiring to the controller.

Connecting a Rain Sensor (Not Supplied)

The Pro-C can connect to a micro-switch type rain sensor (e.g., Hunter Mini-Clik®). The sensor stops watering when natural rainfall is sufficient. The sensor can be bypassed using the switch on the controller.

• Route sensor wires through the conduit.
• Remove the jumper from the two SEN (sensor) terminals.
• Connect each wire to a SEN terminal.

Sensor Bypass: If the sensor switch is in the 'ON' position and no sensor is connected, or if the jumper is removed, the display shows 'SENSOR OFF' and watering is prevented. To resolve this, set the switch to 'BYPASS' or install a short jumper wire between the sensor terminals.

Diagram shows rain sensor wiring to the controller's SEN terminals.

Connecting a Hunter Remote System (Not Supplied)

The Pro-C includes a SmartPort® for use with Hunter ROAM remote control devices, allowing operation without returning to the controller.

• Install a 13mm (1/2 inch) threaded tee fitting approximately 30cm (12 inches) below the Pro-C on the field wiring conduit.
• Route the SmartPort wiring (red, white, blue) through the tee and into the wiring compartment.
• Screw the SmartPort wiring housing into the tee.
• Connect the wires to the controller terminals: Red to AC1, White to AC2, Blue to REM.

Diagram illustrates SmartPort installation and wiring connections.

Note: ROAM systems are not marketed in the European Community.

SmartPort Cable Extension: Extending the SmartPort cable may cause error messages or radio interference. Use shielded cable (Hunter part number SRR-SCWH) for extensions.

Connecting to Solar Sync

The Solar Sync system automatically adjusts watering based on local weather conditions, using a solar sensor and temperature sensor to measure evapotranspiration (ET). It also integrates Hunter Rain-Clik™ and Freeze-Clik® sensors. This system provides water-efficient irrigation.

Diagram shows the Solar Sync sensor connected to the controller.

Power Outages

The controller has non-volatile memory that preserves program settings indefinitely. It also retains the current time and date during power outages.

Programming and Operation

Sprinkler System Basics

An automatic irrigation system typically consists of three main components: the controller, solenoid valves, and sprinklers. The controller acts as the system's brain, directing valves to supply water to sprinklers for specific durations. Each solenoid valve controls a group of sprinklers, known as a watering station. Valves are wired to the controller, with each wire corresponding to a station number. The controller operates valves sequentially, one at a time, in a watering cycle. Program information (start times, run times) is stored in a program.

When setting watering times and durations, consider soil type, area watered, climate, and sprinkler types.

Diagram illustrates a typical sprinkler system layout with a controller, valves, and stations.

Defining an Irrigation Program

Programs are created to activate solenoid valves sequentially. To create a program:

1. Select Program: Press the PRG button to choose Program A, B, or C (start with Program A).
2. Set Start Time: Set one start time for the entire program. This activates all stations sequentially.
3. Set Run Times: Define the watering duration for each station (1 minute to 6 hours). Set to '0:00' for unused stations.
4. Set Watering Days: Choose specific days, an interval, or odd/even days for watering.

Watering Recommendations: Water one to two hours before sunrise for optimal water pressure and soil absorption, minimizing evaporation and preventing fungal growth.

Signs of Over/Under Watering: Watch for standing water (overwatering) or wilting/discoloration (underwatering) and adjust programming accordingly.

Example Program

The following table shows an example program setup:

Diagram illustrates a program cycle: Station 1 runs for 15 min, Station 2 for 15 min, Station 3 for 20 min, starting at 6:00 AM, ending at 6:50 AM.

Programming the Controller

The controller's display changes as you turn the selector dial to input specific programming information. Use the buttons to navigate and modify settings.

Setting Date and Time

1. Turn the selector to SET CURRENT DATE/TIME.
2. The year flashes. Use the + and - buttons to adjust, then press the button to set.
3. The month flashes. Use the + and - buttons to adjust, then press the button to set.
4. The day flashes. Use the + and - buttons to adjust, then press the button to set.
5. The hour flashes. Use the + and - buttons to adjust. Press the button to switch between AM/PM/24HR and hours. Use the + and - buttons to set the hour. Press the button to switch to minutes and use + and - to set minutes.

Diagrams show LCD displays for setting year, month, day, and time.

Setting Program Start Times

Program A is selected by default. You can choose Program B or C using the PRG button.

• Use the + and - buttons to set the start time (increments of 15 minutes). One start time activates all stations sequentially for that program.
• Press the button to add another start time or the PRG button for the next program.

Note: The controller automatically organizes start times chronologically.

Deleting a Start Time: With the selector on SET PROGRAM START TIMES, press + and - until 12:00 AM is displayed, then press the button to set it to OFF.

Note: If all four start times are set to OFF, the program will not run.

Setting Station Run Times

1. Turn the selector to SET STATION RUN TIMES.
2. The display shows the selected program and station. The run time for that station flashes. Use the PRG button to switch programs.
3. Use the + and - buttons to set the run time (1 minute to 6 hours).
4. Press the button to advance to the next station.
5. Repeat for all stations.

Diagram shows LCD display for setting station run time.

