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Finally, there's an affordable controller for your home.
Hunter Industries is pleased to present the SRC Plus – a Simple and Reliable Controller for residential applications. Designed with the needs of the customer in mind, the SRC Plus offers simplified dial programming and an impressive range of features typically found in controllers costing twice as much.
While it's affordable, the SRC Plus is without a doubt a professional grade product. The controller's large, handsome cabinet, complete with a protective door, provides your controller with a neat and professional appearance. And, the SRC Plus is filled with the essential features that landscapes demand (like a rain sensor bypass circuit and primary power surge protection), but without some of the unnecessary frills that often lead to contractor call back.
The SRC Plus is so easy to use that after reading this User Guide thoroughly, you will need it very little after installation. We have also included an abbreviated instruction sheet inside the door of the controller for quick reference later on. After a few uses of this controller, you can be sure the SRC Plus is a product that does the job efficiently and economically.
The SRC Plus is an improved version of the original SRC Plus. Additional features and improvements include:
This section will give you a brief overview of some of the components on the SRC Plus faceplate. Each item will be discussed in further detail later, however this section can be helpful in getting acquainted with the different options available.
Start Time – Identifies selected start time (only one start time per program is required).
Program Designator – Identifies program in use A, B, or C.
Station Number – Identifies currently selected station number.
LCD Display – Indicates various times and values.
Run Time – Duration of individual stations watering.
Year – Current calendar year.
Month – Current calendar month.
Day – Current calendar day.
Running – Indicates when watering is occurring.
AM/PM – Arrow differentiates either AM or PM time.
24 HR – 24-hour time is available in addition to AM and PM.
Day of the Week – Identifies days of the week to water or you can select to water on odd or even days.
(For all above LCD display items, when an arrow cursor is flashing, that is what you are setting.)
Button – Increases the selected flashing display.
Button – Decreases the selected flashing display.
Button – Advances the selected flashing display.
Button – Selects program A, B, or C.
A 120 VAC Plug-in transformer (included in SRC -600i and 900i models) supplies 24 VAC to the controller.
A key feature of the SRC Plus is its clear, easy-to-use dial design that makes programming a snap. All essential keypad functions are clearly marked to eliminate the confusion that's a characteristic of so many other controllers.
Run – Normal dial position for automatic and manual operation.
Run (Bypass Sensor) – Used to disengage optional weather sensor that may be wired to your system.
Set Current Date/Time – Allows current date and clock time to be set.
Set Program Start Times – Allows 1 to 4 start times to be enabled in each program.
Set Station Run Times – Allows user to set each station run time from 0 to 99 minutes.
Set Days To Water – Allows user to select individual days to water or to select an odd or even watering schedule, according to the date.
Manual – Single Station – Allows user to activate a one time watering of a single station.
Manual – All Station – Allows user to activate a one time watering of all stations or a few selected stations.
System Off – Allows user to discontinue all programs and stop all watering until dial is returned to the RUN position.
Reset Button – This button will reset the controller. All programmed data will remain intact.
9-Volt Battery – The alkaline battery will maintain the controller memory if power to the transformer is disconnected. However, the battery will not operate any of the watering activity (not included). Transformer – The two wires from the plug-in transformer are connected to the two AC terminals.
Terminal Strip Area – Use to attach transformer and valve wires from their source to the controller.
NOTE: The SRC Plus is not water or weather resistant. The controller must me installed indoors or in a protected area.
NOTE: Do not plug transformer into power source until the controller is mounted and all valves have been connected. |
The battery allows you to program the SRC Plus Controller without having AC power available. However, the battery will not be able to activate any of the station valves. Electrical power must resume before watering will continue. The SRC Plus has non-volatile memory which retains all program information in the event of a power outage.
