Autogrow Intelliclimate User manual

IntelliClimate

Installation and User Guide

•Monitors temperature, relative humidity, CO2and light levels

•Controls fans, air conditioners, heaters, dehumidifiers, humidifiers, CO2

injection/extraction, two light banks

•Additional sensor available for larger growing areas

•Extensive fail-safe features

•Settings can be scheduled to automatically change to match plant growth

stage

•Auto-learn –self learning automatically adjust CO2cycle times to minimise

wastage

•Connect to the cloud via IntelliGrow (subscription required)

Contents

Quick-start page with helpful hints

Section A IntelliClimate™Climate Controller

Section B Settings via IntelliGrow

Section B2 Settings via IntelliClimate keypad

Section C Controller Installation

Section D Maintenance

Section E Fault finding

Section F Specification

Section G Compliance Declaration

Disclaimer:

Suggested settings are made in good faith, care and consideration. However,

Autogrow can accept no responsibility for the accuracy or appropriateness of

suggestions or the outcome resulting from their use.

Quick start

This is not a substitute for reading the relevant sections of the manual but is included to

emphasize some important and useful points.

If the growroom is to be operated at high humidity for long periods (e.g. during cutting/rooting

stage) it is preferable to mount the controller outside the growroom. This is easily done as the

growroom sensors are supplied with a long 5m (15ft) cable. If required, this can be replaced with

a longer cable. Data cable such as CAT5 computer network cable should be used in this situation

This should be Stranded cable to avoid breakages.

The IntelliClimate Kit comes with one EnviroSensor unit (measuring temperature, relative

humidity, light and CO2). A second optional EnviroSensor unit may be connected which is useful

in larger growrooms (> 10m x 10m). Control will normally be based on the average readings from

the two sensors, but should one sensor fail, control will automatically revert to the working

sensor.

IMPORTANT:

If you intend to inject CO2an air conditioner and dehumidifier should also be considered.

Together, these will allow longer periods of CO2injection to occur without the need to vent the

room. This will lead to significant improvement in growth rates with lower use of expensive CO2.

IntelliGrow

With IntelliGrow, your Intelli devices are accessible via your web browser so you can control

your growing operation remotely from your phone, tablet, or computer. IntelliGrow gives you

complete visibility 24 hours a day and enables you to manage multiple locations from the

comfort of your office, using a single sign on.

Automatically manage your environment settings, set remote alarms and data log your

progress with this one simple solution.

Though you can set most everything on the controller itself via the keypad, the below

features are only available on IntelliGrow.

•Scheduling

•Advanced Settings

•History

To access the latest version of your IntelliGrow Quick Start Guide, please head to:

https://knowledge.autogrow.com/articles/intellilink-quick-start-guide

Please visit https://autogrow.com/our-products-solutions/intelligrow for more information.

SAFETY NOTE

If you do inject CO2into the growroom always do the following before entering.

1) Disable CO2

2) Force on fans

3) Leave door open whilst inside

Section A - IntelliClimate™Growroom Controller

The IntelliClimate is the most advanced and user-friendly growroom environment controller on

the market. It has a wide range of possible applications which will be discussed briefly in this

section. To keep the user interface as simple as possible, only the readings and settings relevant

to the selected features are displayed on the controller’s LCD and on IntelliGrow. To add extra

features, enter “Configure”menus on the controller or “Functions” on IntelliGrow.

Functions

The controller can operate in a number of modes ranging from a simple cycle-timed mode to a

sophisticated system making optimal use of a range of attached equipment. After installing the

unit, tell the IntelliClimate what you have connected by entering “Configure” menus on the

controller or “Functions” on IntelliGrow. Once the controller knows what you have attached to

it, it will automatically select the most appropriate mode of operation. When the controller is

supplied, it is pre-set as a simple fan cooled environment controller with CO2injection disabled.

Lighting

The IntelliClimate can control two light banks. It is a good idea to split your lights into two groups.

Firstly, when using both banks together, it allows the controller to stagger the switch on times,

so the power surge from the first bank has subsided by the time the second bank comes on.

