Calsense CS3000, User Manual, Page: 14 / 85

CS3000 User’s Guide
12 Calsense
FLOWSENSE ®
The Calsense enhanced FLOWSENSE ® option, specified as CS3-FL, allows multiple controllers to share
an internet-connected communication option, master valves, flow meters, and pumps, as well as real-
time weather data from devices such as an ET Gage, Tipping Rain Bucket, and/or third-party rain and
freeze sensors. This sharing is accomplished through a two-way communication link between the
controllers in the field, using the Hardwire (models CS3-M and CS3-MSSE) or Spread Spectrum Radio
(model CS3-SR) options.
FLOWSENSE technology is designed to allow the user to setup and operate this feature directly in the
field with the Calsense CS3000 controller. No other software is required. The FLOWSENSE option uses
innovative technology to communicate between controllers and manage the proper operation of
irrigation valves.
Benefits of the FLOWSENSE option include:
• Ability to share a single internet-connected central communication device
• Synchronizes programming across controllers so any controller on the chain can be programmed
from any other controller in that chain
• Eliminates the need for additional relays when sharing pumps or master valves with several
controllers
•
Manages the number of valves that can be turned on at a time based on mainline flow
capacities
• Eliminates scheduling conflicts with multiple controllers
•
Provides water management capabilities with or without a Flow Meter
Water Management
With FLOWSENSE , the user can control the number of valves turned on based on the flow capacities of
each mainline. This minimizes the water window; thus, the allowable mainline flow rate is never
exceeded, ensuring pumps operate at their capacity and each irrigation mainline functions at maximum
efficiency. The user can select the maximum mainline flow rate both with and without pumps. In
addition, the user can control the number of valves coming on for areas of the main line based on
mainline capacities.
The CS3000 also introduces the capability of managing flow on up to four mainlines simultaneously. The
result is up to four irrigation mainlines operating at maximum efficiency, all controlled in the field solely
by the CS3000 Irrigation Controllers. Additionally, turning on stations by using the manual feature or any
internet-connected device including smart phones ensures that, even during programmed irrigation, the
maximum capacity of each mainline is not exceeded.
Flow Monitoring
Like a single controller, FLOWSENSE accurately pinpoints valves with high flows caused by broken
sprinklers, risers, or pipes and low flows. When such a flow event occurs, affected valves are identified,
shut off, and alerts are generated to notify the user for quick and easy repair. The controllers also
identify electrical problems, such as shorted solenoids and broken wires. When a faulty valve is detected
and shut off, the next available valve is turned on. Thus, FLOWSENSE is always working to shorten the
water window and maximize pump efficiencies while not exceeding the irrigation mainline capacity.