ENERCON - Model 4-24 PLUS - Battery Powered Controller II

ENERCON +USER’S MANUALBattery Operated Irrigation ControllerAll rights reserved 2013 Rev. 3Please fully read all instructions prior to installation and use.Patents # 7,058,478, 7,266,428, 7,844,368, 7,844,368 and 8,401,705GREENTECHNOLOGYWith Set It, Don’t Sweat It® ProgrammingTABLE OF CONTENTSIntroductionInstallation ProceduresExisting InstallationsNew InstallationsElectrical WiringExisting, and Pre-Existing Field Wiring SchemesControllerRain SwitchTemperature SensorSolenoidsOutput Terminal BoardOutput ModulesTemperature SensorOperating CharacteristicsMaster/Pump ConnectionsOutput Board Test (OBT) TerminalBattery Pack ConnectorService BatteryEnercon Panel Controls and ProgrammingRun/statusTime of Day & DateStation AssignmentsWatering DaysSetting Water DaysSetting Days IntervalWatering DurationsStart Times AutomaticSemi-AutomaticManual StartRain & Station Delay TimesRain DelayStation DelayStations TestBudgetingManual BudgetMonthly BudgetTemperature BudgetHelp/InfoRain Switch EnableClear MemoryOutput Board STNSOutput Board Test (OBT)Test ProbeTest ResultsMinimum Auto Start TemperatureController On/OffTroubleshootingMain Panel ReplacementBattery ReplacementValve CompatibilityOptional FeaturesCare & Maintenance SpecificationsWarrantyALEX TRONIXPage1112334445555557777788999991010101010101011111112121212121213131313151516161617Back1INTRODUCTION:Thank you for purchasing the Alex-Tronix Enercon+ Controller. The Enercon+ is a commercial battery powered smart irrigationcontroller, housed in a stainless steel pedestal, and can operate up to 24 stations. A newly designed, longer lasting batterypack now comes standard. Additionally, the capability of using a 9V battery for short term emergency operation also hasbeen implemented into this new version. Since a solar panel is not required to operate the unit, maintenance and vandalism areminimized, plus the controller can be installed in shade, indoors, or under cover. The Enercon+, manufactured in the U.S.by Alex-Tronix, uses proprietary technology recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy. The Enercon+ has beencertified for water efficiency under the Smart Water Application Technology “S.W.A.T.” program and may qualify for cashrebates by many water districts. Please check with your local water district to apply for any rebates available.INSTALLATION PROCEDURES MOUNTING PROCEDURE FOR EXISTING INSTALLATIONS (REFER TO FIG. 1):Please read the steps below to note what tools and materials you will require before beginning installation.For existing installations that have a concrete pad ready to use, remove old controller and any existing mounting bolts etc.After preparing the area for installation, check if large concrete divots remain after removing. If so, use a fast drying concretepatch such as "pour stone" to tidy things up; let harden. Protrude all wires through existing pad and place the mountingbase plate flat on the concrete pad centered around field wires. Using the provided base plate as a stencil, mark each bolthole on the cement pad, and remove base plate.Step 1) Using a star drill punch, and a 5/16" sized masonry drill bit, drill six holes into the pad approximately 2" deep.Remove cement dust out of the holes thoroughly.Step 2) Now take 3/8" x 1-3/4" sized, lead concrete anchors ("Lag Shields"--purchased separately) and lightly tap intoeach hole until flush with surface. Step 3) Gently lie controller on its back, remove bottom door, and protrude all field wires through the bottom of the pedestal.Step 4) Stand up and align controller over the anchors. You will also need six of each: (3/8" x 1-1/2") sized lag screws,and (7/8” dia. x 3/8" hole dia.) -- flat steel washers.Step 5) With the pedestal standing in place, slip a washer over each lag screw, and insert lag screw into each anchor fromthe inside of the pedestal. Use a ratcheting socket wrench to securely fasten the pedestal down on to the concrete pad.If there is significant gapping between the pedestal base and the concrete pad, a bead of silicone sealant may becaulked around the base of the pedestal. This should be standard practice and will help keep moisture and insects outof the controller.ENERCON PLUS2MOUNTING PROCEDURE FOR NEW INSTALLATIONS:The following cautions should be observed:? DO Electrically "ground" controller using a grounding rod in areas susceptible to lightning andstatic damage. The factory installed lightning protection option (LP) is recommended in those areas.? Do not install the Enercon in a location that will continuously be exposed to sprinkler spray.? Do not install the Enercon in a area susceptible to vehicle damage.? Do not install the Enercon near underground high voltage or other utility wiring. Check with local agenciesfor cable and wire locations.? Do not allow dirt, water, etc. to enter the controller. Keep controller doors locked.? Do not spray any cleaners/lubricants into controller.Step 1) After selecting a location for the controller, excavate an area in the soil with the dimensions of 3' X 2' X 1’ deep.Depending on the number of wires, place two 1-1/2" or one 2" diameter, long sweep ell pipe(s) centered in the hole withabout a two foot extension laying in the trench. Ensure pipe(s) are vertical with a 4 inch clearance above ground level. Ifyou will be installing a rain sensor (optional accessory available from other manufacturers) now is the time to make additionalroom for a separate underground conduit.Step 2) Though the Enercon is electrically isolated from power utility providers, it is highly recommended that a groundingrod be installed to help reduce static electricity charge build up and lightning strike damage. If your area is prone to this,then a grounding rod should be installed under or near the pad and at least a 10 AWG wire brought up through the pedestala few feet; it must be connected to the marked green ground wire on the output board. If you ordered the Enercon with thelightning arrestor gas tube option, you must use a ground rod for adequate lightning protection.Step 3) Finally, back fill the hole with soil to a depth of about 5 inches leaving the pipe extension open in the trench. Step 4) Using 2 X 6 studs, build a wood form to the dimensions of 3' X 2'. Rough in the wood form flush to the ground,and check with level. The form should be slightly above sod/ground level so water does not collect on pad.Step 5) Prepare base plate by taking all six (3/8"-16 x 4 hex) bolts and threading a 3/8" nut on each one until the nut stopsagainst the un-threaded part of the bolt. After this is done, insert all the bolts through the base plate holes from one sideand fasten using a