Nelson ez pro User manual

EZ PRO™ Instructions
Zone Chart
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900-07357
Rev 6-01

EZ Pro™
INSTALLATION AND PROGRAMMING GUIDE
For EZ Pro Controller Models:
8604 8674 8604R 8674R
8606 8676 8606R 8676R
8608 8678 8608R 8678R
8612 8682 8612R 8682R
8616 8686 8616R 8686R
8520 8690 8620R 8690R
8624 8694 8624R 8694R

1
THANK YOU for purchasing the EZ Pro™ electronic irrigation controller.
This controller offers great features in the standard models and the added
full function radio capability in the "R" models. The EZ Pro™ is so "EZ",
you’ll probably be able to install and program this feature-packed
controller without instructions. However, before installing and programming
the controller, we recommend you read these instructions carefully to take
full advantage of all the EZ Pro™ has to offer.
If you have questions, problems or comments on your new EZ Pro™
please call our Technical Services Department toll-free at 888-NELSON8.
Leaders in Turf Irrigation Since 1911
NOTE: In our efforts to continually improve and update our products, features
and specifications in this manual may change without notice.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Features 3
Installation 4-8
Terminal Strip 7
Connecting Master Valve or Pump-Start Relay 7
Connecting Rain/Moisture Sensor 7
Connecting Battery & Resetting Controller 8
Programming the EZ Pro™ 9-18
Programming Overview 9
Front Panel Layout 10-11
Set Time of Day 12
Set Today's Date 12
Set Current Day 12
Select Zones and Set Their Run Times 12-13
Set Start Times 14
Set % Water Budget 14
Set % Water Budget by Month 15
Scheduling 15-17
Set Water Days Scheduling Option 16
Set Odd/Even Day Scheduling Option 16
Set Interval Scheduling Option 17
Program Review 17
Set Master Valve or Pump 18
Set Rain Delay 18
Turning the Controller Off 18
Advanced Features 19-20
Run a Zone Manually 19
Run a Program Cycle Manually 20
Run a 3 Minute Test (Syringe) 20
Technical Data/Specifications 21-23
Troubleshooting/Service 24
FCC Rules 25
Warranty 26
2

FEATURES
•Full function programming and manual remote control (on “R” models) through
radio transmission to EZ Command Remote Programmer (sold separately)
• EZ Command Radio Module is available factory installed in “R” models or can be
added on later
• Nelson exclusive Select and Adjust™ programming
• Non-volatile memory stores programs without AC power or batteries
• Pump Start programmable by zone
• Programmable Rain Delay to 99 days
• Three independent programs
• Four start times per program (12 total starts)
•Stacking start times
• Three scheduling options to suit the needs of plant material or to comply with
watering restrictions (days of the week, 1-30 day interval, true odd/even)
• Leap year compatible-automatically includes Feb 29th every four years
• Water budget option reduces or increases watering 0-200 percent
•Advanced water budget to set water budget for each month of the year
• Three test cycles (Manual with ManualAdvance™ feature, Cycle, 3-minute test
• Programmable run times from one minute to 9 hours 59 minutes
•Poly-fuse self resetting circuit protection
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INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
The EZ Pro™ can be mounted indoors or outdoors. Find a location near a 120V wiring source
(230/240V for 8674, 8676, 8678, 8682, 8686, 8690, and 8694 models). Install the EZ Pro™ near eye
level if possible. Use the supplied template to mark and pre-drill pilot holes in the wall. The middle two
hole guides in the EZ Pro™ are vertically aligned for mounting the controller to a stud. (See Template)
Insert screws through the holes in the case and screw each into the corresponding pilot hole in the wall.
NOTE:The front panel can be removed to aid in installation by removing the ribbon connector
from the interconnect board and pulling the front panel off its hinges.
IMPORTANT NOTE: To comply with FCC RF exposure compliance requirements, the following antenna
installation and device operating configurations must be satisfied - The antenna used for this transmitter must be
installed to provide a separation distance of at least 5 cm from all persons and must not be co-located or
operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.
