Hunter Pro-C Residential and Light Commercial Irrigation Controllers

Introduction and Installation

This manual provides detailed instructions for the Hunter Pro-C irrigation controller, covering its components, installation, and initial setup.

Pro-C Components

The Pro-C controller is comprised of several key components:

• LCD Display: Shows program selection, station number, time, date, and operational status.
• Control Dial: Used to navigate through programming menus and select functions like Run, System Off, Set Current Date/Time, Set Program Start Times, Set Station Run Times, Set Days to Water, Set Pump Operation, Manual Single Station, and Seasonal Adjustment.
• Control Buttons: Buttons for increasing/decreasing values (➕, ➖), returning to previous items (⬅️), advancing to the next item or starting a manual cycle (➡️), and selecting programs or starting test programs (PRG).
• Rain Sensor Bypass Switch: Allows bypassing the weather sensor.
• Wiring Compartment: Houses connections for transformer, sensor wires, station modules, and power. Includes a 9-volt battery terminal for non-AC programming, a reset button, power area, junction box (outdoor models), and ground lug.

Mounting the Controller to a Wall

All necessary hardware is included for most installations.

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 an electrical outlet or power supply not controlled by a light switch.
2. Remove the front panel by disconnecting the ribbon connector and pulling down the hinge release.
3. Use the hole at the top of the controller as a reference and secure a 1" (25 mm) screw (labeled A) into the wall. Use screw anchors if attaching to drywall or masonry.
4. Align the controller with the screw and slide the keyhole (labeled B) on top of the controller over the screw.
5. Secure the controller in place by installing screws in the holes (labeled C).

NOTE: Outdoor models are water and weather resistant. Connecting the outdoor Pro-C to 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.

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

Diagram shows controller mounting with screw A, keyhole B, and securing screws C.

Connecting Valves and AC Power

General Wiring:

1. Route valve wires between the control valve location and the controller.
2. At the valves, attach a common wire to either solenoid wire of all valves (typically white). Attach a separate control wire to the remaining wire of each valve. Use waterproof connectors for all splices.
3. Route valve wires through conduit and attach it to one of the cabinet's bottom openings.
4. Strip 1/2" (13 mm) of insulation from all wires. Secure the common wire to the “COM” terminal and individual valve control wires to their respective station terminals.

Indoor Cabinet Wiring:

Route transformer cable through the bottom left hole. Connect one Yellow Wire to each AC screw terminal and the Green Wire to the GND terminal.

Outdoor Cabinet Wiring:

Route AC power cable and conduit through the 1/2" (13 mm) opening. Connect wires to the transformer wires inside the junction box. International units may have a built-in terminal strip. Use a UL listed 1/2" (13 mm) male adapter for AC wiring, inserting it into the bottom controller hole and securing with a nut inside.

NOTE: It is recommended that a licensed electrician perform the power installation.

NOTE: Pro-C/PCC controllers require AC power supplied via a 15A rated over-current protective device.

Diagram shows transformer connections to AC1, AC2, and GND terminals, and valve wiring to COM and station terminals.

Installing Station Modules

The Pro-C supports expansion up 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.
2. Insert PCM modules sequentially into the controller cabinet. Note: Use only BLACK PCM expansion modules.
3. Slide the Power Lock to 'Power On' (locked) to secure modules.
4. The Pro-C automatically recognizes the number of stations; no reset is needed.

Diagrams show PCM-300 and PCM-900 modules, and the controller with Power Lock engaged.

Connecting the Battery (Optional)

A 9-volt alkaline battery (not included) can be connected to the battery terminals in the front panel. This allows programming without AC power. The controller has non-volatile memory to retain programs during power outages even without a battery.

Diagram shows a 9-volt battery connected to terminals.

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 system is activated.

1. At the master valve, attach the common wire to one solenoid wire and a separate control wire to the other solenoid wire.
2. Route wires into the controller.
3. Connect one wire from the master valve to the P/MV terminal and the remaining wire to the “COM” (Common) terminal.

Diagram shows master valve wiring to P/MV and COM terminals, along with valve wiring.

Connecting a Pump Start Relay

NOTE: Complete this section only if a pump and pump start relay are installed. A pump start relay is an electronic device that uses a signal from the controller to activate a pump.

When a pump is operated by the controller, a pump start relay is typically used. Hunter offers various pump start relays.

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 to the P/MV screw slot.

Relay holding current draw must not exceed 0.28 amps (24 VAC). Do not connect the controller directly to the pump, as this will cause damage.

