Controller Unit MDC2 MDC
Safety Information Warning! Important safety information, including caution and warning messages, appear throughout this manual. To ensure correct operation and to avoid additional expense, read this manual thoroughly before you begin installing or operating the controller. Operating this equipment in a residential area can cause interference to radio and television reception.
Contents Safety Information and Icons Used in This Manual: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii Welcome to Rain Bird® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 The MDC Controllers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Introduction . . .
Contents, continued Setting the Switch Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Switching the alphabet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Turning on an installed rain sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Turning on an installed alarm sensor . . .
Contents, continued Verifying the Time and Date . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Controller Status Observation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Using the MDC PC Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Contents, continued Appendix I . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Conversion Chart from Standard to Military Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Appendix II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Introduction Welcome to Rain Bird ® Thank you for purchasing your new, state-of-the-art Rain Bird Controller. For more than six decades, Rain Bird has led the irrigation industry in meeting all of your water management needs by providing the highest quality products and services available. Your new Rain Bird Controller is designed to give you a lifetime of on-site watering control.
Introduction, continued Special Features The MDC2 Controller mounts to a wall and has the following special features: 4 Anti-rust, corrosion-resistant design 4 Weather-resistant cabinet allowing you to mount the controller inside or outside 4 Stores up to 10 separate irrigation Programs and 1 auxiliary (non-irrigation) Program (which does not start pumps) 4 Each Program supports up to 100 Steps (individual commands that complete a Program) 4 Each Program can start up to 6 times a day 4 Each Program runs on
Introduction, continued Packing List Please check to make sure that you have all the items on the list. If any item is missing or damaged, contact your Rain Bird distributor.
Installation This chapter of the manual explains how to mount your new MDC2 Controller on the wall, how to connect the wiring, install program and expansion modules and replace the battery. Mounting the Controller Before You Begin Warning! Before installing your controller, make sure that the area around you is free from dirt and dust and that your hands and arms are clean. This will avoid contaminating the controller’s internal parts.
Installation, continued 9-1/2" (24.2 cm) minimum 6-1/4" (17.2 cm) minimum 9-1/2" (24.1 cm) Cabinet is 4-3/8" (11.
Installation, continued What you will need Before you begin installation, you may need the following tools and materials: 4 Slotted Head Screwdriver 4 Phillips Head Screwdriver 4 Thin Blade Screwdriver 4 Lineman’s Pliers 4 DBY Connectors 4 Hammer 4 Grounding Strap 4 Two-wire MAXI Cable (#14 AWG wire) 4 Two-wire MAXI Cable (#18 AWG wire) 4 #8 AWG or #10 AWG Bare Ground Wire 4 Tape Measure 4 Wire Stripper 4 Wire Nuts 4 Marking Pencil 4 Electric Drill (or Hammer Drill if installing in masonry or concrete wall)
Installation, continued Preparing the Controller Cabinet for the Power and Field Wires Note: You can remove four knockouts from the controller cabinet making it easy to route the wires. You will find two of these knockouts on the back (for routing wires through a wall) and two on the underside (for feeding wires through the cabinet’s bottom). To tap out a knockout, place the cabinet on a firm surface with the groove facing you.
Installation, continued Mounting the Controller on the Wall Note: The MDC2 Controller has four mounting holes on the back on the cabinet—three keyhole slots near the top and one circular hole at the bottom. Note: To install the controller on a flat wall surface, use the left and right keyhole slots at the top of the cabinet. To install the controller on a narrow stud, use the center keyhole slot. 1. Place the mounting template onto your mounting surface. Make sure it is level and mark the top drill holes.
Installation, continued Connecting the Controller There are three types of connections you must make to your MDC2 Controller. They include: • Connecting to the Two-wire Communications Cable, • Grounding the Controller, and • Connecting to the Main Power Source. Note: You may also connect an optional sensor, which prevents irrigation during rainfall or when the soil is moist. This section of the manual contains instructions for all three types of basic connections, and the optional sensor connection.
Installation, continued Grounding the Controller Connecting to the Main Power Source The MDC2 Controller is equipped with built-in electrical surge protection. For this system to function, you must properly ground the controller. The three Main power input wires for a standard 120-Volt AC transformer are black, white and green. You will find these wires in the high voltage compartment in the lower left corner of the controller cabinet.
Installation, continued 2. Feed the Mains 120-Volt AC power wires into the high voltage compartment through a separate conduit. Note: You can also connect the Mains 120-Volt AC power and transformer wires inside a junction box located outside the controller cabinet. OR Feed the Mains 120-Volt AC power wires through the 1/4” knockout hole on the back of the cabinet. You also need to cut out the scored hole in the high voltage compartment’s fiberboard liner. To connect to the Main power source, 1.
Installation, continued Connecting an Optional Sensor The MDC2 Controller allows you to connect an optional sensor. The controller works with any open or closed switch sensor. Warning! The wires you use to connect the controller to the sensor must be approved for underground use. Rain Bird recommends using a two-wire #18 AWG (maximum gauge) cable long enough to easily reach the controller. ® Warning! Install the sensor wire in the same conduit you use for the two-wire communications cable and ground wire.
Installation, continued Installing Program and Expansion Modules The MDC2 Controller uses a program module that controls 50 (decoder) outputs. The controller also supports up to three expansion modules (MDC/M50D), each controlling an additional 50 outputs. So, by adding expansion modules, you can configure the MDC2 Controller to control 50, 100, 150, or 200 outputs.
