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Toro Modular Controller - 4 to 24 Stations
Toro Modular Controller - 4 to 24 Stations
Installation
Programming
Operation
User’s Guide
User’s Guide
Installation
Programming
Operation
TMC424_UGE_466A 12/14/07 4:51 PM Page i
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The TMC-424E Series takes modularity to a whole new level. Toro’s advanced
modular technology combines sophisticated features with simple operation to
provide a customizable controller. Station count can be 4 – 24 stations, using four-
or eight-station modules. Real-time flow sensing monitors up to three independent
sensors and is compatible with the Toro TFS Series flow sensors. Versatile run
times allows for additional watering flexibility. Add this together with features like
two levels of surge protection, compatibility with the TMR-1 Maintenance Remote,
the rugged dual-use cabinet, and convenient program review feature, and you
really do have the ultimate in controller Flexibility.
TMC-424E controller features:
• Advanced hybrid control module featuring easy-to-use dial interface
• Non-volatile memory–retains program data without battery backup
• Four fully-independent watering programs
• Concurrent operation of up to three automatic programs
•16 unique start times allotted to programs in any combination of 0–16
•Program cycle and soak option provides 1–30 repeat cycles and soak time
delay from 1 second to 60 minutes
•Day scheduling by Calendar days, 1–31-day Interval or Odd/Even days with
selective day exclusion
• Station run time adjustable form 1 second to 8 hours
• Season Adjust by program and by month from 0–200% (automatic split-cycle
watering for adjustment over 100%)
•Rain delay to postpone automatic watering operation from 1–14 days
• Master valve/pump start operation assignable by program or station
• Programmable well recovery/station delay from 1–60 seconds or 1–60 minutes
•Flow monitoring and alert parameters for 1– 3 flow sensors.
•Output current watchdog feature detects overload/short-circuit condition and
automatically bypasses suspect station(s).
• Optional Normally Open master valve control on flow sensing modules
•Manual operations by station and program
• Review feature quickly recaps all program information
• 12-or 24-hour time designation
• Programming display prompts selectable in English, Spanish, French,
German, Italian or Portuguese
• Valve test feature for quick station and system check
•Equipped for optional Toro rain sensor models TRS, TWRS and TWRFS,
Toro TMR-1 handheld maintenance remote and Toro TFS Series flow sensors.
Introduction
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The unique TMC-424E Expansion Modules are color-coded for easy identification.
The modules can be mixed and matched in any combination and are available in
six models as indicated in the table below.
The Expansion Modules can be installed and removed at any time without powering
down the controller. The TMC-424E will gain instant access to the module and will
logically number the stations based on module position.
For example, if three 4-station modules are installed, the stations will be numbered
1–12: module I(stations 1–4) module I I (stations 5–8) and module I I I ( s t a t i o n s
9–12). If module I I is removed, stations 5–8 will be automatically assigned to
module I I I.All stations will remain in sequence without gaps.
Getting Started
As an initial step, we recommend that you take a few moments to browse through
various sections of this User’s Guide. Also, take the time jot down some basic
watering program and station information on the Watering Schedule form provided.
Having this information readily at hand will be very helpful during the initial controller
setup and programming procedures.
Note that the Watering Schedule form provides a convenient pocket for the User’s
Guide and Quick Reference Guide when folded and attached to the inside of the
cabinet door.