Wiring the Transformer
120 VAC in United States, Canada and Mexico; 230 VAC in Europe and 240 VAC in Australia
NOTE: Refer to and follow local codes if different from these instructions.
CAUTION:Disconnect 110V (230/240V for 8674, 8678, 8682, 8686, 8690 and 8694 models)
power source before wiring transformer. Complete all wiring and installation before
connecting the transformer to power source. This will avoid accidental shorting
which could damage the controller.
Power supply cables and cords used for connections are to be a minimum of ordinary duty or greater
duty. Live supply wires should be attached together adjacent to the terminal block. Low voltage output
cables should be enclosed in conduit affixed to the controller with a suitable adapter. Remove the two
screws and lift out the transformer cover to provide access to the internal transformer, bring 120V (or
230/240 for 8674, 8676, 8678, 8682, 8686, 8690,8694) wires up through 1/2" conduit hole in the bottom
of the case. (For field connection, AC wires must have an insulation rated at 75°C minimum). Conduit
should be secured to the case (follow local codes). 4

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
For models 8604, 8606, 8608, 8612, 8616, 8620, 8624 (see figure 1)
Remove the transformer cover by loosening the two screws. Attach AC wires to transformer
wires using wire nuts. Also, ensure earth ground wire is attached to green with yellow stripe
ground wire. Please check local codes for the grounding requirements in your area. Bundle
wire within cable tie loop and tighten cable tie to prevent loose wiring from touching secondary
circuits. The transformer is now wired. Replace the transformer cover and the two screws.
DO NOT turn on power yet.
NOTE: Failure to ground unit properly may cause severe damage to the controller
and/or personal property and will void warranty.
Figure 1
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Sensor
Port

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
For models 8674, 8676, 8678, 8682, 8686, 8690, 8694 (see figure 2)
Remove the transformer cover by loosening the two screws. Route AC wires to connector
provided. Cut and trim wires to install in chassis mount connector. Tighten the screws. (For
Australia an extra clamp has been provided.) Observe proper polarity of wires as you install
them (ie. L1, L2 and ground). The transformer is now wired. Replace the transformer cover
and the two screws. DO NOT turn on power yet.
NOTE: Failure to ground unit properly may cause severe damage to the controller
and/or personal property and will void warranty.
Figure 2
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For
Australia
Sensor
Port

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
Terminal Strip
All zone, pump and sensor wire connections made inside the EZ Pro™ utilize tool-less
connectors. Pull the lever into the upper position and insert the wire into the bottom. Push the
lever down to lock in the wire. The terminal strips in the EZ Pro™ controller accept 14 AWG
(1.6mm) wire or smaller.
Connecting Master Valve or Pump-Start Relay
The EZ Pro™ is equipped with a shared circuit to operate either a pump-start relay or a
master valve. Connect one wire from the pump-start relay to COM (common) on terminal
strip, the other to PMP/MV (pump/master valve) on the terminal strip. Refer to the pump-start
relay manufacturer’s instructions for specific installation details.
Connecting Rain/Moisture Sensor
The EZ Pro™ is equipped to operate a sensor with normally-closed leads. The sensor port on
the EZ Pro™ is the first tool-less connector on the interconnect board (see Figure 2). To
install a sensor, remove the factory-installed jumper wire from the sensor connector on the
terminal strip and insert the sensor wires. Refer to the sensor manufacturer’s instructions for
specific installation details. (See figure 2)
If a sensor has suspended watering, the sensor indicator segment will appear on the LCD.
The symbol will go off when the sensor has dried out. The EZ Pro™ will resume operation
based on the selected program.
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INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
Connecting the batteries and starting the controller
Remove the battery access door from the rear panel. Insert two new AA Alkaline (LR6 in
Europe) batteries to the battery clips and install the battery access door. The batteries enable
the EZ Pro™ to be programmed without AC power and maintain the real time clock in the
event of a power outage. If the batteries are not installed, the controller will lose real time in
the event of a power outage. The batteries should be replaced once a year.