Setting Watering Days

1. Turn the selector to SET DAYS TO WATER.
2. The last selected program (A, B, or C) is displayed. Use the PRG button to switch programs.
3. The controller displays current watering settings. You can choose specific days, intervals, or odd/even days. Each program can only use one type of day selection.

Selecting Watering Days of the Week

• Press the button to select a watering day (starts with Monday). Press again to cancel watering for that day. An icon indicates a watering day, and no icon indicates a non-watering day.
• After programming, set the selector to RUN to activate automatic execution.

Selecting Odd or Even Day Watering

This is based on the calendar date, not the day of the week.

• With the cursor on SU (Sunday), press the button. The ODD icon flashes.
• If needed, set the selector to RUN.
• To water on even days, press the button twice. The ODD icon flashes. Toggle between ODD and EVEN by pressing the + and - buttons.

Diagrams show 'Arrosage les jours impairs' (Odd day watering) and 'Arrosage les jours pairs' (Even day watering).

Selecting Interval Watering

This is useful for uniform watering without tracking specific days.

1. Turn the selector to SET DAYS TO WATER. The droplet icon above Monday should flash.
2. Press the button until the droplet icon above EVEN flashes, then press the button again. The interval mode is displayed, and the number of interval days flashes.
3. Use the + or - buttons to select the desired interval (e.g., every 3 days).
4. Press the button to select 'NO WATER DAYS' to specify days the system should not water.

Note: If specific days are marked as 'No Water Days', they will be skipped even if they fall within the interval. This can extend the watering cycle.

Diagrams show LCD displays for interval selection.

Operation Modes

• RUN (Marche): After programming, set the selector to RUN to enable automatic operation.
• SYSTEM OFF: Turns off all active programs and stops watering. The controller resumes normal operation when returned to RUN.
• Manual-Single Station: Allows manual activation of one station. Use the button to advance stations and +/- to set run time. The pump/master valve circuit operates for the first 15 seconds.
• Seasonal Adjustment: Globally adjusts watering times by a percentage (5% to 300%). Ideal for minor adjustments based on climate. Set the selector to SEASONAL ADJUSTMENT and use +/- buttons. The controller should initially be programmed at 100%.

Diagrams show selector dial positions for RUN, SYSTEM OFF, MANUAL-SINGLE STATION, and SEASONAL ADJUSTMENT.

One-Touch Manual Start/Advance

Activate a program without using the selector dial.

• Hold the MANUAL START button for 2 seconds.
• The controller defaults to Program A. Use the PRG button to select Program B or C.
• The station number flashes. Use the +/- buttons to scroll through stations and set run times.
• Press the button to start the program from the selected station.

This function is useful for quick cycles, extra watering, or system inspection.

Diagram shows the MANUAL START button and controller display during one-touch operation.

Advanced Functions

Pump/Master Valve Operation

By default, the pump/master valve circuit is ON for all stations. You can set it to ON or OFF for specific stations independently of the program.

1. Turn the selector to SET PUMP OPERATION.
2. Use the +/- buttons to enable or disable the pump/master valve for the selected station.
3. Press the button to move to the next station.
4. Repeat for all necessary stations.

Diagrams show selector dial positions for SET PUMP OPERATION and displays for station ON/OFF status.

Programmable Rain Delay

This feature allows you to suspend all programmed watering for a set period (1 to 31 days). After the delay, the controller resumes normal automatic operation.

1. Turn the selector to SYSTEM OFF.
2. Press the + button; '1' is displayed, and the DAYS LEFT icon lights up.
3. Press + repeatedly to set the desired delay (up to 31 days).
4. Return the selector to RUN. The display will show OFF, the number of days remaining, and the DAYS LEFT icon.

The remaining days count down daily at midnight. Watering resumes automatically after the delay period.

Diagrams show LCD displays for setting and displaying the rain delay.

Specific Days Off

Useful for preventing watering on days like lawn mowing days.

1. Turn the selector to SET DAYS TO WATER.
2. Set up an interval program (see page 21).
3. Press the button; MON (Monday) flashes.
4. Use the button to move the cursor to the desired day.
5. Press the button to set that day as a 'No Water Day'. An icon will appear above the day.
6. Repeat for all desired days.

Note: If days are marked as 'No Water Days', they will be skipped, even if they fall within an interval program.

Diagram shows LCD display for setting days off.

Hidden Functions

Program Personalization

The Pro-C is configured with 3 programs (A, B, C) by default. You can personalize it by hiding programs you don't need, simplifying programming.

• Hold the START TIME button, then turn the selector to set watering days.
• Release buttons.
• Use the + and - buttons to cycle through program modes: Advanced (3 programs/4 start times), Normal (2 programs/4 start times), or Limited (1 program/1 start time).

Diagrams show the different program personalization modes.

Station Delay

This function inserts a delay between the shutoff of one station and the start of the next. It's useful for systems with slow-closing valves or pumps with slow recovery.

1. Start with the selector in RUN.
2. Hold the button while turning the selector to SET STATION RUN TIMES.
3. Release the button. The display shows a delay in seconds for all stations, with the DELAY icon lit.
4. Use the + and - buttons to set the delay from 0 to 59 seconds, then up to 4 hours. 'Hr' indicates hours.
5. Return the selector to RUN.

