PetSafe YardMax PIG00-15958 - Cordless In Ground Fence Manual

Welcome

You and your pet were made for each other. Our aim is to help you have the best companionship and the most memorable moments together. Your new YardMax^® Cordless In-Ground Fence^™ system is designed to give your pet maximum freedom while keeping him safe.
We know that safe pets make happy owners. Before getting started, please have your utilities marked, and take a moment to read through the important safety information. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Hereinafter Radio Systems Corporation, Radio Systems PetSafe Europe Ltd., Radio Systems Australia Pty Ltd. and any other affiliate or brand of Radio Systems Corporation may be referred to collectively as "We" or "Us."

In the Box

You May Also Need

• Additional wire and flags (Part # PIG00-13769)
• Additional wire connectors and gel-filled splice capsules
• Drill with Phillips drill bit
• Small Phillips screwdriver
• Staple gun

• Scissors
• Lighter
• Pliers
• Spade shovel or lawn edger
• Wire stripping pliers

• Waterproofing compound (e.g. silicone caulk)
• Non-metallic collar and leash
• PVC pipe or water hose
• Circular saw with masonry blade
• Mounting stake

For help with setup and training, please visit petsafe.com.

Understand the Transmitter

Power Button
Press and hold the power button down firmly for 5 seconds to turn on the transmitter. To turn off the transmitter, press and hold the power button down for 5 seconds.

Select Button
The select button allows you to edit the 2 transmitter settings. The order of the selection is as follows:

1. Boundary range
   2 ft. to 15 ft. (varies by mode)
2. Boundary mode
   (A) or (B)

To Edit the Transmitter Settings:

1. Press the select button. The boundary range setting will start to flash.
2. Use the up and down buttons to change the range.
3. Press the select button again. The mode setting will start to flash.
4. Use the up or down buttons to choose the mode: (A) – YardMax^® or (B) – Traditional

Note: Settings can only be edited while they are flashing

Up and Down Buttons
The up and down buttons are used to change the boundary settings. They also mute the alarm.

Bluetooth^® Icon
Bluetooth^® capability is not yet available, but your transmitter was built with future updates in mind. Check our website for Bluetooth^® technology announcements.
Each time the transmitter is powered on, the Bluetooth^® icon will flash for 3 minutes and then disappear.

Battery Level Icon
The battery icon displays 3 bars with a full charge. Replace the batteries when the battery icon shows 1 bar or no bars. Typically, battery life lasts 9 to 12 months. If the battery level becomes too low, the lights will flash red once every few seconds, along with a single alarm tone.

Attention Required Icon
The attention required icon will appear if there is an issue with the system. A unique alarm will also initially sound. The most common alarms are for a wire break, wire degradation or if a wire becomes disconnected from the transmitter. Even after the alarm is muted, the attention required icon will continue to display until the problem is resolved.

Muting the Alarm
An alarm tone will sound if an issue with the system is detected. The lights will flash red 1 to 3 times depending on the issue. To mute the alarm, press any button except the power button. This will mute the alarm; however, the lights will continue to flash until the problem is resolved. The mute alarm icon will appear, indicating that you have turned off the alarm.
Refer to the table "Transmitter Alarms" for a complete guide to all the status lights and tones for the transmitter.

How It Works

The YardMax^® Cordless In-Ground Fence^™ system allows you to safely keep your pet within the boundary you set. The PetSafe^® brand has safely used static correction for decades and have helped millions of pets live happier, healthier and more active lives.
The system works by sending a signal through a buried wire (boundary wire). Your pet wears a receiver collar that picks up the signal. It warns your pet with a beep when he enters the warning zone. If your pet continues to venture out, the collar will issue a safe but startling correction, similar to the static you feel if you drag your feet across a carpet and then touch a door handle. Of course, different pets respond to different levels of correction. The collar has 5 levels of correction plus a tone-only setting to accommodate any pet. The only pets that we do not recommend the system for are aggressive pets and pets younger than 6 months of age or under 5 lb. Make sure to go through the training before leaving your pet unattended.
Please note that large metal objects and wires can amplify and/or modulate signals in unpredictable ways. Make a plan for how you will work around any large metal objects like sheds, air conditioning units or existing wires. Call your utility company to have your utility lines marked. You can cross utility lines but only at 90° angles (see figure 3A).
Note: If you buy extra wire, the system is expandable up to 1,000 ft.

4 Steps to a Contained Pet

1. Plan Your Layout
   

2. Install Your System
   

3. Fit the Collar on Your Pet
   

4. Train Your Pet
   

An important thing to note even before you get started, is that you should always remove the receiver collar from your pet while inside or when the system is not in use. Also, never leave it on your pet for more than 12 consecutive hours, and absolutely never attach a leash to it—use a separate collar for that. Excessive pressure and continuous use without breaks could hurt your pet's skin.
Installation time can vary based on the size of your yard and the layout you choose. Training your pet to understand the system typically takes a couple of weeks. No worries though, we will go through everything you need to know here, and you can always reference our setup videos or give us a call if you have a question.
Quick tip: Using a small trenching or lawn edging tool instead of a shovel, can save you a lot of time when burying your wire. These can be found at your local hardware store.

