Irritrol Rain Dial-R User manual

Irrigation System Controller
User’s Guide
• Setup
• Installation
• Programming
• Troubleshooting
v Indoor and Outdoor 6-, 9-, and 12-station Models v

Getting to Know your Rain Dial-R Controller ............................. 2
Getting Started............................................................................ 4
Battery Installation & Armchair Programming ....................4
Overview: Control Module Interface...................................6
Overview: Internal Controller Components.........................8
Installation Procedures.............................................................10
Installing the Controller Cabinet ......................................10
Connecting the Valve Control Wiring................................ 10
Connecting a Rain Sensor (optional) ...............................12
Connecting a Remote Control Unit (optional) ...................13
Connecting an Earth Ground Device ................................14
Connecting the Power Source .........................................15
Controller Station Test Feature........................................17
Getting the Most From Your Rain Dial-R Controller .................18
What the Display Indicates.......................................................20
Programming Mode ........................................................20
Basic Programming Procedures ................................................23
Setting the Current Time and Day ................................... 23
Setting the Valve Run Time Duration............................... 23
Setting the Program Cycle Start Time(s) .......................... 24
Setting the Program Watering Day Schedule....................24
Table of Contents
ii

Special Functions ......................................................................27
Rain Delay .....................................................................27
Water Budget.................................................................27
Stack/Overlap ................................................................29
Station Delay .................................................................30
Pump Control During Station Delay ................................. 30
Pump Control Option.................................................................31
Diagnostic Circuit Breaker ........................................................31
Fuse Replacement .....................................................................31
Manual Operations ....................................................................32
Semi-Automatic Program Operation................................. 32
Manual Station Operation................................................32
Clear Program Memory .............................................................33
Restore Factory Default Settings..............................................34
Troubleshooting Guide ..............................................................35
Contact Information..................................................................36
Specifications ............................................................................36
FCC Rules ..................................................................................37
1

To take full advantage of your new Rain Dial-R controller, take a few
moments to become familiar with its many features:
• Modular design – Provides easy access to valve connection termi-
nals and battery storage. Snap-out design enables the control mod-
ule to be easily removed for “Armchair Programming.”
• CLIMATE LOGIC®ready - Built-in RJ-11 jack for direct connection
of the CLIMATE LOGIC weather sensing system. (CLIMATE LOGIC
automatically alters the controller’s watering time based on the
weather. Using the CLIMATE LOGIC accessory earns the Rain Dial-R
controller the EPA WaterSense®label.)
• Remote control ready – Built-in RJ-11 jack for direct connection
to Irritrol R-100-KIT handheld remote control systems.
• Non-volatile memory – Keeps all user-defined watering programs
stored in memory for several years—without power!
• “Super Cap” – Provides a backup power source to sustain current
time and date during a power outage lasting up to 24 hours.
• Battery back-up – Maintains the current time and date during
a power outage lasting longer than 24 hours. Enables “Armchair
Programming” of the controller prior to installation.
• Three independent watering Programs – Enables automatic
watering Programs to be specifically tailored for various portions of
the landscape; e.g., lawns, shrubs and trees.
• Three Start Times per Program – Enables operation of each
automatic Program up to three times per scheduled watering day.
• Skip Days scheduling – Enables watering days to be scheduled by
interval, ranging from 1 (everyday) to 31 (once every 31 days).
• Odd/Even date scheduling – Enables a watering day schedule to
be defined by all odd- or even-numbered calendar days.
• Day Exclusion – Enables specific weekdays to be excluded from an
Odd/Even date or Skip Days watering schedule.
• Program Stack/Overlap – Provides the option to limit operation
to one Program/station at a time (Stack), or enable up to three
Programs or stations to operate concurrently.
• Station Test Feature – A convenient test-cycle feature operates
each valve station in sequence for a selected run time from 1–10
Getting to Know your Rain Dial-R Controller
2