Diagram shows pump start relay wiring to P/MV and COM terminals.

Connecting a Weather Sensor

A Hunter Mini-Clik® rain sensor or other micro-switch weather sensor can be connected to stop watering when precipitation is sufficient.

1. Route sensor wires through the same conduit used for valve wiring.
2. Remove the metal jumper plate from the two SEN terminals.
3. Connect one wire to each SEN terminal.
4. When the sensor deactivates watering, 'SEN OFF' will appear on the display.

Manually Bypassing the Weather Sensor:

Use the 'BYPASS' position on the rain sensor switch on the front panel to disable the sensor for controller operation. You can also bypass for manual operation using the MANUAL - SINGLE STATION function.

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

Diagram shows Mini-Clik sensor wiring and the rain sensor bypass switch.

Connecting a Hunter Remote Control

The Pro-C includes a SmartPort® wiring harness for use with Hunter remotes, allowing system operation without being at the controller.

To install the SmartPort connector:

1. Install a 1/2" female threaded "Tee" in the field wiring conduit approximately 12 feet (3.7 meters) below the Pro-C.
2. Feed the red, white, and blue wires of the harness through the "Tee" and into the wiring compartment.
3. Screw the SmartPort harness housing into the "Tee".
4. Attach the red wire to the AC1 screw, the white wire to the AC2 screw, and the blue wire to the REM screw.

NOTE: Extending SmartPort wiring may cause radio interference. Use shielded cable for extensions.

Diagram shows SmartPort wiring connections to AC1, AC2, and REM terminals.

Connecting to the Hunter Solar Sync

The Solar Sync sensor system automatically adjusts watering based on local climate conditions (evapotranspiration). It also includes Rain-Clik™ and Freeze-Clik™ sensors to shut down irrigation during rain or freezing temperatures.

A module connects the sensor to the controller, automatically adjusting run times. This promotes water conservation and healthier plants without manual schedule adjustments.

Diagrams illustrate indoor and outdoor installation of the Solar Sync system.

Power Failures

The Pro-C features non-volatile memory to preserve programs indefinitely, even during power outages. It also retains the current time and date for extended periods without AC power.

Controller Programming and Operation

Sprinkler System Fundamentals

Automatic sprinkler systems consist of three main components: the controller, valves, and sprinklers.

• Controller: The "brain" that instructs valves when to supply water and for how long.
• Valves: Control groups of sprinklers, forming watering stations based on plant type, location, and water needs. Each valve connects to the controller via a wire corresponding to its station number.
• Sprinklers: Direct water to plants and lawns.

The controller operates valves sequentially, one at a time. After a station completes its watering, it advances to the next programmed station. This sequence is called a watering cycle. The watering times and durations for each station form a program.

Diagram illustrates a typical sprinkler system layout with a Pro-C controller, valves, and stations representing different lawn/garden areas.

Creating a Watering Schedule

Guidelines for determining watering times and durations depend on soil type, landscape, weather, and sprinkler types. A watering schedule form is provided.

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

Keep the schedule in a safe place for reference.

NOTE: Watering 1-2 hours before sunrise is ideal for water pressure and minimizing evaporation. Mid-day or evening watering can damage plants or cause mildew.

NOTE: Monitor for under- or over-watering. Over-watering may show as standing water; under-watering as discoloration. Adjust programming immediately if needed.

Watering Schedule Form Example

A sample schedule form is provided, detailing Program A, B, and C with days of the week, program start times, station locations, and station run times.

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 assigned valve.
4. Set the watering days.

The controller automatically advances to the next station after a run time is completed. The Pro-C has three independent programs (A, B, C) that can be stacked if they overlap.

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 total cycle time is 50 minutes.

Diagram illustrates program flow: Start Time -> Station 1 (15 min) -> Station 2 (15 min) -> Station 3 (20 min) -> Cycle Ends.

Programming the Controller

The display changes as the dial is rotated to show programming information. Use the ➕ and ➖ buttons to change flashing values. Press the ➡️ button to move to the next field or ⬅️ to go back.