iii
Model Color Station Surge Surge Flow Flow Monitor Master Valve
Number Code Count Level Icon Monitor Icon Control
TSM-4 Gray 4 Standard No No
TSM-8 Gray 4 Standard No No
TSM-4H Beige 4 High No No
TSM-8H Beige 4 High No No
TSM-4F Blue 4 High Yes Yes
TSM-8F Blue 4 High Yes Yes
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iv
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii
Control Module Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Internal Component Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Programming Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
What is a Watering Program? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
What is a Program Watering Cycle? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
What is Armchair ProgrammingTM? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Controller Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Set Current Time and Date . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Select the Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Set Station Run Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Set Program Start Times . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Set Watering Day Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
To Set Calendar Days . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
To Set Odd or Even Days . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
To Set Interval Days . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Season Adjust Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Special Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Setting Station Delay Time Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Setting Master Valve/Pump Start Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
To Select MV/PS Operation by Program and Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
To Set MV/PS Start Delay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
To Set MV/PS Operation During Station Delay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Setting Watering Cycle Repeat Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Setting Program Stack/Overlap Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Erase Program Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Selecting Handheld Remote Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Selecting Display Language Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
12/24-hour Time Display Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Selecting Run Time Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Table of Contents
TMC424_UGE_466A 1/22/08 5:00 PM Page iv

Manual Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Manual Station Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
True Manual Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Timed Manual Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Manual Program Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Single Program Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Multiple Program Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Flow Sensor Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Select Fill Delay Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Select Flow Sensor Module Master Valve Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Select Flow Rate Alert Thresholds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Rain Sensor Control Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Rain Sensor Timed Bypass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Rain Sensor Control by Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Valve Test Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Rain Delay Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Program Review Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Installation Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Cabinet Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Field Wire Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Flow Sensor Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Power Connection – Indoor Models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Power Connection – Outdoor Models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Rain Sensor Installation (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Toro TMR-1 Handheld Remote Installation (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Appendix A – TFS Flow Sensor Performance Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Appendix B – TMC-424E Current Load Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Appendix C – Display Alerts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Appendix D – Default Settings - Abbreviations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
The Toro Promise - Limited Warranty Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
FCC Compliance Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
Customer Care You Can Count On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
v
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2
1 - Program Switch
Four-position slide switch used to
select program A,B,Cand Dfor
set up, review and manual control.
2 - Digital Display
a -Station run time icon.
b -Start time icon.
c -Program identifiers.
d -Prompt displayed with Interval
schedule length
e -Flow sensor icon displayed with
flow sensor expansion module
f -% symbol displayed when the
Season Adjust function is active.
g -Water drop icon i n d i c a t e s
current watering activity. Icon
with slash indicates automatic
operation is disabled (Off, station
disabled or Rain Delay function.
h -Prompt displayed to indicate
current day within an Interval
watering day schedule.
i -Expansion module dock identifier
(I, I I and I I I, left to right).
j -Hollow circles represent the
station terminals of an installed
4-or 8-station expansion module.
Station positions of the current
operating station or stations
assigned to a program are
indicated by a solid circle.
k -Indicates the station number or
start time number is currently
shown in the 2-digit numeric
display (directly above).
l -2-digit display identifies the
station number or start time
number currently selected.
3 - Navigation Buttons
The and buttons are used
to select function menu items.
All numeric, On/Off, and Yes/No
values are selected with the
and buttons.
4 - Function Dial
Turns in either direction to select
the following operating, control,
and programming functions:
RUN – The normal position for
automatic controller operations.
CURRENT TIME/DAY – To set
clock time, day and date.
STATION TIMES – To set station
run time.
START TIMES – To set program
start times.
CALENDAR DAYS – To set
program watering day schedule
by days of the week.
ODD/EVEN– To set program
watering day schedule by Odd
or Even numbered days.
S E A S O N A D J U S T – To adjust run
time of all stations within a program
and/or program within a month
from 0 to 200% in 10% increments.
SPECIAL FUNCTIONS – To select
specialized setup and programming
options (see page 10 for details).
The following brief descriptions of the controller components and display
elements are provided for general overview. Each of these items are explained
in detail within the appropriate section of this guide.
Control Module Overview
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3
SENSORS – To select flow
sensor operation setup parameters.
MANUAL PROGRAM – To operate
watering programs manually.
MANUAL STATION – To operate
individual stations manually.
VALVE TEST – To manually
test valve operating sequence
using a temporary run time.
REVIEW – To recap all program
information including: start times,
run times, and season adjust %.
OFF – Shuts off and prevents all
automatic and manual watering
operations.