minutes. Perfect for new installations!
• Live programming – Enables programming changes to be made
at any time—even during watering!
• Fully automatic, semi-automatic and manual station operations.
• Manual Advance – Enables station sequence to be advanced man-
ually during operation (manual or automatic).
• Off or Stop – Immediately stops and prevents all watering activity
without disturbing Programs.
• Four places available to quickly remove start times – Four
“OFF” positions are provided within the time display to remove
unwanted start times; significantly reducing the amount of scrolling
required.
• Rain Delay – Enables automatic watering to be postponed from
1 to 9 days; then resume automatically watering as scheduled.
• Water Budget – Enables the run time of all stations within a
Program to be scaled up to 200% or down to 0% (Off). In addition,
a Water Budget value can be applied to individual Programs by spe-
cific months when seasonal water budgeting is preferred.
• MV/Pump control by station – Enables automatic Master Valve/
Pump operation to be controlled by individual stations.
• Station sequence delay – Provides an adjustable delay period
between stations during the operating sequence to accommodate
slow-closing valves or a required well-recovery period.
• MV/Pump control during station delay – Enables Master Valve/
Pump operation to be active or inactive during a station delay period.
— Rain Dial-R provides the choice!
• Built-in circuit protection – Helps protect the controller’s elec-
tronic components from damage due to power and nearby lightning
surges.
• Diagnostic Circuit Breaker – Enables the controller to detect and
bypass any station with a short circuit or faulty solenoid. Displays
“FUS” and the bypassed station number for easy troubleshooting.
• Clear Program Memory – Enables Program memory to be cleared
and reset independently of other Programs.
• Reset to Factory Program Defaults – Enables factory default
Program settings to be easily restored if required.
3

Battery Installation & Armchair Programming
Installing a 9V battery (user-provided) serves two important functions:
first, it enables the Rain Dial-R to be fully programmed prior to
installation, and second, it keeps the control module synchronized with
current time and date during a main power interruption lasting up to 24
hours.
Note: The battery is not capable of operating the sprinkler valves. Main
AC power must be applied to the controller to enable operation.
The control module is designed to be easily removed for complete
programming in a more convenient setting, such as your favorite
armchair. To remove the control module, simply unplug the ribbon cable
connector from the printed circuit board, then carefully remove the
module from its snap-in hinges. The Rain Dial-R features non-volatile
memory, which keeps the programming information intact, even if the
battery dies or is disconnected.
Installing the Battery
1. Open the controller door.
2. Pull the control module open by grasping it from the right edge
(press the module release tab on the outdoor model).
3. Press down and outward on top of the battery compartment cover to
remove. See Figure 1.
4. Attach the battery clip to a 9V Alkaline battery.
5. Stow the battery into the compartment and reinstall the cover.
6. The display will begin flashing 12:00 AM. (Press any button to halt.)
Note: To begin setting up a watering Program, refer to
“Basic Programming Procedures” on page 10.
Caution: To avoid hazards from improper battery type
installation, always replace the battery with the same or
equivalent battery type.
Always dispose of used batteries properly, as recommended by
the battery manufacturer.
Getting Started
4

EARTH
GROUND
MV/
PUMP
7 8 9 10 11 12
1 2 3 4 5 6
24 VAC
VC
Figure 1
9-Volt Alkaline Battery
(not included)
Battery
Compartment
Cover
5

Overview: Control Module Interface
1 - Program Switch
Three-position slide switch used to select Program A, B or C for
setup, program review and manual operation.
2 - LCD Display
High-contrast LCD panel displays all controller programming and
operating information.
3 - Plus and Minus Buttons
Push buttons used to increase and decrease display values during
controller setup, programming and manual operations. Adjusts values
incrementally (press and release) or by rapid scrolling (press and
hold).
4 - Dial
A 25-position rotary switch used to select stations, start times,
watering days and special functions for setup, programming and
manual operations.
5 - Manual Button
Push button used to start and control manual operations by station.
Also serves as a “Next” button to step forward through various setup,
programming and manual operations.
6 - Function Switch
A three-position slide switch used to select one of three controller
function modes:
Off or Stop - Stops all current watering operations, and
prevents all automatic and manual operations.
Set Programs - Enables automatic watering program setup
values to be selected and changed.
Run or Manual - Normal switch position for all automatic and
manual watering operations.
7 - Semi-Auto Start Button
Push button used to manually start an automatic watering Program.
Also used to initiate the Station Test Run operation.
6