Installation, continued Replacing the Battery The MDC2 Controller has a built-in lithium battery to backup and store the program memory. During normal use, the battery should last for 10 years. Replace the battery when the MDC2 Controller no longer holds the programmed information. Warning! The components inside the MDC2 Controller are sensitive to electrostatic discharge. By using a grounding strap, you can help avoid electrostatic discharge, which can damage the units. To replace the battery, 1.
Installation, continued 5. Open the locking tabs on the three ribbon cables by pushing the tabs away from the cables. Disconnect the ribbon cables by grasping the wide sides of the connectors and gently pulling the connector away from the board. Set the module aside. 6. Using a thin blade screwdriver, gently pry the lithium battery out of its compartment and replace it with a new battery, positive side facing up. Warning! Dispose of the depleted battery in accordance with local regulations.
Programming and Operation Using the buttons on the controller, you can set up the MDC2 Controller to operate automatically. You can also run the controller manually without changing the Programs you have set. This chapter shows you how to use the controller’s buttons and gives you step-by-step instructions for setting up the controller to suit your needs.
Programming and Operation, continued Familiarizing Yourself with the MDC2 Controller Before beginning to program or operate your MDC2 Controller, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the controller. Note that the location of the ON/OFF switch is behind the removable panel. Once you turn the controller on, you can use the buttons to guide you through different display screens and functions on the (Liquid Crystal Display) LCD. Most screens show a row of labels at the bottom.
Programming and Operation, continued Getting Started Remove the lower panel. Turn on the controller and replace the panel. The display briefly shows the software version and controller type (MDC2). The message prompts you to Press OK (the button pointing to the OK label). This message also appears when power returns after a power failure. Note: You need to press the button pointing to the OK label twice, to reach the Main Operating Screen.
Programming and Operation, continued Main Operating Screen 1. Program indicates the current Program being displayed. The MDC2 Controller can store up to 10 irrigation Programs (which start pumps) and 1 auxiliary or non-irrigation Program. 2. Total indicates the total irrigation time, in hours and minutes, you scheduled for that Program. 3. Current Time shows in 24-hour military time. 4. Step Number each Program supports up to 100 Steps.
Programming and Operation, continued 8. Active/Passive indicates whether a current Program is Active (A) or Passive (P). 9. Run Every shows the selected irrigation days, from 1-14. 10. Repeat 2 1 5 shows how many times (up to 99 times) irrigation Programs Repeat. 11. First 3 6 shows the year, month and day a Schedule begins. Program 1 Total 2 MTWTFSSMTWTFSS Run every 5. Day First 2002-03-26 12.
Programming and Operation, continued Setting Up Your System Selecting a Language The first time you turn on the MDC2 Controller, you must program into your system specific setup information (decoder and solenoid numbers, sensors, etc.) about your irrigation system. The default language is English (US).
Programming and Operation, continued 3. Move the indicating arrow to 10. Select Language and press the button pointing to the OK label. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Sensors Sensor Decoder Non-Water Window Switch Settings Erase All Select Language English (US) Danish Swedish German Italian Spanish 1. From the Main Menu, navigate to 2. Date/Time Formats and select OK. 11:03 AM 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 4.
Programming and Operation, continued 6. Use the down arrow to move to the Year Delimited. 7. Use the up and down arrows to change the Year Delimited format and select OK. 8. Press – to exit Date/Time Formats screen. Setting the Date and Time 1. From the Main Menu, move the indicating arrow to 2. Setting Date/Time and select OK. The first active field is the year, which is indicated by alternating blinking arrow markers. >2002<-03-26 20:33:58 Tuesday (9) 20:33:58 4. Scroll up or down to the correct day.
Programming and Operation, continued Selecting Valve Types ® Valve types refer to the electric requirements of magnetic solenoids. There are 10 Valve Types already programmed into the MDC2 Controller. The first five valve types are used by decoders controlling irrigation Programs and will start master valves and pumps. The last five control nonirrigation Programs (such as activating auxiliary alarms, etc.) and will not start pumps. Irrigation valve types use switch code 59F350.
Programming and Operation, continued 3. Select OK to add or change a decoder. The screen now shows four columns or fields with the titles: Name; Type; Address; Booster and Flow. A pair of markers points to the Name field. Use the buttons pointing to the left and right arrow labels to move the markers from one field to the next and back again. Name > < Type 1 Address 0 Bst Flow 0 OK 12:27 PM Finish 4. Position the markers under Name and select OK to activate the Name field.
Programming and Operation, continued 8. Select OK to activate the field, and then scroll through the choices to either an irrigation valve—values 1-5—or a non-irrigation valve— valves A-E. OK accepts the valve Type. Name E5 Type >4< Address 0 Bst OK Flow 15:04:10 OK Finish – Note: The controller will not allow you to enter a duplicate Address. If you try, the message Address already used appears briefly and the controller returns you to the beginning of the field. 11.
Programming and Operation, continued Note: Rain Bird decoders that have more than one output, (FD-202TURF, FD-401TURF and FD-601TURF) are considered multiple decoders. You must list the separate Address (REC. NO.) for each solenoid/master valve connection (i.e., brown 40216, red 40217, etc.) Treat each Address (REC. NO.) as a separate decoder and give each a separate name. ® 15.
Programming and Operation, continued Note: If your system uses Rain Bird Decoders and Relay-100, change the Switch Code to 49F390. 7. Move the markers to Finish and select OK to return to the Set-up Data Menu. Note: If your system’s water supply feeds directly to a master valve, or if the system uses field decoders or pressure switches to start pumps, you may need to change the switch code. Please see Appendix III: Master Valve and Pump Set-up Tips on page 97.