5 - 9V Battery Compartment & Clip
As t a n d a r d 9 V battery is required
for Armchair ProgrammingT M a n d
to maintain clock time during an
extended power loss.
cdefg
h
i
j
k
l
23
1
5
4
a
b
TMC424_UGE_466A 1/22/08 5:00 PM Page 3

4
6 - Power supply compartment
cover.
7 - Control module ribbon cable
receptacle.
8 - Transformer24 VAC output
connection terminals
9 - MR-1 remote connection port.
10 - Rain sensor bypass switch.
11 - Auxiliary port (not enabled).
12 - Flow sensor expansion
module (model TSM-8F
indicated).
13 - Flow sensor wiring terminals
14 - Flow module master valve
wiring terminal.
15 - Expansion module valve
wiring terminals.
16 - Expansion module
(model TSM-4 shown).
17 - Wiring connection terminals:
S- Rain Sensor (2).
Hot Post (24 VAC source)
P- Pump Start/Master Valve
C- Valve (field) Common (2)
18 - Optional Earth Ground Lug
Attachment Screw.
19 - Input power wire connection
terminals:.
L- Line (mains 1)
N- Neutral (mains 2)
-Ground
Internal Component Overview
6
19 18 16
17
15
14
13
12
11
8
7
10
9
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What is a watering program?
In basic terms, a watering program is a small set of instructions that tells the
controller which days will be active for watering, when to start a watering cycle, and
how long each station will operate during the cycle. The TMC-424E series has four
independent watering programs identified as A,B,C, and D.
Separate programs are usually used to group stations with similar landscape or
watering attributes or to provide a way to segment specific site conditions, such as
north-facing slopes or shaded turf areas. As you can see, the availability of four
programs allows you to have unique watering programs for your varied landscape
needs. Multiple programs can be designated to operate one at a time or can
overlap operated in sequence or concurrently with up to three programs at the
same time.as you choose. This feature enables more watering to be completed
within the prime watering time, which is generally between midnight and 6:00 a.m.
What is a program watering cycle?
When a program start time is selected, that time becomes the beginning of an
automatic watering cycle. A watering cycle operates each station with an
assigned run time duration in the program, one by one, in numeric sequence
from the lowest to the highest station number.
The TMC-424E provides up to 16 watering cycle start time slots that can be
assigned to the four programs in any combination. For example, program A
could have 10 start times, program Btwo start times, program Cfour start times
and program Dno start times. Any combination up to 16 start times is permitted.
NOTE: A Watering Schedule Form is provided for your convenience. Use this
form to plan and record your automatic watering information. Keep the card
handy for reference by attaching it inside the cabinet cover.
What is Armchair ProgrammingTM?
A9V battery can be installed, enabling the control module to be fully
programmed prior to installation – in the comfort of your favorite easy chair.
1. Slide and lock the expansion module(s) into position.
2. Attach a 9V battery to the control module battery clip and stow the battery in
the slot provided. (See item 5 on page 3.)
3. With the Function Dial in the RUN position, press the button to acquire
the expansion module configuration (note the displayed module identifier).
4. To remove the control module from the cabinet, disconnect the ribbon cable
at the cabinet, then press the top hinge in to release the module.
5. Program the controller starting at Setting Current Time and Date on page 6.
NOTE: The 9V battery powers the microprocessor during an extended AC inter-
ruption. Once programmed, the battery can be removed or remain installed as
preferred. Controller output requires AC power input.
Programming Overview
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NOTE: English display prompts and 12-hour (a.m./p.m.) time format are factory-
default settings. To select an optional display language, including Spanish, French,
Italian, German and Portuguese, and/or a 24-hour time format, refer to the Special
Function setup procedures on page 13.
Set Current Time and Date
1. Turn the Function Dial clockwise to Current Time/Day . The hour digits will
begin flashing.
2. Adjust the display by pressing the or buttons.
NOTE: Hold either button down for rapid advance.