NOTE: Since all programs are stored in non-volatile memory, you will not lose program
settings during a power failure - even if there is no battery installed.
CAUTION:Use AA alkaline batteries only. An AA NiCad battery may leak or explode causing
personal injury or property damage.
Close the front panel, being sure not to damage wires. If wires are stiff, you may find it helpful
to pre-bend them. Turn on the power source.
You’re now ready to start programming!
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PROGRAMMING INSTRUCTIONS
Programming Overview
The EZ Pro™ can be programmed under AC power or powered from the two AA alkaline
batteries. If equipped with an EZ Command Radio module the EZ Pro™ can be programmed
from the EZ Command Remote Programmer. Before programming the EZ Pro™, it may be
helpful to become familiar with some general programming guidelines:
•If a segment(s) on the LCD is flashing, it means that it can be changed by the user.
•When using or keys, hold the button three seconds to start a fast scroll.
•Be sure the appropriate program letter is displayed when you are programming; program
changes are specific to the program letter displayed on the LCD.
•There is no "ENTER" key. Key-presses and dial settings are stored automatically for you.
•If you make a programming change while a program is running, the program terminates
immediately. The new program starts at the next start time scheduled.
•When not running, the controller displays the current time and the current day.
•During manual operations, there is a 5-second delay before the operation begins. During
this time, you can change your settings. Each time you make a change, the delay resets to
5 seconds.
•MANUAL, CYCLE, and 3 MINUTE TEST procedures only operate with the Program dial
set in the AUTO position.
•After a test procedure runs, the controller reverts back to the AUTO procedure and runs
the next program scheduled.
•The test procedures ignore the sensor connection; this allows you to water or run your
program even if the sensor has suspended operation.
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PROGRAMMING INSTRUCTIONS
Front Panel Layout
Looking at the front panel (see figure 3), you see a large LCD, 4 rubber buttons, one large
rotary dial, and two small rotary dials. The rubber buttons are marked SELECT and ADJUST
and are the heart of Nelson’s exclusive SELECT&ADJUST™ programming. The keys are
identified with for increasing or decreasing the segment you’re working on.
SELECT&ADJUST™ works on the principle that you first SELECT what you want to set, and
ADJUST the variables of what you selected. For example, if you want a run time of 10 minutes
on zone 5, you would use the SELECT keys to select zone 5 and, once on zone 5, you
would use the ADJUST keys to set the run time to 10 minutes.
There are instances when only SELECT or only ADJUST are required. They will be explained
in this guide where appropriate.
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PROGRAMMING INSTRUCTIONS
FIGURE 3
NOTE: The MODE dial must be in the PROGRAM position.
NOTE: Every time the or key is pressed, the display will increase or decrease
one unit. Hold the or key for three seconds to initiate a fast scroll.
NOTE:
Please refer to the Technical Data section for an explanation of the LCD segments.
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PROGRAMMING INSTRUCTIONS
Set Time of Day
Turn the large dial to the TIME position. Press SELECT to select between hours, minutes,
and 12/24 hour mode. Press ADJUST to scroll to the correct time or adjust between 12/24
mode.
Set Today’s Date and Current Day of the Week
Turn the large dial to the DATE position. Press SELECT keys to select between day,
month and year positions. Press ADJUST keys to scroll to the current date. The correct
day of the week will automatically show on LCD screen when today’s date is adjusted. The EZ
Pro™ controller is leap year compliant.
Select Zones and Set Their Run Times
A zone run time determines the duration a zone will run.
Turn the large dial to the ZONE/RUN TIME position. Turn PROGRAM dial to choose program
A, B or C. Press SELECT to choose the zone you want for the selected program (A, B, or
C). With the zone number displayed on the LCD, press ADJUST to adjust the RUN TIME
for that zone. RUN TIMES can be set from 1 minute to 9 hours 59 minutes. Continue selecting
zones and adjusting their run times until you have all the zones you want in the selected
program.