Programming and Operation, continued 4. Select OK to move the markers to the Alarm Sensor field. 5. If your system uses an Alarm Sensor, change the status from Passive to Active. Rain Sensor Passive Alarm Sensor >Active< OK 14:02:30 – Setting Up a Sensor Decoder The MDC2 Controller can control a variety of sensors (Flow, On/Off, Generic), which are powered by a Sensor Decoder through the two-wire communications cable.
Programming and Operation, continued 4. Select OK and the blinking markers are positioned under Name. ** Sensor Decoder Set-up ** Name Type Addr. @ Val Units Sum >SD1< Flow 50000 20 100 mA NA Alarm Cond. Limit Action Obj. Obj. ID 1. NA 100 Deact Decod All 2. Below 12 Deact Decod All 5. Select OK to activate the Name field. Use the up and down arrows to change the default decoder name. Select OK to store the name.
Programming and Operation, continued 3. When decoders are started again it will then look again for a transition from above the limit to below and an alarm will trigger. Setting Up Sum Flow Alarms 1. From the Main Menu, choose Set-up Data and select OK. You will be taken to the Set-up Data Menu. ** Sensor Decoder Set-up ** Name Type Addr. @ Val Units Sum SD1 Flow 50000 20 100 mA NA Alarm Cond. Limit Action Obj. Obj. ID 1. >Above< 100 Deact Decod All 2. Below 12 Deact Decod All 12.
Programming and Operation, continued 9. Use the right arrow to move to the Limit field and select OK to activate it. 10. Use the up and down arrows to set the limit and select OK. 11. Use the right arrow to move to the second alarm field and select OK to activate it. 12. Use the up and down arrows to choose between the Leak and Disable and select OK. Note: If you choose Disable, select OK and then select - to exit the screen. 13. If you choose Leak, select OK. 14.
Programming and Operation, continued Non-Water Window It is possible to enter a “Non-Water Window” where irrigation is inhibited. This means the schedules will run but the decoders will not activate. To select a specific time frame that does not allow irrigation: 1. 2. Non-Water Window From: >12<00 AM To: 06:30 AM 08:48 AM 1. From the Main Menu, choose Set-up Data and select OK. You will be taken to the Set-up Data Menu. 2. Navigate to 7. Non-Water Window and select OK. The Non-Water Window appears.
Programming and Operation, continued Setting the Switch Settings Switch Settings lets you change from using the Full range of alphanumeric characters to using limited characters (to name field decoders.) The limited characters match the sixteen character keyboard on FT-210 Field Transmitters. You also use the Switch Setting to define the rain and alarm sensors. 4. Use the up and down arrows to select either the Full or 1234567890CTFGV (the limited alphabet setting).
Programming and Operation, continued Note: Select Normally open if the Rain Sensor is open all the time. Select Normally closed if the sensor opens only when it rains. 3. Select OK to return to the Switch Setting menu. Turning on an installed alarm sensor 1. From the Switch Setting menu, move the indicating arrow to 3. Alarm Sensor and select OK. The current setting appears between the two markers. A blinking black box in the first character position shows the field is active. 2.
Programming and Operation, continued Testing of Line Decoders Once you install and program the line (field) decoders into your system, you can then test to make sure they are working properly. The MDC2 Controllers have a built-in decoder test that tries each decoder in sequence. Decoder Test, OK : Next, - : Finish Start with Decod >E5< Testing the operation of the decoders 1. From the Main Menu, move the indicating arrow to 4. Test and select OK. 2. Move the indicating arrow to 1.
Programming and Operation, continued Example: If your system uses 100 FD102TURF Field Decoders (each operating one solenoid output), then test results should show a Before reading of about 50 mA, Inrush of 525 mA (which is within the 290700 range), and a Hold of 70 mA (which is 20 mA higher than the Before reading). Note: If the Before, Inrush and Hold values are close, the decoder is not responding.
Programming and Operation, continued After a few seconds the screen displays the test result as seen below. This is a raw reading that verifies the sensor decoder is working. *** Test of Sensor Decoders *** Sensor Decoder: SD1 Got answer: 32 01:38 PM 3. Move the indicating arrow to 3. Short Finding and select OK to reach the Short Finding screen. In Short Finding Mode, the MDC changes the frequency of the line voltage from 1 to 50 Hertz (Hz). 50085 Use ‘–’ to Cancel 4.
Programming and Operation, continued Line Survey Line survey allows the user to perform an amperage draw and display those values on the main screen. 1. From Main Menu screen, navigate to 4. Test and press OK. You will be taken to the Test Menu. 2. Navigate to 4. Line Surv and press OK. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Creating Irrigation Schedules Once you customize the MCD2 Controller to the specific equipment and options in your system, the next step is to create irrigation Schedules to best suit your turf needs. A Schedule is a series of events you wish to have happen in the field at specific times. It is a watering plan that includes the days to water, times to begin and end watering, the various decoders you wish to operate and how long you want them to operate.
Creating Irrigation Schedules, continued Setting the Steps for Each Program Setting Up Steps You can set between 1 to 100 individual Steps for each Program. Each Step contains decoders (which operate valves) and run times. You can have up to 10 decoders running at the same time, as long as the hydraulics in your system can handle it. The controller prevents you from including more than 10 decoders for each Step. 1. From the Main Operating Screen, select Sch to reach the Program you want (1, 2, 3, etc.