Note: The pump/master valve circuit operates for the first 15 seconds of any programmed delay to facilitate valve closure and prevent unnecessary pump cycles.

Diagram shows LCD display for setting station delay.

Sensor Deactivation

Allows you to program the controller to ignore the sensor for specific stations (e.g., for plants under eaves that still need watering). By default, the sensor stops watering for all zones.

• Return the selector to RUN.
• Hold the button while turning the selector to START TIMES.
• Release the button. The station number, ON, and an icon flash.
• Use the +/- buttons to enable (ON) or disable (OFF) the sensor for the indicated station.
• Use the button to scroll to the next station.

When the Pro-C receives a sensor message to stop watering, it displays stations programmed to ignore the sensor. Stations ignoring the sensor will alternate the Tet icons.

Diagrams show LCD displays for sensor deactivation (ON/OFF).

Total Run Time Calculator

The Pro-C stores the total run times for each program. This helps determine the total watering time for a program.

• In Set Station Run Time mode, use the button to advance to the highest station number.
• Press the button once to display the total run time for all programmed stations.
• Use the PRG button to view other programs.

Test Program

A simplified test program activates each station sequentially (lowest to highest). You can start at any station.

1. Hold the button. The station number flashes.
2. Use the button to scroll to the desired station to start the test. Use +/- to set a maximum run time of 15 minutes (this setting is retained).
3. After a 2-second pause, the test program begins.

Hidden Functions (Continued)

Easy Retrieve Memory

The Pro-C can save your preferred watering program for easy recall.

• To Save Program: With the selector in RUN, hold the + and PRG buttons for 5 seconds. The = icon will scroll across the screen.
• To Retrieve Program: With the selector in RUN, hold the + and PRG buttons for 5 seconds. The = icon will scroll back across the screen.

Quick Check™ by Hunter

This diagnostic procedure quickly identifies circuit shorts, typically caused by faulty solenoids or cable contact.

• Simultaneously press the + and buttons. The LCD displays all segments (useful for display troubleshooting).
• Press the button to start Quick Check. The system searches for high current paths between station terminals. If a short circuit is detected in a wiring conduit, 'ERR' followed by the station number will flash momentarily. The controller returns to automatic mode after the test.

Memory Clear/Reset

To reset the controller to factory defaults, hold the button, then press and release the RESET button on the front panel. Wait for '12:00am' to appear on the screen, then release the button. The memory will be cleared, and the controller can be reprogrammed.

Winterizing Your System

In regions with freezing temperatures, systems often require winterizing. If using compressed air for purging, extreme caution is advised. Always wear ANSI-approved safety glasses, as compressed air can cause serious injury, including eye damage from flying debris. Do not lean over irrigation components during purging.

WARNING: Failure to follow these recommendations can result in serious injury.

Troubleshooting Guide

Specifications

Operating Features

• Station Run Times: 1 minute to 6 hours for Programs A, B, and C.
• Start Times: 4 per day, per program, for a maximum of 12 daily starts.
• Watering Schedule: 7-day watering calendar, interval watering up to 31 days, or odd/even day programming, using a 365-day clock/calendar.

Electrical Specifications

• Transformer Input: 120 VAC, 60 Hz (230 VAC, 50/60 Hz for international models).
• Transformer Output: 25 VAC, 1 A.
• Station Output: 24 VAC, 0.56 A per station.
• Maximum Output: 24 VAC, 0.84 A (with master valve circuit).
• Battery: 9V alkaline battery (not included) for non-AC programming; non-volatile memory retains program data without a battery.
• Front Panel Battery: Internal CR2032 lithium battery for real-time clock.

Dimensions

• Indoor Unit: Height: 20.9 cm (8.25 in), Width: 24.1 cm (9.5 in), Depth: 9.5 cm (3.75 in).
• Outdoor Unit: Height: 22.8 cm (9 in), Width: 25.4 cm (10 in), Depth: 11.4 cm (4.5 in).
• Outdoor unit rated NEMA 3R, IP44.

Default Settings

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

Cleaning

Clean only with a damp cloth and mild soapy water.

Declarations

FCC Declaration

This programmer emits radio frequencies and may cause interference with radios or televisions. It has been tested and complies with Class B digital device limits per FCC Part 15 regulations, designed to provide reasonable protection against such interference in residential installations. However, no guarantee of non-interference in a particular installation is made. If interference occurs, try reorienting the antenna, moving the programmer, or connecting to a different circuit.

For further suggestions, contact your dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician. The FCC publication "How to Identify and Resolve Radio-TV Interference Problems" is available from the US Government Printing Office.

Declaration of Conformity with European Directives

Hunter Industries declares that the Pro-C irrigation programmer conforms to European directives 87/336/EEC (electromagnetic compatibility) and 73/23/EEC (low voltage).

Project Engineer Signature: [Signature placeholder]

CE Mark: [CE Mark placeholder]

This product should be used only for the purposes described in this document and serviced only by qualified personnel.