Secondly, during the vegetative phase of growth, the lights are on for longer periods (18 hours)

but a lower intensity may be used. The controller has the ability to switch on one bank and

alternate the banks each day. This ensures that the plants receive light from both sides. If one

bank is turned on and the light sensor detects a low light level, the controller assumes that the

bank is out of action (bulb blown) and automatically switches on the other bank. If alarms are

enabled, it will alert you to the fact that a light has failed. Similarly, if a power failure occurs, the

controller has a programmable cool-down delay timer before bringing the lights back on in

stages. This has a significant impact on lamp life.

*On IntelliGrow

For those using air cooled lights, fit the cooling fan to blow air through the light fittings rather

than suck out the hot air. This way the fans run cooler and last longer.

Fans

The fans may be used for cooling, humidity reduction, air changes and to bring in ambient CO2(if

CO2injection is not used). During the day when CO2is being injected, other means to control

temperature or humidity will be used in preference to the fans which will only be used to force

an occasional air change and provide a fail-safe if the air conditioner or dehumidifier fails.

*On IntelliGrow

For simple systems that have CO2injection but do not have air conditioning or dehumidification,

the controller will operate as a cycle timer system with three timed phases:

Phase 1) Fans on

Phase 2) Fans off, inject CO2

Phase 3) Fans off, CO2off, wait while plants absorb CO2

In this mode, the controller will self-adjust the timings if it finds that CO2is being wasted due to

the fans being forced on by heat or humidity build up before the plants have time to use the CO2.

If this situation is not controlled, it will stop injecting CO2and will revert to maximum venting

(within temperature limits) to bring in as much ambient CO2as possible. This will reset every new

day period.

*On IntelliGrow

Humidifier or fogger

This output can drive either a standard fan-based fogger or ultrasonic humidifier or alternatively

a nozzle-type fogger. When humidifier is selected, the function is very simple with the humidifier

coming on when the humidity is too low and going off when the offset is reached. When fogger

is selected, the operation is similar except when it is calling for humidification the output is pulsed

on and off producing small amount of fog and allowing time for each amount to dissipate before

the next.

*On IntelliGrow

Heater, Dehumidifier and CO2

The purpose and function of these devices is self-explanatory, and they all work to keep the

temperature, humidity and CO2close to the set points. In the advanced settings of IntelliGrow,

you will see switching offsets for each device. This allows you to set the offset from the main set

point at which it will turn on and another offset at which it will turn off. Although these come

preset to typical values that will avoid excessive overshoot or rapid cycling in most growrooms,

it is possible for the user to customise them to achieve optimal performance.

Selection of units

The grower can determine the temperature units they are familiar with, C˚ or F˚ and they can set

the proper date format (DD/MM/YY or MM/DD/YY).

Advanced settings and rules

These settings and rules are pre-set to typical values that suit the majority of growrooms,

however, expert users may wish to alter them to achieve optimal performance. Note: the

advanced settings are only accessible via IntelliGrow and are not available from the controller

LCD menu system.

Fail safe operation

Fail safes ensure that your growroom will try to maintain your set points in the event of

equipment failure. For example, if an air conditioner fails, the system will automatically switch

to cooling by fans.

Power Supply & Outputs

The outputs voltages are all dependent on the power supply adapter used. The IntelliClimate is

supplied with a 24VDC power supply. Note: The outputs are limited to a current of 1.2A inductive

load and 3A resistive load. The power supply should be sized according to the maximum load that

can be applied at any one time. The maximum total draw at any one time should not exceed 4A.

Getting Started

Follow the installation instructions in Section C and when everything is installed and connected

do the following:

•Connect power to the IntelliClimate

•Check that the power light on the front panel is on

•Check that the LCD display has some information on it

•Navigate to the Overrides menu and Force ON each piece of equipment to confirm your

wiring is correct

Connect IntelliClimate to the cloud

Connecting your IntelliClimate to IntelliGrow will allow for remote access, data logging,

text/email alerts and remote tech support. In addition, you will have access to the Advanced

Settings.

Connect your devices as per the picture below

We recommend you use the Autogrow IntelliLink gateway device to connect

your controller directly to your network.

Connect via IntelliLink (recommended):

Please visit this page for the IntelliLink Quick Start Guide:

https://knowledge.autogrow.com/articles/intellilink-quick-start-guide

Connect via PC:

Please visit this page https://knowledge.autogrow.com/articles/connecting-with-windows to

download the IntelliGrow gateway software. Confirm your IntelliClimate is connected to your

PC via USB cable. If you experience any issues, please contact [email protected].