Creating Irrigation Schedules, continued 5. Move to the next field and continue until you select all the Step 1 decoders. You can select up to 10 decoders for each Step. Program 3 1 T1 E5 Total ---- >10Min< 0 : 00 14:02:30 OK Insert Repeat 0 times OK – Inserting a step between two steps 1. From the Main Operating Screen, select Sched then Step. 2. Scroll up or down to the point you wish to insert the Step. If you want to insert a Step between Steps 3 and 4, scroll to Step 4. 3.
Creating Irrigation Schedules, continued Selecting the Days Deleting steps 1. From the Main Operating Screen, select Sched. then Step. 2. Scroll up or down to the Step(s) you want to delete. 3. Move the marker to the Delete field and select OK. The previous Step now shows on the display screen and all the successive Steps move back one.
Creating Irrigation Schedules, continued Selecting a Start Time You must select at least one start time for each Program. You can have up to six start times for each Program for each day. 1. From the Main Operating Screen, scroll to the Program you want. 2. Select Sched. then Time to activate the Start Time indicator (1-6) field. The blinking marker shows the field is active. The Time label is highlighted. Program 4 Total 15 M-W-F-S-T-T-S 4. Use the up and down arrows to set the first Start Time. 5.
Creating Irrigation Schedules, continued Setting the Water Budget (WB) Water budget lets you increase or decrease the operating time for each decoder in your Schedule from 0 to 250%. The water budget default setting is 100%. The total run time also changes when you change the water budget. 1. From the Main Operating Screen, scroll to the Program you want. 2. Select Sched. then WB to activate the water budget field. Alternating blinking markers show the field is active. The WB label is highlighted. 3.
Creating Irrigation Schedules, continued Scheduling to Run on Specific Days and Dates You can program your controller to irrigate on a selected day(s) and date(s) in a 14-day period, instead of on the 14-day cycle (which begins on the day you initially program the controller). You can also set the first date you want to begin irrigating. 1. From the Main Operating Screen, scroll to the Program you want. 2. Select Sched. then Next to reach the Run every and First labels.
Creating Irrigation Schedules, continued 3. Press the button pointing to the Repeat label to set the number of times you want the Program to repeat. Holding down the button lets you scroll quickly up to 99 repeat times. Program 5 Total 15 --W--S--T--F--M Every First 1 : 57 14:02:30 (1) 20 : 00 100% P Repeat 2 times Repeat Pause Next 4. Select Pause to set a timed pause between each repeated Program.
Creating Irrigation Schedules, continued 3. Select Prog. to reach the test screen and select OK. Valve Active Time 120 Seconds appears on the display screen. 10:31 AM Operating the Irrigation Programs You can operate the MDC2 Controller completely automatically, completely manually or by a combination of both. Valve Active Time: >120< Seconds Starting automatic irrigation programs Sch When you start Automatic Irrigation, all Active Programs will run according to the Schedule you set up.
Creating Irrigation Schedules, continued The Auto Display Screen shows: • the Program, • the Total run time, • the current time, • the name of the Active Decoder(s) (during a Schedule), • the number of minutes the decoder is active (during a Schedule), • the day and time of the first Scheduled start time, • the WB setting, • the number of Active Dec.
Creating Irrigation Schedules, continued 4. Follow steps (1-3) to activate additional decoders. 5. You can now use the up and down arrow labels to scroll through all the Active Decoders. Note: When the time you set for each Active Decoder runs out, the sprinkler icon stops and the controller returns to the Automatic mode with only the Auto label highlighted. To start a schedule manually when the controller is in Auto mode: 1. Select Program.
Creating Irrigation Schedules, continued Manually Starting an Irrigation Schedule Operating the irrigation Programs Manually overrides all Automatic Programs. When you manually start an irrigation schedule, the running programs are paused and the remaining parts are stacked to run after the manually started schedule(s) finish. It is possible to start up to three (3) schedules manually and they will all be stacked in the order that they are entered, but all prior to the stacked auto-schedules. 1.
Creating Irrigation Schedules, continued To resume the normal automatic mode after the manual irrigation is over: Program 1 0 Total 0:05 01:48 PM Paused 0:03 0.0MPF 0 Active Dec. Resume Prog. Dec. Manual Pause 7. Select Pause. Pausing appears on the display, showing the command registered. Irrigation continues until the next full minute. At the full minute mark, all activated sprinklers stop and the display reads Paused. 8. Select Resume to continue irrigating.
Creating Irrigation Schedules, continued Manually activating a Decoder Manually stopping an active Decoder The MDC2 Controller allows you to activate programmed decoders manually. 1. From the Main Operating Screen, select Manual. The Manual label is highlighted and you are asked to Select Program or Decoder. The display also shows the number of Active Decoders. 1. From the Active Decoder Screen, select Dec. 2.
Creating Irrigation Schedules, continued Understanding Sensor Warning Signs Following are key warning indications that will appear on the screen and in logs: If a rain or auxiliary sensor shows an alarm or warning condition, a message like this appears on the display. AL# (where # is from 1 to 10) is alarm 1 (occurs while irrigation is in process) for flow sensors. This can also be set up to provide a flow alarm, or as a generic or on/off alarm. Type Date Rain Sensor In: 28.
Creating Irrigation Schedules, continued Sensing a Short Circuit If the MDC2 Controller senses a short circuit on the lines, it will automatically limit the current to a safe value, change the line frequency from 1 to 50 Hz (making it easier to trace the short circuit) and display this message. Type Date Short Circuit In: 28.
