Agrowtek VXi User manual

© Agrowtek Inc. | www.agrowtek.com | Technology to Help You Grow™
1© Agrowtek Inc. | www.agrowtek.com | Technology to Help You Grow™
Technology to Help You Grow
AGROWtEK
Digital Irrigation Valve Controller
VX8i: 8 Output
VX12i: 8 Output / 4 Input
Contents
Introduction 2
Component Locations 3
Installation Instructions 4
Mounting the Enclosure 4
Power Connections 5
Wire Routing 5
I/O Terminals 6
Output Connections, Irrigation Valves 7
Output Connections, Other Devices 8
Input Connections, Discrete Sensors (VX12i) 9
Input Connections, Analog Sensors (VX12i) 10
Connection to GrowControl™ Cultivation Controllers 11
Connection to USB AgrowLINK 12
Specications
Input Power 1A@15Vdc
Max Switching Current 1A per point / 1A combined
Max Switching Voltage 24Vdc
Outputs 8 Sourcing FETS
Output Status Indicators Red LEDs
PWM on Outputs 6 Channels, 1kHz 10-90%
Inputs 4 Analog Channels
Analog Input Type 0-5Vdc / 0-20mA, 12-Bit
Jumper Selectable
Analog Sensor Power 500mA @ 5Vdc
Enclosure Knock-Outs (2) dia. 7/8”
Enclosure Rating TYPE 12K NEMA
Minimum Cycle Time 1 second
Interface GrowNET™, MODBUS
MODBUS RTU 12
Serial Speed & Format 13
Supported Commands 13
Register Types 13
MODBUS Holding Registers 14
MODBUS Coil Registers 14
Technical Information 15
Troublshooting 15
Maintenance & Service 15
Storage and Disposal 15
Warranty 15
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
VXi
KEEP THESE INSTRUCTIONS

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Introduction
GrowControl VX series digital interface modules connect Agrowtek’s intelligent controllers to devices in your
growing environment.
VX8i and VX12i modules feature eight discrete DC FET ouputs for directly driving 15Vdc/24Vac irrigation
valves and other Dc devices. VX12i models also features four analog inputs. Analog inputs allow the connec-
tion of SXL optical liquid sensors and other third party analog sensors for integration. FET outputs connect
to DC signaled devices such as relays/contactors, solenoid valves, and to PWM driven devices such as motor
speed controllers or lighting dimming inputs.
Inputs (VX12i only)
Four analog inputs are provided for connection of of various analog 5Vdc third-party sensors, or discrete
sensors. Inputs are rated 0-5Vdc (or 0-20mA if current jumper is installed for the channel) and are 12 bit
(4096 steps.) Inputs may be used for discrete or analog type sensors. A 5Vdc 500mA power supply is includ-
ed on board for powering analog sensors or providing a signaling voltage for discrete or dry-contact sen-
sors.
Typical Discrete Sensors Typical Analog Sensors
SXL Optical Liquid Detection Sensors Moisture
Float Switches Pressure
Door/Window Switches Temperature
Flow Switches Other
Outputs
Eight heavy-duty transistor outputs with transient and yback protection are designed to connect to DC
contactor and relay coils for electrical panel control. Each transistor output is rated at 1A pilot duty (2A max
total per unit) and will switch the supplied voltage out to the terminals. Heavy duty FET transistors oer
robustness and reliability with ultra low heating.
Pulse Width Modulation (PWM)
The rst six (6) transistor outputs may be operated in a 1kHz square-wave PWM (pulse width modulation)
duty frquency between 10% and 90%. This allows integration with most lighting dimming controls and fan
speed controls.
Duty values below 10% will be output as 0%. Duty values above 90% will be output as 100%.
FREQUENCY
1kHz
0V
Vin
OFF ON DUTY CYCLE % = ON TIME
OFF TIME x 100

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Remove the cover by looseneing the two bottom screws and removing the top two screws.
Tilt the cover back to clear the light pipes and then remove the cover.
The PCB has several connection and conguration options as described:
Component Locations
O8 O7
GND
O6 O4 O2
IN4 IN2
+5V
O5
GND
O3
GND
O1
GND
IN3
GND
IN1
GND
GND
2
1
3
4
1. I/O Screw Terminal Block
Make connections to analog sensor inputs and transistor outputs.
2. Input Jumper Select Block
Set input channels to current mode (0-20mA) instead of voltage (VX12i only)
3. Power Input Terminals
Optional input power terminals for hard wire applications.
4. LED Light Pipes
Indicators for each of the eight (8) outputs; red when on. Pipes protrude through front panel openings.