3. Press the button to select the next field.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 to set the current minutes, year, month and day
(current weekday will be set based on calendar setting).
5. Return the Function Dial to RUN when finished.
Select the Program
NOTE: If the controller has been previously programmed, the user-defined
program settings can be quickly erased and reset to factory defaults. See “Using
the Program Memory Erase Feature” on page 13.
To simplify the programming process, the following procedures are provided to
define the operating parameters of one program at a time.
To begin, set the program switch to select program A,B,C, or D.
Set Station Run Time
Astation is assigned to the selected program when it is given a run time
duration. The station can have only one run time assignment per program, but
can have a separate run time assignment in each program. By default, station
run time is defined in minutes and hours. To enable station run time to include
seconds, see “Station Runtime Display Format” on page 13.
1. Turn the Function Dial to Station Times .
2. Press the or button to select the station number.The corresponding
station output terminal will be shown on the display as a solid circle.
3. Press the or buttons to adjust the station run time from Off (-- -- --)
to 1 minute – 8 hours (in 1-minute increments). If seconds format is enabled,
station run time can be set from 01–60 seconds.
NOTE: Hold either button down for rapid advance.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 for all stations to be assigned to the selected program.
Controller Programming
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Set Program Start Times
NOTE: The TMC-424E enables a total of 16 unique start times to assigned to
four programs in any combination totaling 16. For example, program Acould
have 12 start time assignments, which would leave four start time assignments
available for programs B,Cand D.
1. Turn the Function Dial to Start Times .The start time hour digit(s) will
begin flashing.
2. Press the or button to select a start time number (01 to 16).
N O T E : Any start time number currently assigned to another program can not be
selected. If all 16 start time assignments are in use, N O N E will be displayed.
3. Press the or button to select a start time hour (note the correct a.m./p.m.
designation in the 12-hour clock mode).
NOTE: To remove a start time, select -- --:-- -- ( O ff), located between the hours
of 11:00 p.m. and 12:00 a.m. (00 minutes).
4. Press the button to select minutes digits. Repeat step 3 to set start time
minutes (00–59).
5. Repeat steps 2–4 to set additional start times for the selected program.
Set Watering Day Schedule
The TMC-424E series offers three watering day schedule formats. Each program
can have any one of the following schedule formats:
Calendar Days – Use this scheduling method to select specific days of the week.
Odd/Even – Schedules days by odd-or even-numbered calendar days.
NOTE: When an odd-numbered day schedule is used, watering will not occur on
the 31st of any month and February 29th of a leap year.
Day Interval – Scheduling by Day Interval enables a specific number of days
between watering to be selected. For example, selecting a 1-day Interval
schedules watering to occur every day. A 2-day interval schedules watering
to occur every-other day. A 31-day interval is the maximum schedule, providing
watering only once every 31 days. Since the interval schedule is not tied to
specific days of the week, you will also need to determine when the interval
will start, by selecting the current day within the Interval.
• Day Exclusion – When using the Odd/Even or Day Interval watering day
schedule, watering will not always occur on the same days each week.
To prevent watering on a specific days, for example, watering-restricted days,
specific days of the week can be easily excluded from the schedule.
NOTE: Each program can only have one assigned watering schedule format.
If either an Interval or Odd/Even schedule is currently set, it must be turned Off
first to enable an optional format to be selected.
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To Set Calendar Days:
1. Turn the Function Dial to Calendar Days .
2 . Sunday will be displayed and selected to water indicated by the water icon.
To exclude the day from the schedule, press the or button to display the
No Wa t e r icon.
3. Press the button to select the next day.
4. Repeat step 2 and 3 to schedule the remaining days of the week.
To Set Odd or Even Days:
1. Turn the Function Dial to the Odd/Even position.
2. Press t h e or b u t t o n to select ODD or EVEN.
3. To exclude specific days from watering, press the button to select the day.
4. To exclude the day from the schedule, press the or button to display
the No Water icon.
5 . To exclude additional days (7 maximum), repeat steps 4 and 5.
