IC System
TM
Design Guide, v2.3
19
Radio, cellular and Ethernet connections exist to connect the irrigation computer to a remotely located
interface.
All Rain Bird interfaces, including remotely located interfaces are always online and maintain continuous
real-time two-way communication between the central and each interface. The central does not
download programs to remote interfaces. This ensures that all of the Rain Bird central control software
advanced technologies remain active and operational with all devices attached to the control system.
For example, dynamic flow management is always active on all stations regardless of whether the
interface is local or remotely located. Water-saving products like RainWatch
TM
devices are always online
and active. When activated on a central, MI Series Mobile Controller
TM
is online with all stations
regardless of whether the interface is local or remote. There are no limitations with the remotely
located interfaces compared to systems where the interface is located at the irrigation computer.
900MHz Spread Spectrum Radios:
An MRLK 900 Remote Location Kit should be used to provide wireless 900MHz radio communication
between the central control computer and the remotely located ICI. The MRLK900 Kit includes two
radios that operate in the 902-928MHz range and automatically hop between frequencies to avoid
interference.
Please note the following:
•
An MRLK900 Kit is required for each remotely located ICI.
•
A site survey should be completed by the authorized Rain Bird golf distributor or
manufacturer to ensure that the system will communicate between the desired points.
A repeater may be required to ensure good quality communication.
•
900MHz radios are NOT approved for use in some countries. This should be verified
prior to completing the irrigation design.
•
Remotely located interfaces require a UPS device, just as if they were located with the
central control computer. The APC model Smart-UPS 1500 is the approved device.
Please contact your distributor or Rain Bird representative to verify the above information and obtain
more details regarding the use of MRLK900 kits to remotely locate an ICI on your project.
Ethernet or Cellular Connection:
It is possible to remotely configure an IC interface to communicate via Ethernet or cellular with the
irrigation central. This has been done successfully on Rain Bird control systems in a number of locations.
Please contact your Rain Bird Golf Distributor or Rain Bird sales manager for additional information.