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The intelligent interface module is to be securely installed to a vertical wall surface using the four mounting
holes provided in the rear of the enclosure.
1. Remove the front cover panel using caution not to damage the LED light pipes.
2. Locate the relay box and mark the mounting hole locations or use the dimensions below.
3. Pre-drill and install anchors if necessary. Keep dust and debris away from the circuit board.
Ensure all dust and contaminants have been blown out of the enclosure.
Hardware is not provided. Drywall screws are recommended.
Mounting the Enclosure
Do NOT drill holes into the enclosure or enlarge holes. Metal chips from drills can cause short circuits on the PCB.
4.5”
5.5”
7.0”
6.0”
BACK
2.1”
Notes:
1. Install with the connections facing down to reduce the risk of water permeating the enclosures.
2. For indoor installation only. Enclosures are not water-proof.
3. Do not place sensor in direct sunlight.
Installation Instructions
DANGER Electrocution Hazard
Disconnected all power sources before servicing or wiring. For continued protection against electric shock ensure the enclo-
sure is properly grounded at the marked chassis ground terminal. Install all electrical equipment and wiring in accordance with
national and local electric codes. For indoor use in dry locations only (0-80% RH non-condensing.) Replace serviceable parts only
with those recommended by Agrowtek Inc.
DANGER Risque d’électrocution
Débranchez toutes les sources d’alimentation avant l’entretien ou le câblage. Pour une protection continue contre les chocs électriques assurer
l’enceinte est correctement reliée à la borne de terre du châssis marquée. Installez tous les équipements électriques et le câblage conformément
aux codes électriques nationaux et locaux. Pour une utilisation en intérieur dans des endroits secs seulement (0-80% RH sans condensation.)
Remplacer les pièces réparable seulement avec ceux recommandés par Agrowtek Inc.

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Input Power: 15 Vdc, 1A is required to operate the unit which may be supplied via:
a) the 2.1/5.5mm DC barrel jack and standard power supply, or
b) the V-in terminal block on the circuit board (for industrial/DIN rail power supplies.)
Standard 7/8”diameter knock-outs are provided on either side for 1/2”EMT conduit ttings.
Power Connections
1/ 2” EM T
K nock- outs
12- 24 V DC P ower J ack GrowNET P ort
RS 4 8 5 / M O DB U S RT U
Maximum 1A power supply current!
Input power protection fuse of 1A required to prevent damage to the unit from overloading.
Recommended wire routing for low noise and electrical interference is shown in the diagram below.
Route sensor and input wires on the left side of the unit and route output wires on the right side of the unit,
keeping the sensor wiring and output wiring separated.
Wire Routing
O8 O7
GND
O6 O4 O2
IN4 IN2
+5V
O5
GND
O3
GND
O1
GND
IN3
GND
IN1
GND
GND
12
1. Input Wiring
2. Output Wiring

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I/O Terminals
Terminals are provided for connecting to the inputs, outputs and 5V DC power supply.
Terminal Specications:
Acceptable Wire Size: 26-14 AWG
Tightening Torque 0.35-0.40 Nm
DANGER! Risk of injury, short circuit, or equipment damage; disconnect all power before wiring or service.
1. GND (VX12i only)
DC Ground (V-) terminals, all terminals marked GND are common.
2. +5V (VX12i only)
A 5V DC 500mA power supply is provided for powering discrete and analog 5V sensors that connect to the
0-5V dc input terminals.
3. Inputs (VX12i only)
There are four (4) 12-bit analog input terminals for measuring 0-5Vdc or 0-20mA/4-20mA signals.
4. Outputs
There are eight (8) transistor outputs for driving solenoids, relays, contactors, etc. with a DC voltage. Six (6) of
the outputs can be congured for PWM control between 10-90% for motor speed control, light diming, etc.
O8 O7
GND
O6 O4 O2
IN4 IN2
+5V
O5
GND
O3
GND
O1
GND
IN3
GND
IN1
GND
GND
1 2 3 4

