Landscape & Irrigation

April 2013

Landscape and Irrigation is read by decision makers throughout the landscape and irrigation markets — including contractors, landscape architects, professional grounds managers, and irrigation and water mgmt companies and reaches the entire spetrum.

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Toro Precision Soil Sensor The Toro Precision Soil Sensor continuously measures moisture levels in the soil, and determines when to allow the irrigation controller to water, maximizing the efficiency of the irrigation system. There are 2 "wireless" components to the system — a receiver that hooks up to the irrigation controller, and a sensor that installs in the ground. Once installed, the sensor calibrates itself automatically to determine the soil type. Any time the moisture level exceeds the user-defined optimum level for the plant material, the controller is prevented from running any irrigation programs. This prevents unneeded watering and provides the possibility for significant water savings. Communication between the sensor probe and the receiver is completely wireless, with an operating range of up to 500 feet. Installation doesn't require any digging so the soil is left undisturbed, allowing the sensor to take accurate moisture readings starting as soon as it's put in the ground. DIG LEIT-1 Powered solely by ambient light (solar), DIG developed the world's first sustainable irrigation controller that doesn't use batteries or an AC power source. The LEIT-1 requires no direct sunlight and can obtain enough power from surrounding light to operate both day and night in any weather conditions. In addition, the LEIT-1 employs SimpleSmart programming which automatically adjusts irrigation schedules monthly to help eliminate over and under watering ensuring a healthy landscape while saving water. The LEIT-1 uses clean, sustainable solar power; saves water; and is easy to set. Hunter Node battery-operated controller For isolated sites and power-restricted areas, the Hunter Node is the smart, reliable solution. The Node mounts to a valve's solenoid quickly and easily, and without screws, drills or additional wires. The unit's solid construction and waterproof exterior ensure it can handle the harsh environment of a valve box. The Node is powered by one or two 9V batteries, and provides standard or extended power throughout the season. Along with exceptional reliability, the Node features an easy-to-program LCD screen, the ability to control a Master Valve, and uses standard Hunter controller programming with 3 programs and 4 start times per program. The array of programming options and rugged reliability make the Node a compact and powerful irrigation controller with the flexibility of battery power. Irrisoft Weather Reach Controller Link Controller Link uses WiFi or wired ethernet to retrieve hourly weather conditions, calculating plant water use based on data from high-quality sensor measurements of solar radiation, wind, humidity, temperature and rain. Housed in a weather-tight enclosure, Controller Link is a simple, quick and effective retrofit to existing sprinkler timers. Controller Link combines site-specific settings with real-time ET and rainfall measurements to manage watering on up to four programs. Program Start Sensors detect the beginning of a watering cycle, then Controller Link interrupts or enables the valve common. Deep, less frequent watering improves plant health and reduces water waste. Controller Link uses the Ideal Irrigation Amount, which is based on soil type and root depth to know how deep to water. Watering frequency is determined based on "Managed Allowed Depletion." An advanced real-time moisture balance uses hourly ET and on-site rain measurements to control irrigation. Irritrol R-100 programmable remote To make irrigation troubleshooting and maintenance easier and faster, Irritrol introduced a new remote, the R-100. Besides immediate savings in time and money, the remote ships with advanced technology for future products and programming. Using the remote, an irrigation professional, working alone, can walk the green space activating and shutting off sprinkler zones as needed. The remote has "future-needs" technology built into it for increased control, productivity and savings down the line. A built-in USB port, for a computer connection, and the open architecture of the microprocessor allow for yet-to-be developed features, firmware updates, and even working with future products using the same handheld remote. And future upgrades are coming, including being able to control a landscape lighting system. The Irritrol Remote Kit includes the remote, a mini-receiver, and an RJ-11 cable. The remote works by connecting the mini-receiver to the irrigation system controller. (The remote is compatible with over 50 controller models.) www.landscapeirrigation.com Landscape and Irrigation 19

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