Using the Controller with a PC The MDC comes with its own programming and monitoring software. System set-up data and programs can be entered in the software. They can then be downloaded to the controller. The software can also be used to upload data and programs from the controller. Additionally, it can retrieve log data from the controller, and manually run stations and programs. You can attach the MDC controller to a PC directly, using a nine-pin serial cable, or through a modem/telephone line.
Using the Controller with a PC, continued Linking your PC and Controller To link your PC using the serial communication port, 1. Open the MDC cabinet and remove the lower panel. Note: For serial communications, you will need two nine-pin serial cables and an OLK-400 Optocoupler connection. 2. Attach one end of the first serial cable to the MDC serial communication port and attach the other end to the Optocoupler. 3.
Using the Controller with a PC, continued Installing the Rain Bird MDC PC Software Setting Up a Communications Link ® Your minimum PC requirements for the Rain Bird MDC PC Software are: ® • Windows 2000, XP/Pro required • Pentium 3 • 900 MHz • 256 MB RAM 1. At the desktop, select Start, Programs, RainBird Turf, and Turf from the pull-up menus to open the Rain Bird Remote Access window. 2. From Rain Bird Remote Access, select File, then Connection wizard from the pull-down menu.
Using the Controller with a PC, continued 4. The Connection wizard now asks you to pick the type of connection your system uses, either a Direct connection (Serial cable) or a Modem/ telephone line. Choose the connection and select Next. Done exits you from Connection wizard and Back returns you to the previous window. 5. If you selected Direct connection (Serial cable) you are then asked to select the Com Port (Communications Port) you used to connect the PC to the controller. 60 6. Select Finish.
Using the Controller with a PC, continued Verifying the Time and Date Controller Status Observation Once you establish a communication link between the controller and PC, you then need to verify the controller’s time and date. Time and date directly affect irrigation Schedules. If either is incorrect, the irrigation Schedules are also incorrect.
Using the Controller with a PC, continued Using the MDC PC Software Editing Set-Up Data The MDC PC Software lets you retrieve installation and irrigation data—information about decoders, valve types, pumps, sensors and irrigation programs—from the controller. You can then edit the data and send it back to the controller. You can edit the installation data you retrieved from the controller or set up all installation data using your MDC PC software and send it to the controller.
Using the Controller with a PC, continued 4. If you wish for irrigation not to take place for a certain period of time on your site (Non-Water Window), specify this timeframe on the Time Window - Irrigation Prevented area. During the Non-Water Window, schedules will continue, but with no decoders being turned on. 8. Edit information specific to each Pump/ Master Valve as necessary, including Address, On Delay, Off Delay, and Switch Code. 5. Hit Next to reach Valves configuration information. 6.
Using the Controller with a PC, continued 10. Edit information specific to each MDC decoder, including Name, Address, Valve Type, Flow Value and Description. Value lets you assign a Flow Value that is used for SEUF calculation. 11. Hit Next to reach Alarms configuration information. 14. Edit information specific to each Sensor Decoder, including Name, Type, Address, Units, Value, and @ measure. Note: Digital (pulse output) flow sensors are most common.
Using the Controller with a PC, continued Configuring Sensor Decoder Settings Sensor Decoders monitor dry contact switches (e.g., moisture sensor, pressure switch, and security systems) for open or closed conditions and inform the MDC system of switch status. Your MDC system supports up to 10 sensor decoders. Sensor decoders can be Flow Sensors, On/Off Sensors or Generic Sensors (Please note that the type of sensor decoders are set up on the Edit Installation >Sensor Decoders screen).
Using the Controller with a PC, continued Configuring Generic Sensor Decoders Generic sensors refer to analog sensors other than flow sensors. The Sensor Wizard also gives you the option to have sensor data in the MDC’s log. To select this option, click on “Log to File” in the Monitor Data column. 1. On Sensor Decoder Wizard, click on Generic. Your MDC control system can continually check on the flow rate in the system and compare it to pre-defined acceptable levels.
Using the Controller with a PC, continued 5. If desired, alarms can also be set up to operate when not irrigating to detect unexpected flow or leaks. Note: Flow limits can be set up to a maximum of ± 50%. Note: See Appendix IV for information on sensor decoder alarm parameters and values. Main Pump Failure Alarm In case irrigation does not start, you can protect your pump by setting a minimum flow limit. The MPF alarm will stop currently running schedules, but not new schedules. 1.
Using the Controller with a PC, continued 3. Select Yes to erase the information. Select No to cancel the action. Editing irrigation schedules 1. From the Rain Bird Remote Access window, select Edit data. 2. Select Edit irrigation data and Irrigation schedules from the pull-down menus to reach the Irrigation Schedule Edit View pop-up window.
Using the Controller with a PC, continued Note: Start times must be separated by a minimum of two minutes. Note: A drop-down box appears when you select the Decoder columns. Use the drop-down boxes to make your selections from the decoders you already programmed into the controller. 4. Select OK to save the irrigation Schedule changes. Note: Please see Creating Irrigation Schedules on page 41. Note: To insert or delete a line in a schedule, click on the column immediately to the left of the step number.
Using the Controller with a PC, continued 2. Select Edit Global Water Budget and an Adjust Global Water Budget pop-up window appears. Note: While the PC is sending data from the PC to the controller a Communications Status pop-up window appears visually showing the progress. The window disappears once the data is sent. Note: If the PC loses communications with the controller, an Error message appears, asking to make sure the Connection Information is correct. 3.