Insert the Transmitter Batteries

1. The transmitter requires 10 D cell batteries. It does not have an AC port.
2. Remove the magnetic cover from the transmitter and set it aside.
3. Remove the 10 screws to the battery door with a Phillips screwdriver.
4. Insert 4 D cell batteries into the bottom row first, in the direction shown (1A).
   
5. Insert the remaining 6 batteries on the top row.
   After you insert the first battery on the top row, the unit will temporarily turn on and go through a startup cycle. All the icons on the LED will flash, the lights will flash and the transmitter will emit a tone. The LED display will then disappear and the transmitter will be off.
6. Reattach the battery door and magnetic cover to the transmitter

We do not recommended turning on the transmitter at this time. We will explain later on pages 13 and 14 how to connect the wires and turn on the transmitter.
Note: Battery life typically lasts 9 to 12 months. Check the battery status monthly. Replace the batteries when the battery icon shows 1 or no bars.

Underground cables can carry high voltage. Have all underground cables marked before you dig to bury your wire. In most areas, this is a free service. Avoid these cables when you dig.

Charge the Collar

Open the rubber cap on the back of the receiver collar and plug the adaptor into your collar to begin charging (2A). The collar light is red while charging and green when fully charged. The first charge will take about 2 or 3 hours. Each charge can last up to 3 months depending on the frequency of use. Only recharge the collar when the indicator light begins to blink red.

Have Your Utilities Marked

1. Call your utility company to have your utility lines marked. If you have neighbors using an in-ground pet containment system, you will want to ask them where the boundary is located. Place your wire at least 10 ft. away from it.
2. Large metal objects and wires can cause interference in unpredictable ways. Make a plan for how you will work around any large metal objects, like sheds or existing wires. You can cross utility lines at a 90° angle (3A).
   

Choose a Location

For outside use, the ideal location of the transmitter is along the outer perimeter of your property, ideally mounted to a post or placed under a tree (4A). However, the transmitter can be placed indoors or on the side of your home. There are a few things to consider when choosing a location:

• Place the transmitter in a shaded area to avoid direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures can affect battery life and may cause damage to the batteries, affecting the system operation. The temperatures in the placed location should not fall below -25°F / -32°C, or rise above 130°F / 55°C.
• The transmitter should be at least 3 ft. from large metal objects like an outdoor shed or indoor appliances. These items may interfere with the signal consistency.
• Place the transmitter in a visible location where you will be able to hear any alarms and see the alarm lights if your system detects an issue.
• If you plan to mount the transmitter or decide to place it indoors, keep in mind that the boundary wire that runs from the transmitter out to the main boundary wire must be twisted together. Be sure to leave plenty of extra wire near the transmitter when planning your layout.
• Do not mount the transmitter until the boundary wire is connected to it.
• The transmitter should not be placed in standing water or areas likely to have standing water in heavy rains.
  The system has 2 modes: YardMax^® (A) and Traditional (B).

YardMax^® Mode (A)

• The warning zone begins directly at the boundary wire, so your pet can maximize yard space.
• The correction area is perceived to be infinite past the boundary wire. If your pet continues beyond the boundary wire, he will be much more inclined to turn and head back.
• This mode is ideal for small yards; it allows your pet to use up to 30% more of the pet area than with Traditional mode (B).
• This mode does not have the ability to create off-limits areas to surround things like gardens or pools unless combined with a Pawz Away^® barrier product.
• After 15 seconds of continuous correction, the system will time out. This is to avoid correcting a pet that may be stuck outside his boundaries.

Traditional Mode (B)

• The warning zone begins before the boundary wire, so yard space is reduced.
• Only this mode has the ability to create off-limits areas to surround area like gardens or pools.
• The correction area is limited and is set by the boundary width, so if your pet bolts through the entire static correction zone, he will no longer be corrected.
• After 15 seconds of continuous correction, the system will time out. This is to avoid correcting a pet that may be stuck within the static correction zone.

Basic Planning Tips

• Always plan your layout, position the boundary wire and test the system as outlined in this Product Manual before burying the boundary wire. You do not want to find out after burying the wire that there is a problem with your layout or a loose connection somewhere.
• Layout grids are provided at the back of this Product Manual.
• The boundary wire must start at the fence transmitter and make a continuous loop back to it (5A).
  
• Always use rounded corners with a 3 ft. minimum radius (5B).
  
• You can create off-limits areas to protect gardens, pools or landscaping by splicing a twisted section of wire from the main boundary wire—Traditional mode (B) only. This will allow your pet to cross this section without a correction.
• All layouts need to be at least 10 ft. from neighboring in-ground pet containment systems.
• Cross any utility lines at a 90° angle.
• Work carefully; a nick in the wire insulation could create a weak area in the signal field and reduce the life of the wire.
• If you are mounting the transmitter or placing it indoors, then the boundary wire needs to be twisted together before being connected to the transmitter. Be sure to leave plenty of extra wire near the transmitter when planning your layout.
• Ensure there is at least 10 ft. between the boundary wire and any danger zones like roadways.

Sample Layouts

Sample layouts are provided to help you visualize your yard.