To Set Interval Days:
1. Turn the Function Dial to Interval Days .
2. The CYCLE LENGTH prompt and the current Interval (0 1 – 3 1 D AYor -- -- -- [ O ff ] )
will be displayed.
3. Press the or b u t t o n to select the Interval cycle length.
N O T E : The cycle length can be set from 01 (water every day) to 31 (water once
every 31 days). The Interval cycle starts at 01 and increases by 1 digit each
d a y. The watering day occurs when the selected Interval cycle length is
reached.
To specify when the first watering day will occur, the current day within the
Interval cycle must be selected. For example, if a 04 DAY Interval is entered
and watering is to begin in one day, select 03 as the Current Day.
4. To select the Current Day in the Interval cycle, press the button to display
the CURRENT DAY prompt.
5. Press the or button to select the value (01–selected Interval number).
6. To exclude specific days from watering (7 maximum), press the button to
select the day.
7. To exclude the day from the schedule, press the or button to display
the No Water icon.
8 . Repeat steps 6 and 7 to continue excluding days.
STOP – This concludes the basic program setup procedures. Repeat
these procedures starting at “Select the Program” on page 6 for each
program you wish set up at this time.
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The Season Adjust feature enables the cumulative program run time to be easily
increased or decreased by a percentage factor from 0% (Off) – 200%, in 10%
increments. Season Adjust can be applied to individual programs and globally to
all programs by selected months of the year.
When a Season Adjust factor is applied by program and by month, the adjusted
program duration is the result of the combined percentage factors.
For example, program Ahas a total station run duration of 60 minutes with an
80% Season Adjust value applied to the program. The adjusted run time for
program Ais 48 minutes. In addition, a 50% Season Adjust value is applied to
the month of December. The resulting cumulative run time for program Aduring
December will be 24 minutes.
Example: 60 minutes x 80% (.80) = 48 minutes x 50% (.50) = 24 minutes.
NOTE: By selecting the program Review function, you can instantly view the
total run time of each program adjusted for all operating factors including: timed
delays, repeat cycles and Season Adjust %. See “Program Review Feature” on
page 20 for additional information.
1. Set the Program Switch to select program A,B,C, or D.
2. Turn the Function Dial to Season Adjust .
3. Press t h e or b u t t o n to adjust the % value for the selected program.
N O T E : Adjusting the % value to O f f prevents operation of the program.
NOTE: As a runoff-prevention measure, selecting a Season Adjust % factor
over 100% will automatically split the adjusted program run time in half and
run a repeat (back-to-back) program watering cycle.
4. Press the button to select Season Adjust (for all programs) by month
(01 = Jan, 02 = Feb, etc).
5. Press t h e or b u t t o n adjust the % value.
N O T E : Adjusting the % value to O f f prevents operation of all programs for the
entire month.
N O T E : The % symbol will be displayed to indicate when a Season Adjust %
factor is applied.
Season Adjust Feature
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The following program setup options and control parameters are provided in the
Special Functions dial position.
NOTE: To review the factory default settings for each function, refer to
“Appendix D - Controller Default Settings” on page 31.
• Set delay period between sequential stations within a program cycle
• Set Pump Start/Master Valve operation by specific programs
• Set Pump Start/Master Valve operation for specific stations
• Set delay period between pump start/master valve and station sequence
• Set Pump Start/Master Valve operation during station delay
• Set program cycle repeat and delay options
• Select program stacking or overlap options
• Erase program memory by specific program
• Set handheld remote control option
• Select display language format
• Select 12- or 24-hour clock format
• Select station time
• View controller firmware version.
Setting Station Delay Time Option
This feature enables a delay period to be entered between sequential stations
within a watering cycle. This option is generally used when irrigation demand
exceeds the supply capacity, as can occur when the supply is pumped from a well
or reservoir. The delay period is adjustable from O ff to 59 seconds in 1-second
increments, or 1 to 60 minutes in 1-minute increments.