second nut for each bolt. The base plate with anchor bolts are now ready to be pressed into the wet concreteform. Use a level to align straight. SEE FIGURE 2 below.ALEX TRONIXFIGURE 1 3Step 6) Prepare fast setting concrete and pour into form, around conduit(s). Immediately trowel and insert base plate with bolts (boltheads into concrete) and collar around conduit(s). The bracket should "float" on the concrete surface. Verify no tilt by using a level.Allow concrete to set-- typically 1 hour. Troweling should be done in a manner to allow collected water to tread off from pad. Step 7) After pad has cured, remove exposed nuts from bracket. Carefully lie controller on its back, remove bottom door,an protrude all field wires through the bottom of the pedestal. Stand up controller and place over the exposed studs -SEEFIGURE 3 (next page). Put washers on all the studs inside the pedestal chassis, then fasten down with included 3/8" sized nuts.Tighten all nuts down using a ratcheting socket wrench.ELECTRICAL WIRING:NOTE: Please observe all building codes mandated by your locality. Existing, and Pre-Existing Field Wiring Schemes.Before installing the Enercon+ controller, you will need to evaluate the wiring plan. If the system was previously a DClatching system, connect the field common wire(s) to any of the Enercon's common "C" terminals. The majority of latchingsolenoids manufactured denote (+ or Red) wire connected to station terminals, and black (- or NEG) wire connected to thecommon terminal(s). If you are retrofitting an existing A/C system to the Enercon+ system, the same field wiring may beused, providing wiring polarity is correct. It is imperative that all the "common" wires are truly common. This may becomea problem if a common wire ties into a junction box somewhere out in the field and was incorrectly crossed within thejunction box, which still allows an AC system to work, but may now have to be corrected for a DC system. Typically, awhite wire is used as a common in AC systems.A good way to verify polarities once the Enercon+ is installed, is to run the STATIONS TEST function and observe performance.If a few valves operate erratically, or turn on when they should turn off, check connections and polarity.For new wiring, always use a separate colored wire for the common (typically black). It is also good practice to color codestation wires or at the least, mark them. This will allow you to trace wires for easier troubleshooting.ENERCON PLUSFIGURE 2Remove nuts and fastenpedestal bottom to studsafter concrete is setAll bolts pressed intowet concrete, flush tobase plate level3/8” - 16 x 4BoltsBase Plate4Controller:If valve number field wires were previously not noted, mark them at this point. Wire marking kits are available at electricalsupply retailers. If field wires are from an existing system, they should be inspected and re-stripped. Good cleanconnections to the terminal strip are crucial. For new installations, use 14 AWG UF (direct burial) SOLID CORE WIRE.WIRE SMALLER THAN 14AWG NOT RECOMMENDED.Start with wiring station terminal 1 and continue down with the rest -- up to 24. Bend all wires at right angles and strip allwires approximately 3/8". Good clean wire routing is important for ease of troubleshooting. The output board has five commonsavailable for use. Connect all commons ("C") after individual stations are wired. If a ground rod was installed, connectground rod wire to the green ground wire ("pigtail") located at the bottom of the output board.NOTE: All commons marked “C” on output board’s terminal strip are electrically “tied” together on the output board itself.Using all “C” terminals is not necessary. Additional “C” terminals are provided for convenience and ease of wiring.Rain Switch:If you are using a rain switch (not provided), note that the wiring will be slightly different with this controller. FOR THEENERCON+ CONTROLLER, DO NOT BREAK OR JUMPER ANY COMMON WIRES FOR RAIN SWITCHINSTALLATION. The Enercon+ has two dedicated input terminals marked "RAIN SWITCH" on the small output terminal,located beneath the nine volt battery. You must use the N.C. (Normally Closed) connections from the rain switch. The rainswitch must also be activated through the HELP/INFO function (See HELP/INFO function sub menu -- Rain Switch Enable).Temperature Sensor (refer to fig. 4):The Enercon+ comes with a temperature sensor designed to be placed partially intothe field wire conduit inside the chassis. This location yields a relatively accuratetemperature reading without having to install an external pole at another location,increasing installation labor. With the temperature higher within the chassis and theground being at a lower temperature, the balance between the two temperatures canrepresent a relatively accurate “ambient” temperature measurement provided thesensor is placed correctly within the conduit. The sensor should be tucked within thefield wires in the conduit at ground level. Once the sensor is placed, connect theboth wires to the special terminal marked TEMPERATURE SENSOR by using asmall screw driver. Use the small screwdriver to loosen and cinch down thesensor wires into the connector. The sensor is used when temperaturebudgeting is active on the controller. This is when the Enerconbecomes a “smart controller”, and optimum water saving ben-efits are achieved.ALEX TRONIXFIGURE 3FIGURE 45ENERCON PLUSSolenoids:The Enercon+ only operates DC LATCHING type solenoids. DO NOT CONNECT A/C OR NON-LATCHING DCSOLENOIDS TO THE CONTROLLER. It is highly recommended that the latching solenoid made or recommended by thevalve manufacturer remain with their valve in order to avoid any solenoid/valve compatibility issues. If no latching solenoid isavailable for use with the valve specified on the job, then using the Alex-Tronix LS solenoid is the second option. If using the Alex-Tronix LS, fasten to valve using procedures stipulated by the "Valve Compatibility Chart" provided by Alex-Tronix.All latching solenoids have a polarity. Typically, black wires are all connected to the common "C" terminal. The remainingred wires are connected to stations "1 through 24." If there are doubts about the polarity, a solenoid can be directlyconnected at the Enercon’s output board terminal strip and tested in MANUAL. Correct operation is: On "latch"-- theplunger will pull in (Water flows through valve); on "release"--plunger will pop out. (Valve shuts off). You will not alwaysbe able observe plunger action depending on who manufacturers the solenoid; in this case, it is suggested the manufacturer ofthe solenoid be contacted for correct polarity and color coding.When connecting field wires to solenoid wires, make sure