Single Loop Layout
With a single loop layout, the boundary wire starts at the fence transmitter, and continues all the way around the perimeter of the property and then connects back to the fence transmitter. This forms a boundary zone with a single wire (6A). This is appropriate for YardMax ® mode (A) or Traditional mode (B).

Double Loop Layout
With a double loop layout, the boundary wire starts at the fence transmitter, and continues around the property to form a boundary zone in one section of your property (e.g., front yard only). Then the wire makes a U-turn back along the same path and connects back to the fence transmitter. This forms a boundary zone with a double wire (6B). This only works in Traditional mode (B)

YardMax^® Mode (A) Layouts
The YardMax^® mode (A) can only be used with a single loop perimeter layout. It cannot be used to create off-limits areas.

Sample 1 (7A)
Perimeter Loop
With a perimeter loop, YardMax^® mode (A) allows your pet to maximize the pet area and roam the entire property freely and safely.

Sample 2 (7B)
Perimeter Loop Using Existing Fence
This layout allows you to include your existing fence as part of your layout and keep your pet from jumping out or digging under your existing fence. This layout also greatly reduces the installation time since most of the wire will not need to be buried.

Traditional Mode (B) Layouts
Traditional mode (B) has the ability to create off-limits areas to surround things like gardens or pools (8E), and it can be used with either a single loop or a double loop layout. Sample 1 (7A) and Sample 2 (7B) layouts may be also be used in Traditional mode (B). There should be at least 5 ft. of separation between wires when using a double loop.

Sample 3 (8A)
Front Yard or Back Yard Only (Double Loop)

Sample 4 (8B)
Front Boundary Only (Double Loop)

Sample 5 (8C)
Waterfront Property
(Double Loop)

Sample 6 (8D)
Wire Loop Attached to Existing Fence
(Double Loop)

Sample 7 (8E)
Perimeter Loop with Off-limits Areas (Single Loop)
This layout protects off-limits areas like gardens, pools or landscaping by splicing a twisted section from the main boundary wire. This will allow your pet to cross this section without a correction.

Additional Boundary Wire

The YardMax^® Cordless In-Ground Fence^™ system supports up to 1,000 ft. of boundary wire. You may purchase an additional 500 ft. spool at the store where you purchased the kit or through the PetSafe^® Customer Care Center.
The table on the right indicates the approximate length of boundary wire needed for a square, single loop layout. The length will vary due to the amount of twisted wire and the layout used.

Position the Boundary Wire

Once you have designed your layout, the next step is to position the wire. Hold off on burying the wire until you have tested the system first.

• Start with one end of the wire at the transmitter, but do not turn it on yet. Run the wire all the way around your planned perimeter and back to the transmitter.

Off-limits Areas

• For off-limits areas like gardens, you will need to splice a section between the main boundary wire and the off-limits area (9A). This will allow your pet to cross this section without a correction.
  
• Also, keep in mind that if you plan to mount the transmitter to a post or you decide to place it away from the main boundary location, the boundary wire that runs from the transmitter out to the main boundary must also be twisted together.
• Twisting both ends of the wire together 10-12 times per foot cancels the signal and allows your pet to cross without receiving a correction. Any crossover areas must be within the boundary and cannot be along the perimeter of the boundary (9B). Although not required, it is recommended that you cut and splice the wire between each twisted section.
  
• The fastest way to twist 2 wires is to cut 2 pieces a little longer than the length you need, twist them, and then splice in that section. Anchor one end of the 2 wires to something secure (or have a partner hold them), and insert the other end into a power drill. Pull the wire tight and then use the drill to slowly twist the wire. Follow the splicing guide below to learn how to reconnect this twisted portion back to the main boundary wire.

Splicing Guide
Your system comes with 2 gel-filled splice capsules to ensure that your splices are waterproof. Contact our Customer Care Center if you would like to purchase more splice capsules.

1. Strip approximately³⁄₈ in. of insulation off the ends of the wires to be spliced (9C).
   
2. Place the wire connector over the stripped ends and twist the wire connector around the wires (9C). Make sure there is no copper exposed beyond the end of the wire connector.
3. Tie a knot 3 to 4 in. from the wire connector (9D). Ensure that the wire connector is secure on the wire splice.
   
4. Once you have securely spliced the wires together, open the lid of the gel-filled splice capsule and insert the wire connector as deeply as possible into the waterproof gel inside the capsule (9E).
   
5. Snap the lid of the capsule shut (9F).
   

If the receiver collar fails the ReadyTest ® startup, the receiver collar is automatically turned off; your pet will not be contained.

Prepare the Collar

Turn On the Receiver Collar
The collar will automatically turn on whenever it is removed from the charger. To turn on the receiver collar when it is not on the charger, press and hold the mode button for 1 second (10A).
The collar will then go through the ReadyTest^®. The indicator light will flash green once and then go off for 1 second. It will then come back on and glow continuously for 5 seconds—either solid red, solid green, or red+green together to indicate the status of the battery (10B). Finally, there will be a series of red flashes which represent the static correction level. The receiver collar will then automatically start the PerfectFit test by flashing red+green together every second for 90 seconds.