1. Set the Program Switch to select program A,B,C, or D.
2. Turn the Function Dial to Special Functions .
3. Press the button (as needed) to display SD -- -- -- (Station Delay – Off).
4. Press the or button to select the delay time.
NOTE: The time value will change from seconds to minutes as the display
scrolls past 59 seconds. Minutes value is displayed as 1M – 60M.
Setting Master Valve/Pump Start Options
The TMC-424E allows you to set Master Valve/Pump Start (MV/PS) operation
by individual program and by individual station as preferred. By default, opera-
tion of all programs and all stations will activate the MV/PS circuit. The following
procedures are primarily used to exclude specific programs and/or stations from
MV/PS operation.
Special Functions
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NOTE: Aprogram must have the MV/PS control option enabled to permit
individual stations assigned to the program to be excluded from MV/PS opera-
tion. In other words, assigning MV/PS operation by station is not applicable
unless MV/PS operation for its assigned program is enabled.
• Master Valve/Pump Start Operation by Program
1. Set the Program Switch to select program A,B,C, or D.
2. Turn the Function Dial to Special Functions .
3. Press the button to display MVA -- Y (Master Valve [program A] - Yes [on]).
4. To exclude the selected program from MV/PS operation, press the or
button to select MV[A]– N(Master Valve [program A] – No).
• Master Valve/Pump Start Operation by Station
1. Press the button to display MVS -- N (Master Valve Stations – No).
2. To access this option, the option must first be enabled by pressing the
or button to select MVS -- Y(Yes). By default, all station identifiers will
be solid circles (all enabled).
3. Press the button to select MV -- Y01 (Master Valve--Yes, station 01).
The station identifier will begin flashing.
4. Press the button to exclude selected station, or press the button to
skip the station. When excluded, the station identifier will change from solid
to hollow.The next station identifier in sequence will begin flashing.
5. Repeat the procedure in step 4 as needed for each station.
• To Set Pump Delay
This feature enables a delay period from 1 to 60 seconds to occur after the MS/PS
circuit is activated, and prior to the start of the first station in the watering sequence.
This delay feature is often used in conjunction with the Station Delay (SD) feature.
1. Set the Program Switch to select program A,B,C, or D.
2. Turn the Function Dial to Special Functions .
3. Press the button (as needed) to display PD -- -- (Pump Delay Off).
4 . Press the o r button to select the delay time value from 01 to 60 seconds.
• To Set Pump Enable
This feature allows you to enable or disable MV/PS operation for the duration of a
Station Delay period.
1. Set the Program Switch to select program A,B,C, or D.
2. Turn the Function Dial to Special Functions .
3. Press the button as needed to display PE - - N (Pump Enable - No [Off]).
4. Press the or button to select PE - - Y(Pump Enable - Yes [On]).
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Setting Watering Cycle Repeat Option
This option enables a program watering cycle to automatically repeat operation
from 1 to 30 times per program start.
1. Set the Program Switch to select program A,B,C, or D.
2. Turn the Function Dial to Special Functions .
3. Press the button as needed to display CYC --N (Cycle [repeat] - No [Off]).
4. Press the or button to select CYC --Y (Cycle [repeat] - Yes [On]).
5. Press the button once to display RPT – – (Repeat (none).
6. Press the or button to select the number of repeat cycles from 01–30
(1 repeat = 2 watering cycles).
7. Press the button to select DL -- -- -- (delay period between repeat cycles).
8. Press the or button to select the delay period, Off (– – –) to 59
seconds in 1-second increments or 1–60 minutes in 1-minute increments.
Setting Program Stack/Overlap Option
This option determines if multiple programs will be constrained to single-file
operation (stacked) or enabled to operate 2 or 3 programs concurrently (overlap).
CAUTION: Before selecting the overlap option, ensure the hydraulic
capacity of the irrigation system and the controller’s maximum current
load will not be exceeded when multiple stations (including master
valve/pump start circuits) operate concurrently.