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Figure 2
7

Overview: Internal Controller Components
1 - Battery Compartment
Snap-in cover provides easy access to 9V alkaline battery.
2 - Control Module Ribbon Cable
Quick disconnect cable control module from cabinet for Armchair
Programming or service.
3 - Earth Ground Terminal
Wire connection terminal for earth ground conductor.
4 - Sensor Bypass Switch
Switch controls (optional) rain/freeze sensor input.
5 - Safety Fuse
2A Slow-blow fuse protects against short-circuit overload on the 24
VAC input power.
6 - Power Transformer Connection Terminals (24 VAC)
Wire connection terminals for 24 VAC plug-in transformer and power
connection point for (optional) wireless rain or rain/freeze sensor.
7 - Valve Common Terminal (VC)
Wire connection terminal for the valve (field) common wire.
8 - Rain Sensor Terminals (Sensor)
Wire connection terminals for (optional) Irritrol RainSensorTM model
RS500, RS1000, or RFS1000.
9 - Sensor Terminal Jumper
Sensor terminal jumper wire (removed only when a rain or rain/freeze
sensor is connected).
10 - Master Valve/Pump Terminal (MV/Pump)
Wire connection terminal for (optional) master valve or pump start
relay.
11 - Valve Station Terminals
Valve connection terminals – one terminal for each valve. (Terminal
layout varies by model – 12-station model shown.)
12 - Handheld Remote Control Plug-in Port
Modular connector port required for the Irritrol handheld remote
control system models R-100-KIT or for CLIMATE LOGIC weather
sensing system.
8

EARTH
GROUND 7 8 9 10 11 12 24 VAC
VC
MV/
Pump Sensor
+-
1 2 3 4 5 6
1234
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
Figure 3
12
9

Installing the Controller Cabinet
Select a sheltered location for the indoor model Rain Dial-R such as
a garage or service room, preferably within 5' (1.5m) of a grounded
electrical outlet. For outdoor controllers, choose a location that protects
against direct exposure to sun and contact with irrigation spray, and is at
least 5' (1.5m) away from any motorized equipment.
1. Drive the provided stainless steel screw into a wall stud at approxi-
mately eye level, leaving 1/4" (6.4mm) of the screw shaft exposed.
Note: Use screw anchors when installing on drywall or masonry.
2. Hang the controller on the screw using the keyhole-shaped slot.
3. To secure the controller, drive one or two screws through the lower
mounting holes.
Note: The lower mounting holes in the Outdoor cabinet have a thin
veneer that is easily pierced when installing the mounting screw
during installation.
Connecting the Valve Control Wiring
For best results, use connection wire cable specifically designed for
automatic irrigation systems. Use 18-AWG wire for connections up to 800'
from the controller, or heavier 14-AWG (2.0mm2 ) wire for connections
up to 2000'. A separate wire for each valve (and relay) connection and at
least one common (return) wire is required.
Note: If control wire conduit is required, install it at this time. For
conduit installation, use the 3/4" (19mm) access hole in the indoor
cabinet, or the threaded 1.25" NPT opening in the outdoor cabinet.
1. Route the control wire from the controller location to the valve(s).
2. Attach a separate control wire to either lead of each valve solenoid.
3. To provide a common (return) wire, attach the remaining lead of
each valve solenoid to a single wire.
Note: To prevent corrosion and a possible short circuit, use
waterproof wire connectors on all external wire splices.
For reference at the controller, note the wire color used for each
valve connection and its corresponding watering zone.
4. Route the cable through the largest opening in the base of the
controller cabinet or through conduit if installed. Remove the
cable jacket to expose about 8" of wires. Carefully remove 3/8" of
insulation from the end of each wire to be connected.
5. Secure each valve wire to numbered terminal in the preferred
Installation Procedures
10

Installing the Controller Cabinet
Select a sheltered location for the indoor model Rain Dial-R such as
a garage or service room, preferably within 5' (1.5m) of a grounded
electrical outlet. For outdoor controllers, choose a location that protects
against direct exposure to sun and contact with irrigation spray, and is at
least 5' (1.5m) away from any motorized equipment.
1. Drive the provided stainless steel screw into a wall stud at approxi-
mately eye level, leaving 1/4" (6.4mm) of the screw shaft exposed.
Note: Use screw anchors when installing on drywall or masonry.
2. Hang the controller on the screw using the keyhole-shaped slot.
3. To secure the controller, drive one or two screws through the lower
mounting holes.
Note: The lower mounting holes in the Outdoor cabinet have a thin
veneer that is easily pierced when installing the mounting screw
during installation.
Connecting the Valve Control Wiring
For best results, use connection wire cable specifically designed for
automatic irrigation systems. Use 18-AWG wire for connections up to 800'
from the controller, or heavier 14-AWG (2.0mm2 ) wire for connections
up to 2000'. A separate wire for each valve (and relay) connection and at
least one common (return) wire is required.
Note: If control wire conduit is required, install it at this time. For
conduit installation, use the 3/4" (19mm) access hole in the indoor
cabinet, or the threaded 1.25" NPT opening in the outdoor cabinet.
1. Route the control wire from the controller location to the valve(s).
2. Attach a separate control wire to either lead of each valve solenoid.
3. To provide a common (return) wire, attach the remaining lead of
each valve solenoid to a single wire.
Note: To prevent corrosion and a possible short circuit, use
waterproof wire connectors on all external wire splices.
For reference at the controller, note the wire color used for each
valve connection and its corresponding watering zone.
4. Route the cable through the largest opening in the base of the
controller cabinet or through conduit if installed. Remove the
cable jacket to expose about 8" of wires. Carefully remove 3/8" of
insulation from the end of each wire to be connected.
5. Secure each valve wire to numbered terminal in the preferred
operating sequence order.
6. Connect the common wire to the terminal labeled “VC.”
7. If applicable, connect one leg of the master valve or pump start relay
control wire to the terminal labeled “MV/PUMP”, and the remaining leg
to the valve common wire.
Note: The controller does not supply power to operate a pump. The
pump start relay must have a nominal coil voltage of 24 VAC, rated
at 0.375A maximum.
EARTH
GROUND 7 8 9 10 11 12 24 VAC
VC
MV/
Pump Sensor
+-
1 2 3 4 5 6
Figure 4
Sprinkler
Control
Valves
Common Wire
Pump Start Relay
or Master Valve
1
2
3
MV
24V Relay
Master Valve/Pump Terminal
Valve Common Terminal
11