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PROGRAMMING INSTRUCTIONS
After the last zone and before the first zone, a RUN TIME summation is provided. This is
useful for determining the total run time for a program. The LCD displays the letters "ALL" and
a total RUN TIME is displayed. The time displayed is a summation of all the RUN TIMES for
the selected program (100% water budget). (ex. A program has a run time of 5 minutes on
zone 1; 12 minutes on zone 2; and 6 minutes on zone 4. The display at this position displays
ALL and a run time of 23 minutes).
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PROGRAMMING INSTRUCTIONS
Set Start Times
A START TIME is the time of day a program will start running. The EZ Pro™ allows four start
times per program.
Turn the large dial to the START TIMES position. Press SELECT to select the start time
you want to set (1, 2, 3, or 4). Press ADJUST to set the time of day the program will start.
Repeat as needed.
Start Time Stacking
The EZ Pro™ will stack start times if your program watering times overlap another start time.
The additional start time will begin when the first cycle finishes.
Set % Water Budget
% WATER BUDGET changes the duration of run times in a program by the percentage
entered 0 - 200% (i.e., a 10 minute run time at 50% water budget will run 5 minutes). This
feature is useful when changes in weather occur. If it is unusually dry, you may want to extend
your run time for each zone in a program. With % Water Budget, you can change one number,
and all run times in the program are adjusted. If 24 hours of run time is exceeded 24 hr will
flash on the LCD.
Turn the large dial to the % WATER BUDGET position. A % symbol will appear on the LCD to
let you know you are working on the % Water Budget amount. Press ADJUST to choose
the desired percentage amount.
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PROGRAMMING INSTRUCTIONS
If % WATER BUDGET is set for 110% or greater, the EZ Pro™ will split the run time in half to
reduce runoff. Half of the calculated run time will operate for each zone in that program,
followed by the second half of the run time for each zone.
Remember, % WATER BUDGET is changeable by program. If you have programming in A, B,
and C, you must enter three water budget values if you want every program to be changed.
Set Water Budget by Month (Advanced feature)
The EZ Pro™ allows you to set % WATER BUDGET by month. This feature allows you to customize
your program by month over the year to allow for hot dry months and cooler wetter months.
Turn the large dial to the % WATER BUDGET position. Press and hold SELECT and
SELECT together for 2 seconds. Use the SELECT to select months 1-12. Use the
ADJUST to choose the desired percentage amount from 0-200. If 0 is chosen no watering
will take place in that month.
Set the Watering Schedule
A quick note on scheduling and the EZ Pro™…
The EZ Pro™ controller has three scheduling options:
•WATER DAYS, or daily, lets you choose which days of the week you want to water
(i.e., Monday, Wednesday, Friday only).
•ODD/EVEN tells the controller to water on either the odd or even days of the month (i.e.,
the controller will water on the 31st and the 1st when an ODD schedule is chosen).
•INTERVAL waters every X number of days (from 1 to 30 days) (i.e., water every 3 days,
waters every 10 days, etc.). A value of 1 in an interval schedule means to water every day.
When using the interval option, you have the flexibility to tell the controller what day to
start the interval program on (up to 30 days out).
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PROGRAMMING INSTRUCTIONS
NOTE: The MODE dial must be in the PROGRAM position to set a schedule.
The LCD will display the currently scheduled program (default is all WATER DAYS.) The
SELECT keys will scroll the LCD display through each of the scheduling positions
WATER DAYS, ODD, EVEN, INTERVAL, and INTERVAL START DATE. Be sure the
PROGRAM dial is set on the program you want to change (A, B, or C) and that you want to
change the current schedule. A scheduling option is chosen after you press a button, either
SELECT or ADJUST. The old schedule is replaced with the new one. It’s easy to program a
schedule with the following procedures.