Using the Controller with a PC, continued Starting a Decoder Manually 1. Choose Decod> from the Manual Operations window. 1. Choose Sched> from the Manual Operations window. 2. Select the schedule that you want to start manually. 2. Select a decoder that you want to start manually from the pull-down menu. 3. Click Execute. Communication status will be displayed. 3. Set Run Time. Please note that a station can be set up to run from 1 minute to 999 minutes. 4. Hit Execute. 5.
Retrieving Monitoring Information Failed Decoder List The controller stores information about every irrigation event that occurs. These events include every time a valve or pump starts or stops, flow measurements, etc. You can retrieve and store this information on your PC. This is a list of valve decoders that have failed due to triggering SEUF (Seek and Eliminate Unexpected Flow) and have been blacklisted. 1. From the Rain Bird Remote Access window, select Retrieve data. 1.
Operating the Controller, continued Creating a Log File 1. From the Rain Bird Remote Access window, select File. 2. Select Create Log File from the pull-down menu to reach the Create Log File pop-up window. Example: Below is an example of how the information appears in the Log File. Each line represents an event. We selected the event information to include the Date (YYYYMMDD), Time, Device, Device Type and Action.
Operating the Controller, continued Backing Up MDC Database Restoring Database 1. From the Rain Bird Remote Access window, select Setup and then Backup database. The Select File for the Database Backup window appears for you to name the backup database file and decide on its location in your system. 1. From the Rain Bird Remote Access window, select Setup and then Restore database.
Operating the Controller, continued Printing Set-Up and Irrigation Data Exiting the Remote Access Window 1. From the Rain Bird Remote Access window, select File. 1. From the Rain Bird Remote Access window, select File. 2. Select Print from the pull-down menu. 2. Select Exit from the pull-down menu or select X in the top corner of the window. 3. Select either Print set-up data or Print irrigation schedules. 4. Select OK at the Print pop-up window for your PC.
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Troubleshooting Understanding Faults Faults are error conditions that can occur in any electronic system or equipment, no matter how well designed and built. Many factors can contribute to faults, such as the system’s age, natural occurrences (i.e., lightning, floods, frost or heat), or human errors. When installing the MDC2 Controller and irrigation system, human errors can and do occur.
Troubleshooting, continued Understanding Basic Troubleshooting Techniques Using a systematic approach is perhaps the best way to troubleshoot any MDC Controller system. In other words, start at one end, test and replace components one at a time until you find and fix the problem. Understand too, that a set of troubleshooting procedures cannot cover every conceivable situation. It is you, the technician, responsible for finding and repairing the faults, who must mold these procedures to the situation.
Troubleshooting, continued Troubleshooting the System Problem A fault occurs the first time the system was started. Solution You will probably find the fault in the cabling between the different units (i.e., two-wire cable and field decoder, field decoder and solenoid, pump decoder and pump, etc.) Check that the hook up from unit to unit is done properly. Problem A fault occurs after the system is serviced. Solution You will probably find the fault around the serviced area.
Troubleshooting, continued Problem Diagnostics indicate there is a fault with the field decoders. Solution There is a break in the two-wire communications cable, the connections are loose, the decoders are supplying too much or too little voltage, or the controller is defective. To check the line voltage and decoders, you will need a voltmeter and Clamp Ampmeter. Navigate the MDC Controller to the Short Finding Screen (this switches the controller to the 50 Hz mode).
Troubleshooting, continued Problem Finding a fault by measuring line voltages in the field. Solution When searching for a fault, you may need to measure the voltage on the two-wire communications cable in the field. Set the voltmeter in the DC range and measure the voltage at the L1 and L2 terminal strip. If the DC readings are erratic (changing every half second) navigate the MDC Controller to the 50 Hz mode and switch the voltmeter to AC. Please see Finding a short in the system on page 40.
Troubleshooting, continued Problem One or more field decoders does not always activate the valve. Solution To open a valve, a field decoder supplies the valve with energy (electricity) for a short time. If the valve’s hydraulic pressure is high, then it needs more energy to open. There are many factors contributing to the amount of energy available to open a valve.
Troubleshooting, continued Problem Finding a break in the two-wire communications cable. Solution Measure the line voltage on the L1 and L2 terminals inside the controller. If the voltage is correct, then the fault is a result of a break in the two-wire communications cable. To locate the break, you will need an as-built irrigation drawing showing the complete installation and tracking of the two-wire communications cable, including each field decoder connection point.
Troubleshooting, continued Problem Using a systematic method to find a break in the two-wire communications cable. Solution There is a systematic method to find a cable break, but it can be time-consuming. Measure the voltage midway between the field decoder that is working and the one that is not. If the voltage is out of the acceptable range (33 – 40 VAC), you can locate the break between the field decoder that works and the point where you measured the line voltage.
Troubleshooting, continued Clamp Ampmeters normally measure only rapidly alternating currents. Navigate the MDC Controller to the 50 Hz mode, causing the Controller to send 50 Hz voltage and current through the two-wire cable. Please see Finding a short in the system on page 40. You can measure this current directly on the Clamp Ampmeter. If the two-wire communications cable is installed as a ring, you must disconnect one end of the ring from the controller before measuring the current.