Refer to “Appendix B – TMC-424E Current Load Data” on page 29 for
additional information.
1. Turn the Function Dial to Special Functions .
2. Press the button as needed to display 1PROG (stack).
3. Press the or buttons to select 2PROG or 3PROG (overlap).
NOTE: When operating multiple programs in the stacked mode, any watering
cycle that extends past midnight into the next day will continue operating until
finished. However, any program cycle start times remaining in queue after the
day change to an unscheduled watering day, will be canceled. This rule applies
to all automatic and manual operations.
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Erase Program Memory
Erasing the program memory will remove all user-defined information including
run times, start times and day schedule from a specified program. Additionally,
all control options specified for the program will be reset to factory defaults.
1. Set the Program Switch to select program A,B,C, or D.
2. Turn the Function Dial to Special Functions .
3. Press the button as needed to display ERASE.
4. Press the button once to display OK? To initiate the erase function, press
the button again to display DONE.
Selecting Handheld Remote Operation
The TMC-424E is equipped for use with the Toro TMR-1 handheld remote.
By default, remote control operation is enabled. To disable operation with TMR-1
receiver, using the following procedure.
1. Turn the Function Dial to Special Functions .
2. Press the button as needed to display HH – Y(Hand Held – Yes)
3. Press the or buttons to select HH – N(Hand Held – No).
Selecting Display Language Option
The TMC-424E displays word prompts in English (ENG) by default and offers
five additional languages preferences as follows: Spanish (ESP), French (FRA),
Italian (ITA), German (DEU) and Portuguese (POR).
1. Turn the Function Dial to Special Functions .
2. Press the button as needed to display ENG (or the current language).
3. Press the or buttons to select the desired language.
Selecting 12/24-hour Time Display Option
This feature enables the clock time display to be changed from 12-hour (am./p.m.)
format to a 24-hour clock format.
1. Turn the Function Dial to Special Functions .
2. Press the button as needed to display 12H.
3. Press the or buttons to select 24H.
Selecting Run Time Format
This feature enables the station run time to be selected in seconds increments
in addition to minutes and hours increments.
1. Turn the Function Dial to Special Functions .
2. Press the button as needed to display SEC – N(Seconds – No).
3. Press the or buttons to select SEC – Y(Seconds – Yes).
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The TMC-424E offers several manual operation methods. A separate Function Dial
position is provided for Manual Station and Manual Program operations
NOTE: All program control options selected within Special Functions will also
apply to all manual control operations.
Manual Station Operations
The TMC-424E offers two ways to manually activate individual stations: True
manual, to operate a selected station without a specified run time, and Timed
manual to operate selected stations with an assigned temporary run time.
• True Manual Operation
1. Turn the Function Dial to Manual Station .
2. Press the button as needed to select the station number.
3. Press the button to turn on the station. ON will be displayed with the icon.
NOTE: The station will run continuously until a navigation button is pressed
or the Function Dial is turned. The station will turn off automatically at
Midnight.
I M P O R TA N T: Flow thresholds do not apply during True Manual and
Timed Manual operations.
• Timed Manual Operation
1. Turn the Function Dial to Manual Station .
2. Press the button to select the station number.
3. Press the or buttons to select a manual run time (1 minute – 8 hours).
4. To select additional stations, repeat steps 2 and 3.
5 . When station selections have been made, turn the Function Dial to R U N .
• The operating station number(s), remaining station run time and the icon
(flashing) will begin alternating with the current time of day.
• The stations will operate in the order selected, either sequentially or
concurrently as determined by the Stack/Overlap option selection.
• Automatic mode will resume when the manual operation has been completed.
• To advance through the station sequence, press t h e button.
• To terminate manual operation at any time, turn the Function Dial to O F F .
When the display stops flashing, turn the dial to R U N .
Manual Operations
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Manual Program Operations
This type of manual watering is also known as “Semi-automatic” operation.