Connecting a Rain Sensor (optional)
The Rain Dial-R is designed to work in conjunction with Irritrol Rain
Sensor models RS500, RS1000 or Rain/Freeze sensor RFS1000 to restrict
watering when moisture and/or temperature limits are met.
Note: If connecting an alternate make of rain sensor, ensure it provides
normally-closed switch circuit operation.
IMPORTANT: If a rain sensor is not installed, the sensor
terminal jumper wire must remain in place, and the sensor
switch must remain in the Bypass position. If either of these
conditions are not met, automatic and manual operation will be
disabled.
1. Insert the sensor cable through the bottom of the cabinet.
2. Loosen the Sensor terminals and remove the jumper wire.
3. Refer to the installation instructions provided with the Rain Sensor
and connect wires accordingly.
4. Place the Sensor switch in the Active position.
Note: When the Rain Sensor is active, all watering
operations will be terminated and SEn (Sensor) will
be displayed (in the current time dial position).
EARTH
GROUND 7 8 9 10 11 12 24 VAC
VC
MV/
Pump Sensor
+-
1 2 3 4 5 6
Figure 5
Jumper Wire
Removed
12

Connecting a Remote Control Unit (optional)
The Rain Dial-R controller is remote-ready and is compatible with the
Irritrol Handheld Remote Control model: R-100-KIT. Refer to the user
guide provided with the remote kit for complete information.
As shown in the illustration below, the R-100-KIT receiver assembly
simply plugs into the receptacle provided in the back of the Rain Dial-R
control module.
Note: Irritrol’s CLIMATE LOGIC weather sensing system’s receiver module
plugs in the same way.
EARTH
GROUND
7 8 9 10 11 12 24 VAC VC
MV/
Pump Sensor
+-
1 2 3 4 5 6
Figure 6
13

14
Connecting an Earth Ground Device
Note: In order for the electrical surge components built into your Rain
Dial-R to function properly, the controller must be connected to an earth
ground device, such as a copper-clad ground rod or metal water pipe,
using solid copper wire. This connection is especially important when the
controller is installed in a lightning-prone area.
1. Connect a 12–16 AWG ( 2mm2– 1.3mm2 ) solid-copper wire to the
ground device and route into the controller through an access opening
in the base of the cabinet.
2. Secure the ground wire to the terminal labeled “Earth Ground.”
EARTH
GROUND 7 8 9 10 11 12
24 VAC
VC
MV/
Pump Sensor
+-
1 2 3 4 5 6
Metal Water Pipe
8' (2.4 m) Copper-clad
Ground Rod (in moist soil)
Figure 7

15
Connecting the Power Source
Connecting the Power Supply - Indoor Models
Indoor models ship prewired with a power cord ready to be plugged into
a standard wall power socket.
Note: To immediately test-run the Rain Dial-R irrigation control system,
refer to the “Controller Station Test Feature” on page 8.
EARTH
GROUND 7
8 9 10 11 12 24 VAC VC
MV/
Pump Sensor
+-
1 2
3 4 5 6
Figure 8