the connection is GOOD, CLEAN and TIGHT. Use gel filledwire nuts only. Mark the field wires at the solenoid to denote polarity. If junction boxes are used in the field, make surethat the wires are not "crossed" in the box. Correct polarity must be observed, otherwise the solenoid will not operate properlyand the valve will actuate in reverse of what is expected. - It may open, when it should be closed.Note: If you have an application requiring a normally closed valve, such as a master valve to remain closed when there is noirrigation, you can wire the latching solenoid in reverse. The valve should be marked so as to not confuse anyone for future servicing.OUTPUT TERMINAL BOARD (Refer to figure 5):Output Modules:The Enercon+ uses output driver modules for ease of expandability and service. Each module can drive 4 solenoids, starting fromtop to bottom order: M, Stations: 1-4, 5-8, 9-12, 13-16, 17-20, and 21-24. To replace or add modules, remove the lowerdoor panel, then pull module(s) straight out. When a module is removed, you will notice a color designation printed on theoutput board. All station modules are colored green and can be swapped for field trouble-shooting purposes. A specialmodule (master valve) with a yellow cover is at the very top. It must remain only in that position. Replace new modulesby gently aligning connector and pressing straight in against button fastener.Temperature Sensor:It is highly recommended to use temperature budgeting. The Enercon+ comes standard with a pre-installed temperaturesensor; (See Temperature Sensor installation under Electrical Wiring)Operating Characteristics:The Enercon+ is an energy efficient battery powered controller. If several valves are programmed to come on at the same time,they will actually activate sequentially, several seconds apart from one another. Activation times can be from 3-8 seconds dependingon the condition of the battery. Whenever a station or program is activated by MANUAL, SEMI-AUTO, AUTOMATIC, or TESTCYCLE, there is always at least a 3 second delay before any solenoid is activated. The solenoid activation order is as follows:station solenoid output comes on first, then master valve. When valves are to be turned off, the reverse order occurs with themaster, and station solenoid shutting off, each 3-8 seconds apart. If more than one program is scheduled to start at the same time,the first station assigned to program A will come on first, then the first station in Program B, then C, then D.Master/Pump Connections:When controlling a pump (or other auxiliary device), an optional pump interface kit (P.I.K.-S) available from Alex-Tronix, must be used. It is connected between a common "C" and master "M" output terminals. The relay can then"make" or "break" a circuit to control a pump or other device. For this option, contact factory for part availability andconnection details.6 ALEX TRONIXRibbon cable to main control board.To master valve or pump relay kit.Use with any common.5678Commons (5)Stations(up to 24)Diagnosticconnections (3) onreverse side.Factory use only.Latching Solenoids1-24 StationsAll commonsinternally wiredtogether. useany of the five"C" terminalsas needed.Connect green wire to ground rod.FIGURE 5Orange OBTtest probe connector.OBT test lights Yellow master module mustremain in this position.Station modules (Green)up to six.Rain SwitchTop of the terminal board showing temporary 9 voltservice battery location (cover removed.)Temperature Probe Temporary 'service battery' cover.Main battery pack connectorRemove and discardprotective rubber bootwhen adding additionalmodules.7Output Board Test (OBT) Terminal:The small orange colored terminal located at the top of the output terminal board (See Fig. 4) marked: "USE IRRIGATIONWIRE AS TEST PROBE" is used to self-test the outputs of the Enercon using the OUTPUT BOARD TEST (OBT) functionlocated under the HELP/INFO menu. (See HELP/INFO -- OUTPUT BOARD TEST).Battery Pack Connector:The male connector on the output board marked: BATTERY PACK, is where the battery pack’s female connecter isplugged into. The battery pack is placed in the chassis’ upper compartment behind the main panel, and the pack’s connectorprotruding through the bottom hole.Service Battery:On the output board, located under the green battery cover is a 9 volt battery holder. This service battery is only installedin an urgent situation where irrigation can not be interrupted, should the main battery pack become depleted. IMPORTANT:Note the service battery is NOT a back-up battery; therefore, do not install it while the battery pack itself is installed. See“Service Battery Replacement” for more information.ENERCON PANEL CONTROLS AND PROGRAMMING:Programming capabilities:• From 4 to 24 stations.• 4 programs with four start times per program.• Watering Days or Days Interval.• Water Durations up to 23 hours and 59 minutes per stations.• Up to four independent Automatic or Semi-Auto starts can be initiated and overlapped.• Manual Starting of any station.• Rain Delay & Station delay.• Automatic Valve testing feature.• Monthly, manual and temperature budgeting.• Minimum Temperature (Freeze) Shutdown.• Help and configuration menu.The Enercon+ uses hybrid keypad and rotary knob programming for ease of use. The keypad allows fast data entry, while the functionselector knob gives the feel of user friendly mechanical controllers. The function knob is where all the program information is viewedand entered. The keypad is used to input program data. Any entry that can be selected or adjusted on the display has an asterisksymbol "*" next to it. Using the SEL key advances the cursor within the selected function. Please note that during programming, ifyou turn the rotary knob off of that position before pressing enter, the entered data will be lost. Let’s proceed with each function.To view the display, hold any key down until display appears.Run/Status (See Display A): This knob position displays what the controller is currently doing. If only the date and time are displayed, then the controlleris idle, and waiting for the next start time. Change the time and date on this function as follows:With display shown above, the controller is idle, and awaiting the next start time. Change the time and date on this displayas follows: ENERCON PLUSDisplay A - No Active Stations, Temperature Budgeting Selected (recommended)8TIME OF DAY AND DATE: To enter, change, or correct time of day, press SEL on keypad. You will see a blinking cursoron the display where the time is located. Using the keypad, enter in the correct time of day and press the key marked AM/PM.Times that are less than 10 hours must have zero entered in first before the next