ReadyTest^®
ReadyTest^® is a mode that automatically starts every time you remove the receiver collar from the charger or first turn it on. If the ReadyTest^® feature does detect a problem, the receiver collar will continually beep and the indicator light will glow solid red for 20 seconds. The receiver collar will automatically turn off. Do not put the receiver collar on your pet at this time; your pet will not be contained. Instead, turn the receiver collar back on and repeat the test. If the receiver collar continues to fail the ReadyTest^® startup, call the Customer Care Center. If the receiver collar is on your pet during the ReadyTest^® startup, the test will fail and the receiver collar will automatically turn off. This also means the system will not contain your pet!

PerfectFit
After the ReadyTest^®, the PerfectFit mode will automatically start. This test is an added feature to verify a "perfect" fit of the collar around your pet's neck; however, it is not required for the system to function. For 90 seconds the receiver collar will continually flash red+green together. You must place the receiver collar on your pet and adjust the fit within the 90 seconds or it will go back to normal operation mode and flash the status of the battery (red, green, or red+green together) every 4 seconds.
After you adjust the collar on your pet and the contact points are touching his or her skin (or if you inadvertently touch both of the contact points with your fingers), the receiver collar will emit a unique double tone. You will know you have the proper fit after you hear 5 consecutive double tones and you see 5 green flashes. Then the receiver collar moves into normal operation mode and flashes the status of the battery every 4 seconds.

Turn Off the Receiver Collar
To turn off the receiver collar, press and hold the mode button (10A) continuously for 5 seconds until the red light turns off. To extend the time between charging the receiver collar, consider turning off the receiver collar when it is not in use.

Set the Static Correction Level
The static correction levels increase in strength from 2 to 6, with level 1 being tone only (no correction), and level 6 being the maximum setting.

1. Press and hold the mode button (10A) until you see a red light, then let go. The collar will emit a series of red flashes that correspond to the current correction level (e.g., 4 red flashes means level 4).
2. Press and hold the mode button again for 1 second to increase the level by one setting. You must count the number of red flashes to determine the level setting.

Refer to the table "Receiver Collar Status Indicators" for a complete guide to all the status lights and tones for the receiver collar.

Connect the Wires

1. Cut off 1 in. from the ends of each boundary wire to ensure a clean, straight end.
2. Strip³⁄₈ in. of insulation from the 2 ends of the wires in order to connect them to the transmitter (11A).
   
3. Remove the cover on the back of the transmitter with a Phillips screwdriver to access the boundary wire terminals (11B).
   
4. Slightly bend the boundary wires and insert them through the holes in each terminal (11B).
5. Place the cover back onto the transmitter.
6. Tighten each screw to secure the boundary wire. Over tightening the screw can cause the wire to break.

• The receiver collar should NOT be on your pet when the system is tested. Your pet may receive an unintended correction.
• To prevent an unintended correction for your pet, test the boundary location and width after any change.

Mount the Transmitter (optional)

1. Now that the wires have been connected, it is safe to mount the transmitter to a post or other secure surface.
2. Use the 2 mounting screws provided to attach the transmitter. We recommend using a power drill with a Phillips drill bit.

Turn on the Transmitter

1. Press and hold down the power button firmly for 5 seconds to turn on the transmitter. It will then go through a startup cycle. All the icons on the LED will flash, the lights will flash red and the transmitter will emit a tone.

The first time you turn on the transmitter, the LED display will show 2 dashes, indicating that a boundary range has not been set (12A). The default mode setting is (A).

Test the Fence Direction

You must verify that your fence is transmitting in the correct direction to contain your pet. You will need to do this test in mode (A), regardless of which final mode you plan to use.

1. Set the mode setting to (A) if it is not already set to (A).
2. Press the select button on the transmitter; the 2 dashed lines will begin to flash.
3. Use the up button to change the height to 3 ft.
4. Press the select button twice to save the setting and begin the operational mode.
5. Make sure the receiver collar is turned on by holding the mode button for 1 second.
   Note: When you remove the receiver collar from the charger, or first turn it on, the receiver collar will automatically go into ReadyTest^®startup mode.
6. Set the static correction on the receiver collar to level 6.
7. Place the test light tool contacts onto the contact points of the receiver collar (13A).
   
8. Starting inside the pet area, hold the receiver collar about 1 ft. above the ground with the contact points facing upwards and approach a straight section of your boundary wire that is at least 50 ft. long.
9. As you cross the wire (13B), you will hear the warning tone and see the test light flash as you walk through the correction zone. If the test light tool does not flash:
   
   • Turn around and walk back across the boundary wire into the pet area to see if it illuminates the test light in that direction instead. If it does, reverse the wires at the connector to the fence transmitter. Then repeat step 9.
   • If it does not illuminate in either direction, move the receiver collar closer to the ground and repeat step 9.
10. Once you have verified that things are working as they should be, use the provided labels to identify the wires to the fence transmitter (13C). Peel the (+) label and wrap it around the wire going to the (+) connection. Do the same for the (–) wire. If anything gets disconnected, you will be able to reconnect easily.
    

Northern climates can affect the range of the signal. In mode (A), excessive snowfall (>1½ ft.) may place your pet outside the signal field allowing your pet to leave the pet area. You may need to switch to mode (B) or increase the boundary height setting until the snow recedes.

