The output of the EZ-DM wire paths is 24VAC, 50/60 Hz. Voltage is only present on the paths when stations are active. The red and blue wire path terminals on the EZ-DM indicate that they are connected to the EZ-1 decoder red and blue wires, but the wire that extends the two-wire path does not need to be color-coded. It does not matter if the decoder "red" connects to the terminal "blue." There is no polarity on the EZ decoder system. Use direct burial-rated irrigation wire. The size of the wire determines the effective distance of the two-wire path. Use irrigation-grade wire connectors for all splices. They can be of the same type used for solenoid connections.
Existing WiringTee- SplicingEarth GroundingActivating Multiple Solenoids
IMPORTANT: Distances in the Wiring Table are calculated based on 60 Hz for American Wire Gauge, and 50 Hz for International, with wire temperature of 122°F (50°C), and a 10% safety factor.
| EZ Decoder Wiring Distances | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| American Wire Gauge | Distance (Feet) | International Wire (mm2) | Distance (meters) |
| AWG 18 | 908 | 0.8 mm2 | 267 |
| AWG 16 | 1,446 | 1 mm2 | 333 |
| AWG 14 | 2,292 | 1.5 mm2 | 500 |
| AWG 12 | 3,650 | 2.5 mm2 | 833 |
It is possible to convert an existing conventionally wired system to EZ decoder operation by using existing wire bundles to create a two-wire path to each valve location and adding an EZ-1 decoder at each valve.
Tee-splicing the two-wire path is permissible. Use waterproof connectors in a valve box, and adequate slack at the splices (5 ft/1.5 m) to insure a reliable connection. Size the wire for the most distant decoder from the controller.
Earth grounding is not required in the two-wire path. However, it may be added in high-lightning areas for additional protection. Use Hunter model DUAL-S surge arrestors and connect the surge arrestor ground wire to earth ground hardware. Earth grounding hardware should consist of a 8’ (2.5 m) copper-clad steel rod, or a copper plate, installed at least 8' (2.5 m) away from the two-wire path.
The ICC2 or HCC controller should be grounded to earth with the ground attachment on side of the transformer cover, to approved earth ground hardware, ideally to a resistance of 10 ohms or less, as shown in the controller installation instructions.
Select EZDS field wiring for the number of active solenoids (not stations) expected on a wire path during irrigation.
IMPORTANT:An active P/MV will count as another solenoid, if it is operated by an EZ-1 decoder.
| American Wire Guage | 1 Active Solenoid (FT) | 2 Active Solenoids (FT) | 3 Active Solenoids (FT) | 4 Active Solenoids (FT) | 5 Active Solenoids (FT) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18 AWG | 949 | 474 | 316 | 237 | 190 |
| 16 AWG | 1510 | 755 | 503 | 378 | 302 |
| 14 AWG | 2395 | 1197 | 798 | 599 | 479 |
| 12 AWG | 3814 | 1907 | 1271 | 953 | 763 |
Still need help? We're here.
Tell us what you need support with and we'll find the best solution for you.