number....For example: 09:23AM..Press SEL again. The cursor will now move to where the date is located. Enter the date in the following format:MM/DD/YY. After pressing ENT, the actual day displayed (Su, Mo, etc.) will set itself, because the Enercon+ has a builtin calendar. The Enercon's calendar accounts for leap year but not daylight savings time. You must reprogram the correcttime if your locale follows DST.When program is running, the display will appear as shown below:The RUN/STATUS display also provides additional information. When the Enercon+ is executing an automatic or semi-automatic program, you will see what program is running, which station is on, and the remaining watering time. The displaymay show up to 4 programs/stations running at the same time. Other information that could be displayed may be: UNITIN MANUAL, UNIT IN TEST, CHANGE BATTERIES, RAIN DROP ICON, CONTROLLER OFF, RAIN DELAY,STATION DELAY, CHECK TEMP SENSOR, TEMPERATURE BUDGET, MANUAL BUDGET, MONTHLY BUDGET,and a % sign indicating duration times are budgeted.When all programs have finished, the display will show the time, date, and day. It is not necessary for the function knobto be left on the RUN/STATUS position for normal operation.NOTE: When any BUDGETING is active, the RUN/STATUS function will display the current temperature after 1 hour onthe top left corner of the display, along with the budget method and daily calculated percentage on the second line.Station Assignments:For a station to operate a valve in Automatic, Semi-automatic, or Test mode, stations must be assigned to at least one program.To assign stations, press the SEL key. The cursor is now located on program A. If you continue to press SEL, the cursorwill scroll through programs B, C, D, and back to A again. After selecting the program letter, press ENT to go into thestation assignments display for the related program.You are now in the station assignment area for the selected program. In the lower right hand corner, you will notice a cursor.This is where the station numbers are initially entered. For example, to assign station number 3, press 03.To assign stations, key in the stations two numerical digits within succession up to 24. If you key in stations any higherthan the controller is capable of, you will see ## (pound sign) in the lower right corner of the display. If the station enteredis valid, the station will illuminate on the display at its designated location. You may continue to add additional stations asneeded. When finished entering stations, press ET to go back to the SELECT PROGRAM display. From this point youcan either select another program to assign stations to, or go to another function. If ENT is not pressed after any functionscreen programming is completed, the display will hold the previous screen settings.NOTE: If you cannot program stations any greater than expected, check the OUTPUT BOARD STNS configuration settingunder the HELP/INFO menu which determines how many stations are available.ALEX TRONIXDisplay B - Active Station(s) With Temperature BudgetingDuration Time Countdown(Hours and Minutes Shown)Program and Station Running9Watering Days:When rotary knob is set to WATERING DAYS, you will have two choices; actual watering days or days interval on anyprogram. If WATERING DAYS or DAYS INTERVAL are not programmed, the controller will not operate in automatic mode.SETTING WATER DAYS: To set WATER DAYS, press the SEL key. You will notice the cursor flashing on programA, indicating the selected program. Press SEL repeatedly to advance to the other programs. Once you have selectedthe program, press the keys marked with the day names on them; Sun, Mon, Tues, etc. Pressing each one of thesekeys illuminates the watering days on the display. Pressing the same key removes that day. Once all the watering dayselections have been made, press ENT on the keypad to enter in all the days on all programs.SETTING DAYS INTERVAL: Days interval, also located under the WATERING DAYS function sets the number ofdays to skip watering. To set DAYS INTERVAL, press the SEL key. You will notice the cursor flashing on programA, displaying which program you are in. Press SEL repeatedly to advance to any the other program. Once you haveselected the program, press the key marked: DAYS ITVL. When the days interval option is displayed, you canchange the number of skipped days-- entered on the keypad from 1 to 99 days. When finished, press ENT to enterall four programs on the display. Watering begins with the same day the interval is programmed as long as the starttime(s) have not yet occurred. If you make any change to any of the four programs (A-D), the programs assigned tothe interval of days will reset and a new starting day begins when you press enter.Watering Durations:To set watering duration for all stations, select any bank (1-6, 7-12, 13-18, 19-24) by pressing SEL, then ENT. Once youare in the desired bank, Press SEL, then SEL again or LEFT/RIGHT ( ) arrows to navigate between stations. Onceyou select the desired station(s), key in the water time anywhere from 1 minute to 23 hours--59 minutes. After setting allthe station watering durations, press ENT to enter in the complete display. The display will return to the bank selectionmenu where you can either select another bank or go to another function using the function selector knob. All wateringdurations must be set with 4 digits. For example, 15 minutes is entered as 0015 or one hour and 20 minutes would be 0120.Budgeting information "%" is also shown in the center of the WATERING DURATION display. This is informational only,and displays calculated durations. Even when the durations are budgeted, you can change them "on the fly" without changing thebudget back to 100%. To do this --while in WATERING DURATIONS, press SEL and the duration base times appear. UseSEL or ARROWS to move from station to station, then key in the modified time. When you are finished, press ENT tolock in the revised durations.The display will revert back to the actual budgeted run times. As budget settings are changed (manually or automatically),duration times change accordingly. For more on this, see budgeting below.NOTE: If you expect to advance to the next station and cannot, check the OUTPUT BOARD STNS. configuration underthe HELP/INFO menu, and make sure it is set correctly.Start Times (Automatic):For automatic operation, at least one station with a watering duration, a watering day, a start time, and assigned to at leastone program must be entered into the Enercon. If any of these parameters are missing, automatic starts will not occur.The Enercon+ has four programs with four starts per program, so a total of sixteen starts for each station are possible perday. To set start times for programs, select programs A&B or C&D by pressing SEL, then ENT. Now repeatedly pressSEL to select (or right-left arrows) to select any program letter. Once you have selected a letter, use the keypad to enter inthe start time, then press AM/PM for the time of day. Continue to enter in desired start times, then press ENT to enter thedisplay and revert back to the SELECT PROGRAM menu. If you do not want any start times-- Enter 0000. 