To activate a program, set the following:

1. Set Current Date/Time: Turn dial to 'SET CURRENT DATE/TIME'. Use ➕/➖ to adjust year, month, day, and time (AM/PM or 24hr). Press ➡️ to confirm each step.
2. Set Program Start Times: Turn dial to 'SET PROGRAM START TIMES'. Set 1-4 start times per program. Press ➡️ to add another start time or move to the next program. The controller chronologically orders start times. To eliminate a start time, advance to 12:00 AM and press ➡️ to reach 'OFF'.
3. Set Station Run Times: Turn dial to 'SET STATION RUN TIMES'. Select program (A, B, C) and station. Use ➕/➖ to set run time (1 minute to 6 hours). Press ➡️ to advance to the next station.
4. Set Days to Water: Turn dial to 'SET DAYS TO WATER'. Select program (A, B, C). Choose watering days: specific days of the week, interval watering, or odd/even days. Each program uses only one type of day option.

NOTE: Only one program start time is required to activate a watering program.

Selecting Specific Days of the Week to Water

Press ➡️ to select a watering day (starts with Monday). Press ⬅️ to cancel watering for a day. A ▲ icon indicates a watering day; a ○ icon indicates no watering day.

Selecting Odd or Even Days to Water

This feature uses days of the month. With the cursor on SU, press ➡️ to flash 'ODD'. Press ➡️ again to flash 'EVEN'. Use ➕/➖ to toggle between ODD and EVEN.

Selecting Interval Watering

Set the number of days between watering. Turn dial to 'SET DAYS TO WATER'. Press ➡️ until the drop over EVEN is flashing, then press ➡️ again to enter interval mode. Use ➕/➖ to select the interval (e.g., every 3 days). Press ➡️ to set 'NO WATER DAYS'.

NOTE: Interval watering excludes designated non-water days.

Run, System Off, Manual Single Station, Seasonal Adjustment

• Run: Turn dial to 'RUN' for automatic operation.
• System Off: Turns off all watering. Programs are discontinued until dial is returned to 'RUN'.
• Manual Single Station: Turn dial to 'MANUAL - SINGLE STATION'. Use ➕/➖ to select station and run time. Turn dial to 'RUN' to start. This function overrides sensors.
• Seasonal Adjustment: Turn dial to 'SEASONAL ADJUSTMENT'. Use ➕/➖ to adjust global run times (5% to 300%) based on weather. Default is 100%.

One Touch Manual Start and Advance

Activate a program without the dial:

1. Hold the ➡️ button for 2 seconds. Defaults to Program A.
2. Press PRG to select Program B or C.
3. Use ➡️/⬅️ to scroll stations and ➕/➖ to adjust run times.
4. Press ➡️ to scroll to the desired start station. The program begins after a 2-second pause.

This feature is useful for quick cycles or inspecting the system.

Advanced Features

Set Pump/Master Valve Operation

Set the master valve/pump start circuit ON or OFF for each station.

1. Turn dial to 'SET PUMP OPERATION'.
2. Use ➕/➖ to toggle ON/OFF for the selected station.
3. Press ➡️ to advance to the next station. Repeat for all stations.

Programmable Rain Off

Stop all programmed watering for a designated period (1 to 31 days). After the period, automatic operation resumes.

1. Turn dial to 'SYSTEM OFF'.
2. Press ➡️; '1' and 'DAYS LEFT' icon will display.
3. Use ➕/➖ to set the number of days off (up to 31).
4. Turn dial to 'RUN'. 'OFF', the number of days, and 'DAYS LEFT' icon remain displayed.
5. Days off count down daily. When zero, normal operation resumes.

Setting Specific Day(s) Off

Designate specific days as 'No Water Day' to prevent watering (e.g., on mowing days).

1. Turn dial to 'DAYS TO WATER'.
2. Set an interval watering schedule (see page 18).
3. Press ➡️; 'MON' will flash.
4. Use ➡️/⬅️ to cursor to the desired day.
5. Press ➡️ to set it as a 'No Water Day'; a ☔ icon will illuminate over it. Repeat for other days.

Program Customization

Customize which programs (A, B, C) are displayed to simplify programming.

1. Press and hold ➡️. Turn dial to 'SET DAYS TO WATER'.
2. Release ➡️.
3. Use ➕/➖ to change program modes (Advanced: 3 programs/4 start times; Normal: 2 programs/4 start times; Limited: 1 program/1 start time).

Programmable Delay Between Stations

Insert a delay between station turn-off and turn-on. Useful for systems with slow closing valves or pump systems with slow well recovery.

1. Start with dial in 'RUN'.
2. Press and hold ➡️ while turning dial to 'SET STATION RUN TIMES'.
3. Release ➡️. The display shows delay time in seconds. The 'DELAY' icon is lit.
4. Use ➕/➖ to set delay (0-59 seconds, then minutes/hours up to 4 hours). 'Hr' displays for hours.
5. Return dial to 'RUN'.

