turning device on/off

[v1rtu0s1ty]

Hi folks,
 
Let's say we have an sprinkler valve with two wires. Also, we don't have a controller and a relay board like M1 and M1RB. How can we operate this sprinkler valve? It's because my friend would like to try a sprinkler valve but he doesn't have a controller.
 
Thanks!

 

[ano]

Hmmm.. I think a sprinkler timer from Home Depot or Lowe's is what most people use.

 

[CAI_Support]

If you have a 24VAC transformer, you can test sprinkler valve without anything else.

 

[v1rtu0s1ty]

Thanks for the ideas folks!

 

[gatchel]

If you have a 24VAC transformer, you can test sprinkler valve without anything else.

Assuming it's not already one of those valves that come in the kits that use less than 24vac...
 
You could use a power source, a valve, and a simple toggle switch remotely (conveniently) located to turn it on and off. Just dont forget.

 

[v1rtu0s1ty]

Assuming it's not already one of those valves that come in the kits that use less than 24vac...
 
You could use a power source, a valve, and a simple toggle switch remotely (conveniently) located to turn it on and off. Just dont forget.

 
It's this valve
http://www.smarthome.com/31229/Orbit-Irrigation-57101-WaterMaster-1-Inch-FNPT-Inline-Sprinkler-Control-Valve/p.aspx
 
I went to Lowes last night. I saw the Orbit timer. The packaging contains a diagram on how the valve is connected to the timer. Looks like it is a straight forward connection. The timer is directly hooked to the wall outlet.
 
In your suggestion, are you saying that I can use an on/off switch to turn on/off the valve that is directly connected to it? That's 110v though. Maybe if you can make a simple drawing, that would help me a lot. Thanks!

 

[BraveSirRobbin]

http://cocoontech.com/forums/page/articles/_/tutorials/home-automation-tutorials/how-to-create-a-poor-mans-automated-watering-system-r53

 

[v1rtu0s1ty]

Thanks for the help again BraveSirRobbin!!!

 

[v1rtu0s1ty]

So how does the X10 appliance module work?
http://www.amazon.com/X10-AM466-Appliance-Module-3-Prong/dp/B00022OCBO
 
What does the 1-15 number do? What about the ACEGIKMO, what is it? What is X10 going to do with the valve?
 
http://cocoontech.com/archive/j/tutorials/2007/7/wiring.jpg

 

[az1324]

X10 Appliance Module is just a switched outlet.  Number & letter are just to set its address.
 
When it switches on, the 120V flows to the transformer.  The 24V from the transformer flows to the solenoid in the sprinkler valve which causes it to move.  The valve is then open for water to flow.
 
Sprinkler timers move the switch from the 120V side of the transformer to the 24V side. 
 
You might want to do some reading on basic electricity and electromechanical devices.

 

[tmbrown97]

shorter answer - when those two wires off the valve are connected to 24vac, it opens the valve; disconnect power, water stops.  Lots of ways to automate - you can put a switch between one of the wires off a 24vac transformer, or you could plug a 24vac transformer into an X10 appliance module, or a switched outlet, etc - at least for a single valve. 
 
I'm not clear if you want full automation or if you just want to be able to flip a switch and see water come on... but sprinkler valves are pretty simple things.

 

[v1rtu0s1ty]

I found a cheaper alternative to X10, a timer.
http://www.amazon.com/Intermatic-TN311-Heavy-Grounded-Timer/dp/B005MMSTNG/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1378353031&sr=8-3&keywords=timer

 

[v1rtu0s1ty]

Thanks folks. I found out that if my friend is going to use the X10 route, he will also need an x10 controller. That wasn't mentioned on the HOWTO.

 

[BraveSirRobbin]

Thanks folks. I found out that if my friend is going to use the X10 route, he will also need an x10 controller. That wasn't mentioned on the HOWTO.

 
First sentence:
 

This How-To was created due to the request of Cocooners (from THIS thread) wanting to know how to create an automated watering system that can be controlled by common home automation systems and attached to an outdoor watering faucet.

 
Please read that How-to thoroughly as there are some other critical descriptions and cautions in there as well!

 

[BraveSirRobbin]

X-10 makes timers as well, but remember, there are caveats with using X-10 to ensure reliable operations.  Will this be operated unattended?  How will your friend be using this?
 
I initially intended this to be a temporary solution for someone wanting to control a valve say through a remote for convenience.
 
There are devices out there, such as WGL Designs, that incorporate an internal timer into them (programmable) that will turn the signal off in case the "OFF" command fails to get to the valve (to prevent over flow).
 
At this point I'm wondering if you should just get a cheap timer from the hardware store.