When a program is started manually, it runs through the watering cycle as if
started automatically. A single program can be operated, or multiple programs
can be run in sequence or simultaneously.
NOTE: All automatic program control options selected within Special Functions
will also apply to all manual operations.
• Single Program Operation
1. Turn the Function Dial to Manual Program .
2. Set the Program Switch to select program A,B,C, or D. The program letter
and MAN will be displayed. All stations assigned to the program will be
indicated by solid circles.
3. Press the button to start the watering cycle. The first station in sequence
will turn on. The program identifier and icon will begin flashing.
4. Turn the Function Dial to RUN .
• The operating station number, remaining station run time and the icon
(flashing) will begin alternating with the current time of day.
•The stations will operate one at a time in numeric sequence.
•Automatic mode will resume when the manual operation is finished.
• To turn off an active station and start the next station in sequence, press
the button.
• To end manual operation at any time, turn the Function Dial to O F F , w a i t
f o r the display to stop flashing, then turn the dial to R U N .
• Multiple Program Operation
1. Turn the Function Dial to Manual Program .
2. Set the Program Switch to select program A,B,C, or D.
3. Press the button to start (or queue) the program. The program identifier
and icon will begin flashing.
4. To select additional programs, repeat steps 2 and 3.
5. Turn the Function Dial to R U N .
• The operating program identifier, station number(s), remaining station run
time and icon will begin alternating with the current time of day.
•The programs will operate in the order selected, either sequentially or
concurrently as determined by the Stack/Overlap option selection.
•Automatic mode will resume when the manual operation is finished.
• To turn off an active station and start the next station in sequence, position the
Program Switch (if needed) to select the program, then press t h e button.
• To end manual operation at any time, turn the Function Dial to O F F .
When the display stops flashing, turn the dial to R U N .
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Flow monitoring is one of the best water resource management tools available
in the irrigation industry today. With definable under-, over- and critical-flow limits
set, broken lateral or mainline piping, stuck valves or damaged sprinklers can be
quickly detected and bypassed automatically.
The TMC-424E accepts up to three flow-sensing expansion modules (flow
modules) that enable the controller to read, store and compare flow rate data
from individual flow meters. Each station connected to a flow-enabled expansion
module has the option of being flow monitored. After a defined delay period
(Fill Delay), a flow measurement is taken. If the station flow rate exceeds any
of the established thresholds, an alert is triggered; the station is bypassed and
operated at the next scheduled watering time.
After inserting a flow-sensor expansion module, the flow sensor icon is
displayed and the following control features become accessible:
• Select flow sensing operations by individual station
•Automatically read and learn the flow rate of each station
•Measure flow as part of normal irrigation operation
• Set lower, upper and critical flow thresholds
• Immediately disable station and flow module master valve operation if flow
rate exceeds a critical flow threshold.
N O T E : The actual or “Learned” flow rate for each station should be established
prior to setting alert thresholds. To perform this operation, the Valve Test function,
True Manual or Timed Manual station operations can be used to operate each
s t a t i on for a two-minute run time required to establish the Learned flow rate.
Flow Module Setup Procedure
NOTE: The TMC-424E is designed for use with Toro TFS series flow sensors
only. Consult with an authorized Toro distributor prior to connecting other flow
sensor makes. For complete TFS flow sensor installation and setup information,
refer to the user’s guide provided with the unit.
• Select Fill Delay option:
The fill delay period helps prevent false sensor readings caused by initial turbu-
lence within long main line runs. Fill delay setting postpones flow sampling up
to 9 minutes after irrigation begins.
1. Turn the Function Dial to Sensors .
2. Set the Program Switch to select program A,B,C, or D.
3 . Press the button as needed to display FIL: 0M (Fill delay – 0 minutes).
4. Press the or button to select a delay period (1 – 9 minutes in 1-minute
increments or leave at 0M if a fill delay is not required.
5. Repeat this procedure for each program as needed, starting at step 2.
Flow Sensor Operations
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