Test the Collar

YardMax^® Mode (A) Installation
These steps are very similar to the ones used for testing the fence direction. With YardMax^® mode (A) the boundary setting is determined by the height of your pet.

1. The mode setting should still set to (A) from the fence direction step.
2. Next you will enter a boundary height setting that is 1 ft. above your pet's neck. For example, if your dog's neck is 2 ft. from the ground, set the height to 3 ft. (14A). To do this, press the select button until the boundary height setting flashes. Use the up or down buttons to adjust the height setting to the appropriate value. Press the select button twice to save it and begin the operational mode.
   Note: The range for mode (A) is 2 ft. to 5 ft.
   
3. Make sure the static correction on the receiver collar is set to level 6.
4. Place the test light tool against the receiver collar contacts and hold the contact points facing upwards.
5. Hold the receiver collar about 1 ft. above your pet's neck height (14B).
   Quick tip: See where this measurement relates to your body (14B). When you walk over the boundary wire with the receiver collar at this height, you want the receiver collar to tone and flash no higher than this. Adjust the boundary height setting until this is accomplished.
   
6. Starting inside the pet area, slowly approach a straight section of your boundary wire that is at least 50 ft. long. As you cross the wire, you will hear the warning tone and see the test light flash as you continue to walk through the correction zone. If you do not see the test light tool flash, increase the boundary height by¹⁄₂ ft. and retest.
7. Continue adjusting and retesting until the test light flashes at the boundary 1 ft. above the height where the receiver collar is positioned on your pet's neck.
8. Repeat this test at different places along the boundary wire to verify that it is working everywhere. If you find an area where the collar activates less than 1 ft. above your pet's neck, increase the height by ½ ft. and test again.
   Note: To ensure that the signal is not coupled to any wires or other metallic objects, we will do one more test inside the pet area with mode (B).
9. Use the select button to change the boundary width setting to 10 ft.
10. Switch the mode to (B).
11. With the test light tool and receiver collar contact points facing upward, walk throughout the pet area with the receiver collar as close to the ground as possible (14C).
    Note: The collar will activate when within approximately 10 ft. of the boundary wire. This is normal for this operation mode.
    
12. The collar should not activate within the pet area. If there is no activation within the pet area, you can change the mode back to (A).
13. If however, the receiver collar does activate within the pet area, it means that you need to adjust the boundary wire where it crosses a cable or electrical wire (see figure 3A) or where it approaches another metallic object. Other options include reducing the boundary height setting or switching to Traditional mode (B). After the adjustment, retest the system.
14. Once the boundary height setting is established, set the correction level on the receiver collar to level 1 for training. It is now time to bury your boundary wire!

Traditional Mode (B) Installation
These steps are very similar to the ones used for testing the fence direction. However, with Traditional mode (B), the boundary setting is determined by the width of the boundary, instead of the height of the pet.

1. The mode needs to be changed to (B).
2. Press the select button until the boundary width setting flashes. In this case, the setting should already be set to 3 ft. during the fence test.
3. Press the select button again and mode (A) will flash. Press the down arrow to change the mode to (B). This will automatically set the default value for mode (B) to 10 ft. Press the select button twice to save it (15A).
   Note: The range for mode (B) is 2 ft. to 15 ft.
   
4. Make sure that the static correction on the receiver collar is set to level 6.
5. Place the test light tool against the receiver collar contact points and hold the contact points facing upwards.
6. Hold the receiver collar at your pet's neck height (15B).
   
7. Starting inside the pet area, approach a straight section of your boundary wire that is at least 50 ft. long (15C). The test light will begin to flash 2 seconds after the warning tone. Walk back into the pet area until the beeping stops.
   
8. Adjust the boundary width setting to establish the warning zone. We recommend setting it so that the warning zone begins at least 10 ft. before the boundary wire.
9. Repeat this test at different places along the boundary wire to verify that it is working properly everywhere.
   Note: To ensure that the signal is not coupled to any wires or other metallic objects, we will do one more test inside the pet area.
10. With the test light tool and receiver collar contact points facing upward, walk throughout the pet area (15D).
    
11. The collar should not activate within the pet area. If the receiver collar does activate within the pet area, it means that you need to adjust the boundary wire where it crosses a cable or electrical wire (see figure 3A) or where it approaches another metallic object. Another option is to reduce the boundary width setting by several feet. After the adjustment, retest the system.
12. Now that the boundary width is established, set the correction level on the receiver collar to level 1 for training. It is now safe to bury your boundary wire!

Underground cables can carry high voltage. Have all underground cables marked before you dig to bury your wire. In most areas, this is a free service. Avoid these cables when you dig.

Follow all safety instructions for your power tools. Be sure to always wear your safety goggles.

Bury the Boundary Wire

It is recommended to bury the boundary wire to protect it and prevent disabling the system. Other options include covering the wire with mulch or using lawn staples to secure the wire in place.