Here are the instructions to activate your IntelliGrow Subscription

•You will need to first register for a new account here https://intelligrow.autogrow.com/

•Login using your account details

•Click your profile in the top right of the page and select “Payments” from the menu.

•Click on IG Starter/Standard Annual “Buy Now” button.

•Fill in your details in the Order Summary and click subscribe

User Email Address

Section B –Settings using IntelliGrow website

ORDER OF SETTING UP A NEW CONTROLLER

1) Visit https://intelligrow.autogrow.com/ to create account

2) Connect your IntelliClimate to your gateway (computer or IntelliLink)

3) Ensure your IntelliClimate shows as connected to your IntelliGrow account

4) Set the configuration of the controller to match the physical equipment

5) Check the time/date on the controller

Configuration

General

First, select your temperature units, date format and name your device. You can also

import/export settings and save your current settings to your computer.

*On IntelliGrow

Functions

Second, check each device you have installed. Some devices share one output, so you can

only select one device or the other. The software enforces this when one is selected the

other is automatically “greyed out”. If you want to select the greyed device, you must de-

select the other one first. After changing any settings, click the 'Save' button at the

bottom-right of IntelliGrow.

*On IntelliGrow

Advanced settings and rules

These settings and rules are pre-set to typical values suiting the majority of growrooms.

However, expert users may wish to alter them to achieve optimal performance.

Switching offsets

This group of advanced settings refers to the exact point at which a device is switched on

or off. The idea is to have a small differential between the ON point and OFF point to avoid

device switching on/off too rapidly as this could cause unnecessary wear. The switching

offsets are also useful to avoid overshoots when a heater or CO2 is switched off.

The IntelliClimate has standard offsets as a default, but after observing your growroom,

you can alter these offsets to achieve your perfect environment conditions.

*On IntelliGrow

Rules

Each rule is listed below with a brief description and a suggested initial value.

Humidify/temperature control rules

When changing from night to day, prevent heater from switching on for XX minutes prior

to lights turning on to prevent exceeding your temperature set point.

*On IntelliGrow

Set the heating offset to ensure the fans and heaters do not run simultaneously. This is

especially useful in colder environments where outside air could cool the room down very

quickly.

*On IntelliGrow

Minimum periodic air change rules

This will force an air change if the fans have not been operating for other reasons. This will

expel humid, stale air and bring in ambient CO2. It is good practice to allow minimum air

change when air conditioning is active to expel methane and other stale air. You may want

to change these settings between winter and summer.

Most growers would not want an air change to occur when the air conditioner is running,

to avoid expelling the cool air. If you would like to allow for air change while the air

conditioner is running, please tick the box.

*On IntelliGrow

Setpoint ramping

When changing between day and night, this rule defines a period of time for the set points

to gradually change (or ramp) from one value to the other. If the environment changes too

quickly, you can shock your plants. Usually, 15-30 minutes is an appropriate ramping time.

*On IntelliGrow

Air Con

If the air con is forced on for the day period you can also force it on before the day period

starts, typically 2-10 minutes. This cools the room down in anticipation of the lights coming

on.

*On IntelliGrow

CO2rules

CO2injection is allowed when not venting. You can choose to allow CO2to inject when the

Fan 1 is running. This is useful if your Fan 1 is an HAF (air flow) fan. If your Fan 1 is an

exhaust fan, tick the box to allow the IntelliClimate to reduce CO2injection to avoid

wastage.

If your light levels are below this number, your CO2will not inject. Please adjust your

EnviroSensor so it gets a light reading or login to IntelliGrow and change this setting. For

further assistance, please contact [email protected].

*On IntelliGrow

Most growers will want to minimize wastage of CO2, so you have a few options to choose

from. You can choose to allow the temperature set points to rise or fall to cycle CO2most

efficiently.

*On IntelliGrow

If it is hot and the room is frequently venting, you can reduce CO2injections. You can

override these settings and control your CO2by setting inject, wait and vent times to work

for your specific growroom.