NOTE: Complete this section only if you have a master valve installed. A master valve is a normally closed valve installed at the supply point of the main line that opens only when the automatic system is activated. |
NOTE: Complete this section only if you have a pump start relay installed. A pump start relay is an electronic device that uses a current from the controller to actuate a separate electrical circuit to energize a pump to provide water to your system. |
The controller should be mounted at least 15 feet (4.5m) away from both the pump start relay and the pump. When a pump start relay comes on it sends out surges that may potentially cause damage to a controller that is mounted to close. When a pump is to be operated by the controller, a pump start relay must be used. Hunter offers a full range of pump start relays for most applications.
Relay current draw must not exceed.35 Amps. Do not connect controller directly to pump – damage to controller can result.
NOTE: If a rain sensor is installed with your SRC Plus, along with a pump start relay, follow instructions in ''CONNECTING A PUMP START RELAY''
A Hunter Mini-Clik® rain sensor can be connected to the SRC Plus. The purpose of this sensor is to stop watering when precipitation is sufficient. The sensor connects directly to the controller and allows you to easily override the sensor by using the RUN (BYPASS SENSOR) position on the dial.
A weather sensor shuts off your system during rainy weather – saving water. Ask your installer for more information on this device.
Weather Sensor Bypass
With this built-in feature, there is RUN (BYPASS SENSOR) there is no need for an additional manual bypass switch when using rain sensors The SRC Plus works with the Hunter Mini-Clik®, Rain-Clik™, Freeze-Clik® plus some other rain, wind or freeze sensors on the market today. If the sensor is preventing system operation, just turn the dial to RUN (BYPASS SENSOR) and the weather sensor will be overridden.
The Hunter SRC Plus is remote-ready for use with the SRR or ICR remote control system. The remote makes it possible for contractors and end-users alike to operate an system without having to walk back and forth to the controller.
To utilize the SRR or ICR Remote Control System you must install the SmartPort ® outlet.
The wiring harness is now ready for remote control use. Please refer to the SRR or ICR owner manual for further information or contact your local Hunter distributor for ordering information.
NOTE: Any extension of the wiring on the remote harness may result in an error message in the controller display and possible malfunction of the remote unit due to radio interference. In some situations, lengthening of the harness may work fine, in others it may not work at all (it is site specific). In either case, extending the wiring harness should be done using shielded cable to minimize the possible effects of electrical noise. For easiest installation, order a new Hunter SRR-SCWH SmartPort ® wiring harness with a full 25 feet of shielded cable.
With the IMMS™, automatic irrigation systems at multiple sites or multiple controllers at a single site can be programmed for functions that would typically be handled directly at each controller. Scheduling of days to water, run times, start times, cycle and soak operations, and more can now be done from a single computer at a desk miles away from the actual installation. In addition, scheduled operation of non-irrigation components also in use at these sites–e.g., lighting systems at athletic fields, fountains at shopping centers–as well as pumps and sensors can also be programmed and monitored from a single central location. A key function of the IMMS is its ability to monitor changing conditions. With the aid of such options as flow sensors, rain sensors and other weather-sensing devices, the IMMS can receive reports on the current condition at every site it is linked with and then respond with the necessary adjustments should any of those conditions go beyond the limits that have been defined. It's able to team with any or all of the standard automatic controllers in the Hunter line-up, from the SRC Plus to the Pro-C to the ICC. Plus, it's a system that's easy and affordable to upgrade, making it possible to accommodate an expanding network of controllers. For more information on the IMMS software, contact your local Hunter dealer.
Due to the possibility of power failures, the controller has non-volatile memory to preserve the program indefinitely. If no 9-volt battery is installed, the controller will freeze time when the power goes out and resume, keeping time after power has been restored. If a battery is installed, the 9-volt battery backup will keep time so the clock and calendar will be intact for several days.
There are three main components that are involved with all automatic sprinkler systems that are made today. They are the controller, valves, and the sprinklers.
The controller is what makes the whole system operate efficiently. It is technically the brain of the entire system, instructing the valves when to supply water to the sprinklers and for how long to do so. The sprinklers, in turn, will direct the water towards the surrounding plants and lawn.