1. Cut a trench 1–3 in. deep along your planned boundary. It only needs to be as wide as the wire.
   Quick Tip: Lawn trenchers, which you can often rent from a local hardware store, work great and make for a quick job. You can also use a flat shovel, like a trenching shovel.
2. Place the boundary wire into the trench, maintaining some slack to allow it to expand and contract with temperature variations.
3. Use a blunt tool such as a wooden paint stick to push the boundary wire into the trench. Be careful not to damage the boundary wire insulation.

Utilizing an Existing Fence
The boundary wire can be attached to a chain link fence, split rail fence or a wooden privacy fence. The boundary wire can be attached as high as needed. However, make sure the boundary setting is at a high enough range for your pet to receive the signal.

• Chain Link Fence (16A):
  Weave the boundary wire through the links or use plastic quick ties.
• Wooden Split Rail or Privacy Fence (16A):
  Use staples to attach the boundary wire. Avoid puncturing the insulation of the boundary wire.
• Double Loop with an Existing Fence:
  Run the boundary wire on top of the fence and return it on the bottom of the fence to get the 5 ft. separation needed.

Utilizing an Existing Gate

• Gate (Single Loop) (16B):
  Bury the boundary wire in the ground across the gate opening.
• Gate (Double Loop) (16B):
  Bury both boundary wires across the gate opening while keeping them 5 ft. apart.
  Note: The signal is still active across the gate. Your pet cannot pass through an open gate.

Cross Hard Surfaces (driveways, sidewalks, etc.)

• Concrete Driveway or Sidewalk (16C): Place the boundary wire in a convenient expansion joint or create a groove using a circular saw and masonry blade. Place the boundary wire in the groove and cover with an appropriate waterproofing compound or foam backer rod. For best results, brush away dirt or other debris before patching.
  
• Gravel or Dirt Driveway (16D): Place the boundary wire in a PVC pipe or water hose to protect the boundary wire before burying.
  

Place the Boundary Flags

The boundary flags are visual reminders for your pet of where the warning zone is located.

1. Place the test light contacts on the contact points. Hold the receiver collar at the height of your pet's neck.
2. Walk towards the warning zone until the receiver collar beeps (17A).
   
3. If you are in YardMax^® mode (A) place the boundary flag along the boundary wire approximately 6 in. inside the pet area (17B).
   
4. If you are in Traditional mode (B) place the boundary flag where you hear the beep (17C).
   
5. Walk back into the pet area until the beeping stops.
6. Repeat this process along the warning zone until it is marked with boundary flags every 10 ft. (17D).
   

Proper fit of the receiver collar is important. A receiver collar worn for too long or made too tight on your pet's neck may cause skin damage, ranging from redness to pressure ulcers. This condition is commonly known as bed sores.

You may need to trim the hair in the area of the contact points. Never shave your pet's neck; this may lead to a rash or infection.

Fit the Collar

Your receiver collar comes installed with short contact points.
If your pet has long or thick hair, use the long contact points instead. Tighten or switch the contact points by using the contact point wrench. The proper fit and placement of your receiver collar is important for effective training. The contact points must have direct contact with your pet's skin on the underside of his neck.

1. Be sure the receiver collar is off before placing it on your pet. Then with your pet standing, fit the receiver collar snugly onto your pet's neck so that the contact points make contact with your pet's skin on the underside of his or her neck. Make sure the PetSafe^® logo is right-side up (18A).
   
2. Check the tightness of the receiver collar by inserting one finger between the end of a contact point and your pet's neck. The fit should be snug but not constricting.
3. Allow your pet to wear the receiver collar for a few minutes, then check it again.
4. The collar will slip if it is not properly threaded. The slide buckle prevents the collar from becoming loose around your pet's neck and the ridges must be facing up (18B).
   
5. While the receiver collar is still off your pet, turn it on by holding the mode button until a green light comes on. The first thing your receiver collar does is a ReadyTest^® startup (page 13) to ensure that it is ready for use. You will know it is done when there is a series of red flashes indicating the current static correction level. Do not touch the contact points during the ReadyTest^® startup.
6. Once the ReadyTest^® startup is done, the receiver collar will automatically go through an optional PerfectFit Test, which lasts for 90 seconds. This mode begins with simultaneous flashing red+ green lights.
7. Place the collar on your pet and adjust the fit.
8. The receiver collar will emit a unique double tone as the contact points touch your pet's skin. You will know that you have the proper fit when you hear the receiver collar emit the double tone and it flashes green 5 consecutive times.
9. After 90 seconds, the receiver collar moves into normal operation mode. If you do not hear the 5 consecutive double tone, adjust the collar and repeat the PerfectFit Test.
10. Once you are satisfied with the fit of the receiver collar, remove it from your pet and trim it, but make sure to allow room for growth or a thicker winter coat. Use a lighter to seal the cut so that it will not fray (18C).
    

If the receiver collar fails the ReadyTest ® startup, the receiver collar is automatically turned off. Your pet will not be contained.

Training

• Remember that this system is not a solid barrier. Using it successfully requires that you spend some time training your pet.
• Finish each training session on a positive note with lots of praise and play. Remove the collar after each training session.
• While your pet is still learning the boundary, contain him by another means, such as with a pen or a leash.
• Put a separate non-metallic collar on your pet's neck and attach a leash.
• Be sure to place the collar on your dog's neck with the PetSafe^® logo facing up.
• If your pet appears to be stressed, slow down the training schedule, add additional days of training or increase the amount of play time. Common stress signals include pulling on the leash toward the house, ears tucked or pulled back, tail down or tucked between legs, body lowered, nervous/frantic movement or stiffening of the pet's body, lip-licking or yawning.