Troubleshooting, continued You can measure the ground current with a Clamp Ampmeter (set in the 50 Hz mode) on the wire to the ground rod. If the current is 20 mA or less there is no reason to worry. But, if the current is above 20 mA, you can locate the ground fault with a Clamp Ampmeter. Turn off any running Programs or Schedules. Please see Operating the Irrigation Programs on page 49. Connect both communications wires to the L1 terminal inside the controller.
Troubleshooting, continued Problem The optional (rain or alarm) sensor is not responding. Solution Disconnect the two-wire sensor connection from the terminals inside the controller. After a few seconds, a message should appear on the controller’s display screen reading, Rain (or Alarm) Sensor In:
Troubleshooting, continued If the No Contact message appears only when a specific field decoder or pump decoder is active, the fault is in this decoder. Problem The Field Transmitter reads Try Again. Solution This message can appear if the controller is very busy, for example, if an irrigation Schedule is running or about to start. If the message appears frequently, please see The Field Transmitter reads No Contact on page 87.
Troubleshooting, continued Problem The controller is functioning but acting oddly. Solution If the controller is acting oddly, try downloading the Firmware to the program module in the controller. Please see the Firmware Upgrade Instructions included with the Firmware Upgrade package. Replacing The Controller The MDC2 Controller contains set-up and irrigation data that is stored in a chip soldered to the main board. When you need to replace the controller, the data will stay in the defective controller.
Troubleshooting, continued Troubleshooting for the theDecoder DecoderSystem System Troubleshooting Guide Guide for Controller display ON? NO YES Is switch ON? NO YES Start 50 Hz mode. Check line voltage. Is reading 33-40 VAC? NO YES Problem is in field. Does the line current (50 Hz) match decoders? NO YES Is supply voltage OK? NO YES Connect one cable at a time. Is current OK? Check valve activation.
Appendix I Conversion Chart from Standard to Military Time Standard Time 1:00 am 2:00 am 3:00 am 4:00 am 5:00 am 6:00 am 7:00 am 8:00 am 9:00 am 10:00 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm Military Time 01:00 02:00 03:00 04:00 05:00 06:00 07:00 08:00 09:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 Standard Time 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 6:00 pm 7:00 pm 8:00 pm 9:00 pm 10:00 pm 11:00 pm 12:00 am Military Time 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00 22:00 23:00 00:00 91
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Appendix II Selecting Electrical Codes for Solenoids If your system uses solenoids (valves) that do not open, you may need to extend the switch code activation time. To do this, change the 4th digit of the code according to the following chart.
Appendix II, continued Electrical Requirement Code of Magnetic Solenoid SWITCH CODE DEFINITION 5 9 F, X, Y, 0 [Volts] Use the chart above to select a suitable electrical code for special solenoid (valve) types. Note: To find a switch code that works with your valve, you may need to use the trial and error method. Example: Arrows in chart show: Activation Time = 40 ms. (milliseconds) Holding Voltage = 2.
Appendix II, continued Changing the Switching Codes 1. From the Main Menu, move the indicating arrow to 1. Set-up and select OK. 2. Move the indicating arrow to 1. Valve Types and select OK. 3. Scroll to the Valve type you need to change. 4. Select OK and OK again to activate the Switch field. A blinking box shows the position of the first character you are changing. 5. Select OK to move to the next character. The box is replaced with an arrow pointing to the character you can change.
Appendix II, continued Default Switch Codes Standard Rain Bird 24 VAC solenoids.
Appendix III Master Valve and Pump Set-up Tips To supply water to the various valves located throughout an irrigation area, systems use either a master valve or master pump. By recognizing a specific Address and switch code, the controller sends a signal telling the decoder when to activate the valve or pump. The switch code can vary depending on how your system was installed. Below, we will cover some of the more common installations.
Appendix III, continued Using a Decoder With a Normally Closed (NC) Master Valve In this installation, a decoder controls a Normally closed master valve with a pressure switch controlling the operation of the pump. Please see the illustration below. When setting up the controller, enter the decoder Address. If the master valve is Normally open, please see Using the Municipal Water Supply With a Master Valve (NC or NO) on page 100.
Appendix III, continued Using a Decoder and Relay-100 With a Pressure Switch In this installation, the pressure switch attaches directly to the decoder and Relay-100, and the decoder and Relay-100 to the pump. Please see the illustration below. Please see Naming the Field Decoders on page 25. You will also need to define a separate valve type with the switch code of 4FFA20. The controller circuit from the pressure switch runs through the contacts on the Relay-100.
Appendix III, continued Using the Municipal Water Supply With a Master Valve (NC or NO) In this installation, a field decoder attaches to a Normally closed or Normally open master valve installed as a pump. Please see the illustration below. When setting up the controller, enter the decoder address in the pump Address field and change the switch code to 49F350, which is the setting for a standard 24 VAC/2-3 W irrigation valve.
Appendix IV Sensors and Alarms Your MDC2 Controller can work with the following type of sensors: Flow Sensor: Defines an analog sensor on the logical level. The input can be analog or digital. Flow can be summed. Generic Sensor: Defines an analog sensor on the logical level. The input can be analog or digital. On/Off Sensor: Defines a sensor on the logical level. The input can only be digital.
Appendix IV, continued Activate (Activ): Turns on a decoder, pump or schedule, depending on the specified alarm action type and ID. The schedule will start on next full minute if possible or else it will be stacked. Deactivate (Deact): Turns off a decoder, pump or schedule, depending on the specified Alarm Action Type and Alarm ID. Deactivation can apply to all decoders, pumps and schedules. The schedule shall stop immediately and its active decoders will be deactivated.