The valve controls a group of sprinklers called a watering station. These stations are laid out in a fashion according to the type of plant life that exists there, the locations of the plants, and the maximum amount of water that can be pumped to the location. Each valve is connected via wire to the terminal strip area inside of the controller. Here the wire is connected to a number that corresponds to the valve's station number.
The controller will operate the valves in order, only one at a time. When a valve has completed it's watering; it will switch to the next station that has been programmed. This process is called the watering cycle. The information pertaining to the watering times of the individual stations and how often watering occurs is called a program.
Valve 1 – Activates Station 1 – Rotors water front yard lawn
Valve 2 – Activates Station 2 – Sprays water side lawn and bubblers water flowers
Valve 3 – Activates Station 3 – Rotors water back yard lawn
Valve 4 – Activates Station 4 – Bubblers water garden
Valve 5 – Activates Station 5 – Sprays water side lawn and bubblers water flowers
Valve 6 – Activates Station 6 – Sprays water front corner lawn
For most consumers, it is much easier to plan your specific watering schedule onto paper before actually programming the information into the controller. It's also handy to have a written record of your programming information for easy reference.
There are some guidelines that should be followed when determining when and how long to water. These factors are the soil type, the part of the landscape being watered, weather conditions, and the types of sprinklers being used. Since there are so many different variables that can determine your individual watering schedule, it is impossible to give an exact schedule to follow. However, we have included some guidelines to help you get started.
NOTE: It is usually good to water one or two hours before sunrise. Water pressure will be at optimum levels during the early morning and the water can soak into the roots of the plants while evaporation is minimal. For most plants, watering during midday or in the evening may cause plant damage or possibly mildew. |
NOTE: Keep an eye out for evidence of under- or overwatering. Over-watering is most commonly indicated by pools of water that take a long time to soak in or evaporate, while under-watered landscapes will show signs of discoloring and dryness. Make programming changes immediately when evidence is present. |
Be sure to use a pencil when filling out this form. By using the included example and the information below, you should have all the information you need to construct your personal water schedule.
Station Number and Location – Identify the station number, location and the type of plant that is being watered.
Watering Day – Identify whether you want to use a calendar day or an odd or even day schedule. For a calendar day schedule circle the day of the week in which watering is desired. For a odd or even day schedule, simply mark the corresponding box.
Program Start Times – Indicate the time of day that the program will begin. Each program can have 1 to 4 start times. However, one start time can run an entire program.
Station Run Time – Indicate the run time (1 to 99 minutes) for each station. Write "OFF" for any station that you do not want to operate in the program.
Keep this schedule in a safe place for quick reference later, rather than scrolling through program information on the controller.
PROGRAM A | PROGRAM B | PROGRAM C | ||||||||||||||||||||||
WATERING DAY SCHEDULE | CALENDAR | SU | MO | TU | WE | TH | FR | SA | SU | MO | TU | WE | TH | FR | SA | SU | MO | TU | WE | TH | FR | SA | ||
X | X | X | X | X | X | X | ||||||||||||||||||
ODD/EVEN | ODD EVEN | ODD EVEN | ODD EVEN | |||||||||||||||||||||
STATION | LOCATION | ZONE RUN TIME | ZONE RUN TIME | ZONE RUN TIME | ||||||||||||||||||||
1 | Front Lawn | 00:15 | 00:00 | 00:00 | ||||||||||||||||||||
2 | Side Lawn | 00:15 | 00:00 | 00:00 | ||||||||||||||||||||
3 | Back Lawn | 00:20 | 00:00 | 00:00 | ||||||||||||||||||||
4 | Flowers | 00:00 | 00:15 | 00:00 | ||||||||||||||||||||
5 | Garden | 00:00 | 00:00 | 00:20 | ||||||||||||||||||||
6 | Front Corner | 00:00 | 00:00 | 01:00 | ||||||||||||||||||||
7 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
8 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
9 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
PROGRAM START TIMES | 1 | 6:00 AM | 8:00 AM | 5:00 AM | ||||||||||||||||||||
2 | Off | Off | Off | |||||||||||||||||||||
3 | Off | Off | Off | |||||||||||||||||||||
4 | Off | Off | Off |
A watering program can be created to operate valves in numerical sequence one at a time. All that is required to create a watering program is to:
We have included an example that will better illustrate the operation of a program:
Let's say you have a program start time set for 6:00 AM. Stations 1 and 2 are going to have a run time of 15 minutes and station 3 is set for 20 minutes. Please note that stations 4, 5 and 6 have not been included in this program, we will water them on separate programs.