Day 1
For the first day, start with the collar set to level 1, tone-only. With your pet on a leash and with his favorite treats on hand, allow him to explore the pet area (19A). Allow your pet to cross the boundary (19B) and hear the tone from the collar, then ask him to come back into the pet area (19C) and praise and reward him. Your goal is for your dog to associate being inside the pet area with rewarding experiences. Dogs are sensitive. Keep your mood upbeat as dogs can understand when you are happy or upset. Do 2 or 3 training sessions for about 10-15 minutes each. Do not try to do too much too quickly. More frequent short sessions are better than less frequent, longer sessions.

Days 2–4
On days 2 through 4, repeat this process, but with the collar set to level 2—the mildest static correction level. Closely observe your pet's behavior while he is in the correction zone (19B), and note whether or not your dog responds to the correction. Indicators of a response are looking around in curiosity, flicking of the ears or scratching at the collar. If he does not respond, check the fit of the collar to make sure the contact points are making contact with his skin. If the collar is fit correctly and your dog does not respond, then move up to the next correction level and repeat the process. Do 2 or 3 training sessions for about 10–15 minutes each. Your goal is for your dog to consistently choose to stay in the pet area. If necessary, add in more days of training before moving on to the next step.

Days 5–8
On days 5 through 8, retain the collar settings from the last training session, but stage some distractions to test your dog's reliability. The goal is to have your pet stay within the boundary even with new temptations.
Start with simple temptations and work your way up. Some examples are:

• Have a family member cross from inside the boundary and exit it.
• Place a toy outside the boundary.
• Have a friend or neighbor walk another pet outside the boundary area.

Remember to keep your pet on a leash throughout this process while he is still learning the boundary. Also, never coax your pet to leave the pet area.

Be sure the extra collar does not put pressure on the contact points.

Days 9–30
Once your pet consistently respects the boundary regardless of distractions or temptations, he is ready for the next step: unleashed supervision (19D). Stay close by with a leash at hand. Play with your pet for a while during the first few sessions. If your dog does not try to cross the boundary, occupy yourself with another task in the yard, and allow him to freely explore. Continue watching your pet. If he escapes, remove the collar and lead him back into the pet area. Start these sessions at about 15 minutes and gradually work up to an hour or more.
When your pet proves trustworthy, you can let him out on his own. Continue to check on him regularly. You can remove every other boundary marker every 4 days until all the markers are removed. Save them in case you move or need to train another pet.

Taking Your Pet Out of the Pet Area

Remove the receiver collar and leave it at home.
Once your pet learns the boundary, he will be reluctant to cross it for walks or car rides.

Options

1. Replace the receiver collar with a regular collar. Put your pet in a car that is within the pet area and drive him out of the pet area (19E).
   
2. Replace the receiver collar with a regular collar and leash. Walk your pet out of the pet area while giving a command such as "OK" at a specific place along the boundary (the end of your driveway, sidewalk, etc.). Always leave the pet area from the same spot in your yard with a leash and your pet will associate leaving the pet area only on a leash, only at this spot, and only with a person. You may initially need to convince your pet to leave the pet area with a treat and lots of praise.
   Note:You may also carry your pet out of the pet area.
   Congratulations! You have now completed the training program. You are both ready to enjoy more freedom. Just make sure to continue to check the tightness of the receiver collar and remove it when it is not in use.

Advanced Features

Anti-Linger Prevention

The Anti-Linger Prevention feature keeps your pet from staying in the warning zone for long periods of time and draining the receiver collar's rechargeable battery. Your pet will hear a 2-second warning tone when he reaches the warning zone. If your pet does not return to the pet area after 2 seconds, he will receive a continuous static correction until he returns to the pet area or until the Over Correction Protection feature is enabled.

Run Through Prevention
This system includes a unique Run Through Prevention feature so that your pet cannot "run through" the pet area without receiving an increased level of static correction (20A).

YardMax^® Mode (A)
When your pet crosses over the wire and passes the warning zone, static correction is activated. The ideal warning zone distance is where the receiver collar activates between 1 to 1¹⁄₂ ft. above your pet's neck height.
If you have a very timid pet, you may increase the warning zone distance to allow more distance before the Run Through Prevention. You can accomplish this by increasing the height of the receiver collar activation.

Traditional Mode (B)
The receiver collar automatically increases the static correction when your pet continues more than 20% of the way through the boundary width.
For example, if the signal is detected 10 ft. from the wire and your pet enters the static correction zone, this feature is activated when he is approximately 8 ft. from the boundary wire. Your pet will then receive a static correction that is at an increased level corresponding to the static correction level setting on the receiver collar.

Over Correction Protection
Over Correction Protection is designed to protect your pet from prolonged static correction if he "freezes" in the static correction zone or runs beyond the boundary (20B).

