Step-by-Step Guide
Understanding the Modern Programming Workflow
The programming workflow for WeatherTRAK controllers has evolved significantly from earlier systems like the ET Plus. The modern approach focuses on efficiency by combining multiple tasks—programming, mapping, and documentation—into a single streamlined process using WeatherTRAK Mobile. This eliminates the traditional two-step workflow where you would first survey stations using a two-minute test and program worksheet, then return later to complete programming.
The key advantage of the current workflow is that in the same amount of time it previously took just to survey stations, you can now completely program each station, mark its location on a map, and document it with a photo. This multiplies the value of your time in the field by at least two while creating a comprehensive record for water management.
Pre-Installation Planning and Site Knowledge
Successful WeatherTRAK installations begin before you arrive on site. The most important factor is thorough site knowledge gathered during the bidding process or initial site visit. Use this time to identify potential installation challenges and plan your approach.
Walk the site with the sales team during the front-end process to understand the existing infrastructure, including where field wires and power wires enter the controller location, the configuration of any existing controller being replaced, and the overall irrigation system layout.
Transformer Positioning for Retrofit Installations
One of WeatherTRAK's key installation advantages is the flexibility of the transformer position. The transformer ships installed on the left side of the controller but can be easily moved to the right side to accommodate different retrofit scenarios.
1. Assess the existing wall configuration where field wires and power wires enter.
2. If the existing setup requires the transformer on the right side, unscrew the single screw holding the transformer in place.
3. Unbolt the one bolt securing the transformer.
4. Move the transformer to the opposite side.
5. Bolt the transformer back down securely—this step is critical for maintaining the UL rating.
This flexibility allows WeatherTRAK to seamlessly replace controllers from different manufacturers that may have transformers positioned on either the left or right side.
Two-Wire Installation Best Practices
For sites using two-wire systems, especially those with multiple wire paths, implement a color-coding system during the design and installation phase.
1. If you have a design department involved, specify different colored wire for each wire path in the project specifications.
2. Include a tracer wire to be run with each two-wire path.
3. Loop the tracer wire at each valve location and at each isolation valve for easier troubleshooting.
4. Use colored electrician's tape to mark the incoming power side at the controller so you can identify it at all times.
This color-coding system makes troubleshooting and maintenance significantly easier, especially on large sites with multiple wire paths spanning different areas.
Navigating the Updated WeatherTRAK Mobile Interface
WeatherTRAK Mobile recently updated its interface layout to improve usability. Understanding the new button hierarchy is essential for efficient programming.
The previous layout had a counterintuitive design where the large button advanced to the next screen and the small button performed the action for the current screen. The updated interface applies better logic: the large button now performs the primary action for the screen you're on, while a separate advance button moves you to the next level.
1. From the Sites page, view site information and the site overview.
2. Tap the advance button to move to the controller selection level.
3. Select your controller (if you have multiple controllers on the site, they will all display here).
4. Tap advance one more time to reach the station-based programming level.
This navigation structure provides a clear hierarchy: Site → Controller → Station.
Programming Stations Using the Integrated Workflow
The modern programming workflow integrates station activation, programming, mapping, and documentation into a single efficient process. This approach eliminates the need for a separate program worksheet and reduces the number of site visits required.
1. From the station programming level, select the station you want to program.
2. Tap the large button to start the station running. It will run for the default number of minutes set on the manual page and begin counting down.
3. While the station is running, tap into the Station Name field.
4. Enter a descriptive name based on what you see in the field. Use naming conventions that make sense for water management, such as "Front Yard Turf Grass" or location-based identifiers.
5. If helpful for troubleshooting, add wire identification details in your naming shorthand (for example, "Red wire red multi-strand" or "Blue wire in multi-strand").
The principle here is simple: don't waste water looking for where the water is running. Name stations by what your eye tells you in the field so anyone can identify them later.
Configuring Auto Mode Settings
After naming the station, configure the variables that determine how WeatherTRAK will manage watering for that zone.
1. Navigate to the Auto Mode section for the station.
2. Select the Sprinkler Type that matches what's installed in the field.
3. Select the Soil Type for that area.
4. Select the Plant Type being irrigated.
5. Adjust the slope setting if needed (for example, changing from gentle slope to mild slope).
6. After making any changes, always tap the Apply button at the bottom of the screen. This button becomes highlighted when changes have been made.
