Setup Procedures - SPRINKLER TALK

Getting StartedThe first step in preparing the Intelli-Sense for operation is to put asidewhat you may know about conventional controller programming. Why?Because the Intelli-Sense takes a much more scientific approach toirrigation scheduling. Do you have to be a agronomist to use the Intelli-Sense? Absolutely not. The Intelli-Sense takes care of the “Science” for you.Conventional controllers schedule irrigation by “Programs” that operatestations on specific days, at specific times for a specific duration.The Intelli-Sense automatically calculates the exact amount of water neededfor each station zone, independent of one another, based on site-specificlandscape and irrigation system information. So there are no programs toguesstimate. Each station zone receives only the necessary amount of waterto replace what’s lost each day through natural evaporation and planttranspiration—all automatically.The true benefits of the Intelli-Sense precision irrigation control system arerealized when the irrigation system design, installation and sprinkleradjustment is correct and operating within the sprinkler manufacturers’specifications. We recommend that you do a thorough operational check ofthe irrigation system, especially if the Intelli-Sense is being installed in aretrofit installation where the design, piping, sprinkler type and spacingmay be unknown or less than optimal.Just as important as the system hardware, is the accuracy of theinformation entered for each station. The watering routine formulated bythe Intelli-Sense can only be as accurate as the information you provide.A Landscape and Irrigation System Profile Worksheet is provided to helpyou record and organize the information you will need to have on hand toprepare the Intelli-Sense for operation. Taking the time to complete theform before moving ahead to the actual programming procedures will havethe Intelli-Sense up and running in the shortest possible time.One of the elements on the worksheet is sprinkler Precipitation Rate (PR).If this key information is not known, refer to Appendix A of this guide toassist in acquiring accurate PR information.Note: Your landscape may go through a reconditioning period with theIntelli-Sense in control. It will take some time and a phased-in approach todevelop an optimal watering routine. However, you should begin to see anotable increase in water savings and plant health within a short time.3