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

Programable Sensor Override

Program the controller to disable watering on specific stations only, allowing others to water even during rain.

1. Turn dial to 'RUN'.
2. Press and hold ➡️ while turning dial to 'START TIMES'.
3. Release ➡️. Station number, 'ON', and ☔ icon flash.
4. Use ➕/➖ to enable ('ON' - suspends irrigation) or disable ('OFF' - allows watering) the sensor for the station.
5. Use ➡️/⬅️ to scroll to the next station.

NOTE: Default is sensor disabling watering on all zones during rain.

The display indicates stations programmed for sensor override. Overridden stations flash ☔ and ⚡ alternately when running.

Total Run Time Calculator

View the total run time for each program's stations.

1. In 'Set Station Run Time' mode, use ➡️ to advance to the highest station.
2. Press ➡️ to review total run times.
3. Use PRG to review additional programs.

Test Program

Run a test program sequentially through stations.

1. Press and hold PRG. Station number flashes.
2. Use ➡️/⬅️ to select the starting station. Use ➕/➖ to set run time (up to 15 minutes).
3. The test program begins after a 2-second pause.

Hidden Features

Easy Retrieve™ Program Memory

Save and retrieve preferred watering programs.

• To Save: With dial in 'RUN', press and hold ➕ and PRG for 5 seconds. A scrolling '=' indicates saving. Release buttons.
• To Retrieve: With dial in 'RUN', press and hold ➕ and PRG for 5 seconds. A scrolling '=' indicates retrieval. Release buttons.

Hunter Quick Check™

A circuit diagnostic procedure to identify shorts caused by faulty solenoids or wiring.

1. Press ➕, ⬅️, and ➡️ simultaneously in standby mode to display all segments.
2. Press ➡️ to begin the Quick Check. The system tests for high current paths. An 'ERR' symbol with the station number flashes if a short is detected. The controller returns to automatic mode after the test.

Clearing Controller's Memory/Resetting Controller

Resets the controller to factory defaults, erasing all programs.

1. Press and hold PRG.
2. Press and release the 'RESET' button on the back of the front panel.
3. Wait until the display shows 12:00 AM. Release PRG. All memory is cleared.

Winterizing Your System

In regions with frost, systems may need winterizing. If using the blow-out method, it is recommended to use a qualified, licensed contractor.

WARNING! WEAR ANSI APPROVED SAFETY EYE PROTECTION! Compressed air can cause serious injury, including eye injury from flying debris. Always wear safety eye protection and do not stand over irrigation components during blow-out.

Troubleshooting and Specifications

Troubleshooting Guide

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 31-day interval, or odd/even day programming, supported by a 365-day clock/calendar.

Electrical Specifications

• Transformer Input: 120 VAC, 60 Hz (230 VAC, 50/60 Hz International Use).
• Transformer Output: 25 VAC, 1.0 amp.
• Station Output: 24 VAC, 0.56 amps per station.
• Maximum Output: 24 VAC, 0.84 amps (includes Master Valve Circuit).
• Battery: 9-volt alkaline (not included) for non-AC programming. Non-volatile memory retains program information.
• Real-time Clock Battery: Internal CR2032 Lithium.

Dimensions

• Indoor Cabinet: Height: 8.25", Width: 9.5", Depth: 3.75".
• Outdoor Cabinet: Height: 9", Width: 10", Depth: 4.5". Outdoor cabinet is NEMA 3R, IP44 rated.

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.

Cleaning

Clean only with a cloth dampened with mild soapy water.

Notices

FCC Notice

This controller generates radio frequency energy and may cause interference to radio and television reception. It complies with Class B computing device limits per FCC Rules Part 15, Subpart J, designed for residential installation protection. Interference is not guaranteed to be absent. If interference occurs, try reorienting the antenna, moving the controller, or plugging into a different outlet. Consult a dealer or technician for further suggestions. The booklet "How to Identify and Resolve Radio-TV Interference Problems" (Stock No. 004-000-00345-4) is available from the U.S. Government Printing Office.

Certificate of Conformity to European Directives

Hunter Industries declares that the irrigation controller Model Pro-C complies with European Directives for "electromagnetic compatibility" (87/336/EEC) and "low voltage" (73/23/EEC).

Project Engineer Signature Placeholder

This product should only be serviced by trained and authorized personnel.

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

©2009 Hunter Industries Incorporated