4 dashes( - - : - - ) will appear indicating no start time is entered. All START TIMES are entered in as four digits. For example, astart at 8:30AM is entered as 0830, then press AM/PM button until AM appears.ENERCON PLUS10Semi-Auto:SEMI-AUTOMATICTo use Semi-Automatic, at least one station within the selected program must be assigned under STATION ASSIGNMENTS,and have WATERING DURATIONS programmed in as well. Semi-Automatic "starts" are all independent. To put theEnercon+ in the semi-automatic mode, press SEL to select any of four programs A through D. Now press ENT to start theselected program. Any running program will be shown on the display when the rotary knob is set to the RUN/STATUSposition. All stations assigned to the selected program will turn on sequentially– for one cycle only.If a Semi-Auto program is currently running, you can not restart semi-auto again over the same program. A command torestart the same semi-auto program while it is already running will be canceled. You can however start other programs inSemi-Automatic. If a Semi-Auto is started over a previously running automatic schedule of the same program, it will only cancel that program,and not affect any other programs concurrently running.For example: if programs A, B, C, & D are currently running automatic schedules, and you activate Semi-Automatic program A, the Enercon+ will immediately cancel program A's automatic schedule, and begin semi-automaticwithin program A only. Programs B, C, & D will remain unaffected and will continue with their automatic schedules. Upto four semi-auto programs can be activated at the same time.Manual:MANUAL START: Begin a manual start by pressing SEL to activate station entry. Key in the two digit station number(i.e. 04 for station 4), then press SEL to set running time in hours and minutes (i.e. 0012 for 12 minutes). Press ENT tobegin manual start. To stop manual, press ENT again. Note that only one station at a time may be operated.Rain & Station Delay Times:RAIN DELAY: Press SEL to select RAIN DELAY, then press ENT. Now press SEL and key in the two digit number ofdays you wish the Enercon to delay automatic water scheduling then ENT to initiate the rain delay. At midnight of eachday, the rain delay count is subtracted by one day. When the count reaches zero, automatic cycling resumes. The currentday is considered the first day for rain delay. When in “Rain Delay” --Automatic, Semi-Automatic, and Test are inoperable,except for MANUAL start. STATION DELAY: Station delay sets the "dead" time in between valves used to help valvesclose and open without loosing main water line pressure. To set STATION DELAY, press SEL twice to select STATIONDELAY then ENT. Now press SEL and key in the number of seconds (up to 99) you wish the Enercon to delay valveactuation, then press ENT to enter.Stations Test:The stations test sequentially runs through all assigned stations, on all programs, for a set amount of time. You can use thisfeature to maintain the irrigation system by observing valve operation while away from the Enercon controller. To useSTATIONS TEST: press SEL and then ENT, then SEL again and enter in how long each valve will stay on --up to 99minutes. Now press ENT. The first assigned valve in order will start, and the Enercon will remember this setting so thatyou will not have to enter it in every time you want to run the STATIONS TEST. If the bottom line on the display states:"[NO STATIONS ASSIGNED]" then you must program at least one station in the STATION ASSIGNMENT function setting.Budgeting:The Enercon+ has three water budgeting methods. The first is MANUAL BUDGET, and the second, MONTHLY BUDGET.Manual budgeting allows you to change watering times for all stations by percentage for all programs at once. Monthly budgetingworks similarly, except with the ability to automatically change the percentage on a per month basis. When a new month is encoun-tered, the budget will automatically readjust itself to the new settings. TEMPERATURE BUDGET is the third type of budgetingavailable, and is a patented method developed by Alex-Tronix. Watering durations are automatically increased or decreased daily,based on tracking the temperature of your locale. The result is more efficient water savings over other budgeting methods.ALEX TRONIX11Note: The WATERING DURATIONS display will indicate the current budget setting and whether it is in MANUAL (MA),MONTHLY (MO), or TEMPERATURE (TEMP) budgeting.MANUAL BUDGET: To set MANUAL BUDGET, press SEL, then ENT. Press the SEL key again and enter in the percentyou wish to change the budget to, then press ENT. You can increase watering duration by passing 100%. You can reducewatering duration by setting the budget less than 100%. Budgeting is adjustable from 1-399%, in 1% increments. Use 3digits to enter the percentage desired i.e. 030 for 30%.Example: Say MANUAL BUDGET is set at 100% (by default) and water duration was originally set at 00:10 (10 minutes). Ifyou were to reprogram the MANUAL BUDGET to 200%, the duration would double and recalculate for 00:20 minutes. If itwere changed to 50%, the new watering duration would be 00:05 minutes. Budgets are calculated to the nearest minute, with a1 minute minimum. Baseline budgeting calculations are always assumed at the controllers default entry of MANUAL BUDGET at100%. At least 1 station in WATERING DURATIONS must be entered before budgeting can be enabled or changed.MONTHLY BUDGET: To set MONTHLY BUDGET, press SEL, twice, then ENT. Press SEL again. On the keypad, usethe RIGHT/LEFT Arrow (SEL can be used as RIGHT ARROW) to move the cursor around the display. Place the cursor oneach of the months and key in the budget percentages as a 3 digit number-- i.e. 30% is 030. When complete, press ENTto accept all monthly budget percentages.TEMPERATURE BUDGET (Mandated Setting for “Smart Watering”): To set TEMPERATURE BUDGET, press SELthree times and press ENT. You will see the temperature budget screen prompting for the zip code of the controller’s locale.Key in your 5 digit zip code and press ENT. If zip code is found in the Enercon’s database, the bottom two lines will displayaverage July temperature, and latitude of your controller’s