drip system controllers (irrigation, pond, zones, watering)

[maribass]

I want to replace my current controller (7 zones, mostly drought toleratant plants) and need some advice. I had chosen a rainbird 12 station and happened across a comment saying the rainbird was not a good choice for desert areas. I am thinking that I need to expand to 10 zones for more efficient watering of my 1/2 acre home. I need to be able to schedule drip times from as little as an hour to as much as four hours from 3 times a week to as little as 2x a month. My research is confusing! Anyone with suggestions???

[BBMW]

I'm sure there's a gardening forum somewhere (likely here in the general forums) where you're more likely to get the answer you're looking for.

[nfapps]

I do not have one of these, but if you have an internet connection you may want to look into this:

http://irrigationcaddy.com/

It's an irrigation controller that is ethernet based, and you program from your web browser. It looks pretty flexible as far as schedules, etc. I have no experience with it other than I think I may like to have one someday.

There is also an open source internet based controller that looks similar available here:

OpenSprinkler v2.0s (SMT)

They also have a version you can assemble yourself if you want to save money and have some basic soldering skills and the inclination to do so.

Again, no experience but I like the idea. Just some more options for you!

[MediocreButArrogant]

You can download the manuals from the mfgrs sites and figure out for yourself if they will meet your needs.

I have experience with the Toro EC series and Rainbird ESP series. They seem to have pretty similar capabilities. The Rainbird is easier to program, because you directly select the zone with the dial. On the Toro, you have to cycle through all of the zones to get to the one you want to program. Unless you live in an area with unusual watering restrictions, or need to remotely access your timer, either one of these will do the job.

[lvoc]

I believe some of the newer smart boxes are capable of adjusting to climatic conditions automatically as well as to internet set up. So you can program it to respond to the actuals and to obey the SNWA requirements.

The really sophisticated units have sensors that monitor local moisture levels. These may not be suited to residential use but that has to be coming.

I have a heavy commercial unit now 20 years old that works like a charm and is programmed as needed by a skilled gardener. Most autmatic of all systems. Checks a couple of times a year to find all the bad heads too.

[nfapps]

Found a new, pretty nice looking unit here:

RainMachine - The Forecast Sprinkler Controller

It can adjust based on the weather reports for the area, increasing the base time on hot/dry days and decreasing time on rainy days. Programmed by a nice capacitive touch screen, or it's also accessible via internet/phone etc.

If anyone gets one please let us know how you like it and how it works.