Going back to our previous example, at 6:00 AM the controller will activate the watering cycle. The sprinklers on station 1 will run for 15 minutes and then automatically shut off. The controller will automatically advance to station 2 sprinklers. These sprinklers will also run for 15 minutes and then shut off. Then, watering on station 3 will begin automatically. The sprinklers will turn on for 20 minutes and shut off automatically. Since no times were programmed for stations 4, 5 and 6, the controller skips them. This will conclude the program and end the water cycle at 6:50 AM.
As shown in the above example, only one program start time was required to run the three different stations. The controller automatically moves to the next station without the need for additional start times.
We realize that many consumers will have variations in their plant watering needs, so at Hunter we equipped the SRC Plus with three different programs A, B, and C. These programs are completely independent of each other and give you the ability to have three coexisting timers in one controller.
Total Cycle of Program A = 50 minutes
The SRC Plus Controller is simple to program. The easy to understand dial design allows you to step through the process of programming and activate manual watering with a twist of the dial.
The SRC Plus display shows time and day when the controller is idle. The display changes when the dial is rotated to indicate the specific programming information to enter. When programming, the flashing portion of the display can be changed by pressing the or buttons. To change something that is not flashing, press the button until the desired field is flashing.
The SRC Plus also provides a reference label that is attached to the inside of the controller door (no more lost or misplaced instructions!). And, extra space is provided to write in sprinkler station location information.
A full three programs, each with the ability to have four daily start times, permit plants with different watering requirements to be separated on different day schedules. Multiple start times permit morning, afternoon, and evening watering, perfect for the establishment of new lawns and thirsty annual flowers. A built-in 365 day calendar clock accommodates odd/even watering restrictions without requiring monthly reprogramming. Or just simply designate the days of the week you want to water. The SRC Plus makes it easy.
NOTE: A basic programming rule is that whatever symbol or character is flashing will be the item programmed. For instance, if the hour is flashing when setting the time, the hour can be changed or programmed. For illustration purposes, flashing characters are in GRAY type. |
To activate a program in your controller, you must enter the following information:
NOTE: All stations operate in numerical order. Only one program start time is required to activate a watering program. |
NOTE: One start time will activate all stations sequentially in that program. This eliminates the need to enter each station's start time. Multiple start times in a program can be used for separate morning, afternoon, or evening watering cycles. |
With the dial set to the SET PROGRAM START TIMES position, push theor button until you reach 12:00 AM (Midnight). From here push the button once to reach the OFF position.
NOTE: If a program has all four start times turned off, then that program is off. (All other program details are retained). Because there are no start times, there will be no watering with that program. This is a convenient way to stop watering on one program only without turning the dial to the OFF position. |
NOTE: Jumping between programs can be confusing and may result in program entry errors.
The last solid arrow is the last day of watering for that program.
This feature will use a numbered day of the month for watering instead of specific days of the week (Odd days 1st, 3rd, 5th, etc.; Even days 2nd, 4th, 6th, etc.)
NOTE: The 31st of any month and February 29 are always "off" days if Odd watering is selected. |
After programming is complete, turn the dial to RUN to enable automatic execution of all selected programs and start times. Watering will not occur unless dial is in the RUN or RUN (SENSOR BYPASS) position.
Valves currently watering will be shut off after the dial is turned to the SYSTEM OFF position for two seconds.
All active programs are discontinued and watering is stopped. To return controller to normal automatic operation, simply return dial to RUN position.