location. If the zip code entered does not exist, “DATA NOTAVAILABLE-CONTACT FACTORY” will be displayed. Press SEL to try again. OPTIONAL: If the peak summertemperature and latitude do not appear to be correct, these two parameters may be individually entered for better accuracy.Contact Alex-Tronix for to obtain the parameters, then press SEL, down to the PEAK SUMMER TEMPERATURE, andthen LATITUDE; key in the parameters. It is important to note that when any of these two budgeting parameters arechanged, an exclamation mark will appear next to the modified parameter showing that it differs from the controller’s owndata base. Press ENT to complete calibration. The Enercon Plus is now ready to calculate water budgeting via temperature.The temperature budget percentage varies hourly based on the previous 24 hour high temperature. (See Display C)NOTE: While in the budgeting function, you can switch between budgeting modes anytime by pressing SEL to the mode,then ENT, pressing SEL again, then ENT again; the display then reverts back out to the main function display. You willnotice which budget is active depending on where “(ON)” is next to. The remaining budgets that are not active retain theirprevious settings for future use.ENERCON PLUSDisplay C - Temperature Budgeting Function Display12Help/Info:The HELP/INFO function provides information as well as the ability to adjust global configuration settings. Use SEL and*NEXT to scroll through information and functions. The following features are available from the HELP/INFO function:• Alex-Tronix technical support telephone number.• The firmware version of your own Enercon Plus controller.• Valve Cycle Count -- The number of times the Enercon Plus has activated any station or other outputs.• Enabling rain switch.• Clearing program memory.• Number of stations your Enercon Plus controller supports.• Output board test (OBT).• Minimum auto-start temperature setting.• 24 hour high temperature (Maximum temperature of the day)NOTE: The Enercon' upper main control board is used for all output board configurations, and can be configured to anynumber of stations as the output board allows by adding output modules. (up to 24--See options).Rain Switch Enable:If you are using a rain switch (Not Provided), you will need to activate this feature. Scroll down to RAIN SWITCH=OFF,and press SEL then ENT and SEL again to change the setting to yes (Y). You will see the display change from OFF to ON.The controller will now acknowledge any rain switch activity, and a rain drop icon will appear (switch opens) on theRUN/STATUS display when it rains. Only MANUAL START is available when the rain switch is active. Note that if the rainswitch activates when the controller is in any other cycle, all valves will turn off.Clear Memory:WARNING: CLEAR MEMORY WILL ERASE ALL DATA IN THE CONTROLLER, except the output board configuration.You will need to re-program controller completely.Output Board STNS:The Output Board Stations setting allow you to configure how many stations your controller will have if you are adding outputmodules for more stations. It is preset from the factory-- based on the number of output modules supplied with the controller. Ifyou add additional modules (more stations), you will need to reconfigure it here. Unless you are adding stations modules, youshould normally never have to change this setting.Note: The Enercon is originally configured to a specific number of stations ordered -- up to 24. For example, if a 12 station unitwas ordered, and you were in the WATERING DURATION function, all 24 station watering durations are displayed, but only thefirst 12 can be programmed. You also cannot assign more stations or set watering durations past the configured number of stations.Output Board Test (OBT):The Enercon+ has a unique self-test feature known as the OBT. This differs from STATIONS TEST. The OBT allows youto troubleshoot the output board for proper operation using the test probe. This test should be performed before systemictroubleshooting is done in order to eliminate the controller as the source of the problem.CAUTION: DISCONNECT ALL COMMON "C" WIRES ONLY (NOT STATION WIRES)FROM TERMINALS BEFORE PROCEEDINGTEST PROBE: Locate the small orange colored connector on the top left of the output board with the words underneath: "USEIRRIGATION WIRE AS TEST PROBE". Cut a 2 foot piece of solid core irrigation wire, strip both ends ½", and insert one endinto the small orange colored connector by pressing down the white colored arm against the board with your thumb or screwdriver. ALEX TRONIX13Now that the test probe is ready, Turn the FUNCTION SELECTOR knob to HELP/INFO and press SEL to *NEXT andkeep going until you reach "*OUTPUT BOARD TEST". Now press ENT. You will need to have the wire probe readyand touching the "M" station. When prompted on the display, press the right arrow key (>), and within 3-8 seconds theEnercon+ will pulse the "M" station followed by the remaining stations in numeric order.You will see the "green" L.E.D. light flash on latch followed by the "red" L.E.D. flash on release. Follow through the rest of thestation outputs making sure you move the probe to the next station immediately after it releases (within 3 seconds), otherwise you willmiss the event. Once the test has been completed, the output board test will stop and re-prompt you if you want to run the test again.TEST RESULTS: If every station pulses "green", then "red" (latch and release), the controller is working properly. If thereare "green" flashes and no "red" flashes, or vice versa, an output module or controller should be suspected.MIN AUTO START TEMPNOTE: Use of the minimum auto start temperature feature requires installation of temperature sensor. This feature inhibits automaticstarts when the surrounding temperature around the probe falls below the entered set point. This feature can be used for freezeprotection of lawn, plants and plumbing while irrigating in severely cold temperatures. The probe is read on the hour; the controllerthen decides to irrigate or not, depending on what the set point has been programmed to. If the surrounding temperature is at or belowthe set point, the controller will not automatically start. however; MANUAL, TEST, and SEMI-AUTO are not affected by this feature.To set the minimum auto start temperature, scroll down to the last display, then press SEL, and ENT. Press SEL and selectover to “Y”. The display drops down to the numerical entry. The default setting is OFF. Key in the temperature at the pointyou would like the controller to stop irrigating. Press ENT to accept the set point and revert to *NEXT. The third line displayswhat the days high temperature