Appendix V Freedom System Interface Your MDC2 Controller can work with the FREEDOM™ System - a member of Rain Bird’s family of irrigation products. The FREEDOM System uses the available COM port on your MDC Controller to access commandbased functions like: • Turn On • Turn Off • Advance • Pause • Resume • Customized schedule-based functions The tables below list the commands and their actions that are understood by the MDC2 Freedom driver.
Appendix V, continued ##Command#Action## Decoder Commands Command Decoder Time Outcome 1 1-200 1-999 Activate Decoder USA 2 Beep Answers OK Europe 4 2 1-200 0 Deactivate Decoder 2 4 Err 1 1 ##Command#Decoder#Time## Schedule Commands Command Schedule 71 1-10 Outcome Activate Schedule USA 2 Beep Answers OK Europe 4 Err 1 72 1-10 Deactivate Schedule 2 4 1 73 1-10, 0 Pause schedule, or all if 0 2 4 1 74 1-10, 0 Resume schedule, or all if 0 2 4 1 ##Command#Schedule## No
Appendix VI Legacy Field Transmitter Interface Your MDC system can accommodate the use of a field transmitter to start valves regardless which state the MDC controller is in. If the MDC is in Standby state, usage of the Field Transmitter will make it change to Manual state. When the Field Transmitter is plugged in, it first shows the version of the built-in software.
Appendix VI, continued Field Transmitter Installation The following figure illustrates the Field Transmitter installation process: * Reset will set all values to factory default. ** If more than one Field Transmitter is used, each must be set to its own number. Up to 10 Field Transmitters may be used simultaneously. *** After a delay. the menu on the previous page is active. Please refer to your Field Transmitter User Manual for more information on the use of the field transmitter.
Appendix VII A: Scheduling Chart Instructions for Upgrading Existing MDC’s to Version 2.0 1. Prior to installing the new software, ensure that the existing data and schedules in the existing software are up to date and have been synchronized with the controller. 2. As a backup, print out existing set up data and schedules via the “Print” functions in the “File.” Ensure this includes Sensor Decoder data as well as all data on Pumps/MVs and boosters. 3. Install software, per the following: i.
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Appendix VIII MDC Controller Information Sheet Descriptions Below you will find helpful information about the MDC Controller, decoders, and programming information sheets to follow. Please refer to the programming sheet when reading the descriptions below. 1. Column 1 – “Order” This column is for inputting the order you would like the valves to turn on. When programming the MDC Controller, this will help determine the order of stations to be assigned to the steps of various programs. 2.
Appendix VIII, continued MDC Controller - Edit Set-Up Data I II Controller Type (Check One) MDC 50 ( ) MDC 50-100 ( ) MDC 100-150 ( ) MDC-150-200 ( ) Time Window VII Software (Check One) VIII Water Budget Enter # (Irrigation Prevented) Version 1.3 2 ( ) ( ) % From To III Valve Type Switch No of Valves On Delay 1 2 3 4 5 A B C D E IV (1.3 and 2.
Appendix VIII, continued MDC Controllers ID Name Address Valve Type Booster Value (2.
Appendix VIII, continued MDC Programming Guide - Edit Irrigation Data Irrigation Schedule # Status Active ( ) Passive ( ) Days M M Start Time 1 4 Step 112 Run Time (Min) Dec #1 Dec #2 Dec #3 T T W W 2 5 Dec #4 Dec # 5 T T F F S S S S 3 6 Dec #6 Dec #7 Dec #8 Dec #9 Dec #10
Glossary booster pump activates when the demand for water pressure exceeds the capabilities of the master pump. circuit board one of the etched, copper clad sheets of insulating material onto which electronic components and terminals are assembled. Controllers contain circuit boards. controller a device that sends a 24 VAC power signal to the field solenoid valves controlling when they open and close. CPU board the central processing unit circuit board inside the controller.
Glossary, continued M3/h (used outside USA) cubic meters per hour. monitor to observe conditions in and around the irrigation system and send the information to the different components in the system for appropriate action. sensor an optional addition to the controller that can disable watering. solenoid a coil of copper wire that receives a 24 VAC electrical current from the controller, causing a plunger to open a control port in a valve allowing the valve to open and operate the sprinklers.
Service Information In the unlikely event this equipment should malfunction, all repairs should be performed by an Authorized Rain Bird® MDC2 Controller Service Center. For information on Authorized Rain Bird® MDC2 Controller Service Centers, contact Rain Bird® at: Rain Bird Corporation Contractor Division 970 W. Sierra Madre Avenue Azusa, CA 91702 Phone: (626) 812-3400 ® Rain Bird Corporation Commercial Division 6991 E. Southpoint Rd. Bldg.
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Warranty This product is covered by Rain Bird ’s Three-year Trade Warranty. For details, see the Rain Bird Landscape Irrigation Products Catalog.
Rain Bird Corporation 6991 E. Southpoint Road Tucson, AZ 85706 Phone: (520) 741-6100 Fax: (520) 741-6522 Rain Bird Corporation 970 West Sierra Madre Avenue Azusa, CA 91702 Phone: (626) 812-3400 Fax: (626) 812-3411 Rain Bird International, Inc. P.O. Box 37 Glendora, CA 91740-0037 Phone: (626) 963-9311 Fax: (626) 852-7343 Rain Bird Technical Services (800) RAINBIRD (U.S. and Canada) Specification Hotline 800-458-3005 (U.S. and Canada) www.rainbird.