*On IntelliGrow

IMPORTANT: The IntelliClimate has a factory default to only allow CO2injection when

the light readings are above 10w/m2

CO2Extraction

Certain growing environments may require that CO2is extracted from the growroom. You

can choose CO2Extraction under the Functions tab. The IntelliClimate will run fans to bring

CO2levels to your desired set point.

Humidification

As the room cools down the RH will automatically rise. You can choose to allow

humidification during the night period, or have it disabled. When changing from day to

night, you can inhibit humidification for 30 mins prior to the change. The purpose is to

ensure the room and crop are left dry for the night.

*On IntelliGrow

Fogging

Fogging is an effective way to cool your room down while helping to control relative

humidity. You can choose to use fogging to cool your room when the humidity is low enough

that fogging will not cause an adverse reaction. If the room is too cool, the fogging will hold

off. Fogging will pulse on and off to maintain your desired set point.

*On IntelliGrow

Lighting

Metal halide and high-pressure sodium bulbs need to cool down after switching off to

preserve the life of the bulb. In the event of a power outage, the lamp cool-down time is

important to ensure this happens. LED lights do not require a cool-down period.

To avoid a power surge, there should be a minimum gap between light bank 1 switching

on and light bank 2. Normally, 6 minutes is sufficient. If electronic ballasts are used it may

be possible to reduce this time.

*On IntelliGrow

Fail Safe Settings

You can customize your fail safe settings to levels appropriate for your growroom.

•Aircon override - If the temperature becomes excessive when in aircon mode, the

fan will switch ON.

•CO2fail safe - Switch on all fans if CO2exceeds 1950ppm. Although CO2is not

poisonous, it can cause suffocation.

•CO2injection override - If you run out of CO2gas and the CO2level falls below

300ppm, the system will revert to using the fans to bring in ambient CO2.

•Fan fail override - If in fan mode and temperature continues to rise the lights will

progressively shut down

•Lighting override - If a bank of lights fails, the light level will fall below your

minimum value (in Alarm Settings) and the controller will switch to the alternative

bank of lights.

•Dehumidifier override - If the RH becomes excessive, the AC will come ON. If the

RH continues to rise, the fans will come ON.

*On IntelliGrow

Readings

This screen allows you to view readings and set points for functions that have been enabled

under the function’s menu.

*On IntelliGrow

Enabling a function will allow the controller to automatically manage the equipment to

maintain your set points. All functions (except CO2) can be “forced on” to activate the

equipment, overriding your set points. Forcing on a function is an easy way to test your

outputs. Functions with a green icon are currently running, while those greyed out are not.

Scheduling

The scheduling feature allows you to preload a typical growing sequence, so the

environment automatically changes to match the requirements of the crop. Each line in

the table is specified by a day number (and date) and specifies the settings required. These

settings stay in effect until the date of the next line. New lines are easily added using the +

button and lines are deleted by clicking the X button.

The scheduling feature is only available while using IntelliGrow. If the IntelliClimate loses

connection to IntelliGrow, it will continue with the current set points until it is reconnected

to the cloud.

Once you have entered your schedule, you can save it to your local computer to be used

again in the future. The dates in the table are relative to the specified start date. A

schedule created for a start date of 15 January can be reused starting from any other date.

*On IntelliGrow

History

The history screen on IntelliGrow is very helpful for growers to see not only their historic

data, but also when their equipment is running and how effective it is. The history screen

will show you the temperature, relative humidity, CO2 and light levels over any length of

time. You can set up the history graph to show information specific to your interests.

To access history, simply click on History in the drop down menu:

Click “Options” at the bottom of the screen to choose your readings, peripherals and targets.

If two of the colors are too similar, click on the color box to change the color of the line. You

can save these settings to your local computer for future use. You can have multiple presets

saved.

Hovering your mouse over any point on the history graph will give you exact details about

that single moment:

If there is a perimeter you do not want to see displayed, simply click it off on the left hand

side:

You can also export the data into a .csv file:

Alarm Settings and Targets

Set points are user-defined. You can set your desired temperature, humidity & CO2to

maintain an ideal growing environment. The IntelliClimate will “learn” how to use your

installed equipment to be the most effective. The targets you see displayed on the

controller are constantly changing as the IntelliClimate evaluates the most efficient way to

control your room.

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