The Apply button means "save and send"—it saves your changes and sends them to the controller. Never make changes without tapping Apply, or your programming will not be saved.
Adding Station Location Pins
Mobile mapping has been integrated into the programming workflow, allowing you to mark station locations as you program them rather than as a separate task.
1. On a station that already has a location pin, you'll see a pin icon with the word View.
2. Tapping View takes you directly to that station's location on the map.
3. For stations being programmed for the first time, the pin icon will say Place instead of View.
4. Tap Place to begin adding a location pin.
5. The map will open and ask where you want to place the location pin.
6. The app will automatically drop the location pin on the blue dot, which represents your current position.
7. Zoom in on the map to position the pin more precisely if needed.
8. Drag the pin to the exact location where the station is watering (this may need adjustment from your current position).
9. Once the pin is correctly positioned, tap the checkmark to confirm.
You can see all stations that have location pins marked by looking at the map view, which displays all the pins across the site.
Documenting Stations with Photos
After placing the location pin, the workflow prompts you to add a photo, which is valuable for water management documentation and future troubleshooting.
1. After confirming the pin location, the app will advance to the photo screen.
2. Tap Take Photo (not "Select Photo"—you want to use the camera to take a new photo).
3. Photograph the station asset while it's running in the field. This provides visual documentation of what the station looks like and where it's located.
4. Tap OK to accept the photo.
5. Assign the photo to the correct controller from the dropdown menu.
6. Assign it to the correct station number.
7. Tap Save to add the photo to the station record.
The photo now becomes part of the station's documentation, accessible whenever you view that station's details. This visual record is especially valuable on large sites or when multiple technicians service the same property.
Workflow Efficiency Comparison
The integrated workflow represents a significant time savings compared to traditional methods. Previously, the two-minute test would only provide information for a program worksheet—you would identify where each station was located, write it down, and then return later to complete programming.
With the current workflow, in the same two minutes per station, you accomplish:
- Complete station programming with all auto mode variables set
- Station naming with descriptive identifiers
- Location mapping with a precise pin on the site map
- Photo documentation of the station running in the field
- All data saved and sent to the controller
This means that when you finish the field survey, you're completely done with station programming. There's no need for a second visit or additional office work to transfer worksheet data into the system. The value of information gathered has multiplied by at least two while the time investment remains the same.
Remote Management Capabilities
One of WeatherTRAK's most significant advantages is the ability to manage controllers remotely across multiple sites and states. This provides both time savings and peace of mind, especially for distributors and contractors managing large territories.
Remote management allows you to troubleshoot and resolve issues without traveling to the site.
For example, if a customer has a flow issue because zones weren't properly learned in an OptiFlow system, you can:
1. Log into the system remotely while the customer remains logged in.
2. View exactly what the customer is seeing on their screen.
3. Identify the problem (such as unassigned flow values).
4. Walk the customer through the fix step-by-step so they learn the process.
5. Have the customer make the changes and send them.
6. Refresh your screen to verify the changes were applied correctly.
7. Have the customer run a configuration check to confirm everything shows green.
This type of remote support can be completed in as little as five minutes, even when you're 500 miles away from the site. It eliminates travel time, reduces response time for the customer, and provides an opportunity to train customers on system operation.
Setup Menu Programming Sequence
While the station programming workflow has been revolutionized, proper setup menu configuration remains critical and should be completed first. The sequence of programming in the setup menu is important because certain settings affect how other features function.
Complete all necessary setup menu programming before beginning station programming. This includes site information, controller settings, and any system-wide parameters that will apply to all stations. Following the correct sequence ensures that when you program individual stations, all the foundational settings are already in place.
Flow Programming Updates
The flow programming process has received updates that streamline configuration. While the specific details of OptiFlow programming are covered in dedicated training, be aware that flow assignment is a critical step that must be completed for flow monitoring features to function properly.
When working with flow-monitored systems, verify that each zone has an assigned flow value after programming. Unassigned flow values are a common issue that prevents the system from operating correctly, but they can be quickly identified and corrected through the mobile interface or web portal.
Video Walkthrough
Video originally published April 2021.
If you have questions, here are 3 ways to get answers:
1. Search within this WeatherTRAK knowledgebase
2. Visit the WeatherTRAK support page
3. Call 800-362-8774 or email support@hydropoint.com, hours are Mon-Fri 3:00 AM – 6:00 PM PT and Sat 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM PT.