NOTE: The station that is on the display when you turn the dial to RUN will be the first station to run. The controller will then proceed to water in sequential order only. It will not water previous stations. Example: If you turn the dial to RUN with the display reading station 3. The controller will water stations 3 to 9 in the program, but not return to stations 1 and 2.
You can also activate all stations to water without using the dial.
This feature is great for a quick cycle when extra watering is needed or if you would like to scroll through the stations to inspect your system.
Irrigation professionals are continuously looking for ways to more efficiently and effectively diagnose programs in the field. Instead of having to physically check each field wiring circuit for potential problems, the user can run the Hunter Quick Check™ circuit test procedure. This circuit diagnostic procedure is very beneficial because of its ability to aid in quickly identifying "shorts" commonly caused by faulty solenoids or when a bare common wire touches a bare station control wire.
To initiate the Hunter Quick Check test procedure; Press the ,, , and buttons simultaneously. In the standby mode, the LCD will display all segments (helpful when troubleshooting display problems). Press thebutton to begin the Quick Check test procedure. Within seconds, the system searches all stations in an effort to detect a high current path through the station terminals. When a field wiring short is detected, an ERR symbol preceded by the station number will momentarily flash on the controller LCD display. After the Hunter Quick Check completes running this circuit diagnostic procedure, the controller returns to the automatic watering mode.
If you feel you have misprogrammed the controller, there is a process that will reset the memory to factory defaults and erase all programs and data that has been entered into the controller.
PROBLEM | CAUSES | SOLUTIONS |
Controller waters the same area more than one time or cycles continuously. | Too many start times entered in program (user error). | One start time activates a complete cycle. See "Setting Program Times". |
The display reads "No AC" | There is no AC power present. | Check to make sure power is on. Check to see if transformer is properly installed. |
Display indicates irrigation but station does not water. | Faulty or miswired valve | Check valve and valve wiring. |
Faulty pump or pump relay. | Check pump and pump relay. Replace if defective. | |
No water pressure to supply. | Turn on main system water system. | |
Display is blank. | No AC power reaching controller. | Verify AC power and wiring. Correct any errors. Check transformer output. |
Display is blank with AC power to terminal and with a new battery. | Controller may be damaged by power surge. | Call dealer. |
Time of day display is blinking. | Unit has just been powered up for the first time. | Set time/date. |
Extended power outage has occurred that has drained backup battery. | Replace battery and reprogram current time. | |
Short power outage has occurred but backup battery is dead. | Replace battery and reprogram current time. | |
The display reads "ERR". | Electrical noise is entering the system, through the smart port wiring harness. | Check the SmartPort® wiring harness. If the wires were extended then they will need to be replaced with shielded cable. Contact your local distributor for information on shielded cable. |
The display reads a station number and ERR | There has been a fault with the wire leading to the valve. | Check station wire for continuity. Replace or repair shorted wire. Check that all wire connections are good and watertight. |
Rain Sensor does not suspend irrigation. | Rain sensor is defective or miswired. | Verify operation of sensor and proper wiring. |
Rain sensor is in the RUN (BYPASS SENSOR) position. | Return dial to the RUN position. | |
Frozen Display | Power surge. | Unplug transformer, remove battery, wait several seconds, repower and reprogram controller. |
Automatic irrigation does not start at start time and controller is not in the system off mode. | AM/PM of time of day not set correctly. | Correct AM/PM of time of day. |
AM/PM of start time not set correctly. | Correct AM/PM of start time. | |
Start time is disabled (Set for Off). | Set start time. See "Setting Start Times" | |
Rain sensor is preventing operation. | Turn dial to RUN (BYPASS SENSOR). | |
Controller is not receiving AC power. | Check AC connections. | |
Valve will not turn on. | Short in wire connections. | Check wiring for short or faulty wire connections. |
Bad solenoid | Replace solenoid. |
Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.
Download Hunter SRC Plus - Residential/Light Commercial Irrigation Controller Manual
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