was within the last 24 hours.On the RUN/STATUS display, when minimum auto start is enabled, you will additionally notice the ambient temperaturebeing displayed. When the ambient temperature falls to the set point where all automatic starts are disabled, a thermometericon will also appear. When the ambient temperature rises above the set point, the thermometer icon will disappear, andautomatic starts will resume. Note that any cycle(s) already in progress will be allowed to finish its schedule.Controller On/Off:To turn controller ON or OFF, press SEL to toggle between the two, then press ENT. "CONTROLLER IS OFF" will nowbe displayed, and is also indicated on the RUN/STATUS display. To turn the controller back on, press SEL twice againand ENT. On turn-off only, the Enercon+ will immediately initiate a solenoid release routine that will turn off any valvesthat are currently on. When the controller is in the OFF mode, pressing any button to "wake up the display" does not "Turnon" the controller. You must go to the CONTROLLER ON/OFF function to turn the controller back on. When controlleris off, all functions are disabled, and the program can be reviewed.GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING:Q1) Is this a new system? If no move on to Q2; if yes then:Are you using the BCS-SOL's? This is an electronic module connected to our latching solenoid (LS). YOU SHOULD NOT BE....BCS-SOL's are only used for the BCS system. For all Enercon controllers, only latching type solenoids are used. Also do not use AC solenoids.Have you checked for shorts or opens on the outputs? Using a digital multimeter... Do the following:Set your multimeter to "ohms" (omega symbol, or upside down horseshoe)With the field wires still connected to the terminal strip, put one probe on the common and the other on each station.Read the multimeter in ohms ... You should read a resistance from 8 to 25 ohms depending on the solenoidmanufacturer. If you are using the Alex-tronix LS solenoid provided by us, the resistance will be approximately9 ohms per solenoid, not counting wire resistance. With 14 gauge wire, add 2.5 OHMS per 1000’ of wire.ENERCON PLUSa) b) 1) 2) 3)14If any or all stations read "open" (infinite resistance), then you either have the wrong common wire selected or the fieldwiring is broken somewhere. You'll need to trouble-shoot your field wiring further in depth. You can also verify the controllerand solenoid are working properly by removing the solenoid from the valve and wiring it directly on to the Enercon'soutput board. To do this, connect the black wire to a common and the red to any station. Operate it using the "Manual"function. If it operates there, there is a wiring problem.Are any of the latching solenoids wired in reverse? All solenoid black wires must go to "C” (common) on controller terminals. Remaining red wires connect to each individual "Station” terminals. If valves do opposite of what is expected,the solenoids are wired in reverse. Note that when turning on a station, the solenoid latches and the plunger “snaps” intothe body of the solenoid; turning off a station allows the solenoid to release and the plunger pops out.Does your valve require an adapter between the solenoid and valve? Check the Alex-Tronix compatibility chartand see if you need an adapter or a extra O-ring to make our LS solenoid operate your valve. Adapters are readilyavailable at Alex-Tronix. Do not mistake a valve adapter for a BCS-SOL module used on a different system. Is the RAIN SWITCH ENABLE on? If you are not using a rain switch, the setting should be set to "OFF" under the "HELP/INFO" function menu. If you are using the rain switch, then the switch should be wired to the normally closed when dry (N.C.), and the setting should be set to "ON" under the HELP/INFO menu. Q2) System has been operating fine, but now not working.Are the batteries run down? The Enercon+ has the ability to let you know when the battery pack or the internal battery is low on the RUN/STATUS display.If: “CHANGE BATTERIES” is displayed, the battery pack should be replaced, even though the controller maycontinue to operate- Remove battery pack and use Alternate Battery - (See Alternate battery).If: "THIS PANEL NEEDS REPAIR" is displayed, the panel must be sent in for service due to depletion of the inter-nal battery. When this happens, the controller will either be off or will be running its last cycle(s), and will not startagain. The panel needs to be sent in for service.Main water line okay? Check this by manually operating valve (at valve not controller). Loosening solenoid willachieve this. If main water pressured up okay-- Suspect valve.All valves not working? or some? If any wires are suspected broken, run test Q1-B. You can also trade station wires with each other to see if the valve in question begins to operate. If so, send in controller/output board for service.Q3) The controller won't assign stations, durations, manual, etc. past a certain point.Check the OUTPUT BOARD STS=XX under the HELP/INFO menu. Is it set correctly?Check to make sure your output board supports the number of stations you need as well.Q4) The controller has a problem reading temperature.If the display reads: CHECK TEMPERATURE SENSOR Check for an open wiring problem within the temperature wires of the RTS circuit.If the controller reads 120F temperature and never changes or is obviously off from the ambient temperature, check for a short within the temperature probe wires.Q5) System worked fine, but now the solenoids latch but don’t release.Replace master module (Yellow)ALEX TRONIXa) b) a) a) b) c) d) e) a) b) c) 15MAIN PANEL REPLACEMENT (CONTROL PANEL):For service or upgrades follow the instructions below:Open top door of pedestal and remove single hex/slotted screw on the right side of the front panel. Set this screwon top of the pedestal.Open bottom door of pedestal, and remove battery pack connector.Swing panel open, and observe gray colored ribbon connector plugged into the location marked- TO OUTPUT BOARD. Using your index finger and thumb slightly pull on one side of the connector, then the other end --backand forth until the connector is removed. DO NOT PULL ON RIBBON CABLE ITSELF You may damage the harness and render the controller inoperable.Remove the front panel by loosening the two hex/slotted screws on the left side (do not remove screws), and slide panel out.Discharge your body from static electricity by placing your hand flat somewhere on pedestal chassis for a second or two.Unpack the new panel from its static sensitive bag. DO NOT TOUCH EXPOSED PINS WHERE CONNECTOR PLUGS IN. Static from your body may damage unit.Slide in the new panel between