YardMax^® Mode (A)
In the unlikely event that your pet "freezes" or continues beyond the boundary, the static correction duration continues for 15 seconds. The receiver collar locks out further static correction and the green light will remain on for 10 seconds. The receiver collar remains locked out until your pet re-enters the pet area.

Traditional Mode (B)
In the unlikely event that your pet "freezes" in the static correction zone, this feature limits the static correction duration to 15 seconds. While the receiver collar locks out further static correction, the green light will remain on for 10 seconds. The receiver collar remains locked out until your pet leaves the static correction zone.

System Test

The system test is used to determine the cause of system problems that have not been addressed elsewhere in this guide. You will need a piece of boundary wire greater than 15 ft. long with ³⁄8 in. of insulation removed from each end to use as a test loop wire.

Follow the steps below to perform the system test:

1. Make a note of the mode (A or B), the width/height setting and your collar setting so that you can return to these levels at the completion of the tests.
2. Turn off the transmitter.
3. Remove the collar from your dog and make sure it is fully charged.
4. Set the collar correction level to 6.
5. Disconnect the boundary wires from the boundary wire terminals on the fence transmitter.
6. Insert the two ends of the test loop wire into the open boundary wire terminals on the transmitter.
7. Turn the transmitter back on.
8. Set to Traditional mode (B).
9. Adjust the boundary width setting to 2 ft.
10. Place the test light tool contacts on the contact points of the collar. While holding the collar with the test light tool in place, approach the wire from the outside loop, keeping the collar 2 in. off the ground (21A). Make a mental note of the distance where the collar activates from the wire.
    
11. Set the boundary width to 5 ft. and repeat step 8. The distance where the collar activates should be greater than the previous result.
12. If more than one collar is used on the system, repeat the above test on each collar.
13. Interpreting the results:
    1. If the LCD display is not lit on the fence transmitter, or the alarm is on for any of the above tests, there is a problem with the transmitter. Contact the Customer Care Center.
    2. If the LCD display is on, but the collar does not activate on the test loop wire, the collar is not working. Contact the Customer Care Center.
    3. If the LCD display is on, and the collar is activating at different distances on the test loop wire, the problem is most likely in the containment boundary wire—see the wire break location test.
14. When the testing is complete, reconnect and verify that the boundary wire is plugged into the transmitter.
15. Return the mode, the width/height setting and the collar setting to their original levels.

Wire Break Location Test

Please inspect these areas for signs of damage.

Wire breaks are commonly found:

• At the wire exit point of the house
• Where the wire enters the ground from the house, usually caused by string trimmers
• Where the wires cross sidewalks or driveways, usually caused by edging and string trimmers
• Around landscaping and flower beds, usually caused by digging, or working up the soil
• In aerated lawns
• At wire splices where gel-filled capsules have not been installed
• At wire splices without reinforcement knots (22A)
  

If you still cannot find the break in the boundary wire, there are 2 options for locating it:

Options:

1. It is recommended to contact the Customer Care Center to purchase a Wire Break Locator (RFA-590) (22B). The Wire Break Locator detects full breaks, not partial breaks.
   
2. Follow the procedure below:

1. Unplug the fence transmitter.
2. Connect both ends of your boundary wire to one loop terminal on the transmitter.
3. Measure and cut a test wire which is half the length of your total boundary wire footage.
4. Connect one end of test wire to the other loop terminal on the transmitter.
5. Locate the halfway point of your boundary and cut the boundary wire.
6. Splice the other end of the test wire to either side of your boundary wire where you cut it in half.
7. Plug in the fence transmitter, set to Traditional mode (B), and check the transmitter for the wire break alarm. If the wire break alarm is on, you can assume that the break is in this half of the boundary wire.
8. If the wire break alarm did not come on, you may assume there is a break in the other portion of the boundary wire. However, there is a small chance of having more than one break in your system. Be sure to check both halves of your entire loop.
9. Replace the damaged boundary wire with new boundary wire.
10. Reconnect the boundary wire to the transmitter.
11. Check the loop indicator light. If the loop indicator light is on, test the system with the receiver collar.

Receiver Collar Status Indicators

The receiver collar light and the alarm tones are used to determine the operational mode, the battery status and the correction level. Refer to the receiver collar status table below to understand the status lights and tones for the receiver collar. During normal operation, the receiver collar light will flash every 4 seconds to indicate the battery status as shown in the table below. If your receiver collar has not been moved for at least 20 seconds, the battery status light will function, but the receiver collar will enter sleep mode to conserve battery life. To wake up the receiver collar simply pick it up and flip it over or shake it.

Transmitter Alarms

Note: When an issue is detected, the red alert lights will flash and the alarm tone will sound until the problem is resolved. Pressing any of the buttons (except the power button) will silence the alarm, but the lights will continue to flash. The mute alarm icon will indicate that you have silenced the alarm.

Troubleshooting

Customer Care International

USA & Canada—Tel: 800-732-2677
Monday–Friday 8 AM – 8 PM / Saturday 9 AM – 5 PM
Australia—Tel: 1800 786 608
Monday–Friday 8:30 AM – 5 PM
New Zealand—Tel: 0800 543 054
Monday–Friday 10:30 AM – 7 PM