16
Connecting the Power Source - Outdoor Models
Warning: All electrical components and connection methods
must comply with all applicable national and local electrical
codes including installation by qualified personnel. These codes
may require a junction box installed on controller’s 1/2" (13mm)
NPT nipple and a means in the fixed wiring of disconnecting
AC power having a contact separation of at least 0.120" (3mm)
in the line and neutral poles. The connection wire must have
insulation rated @ 105° C min.
The controller must be connected to a grounded power source.
Do not connect to one phase of a 3-phase power supply used by
a pump or other electrical equipment.
Prior to connecting controller wiring, verify that power has been
turned off at the source by using an AC volt meter.
Steps
1. Install a 1/2" (13mm) NPT conduit body to the transformer threaded
fitting. From the conduit body, install electrical conduit routing to the
AC power source (per electrical code).
2. Pull 14 AWG through the conduit into the conduit body.
3. Using twist-on wire connectors, attach the mating wires as shown in
Figure 9.
4. Close and secure the conduit body cover.
Figure 10
Key
RD-1200
A-
+
B-
C-
MANUAL
Today
Sun
Mon
Wed
Thu
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
3
2
1
PM
S
C
H
E
D
U
L
E
S
T
A
R
T
T
I
M
E
S
V
A
L
V
E
R
U
N
T
I
M
E
S
Figure 9
Equipment Ground to
Green or Green/Yellow
Hot or L2 to
Black or Brown
Neutral or L1 to
White or Blue
Conduit Body
Electrical Conduit

17
Connecting the Power Source - Outdoor Models
Warning: All electrical components and connection methods
must comply with all applicable national and local electrical
codes including installation by qualified personnel. These codes
may require a junction box installed on controller’s 1/2" (13mm)
NPT nipple and a means in the fixed wiring of disconnecting
AC power having a contact separation of at least 0.120" (3mm)
in the line and neutral poles. The connection wire must have
insulation rated @ 105° C min.
The controller must be connected to a grounded power source.
Do not connect to one phase of a 3-phase power supply used by
a pump or other electrical equipment.
Prior to connecting controller wiring, verify that power has been
turned off at the source by using an AC volt meter.
Steps
1. Install a 1/2" (13mm) NPT conduit body to the transformer threaded
fitting. From the conduit body, install electrical conduit routing to the
AC power source (per electrical code).
2. Pull 14 AWG through the conduit into the conduit body.
3. Using twist-on wire connectors, attach the mating wires as shown in
Figure 9.
4. Close and secure the conduit body cover.
Figure 10
Key
5. Apply power to the controller and check controller operation. If the
controller is not operating, disconnect the power at the source and
have a qualified electrician check for possible short circuit.
Caution: For maximum
protection of the controller
electronic components when
installed outdoors, always
keep the cabinet cover closed
and locked whenever possible.
Store the cabinet keys in a safe,
convenient location.
Controller Station Test Feature
The controller Station Test feature enables you to quickly check
for proper valve station operation after initial installation or service. The
test cycle enables all valve stations to operate in sequence for a tempo-
rary run time, adjustable from 1–10 minutes.
1. Place the Function switch in the Set Programs or Run position.
2. Turn the Dial to the Skip Days - Special Functions position.
3. Press the Manual button (one time) to select the
Test Run display as shown at right.
4. A 2-minute test run time is set by default. To adjust
the run time from 1–10 minutes, press the or button.
5. Press the Semi-Auto button to start the watering cycle (station 1
will turn on).
6. Turn the Dial to the Current Time position. The display will indicate
the current clock time (initially 12:00 PM) and station 1.
7. To manually advance through the station operating sequence, press
the Manual button.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

18
Getting the Most From Your Controller
What is an Automatic Program Watering Cycle?
An automatic watering Program begins at its earliest assigned start time
on a scheduled watering day. The lowest valve station number assigned
to the Program, turns on and operates the sprinklers for the specified
run time duration. When finished, the next valve station in numeric
order (with an assigned run time in the Program) begins operation. The
Program Watering Cycle continues until all valve stations with an assigned
run time in the Program have operated.
Why three programs?
A typical residential
landscape includes
various sections of
lawn, shrubs, trees and
ground cover, all of
which require watering
on different schedules
for optimum plant health
and conservation. To
accommodate this, the
Rain Dial-R provides
three independent
watering Programs:
A, B and C.
The example below shows how multiple Programs can be used to easily
accomplish this:
Program Start
Time
Valve
#
Location Run
Time
Schedule
A(#1) 5:00
AM
1Front Lawn 15 min. Odd
2Back yard 15 min. Odd
3Side Yard 10 min. Odd
B(#1) 3:00
PM
4 Trees
(drip)
2 hrs. Mon
C(#1) 4:00
PM
5 Garden 5 min. Skip Days
(1)
(#1) 7:30
PM
5 Garden 5 min. Skip Days
(1)
Valve locations