the screws and hinge and cinch down. Ensure the panel is aligned straight.Match the key on the socket to the connector on the ribbon cable and firmly plug connector back into the socket.Plug in battery pack connector on the output board.Controller should be reset by pressing the reset button sandwiched between the rear and face plate of the main panel on the actual circuit board. An arrow marking (ENERCON) on the read panel is where the reset button is located.Finally, fasten down main panel with remaining screw and then test unit by running the OBT or MANUAL start.Replace bottom door on pedestal. Reprogram watering schedules.BATTERY REPLACEMENT:INTERNAL BATTERIES: The Enercon+ uses two sets of batteries to operate. An internal battery powers the electronics anddisplay, but not the solenoids. This battery is permanent, and was designed to last the life of the unit. Should this battery everdeplete, or there is a problem with the main panel, “THIS PANEL NEEDS SERVICE” will be displayed, and the panel must bereturned to the factory.BATTERY PACK: A separate user replaceable, lithium battery pack (part # BATT-PK ECN II) is standard included with allEnercon+ series controllers. This battery pack is only used to power the solenoids. About 40,000 valve actuations can beexpected before depletion. Given an average irrigation schedule --the battery pack should last about 4 years, and may orderedthrough a distributor; it is user and field replaceable.After a period of time, when the battery pack reaches depletion (all dependent on the number of valve actuations), the Enercon’sdisplay will remind you to replace the battery pack by displaying “CHANGE BATTERIES”. If you see the warning appear anddisappear at various times – Replace the battery pack.BATTERY PACK REPLACEMENT: Remove the lower door exposing the output board, then unplug the battery packconnector located at the top-left area of the output board. Remove the pack from controller, and install a new one in reverse order.Removal of the battery pack does not affect program memory.ENERCON PLUS1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) 7) 8) 9) 10) 11) 16SERVICE BATTERY REPLACEMENT: On the output board, located is a plastic green cover with a 9V battery holderunderneath. The holder can accommodate any 9 volt battery to supply temporary power as a work around in situations whereirrigation cannot be interrupted, even if the depleted battery pack must be replaced. Up to 6 months of battery life can be expectedusing a 9 volt service battery. The service battery does not affect program memory. Remove the lower door exposing the outputboard. Press in the clip on the left side of the plastic green cover and swing out to the right to remove it, then unplug the batterypack connector and remove the pack from controller. Carefully snap into place a new 9 volt battery into the holder, and snap thecover back on to the output board.CAUTION: DO NOT INSTALL A BATTERY PACK AND SERVICE BATTERY AT THE SAME TIME. THESERVICE BATTERY WILL NOT FUNCTION AS A BACK-UP BATTERY.IMPORTANT: After replacing the battery pack or 9V service battery, a manual start must be activated, then deactivated in orderfor the controller to measure the health of the newly installed battery; this action will clear the low battery warning. Notperforming this action will allow the display to continue showing: “CHANGE BATTERIES” until the next automatic start.VALVE COMPATIBILITY:The Enercon+ can drive several types of latching solenoids; If using the Alex-Tronix LS solenoid, please review the valvecompatibility chart enclosed to ensure solenoid-to-valve compatibility. Valve design and compatibility information isalways changing-- If you do not see your valve on the chart, or have other questions, please contact our factory for furtherinstruction. Please have the following information on hand before contacting our factory:• Controller model number.• Valve brand, model number, size, etc.• Solenoid brand.OPTIONAL FEATURES:Lightning Suppressor Option --Though the Enercon is isolated from AC power lines, helping to reduce the risk of powersurges from lightning storms, an output board with lightning suppression gas tubes should be used in an areas susceptibleto lightning. Contact factory for this option.CARE AND MAINTENANCE:The Enercon+ does not require in depth maintenance; however an annual check of following is good practice toensure system reliability:• Lubricating locks -- Open door, spray silicone lubricant annually. Do not spray into controller.• Wire connections -- Check all connections on output board and solenoids.• Stations Test -- Run STATIONS TEST to verify all valves are operating.• Cleaning solvents -- Do not use caustic solutions on the Enercon Plus pedestal chassis.• Cleanliness -- Internally clean spider webs, insects, dirt, mineral deposits, rust, etc.ALEX TRONIX17ENERCON PLUSSPECIFICATIONS:Pedestal dimensions and info:Height:35.5" (90.2cm) Width:7.5" (19cm) Depth: 5.25"(13.3cm). Weight: 24lbsBattery life:3.68V -approximately 10 years, permanent; Standard Battery Pack - Approx. 40,000 actuations.Stations:Up-gradable output board with increments of 4 stations per module, up to 24 stations (6 modules).Max. conduit size pedestal can accept:One 2", or two 1-1/2" pipes.USER NOTES:WarrantyUpon purchase, users of this product agree to the following terms, conditions and limitations ofwarranty and liability coverage:Alex-Tronix warrants the Enercon including batteries to be free from original defects for twoyears from the date of original sale. The manufacturer shall replace, free of charge any part founddefective under normal use and service within the guarantee period, provided the product isinstalled, used and maintained in accordance with any applicable instructions or limitations issuedby Alex-Tronix.Components supplied as replacement parts are warranted for 90 days from the date of shipment.The manufacturer assumes no liability for incidental or consequential damage sustained in theadoption or use of our engineering data, service or products.Liability is therefore limited to the repair of the product manufactured by Alex-Tronix. No agentor representative has the authority to waive or add to this agreement.Altered products, damage due to controller doors left open or unlocked, or use of products in amanner not intended shall void this warranty.For warranty service, ship unit prepaid to the address below. Controllers damaged in transit dueto improper packaging are not covered by warranty.ALEX-TRONIXA DIVISION OF GNA INDUSTRIES, INC.4761 W. Jacquelyn Avenue • Fresno, CA, 93722Telephone: 559-276-2888 Toll Free: 888-224-7630 Fax: 559-276-2890alextronix@yahoo.com • www.alextronix.com