Application Article

Greenhouse Irrigation Utilizes SK1600-RIC for Control

Controller Used - SK1600-RIC

Total Digital Inputs - 16

Total Digital Outputs - 12

Total Analog Inputs - None

Total Analog Outputs - None

Communication Protocol - None

Operator Interface - None

Our customer utilizes the SK1600-RIC for control of their greenhouse irrigation systems. They offer two versions, the first is a manually operated irrigator where the control box that is installed with the system starts each irrigation cycle. The system that utilizes the SK1600-RIC provides many additional features that the manual system doesn't.

The irrigation system is installed on one or two rails that extend the length of the green house (two rail system pictured above). When the SK1600-RIC is provided with the system, the greenhouse operator can perform the following:

1. Control direction of the watering boom
2. Vary speed control for both forward and reverse
3. Reverse boom travel at any point in the cycle. This feature is best utilized when an area is not fully populated
4. Repeat timer for multiple pass throughs
5. One way and two way watering.
6. Water toggle feature allows operator to turn boom on and off as it travels up and down the bay. This independent control allows the greenhouse operator to control water consumption, whereby empty bays are not being watered.
7. The operator can control various watering areas - One side of the bay or one half of the bay or both can be performed.
8. The control system can be interfaced with environmental control systems and other remote start devices.

Originally, we supplied them with the SK1600-R2 specifically configured with only five outputs. Since upgrading to the SK1600-RIC and providing them with a standard configuration, they intend to utilize the additional I/O for new features to their irrigation system that are currently under development.

New features will include:

1. Power fail recovery - resume operation at location when power was interrupted
2. Multiple pass feature - to determine number of passes watering cycle begins

Features that our customer likes about the SK1600-RIC are:

• Pluggable terminal blocks for one time wiring and easy replacement
• Pluggable memory for easy field modifications
• 5 year warranty
• Form C relays to switch motors thus reducing the number of outputs required.
• Individual commons - for motor reversing
• 8 amp relay outputs - reduced external relays used in older design
• Battery backed ram - to resume operation at location prior to loss of power

All of the above features enable our customer to provide their customers with efficient service of their irrigation systems.

To find out more about our customer's product, you can visit their web site at www.mcconkeyco.com

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