Set Water Days Scheduling Option
Turn the large dial to the SCHEDULE position. Use the SELECT till the raindrops appear
above the days of the week. Press the ADJUST button to select that day for watering or
press ADJUST for non-watering days. A flashing indicator appears over the day you’re
about to set. Raindrops appear over selected days to water. The indicator automatically
moves one day to the right after an ADJUST or key press. Continue selecting or
deselecting the days you want the controller to water until you have your 7-day calendar set.
NOTE: Programming a WATER DAYS schedule deletes any other schedule for the
selected program.
Set Odd/Even Day Scheduling Option
Turn the large dial to the SCHEDULE position. The last scheduling option chosen for the
current program appears on the LCD. To set either an ODD or an EVEN schedule press the
SELECT button till an arrow appears on the LCD next to the appropriate schedule (ODD
or EVEN). A DATE must be set for odd/even watering). The SELECT buttons act as toggle
keys and will toggle between odd or even.
NOTE: Programming an ODD/EVEN schedule deletes any other schedule for the
selected program.
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PROGRAMMING INSTRUCTIONS
Set Interval Scheduling Option
Turn the large dial to the SCHEDULE position. The last scheduling option chosen for the
current program appears on the LCD. Press SELECT to scroll to the interval days
position. An arrow will appear on the LCD next to INT (Interval). Use the ADJUST to
choose interval days between watering (1-30). The date displayed is day one of the interval
schedule. (Today’s date if one has been set). To change day 1 date use SELECT to go to
the interval start date position. As needed, change the date for day one of the interval
schedule with ADJUST (can only be set up to 30 days out).
Repeat the above procedures for each program (A, B, or C), as you require.
That’s it! Your EZ Pro™ is now programmed. Turn the MODE dial to the AUTO position to run
the program you entered.
NOTE: Programming an INTERVAL schedule deletes any other schedule for the selected
program.
PROGRAM REVIEW
To review the current program, Turn the MODE dial to the PROGRAM position and turn the
large dial to the setting you wish to review (i.e., turn the large dial to TIME to review the time
set for the controller). When you need to view different zones or run times (1, 2, 3), use the
SELECT buttons only.
NOTE: Since you are in the program mode, the potential exists to change the program
accidentally.
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PROGRAMMING INSTRUCTIONS
Set Master Valve or Pump
You can turn on or off the Pump or Master valve output by zone with the EZ Pro™. Turn the
large dial to the MV/PUMP position. Use the SELECT keys to choose the zone. Use the
ADJUST to turn the MV/ PUMP output on or off when that zone is running. The LCD will
show the zone number and either on or off. When watering the zones selected off will not run
the MV/ PUMP.
Set a Rain Delay
If you wish to suspend watering for a specified time (from 1-99 days) due to rainy weather or
other conditions, the EZ Pro™ has this option. A Rain Delay can be programmed for Program
A, B, C, Programs AB, BC, AC or ABC. Turn the large dial to the RAIN DELAY position. The
LCD will display the RAIN DELAY arrow and the days of delay. Use the SELECT to
choose one of the following; Program A, B, C, Programs AB, BC, AC or ABC. Use the
ADJUST to choose the number of days from 1-99 to suspend watering. Turn the MODE
dial back to AUTO. After the specified period (from 1-99 days) the EZ Pro™ will return to
automatic watering at the next programmed start time. During any delay period the RAIN
DELAY arrow will blink.
TURNING THE CONTROLLER OFF
Turn the MODE dial to the OFF position. This suspends all watering operations (including
manual/test procedures) from operating. The clock continues to maintain the current time and
date and your program(s) is retained until you want to run your program(s) again. To run your
program, turn the MODE dial back to the AUTO position.
NOTE: The non-volatile memory of the EZ will maintain your program without
power. If a battery is not present and AC power is lost, the real time for the
clock will be lost. The time will need to be reprogrammed.
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