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Output Connections, Irrigation Valves
Standard irrigation valves can be connected directly to the DC outputs when the unit is operated with the
included 15 Vdc power supply. Up to eight valves can be connected and up to four valves can be operated
simultaneously.
O8 O7
GND
O6 O4 O2
IN4 IN2
+5V
O5
GND
O3
GND
O1
GND
IN3
GND
IN1
GND
GND
Valve 1 Valve 3
Valve 2

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1. Dimmable Ballasts & VFD Motor Controllers
Ballasts and VFD controllers that accept a 1kHz PWM signal may be controlled by the rst six (6) output chan-
nels for variable speed motor control or variable intensity lighting control. Each of the six channels operate
at 1kHz but may be set to 0, 10-90% and 100% duty independently.
Note: A low-pass lter may be constructed to convert PWM to analog voltage. Consult the light manufac-
turer to determine if PWM signals are accepted, or for advice on analog lter construction.
2. Relays & Contactors
DC powered relays, contactors and SSR’s may be driven directly by the outputs. Each output is protected for
yback and surge, and is capable of up to 1A continuous current (1A max combined current.)
Output Connections, Other Devices
O8 O7
GND
O6 O4 O2
IN4 IN2
+5V
O5
GND
O3
GND
O1
GND
IN3
GND
IN1
GND
GND
12
Relay or Contactor
(DC Coil)
C1 C2
Dimmable Ballast or VFD Controller
(PWM Input)
High current FET (transistor) outputs control DC loads and switch the voltage that is supplied to the unit. The
default power supply is 24Vdc. Lower voltage may be supplied to the board (down to 6Vdc) depending on
the requirements of the devices being driven.

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1. Active Sensor
Rquires three wires; V+, GND and signal output.
2. Passive Sensor
Requires two wires; V+ and signal output.
Input Connections, Discrete Sensors (VX12i)
Discrete type sensors oer only an indication of “true”or“false” and no information in between. Typical
examples include liquid presense detection sensors, manual and proximity switches, door and window
switches, etc.
Passive Sensors
Passive sensors are simple, typically mechanical sensors that manipulate a physical switch (dry contact) to
close a circuit. Passive sensors do not have any electronics on board and simply pass through the signal
voltage when the condition is true. Passive sensors only require two wires; the signal voltage and the sensor
output.
Active Sensors
Active sensors have electronics on board and require both a power and ground wire to operate the sensor,
plus a third wire to carry the output signal of the sensor.
O8 O7
GND
O6 O4 O2
IN4 IN2
+5V
O5
GND
O3
GND
O1
GND
IN3
GND
IN1
GND
GND
12
Passive Discrete Sensor
(Float Switch, Dry Contact)
Active Discrete Sensor
(SXL Liquid Detection Sensor)

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Input Connections, Analog Sensors (VX12i)
Analog sensors oer a“variable” value such as a temperature, pressure, etc. The device’s analog inputs are 12
bit and oer 4096 steps of resolution (1.22mV or 0.005mA.) Each input has a default range in“Voltage” mode
of 0-5Vdc, or if set with a jumper to a “Current”mode, a 0-20mA range.
Voltage Mode
Standard mode for 0-5Vdc analog sensors or discrete type sensors.
Current Mode
Mode for 0-20mA or 4-20mA type industrial analog sensors.
Note: Jumpers must be installed on the PCB for mA mode.
O8 O7
GND
O6 O4 O2
IN4 IN2
+5V
O5
GND
O3
GND
O1
GND
IN3
GND
IN1
GND
GND
Analog Sensor
(Moisture Probe)
Red (v+)
Bare (v-)
Black (signal)