The Rain Bird LNK WiFi module allows users to control and monitor their Rain Bird irrigation system remotely using a smartphone or other internet-connected device. The LNK module serves as a gateway, connecting the user’s in-ground sprinkler system to the internet via a home WiFi network.
What is the Rain Bird LNK WiFi module?
The LNK WiFi module is a small device made by Rain Bird that acts as a gateway between the user’s irrigation system and the internet. It allows communication between the user and their system using WiFi and an app on the user’s smartphone or tablet. The module measures approximately 4.5 inches long by 2.5 inches wide and 1 inch tall.
The LNK module connects directly to the sprinkler system’s control wires and interfaces with the controller to access valve programming and status information. It also has a built-in WiFi antenna to connect to the home WiFi network. The module does not need to connect to the controller physically – all communication happens over the control wires.
With the LNK WiFi module installed and connected, users can use the Rain Bird app on their smartphone to remotely monitor and control their sprinkler system. From the app, they can start or stop watering, adjust run times, set watering schedules, and more. The app provides access and control from anywhere there is an internet connection.
How does the Rain Bird LNK WiFi module work?
The Rain Bird LNK WiFi module functions as a gateway device to get sprinkler system data to the internet where it can be monitored and controlled remotely. It utilizes several technologies to make this happen:
- WiFi – The module has a built-in WiFi antenna that allows it to connect to the home wireless network. This provides its pathway to the internet.
- Sprinkler system interface – The module connects to the sprinkler system’s control wires to communicate with the valves and flow sensors. This allows it to monitor water flow and valve status.
- Cloud platform – The module sends system data up to the Azure cloud platform which stores it securely for access by the mobile app.
- Mobile app – The Rain Bird mobile app provides the user interface to the sprinkler system data stored in the cloud. Users can monitor, control, and program the system remotely from the app.
Here are some more details on how the components work together:
Connecting to WiFi
The LNK module has a built-in WiFi radio that allows it to connect to the home’s wireless network. During setup, the user connects to the module directly from their smartphone to configure the WiFi settings. This allows the module to connect to the network and access the internet.
Interfacing with the sprinkler system
The LNK module connects to the sprinkler system’s control wires to communicate with the valves and flow sensors installed in the field. The control wires carry the signals that open and close remote control valves. The module connects to these wires to monitor valve activity and status.
Flow sensors installed on the pipes detect water flow when the valves open. The LNK module reads these flow signals over the control wires to monitor real-time water usage. If no flow is detected when a valve should be open, the module recognizes a pipe break condition.
Sending data to the Azure cloud
Once connected via WiFi, the LNK module sends the sprinkler system data it collects up to the Microsoft Azure cloud platform. This includes current valve and flow status, errors and alerts, andhistorical runtimes and logs. All data is stored securely in the Azure cloud for access by the mobile app.
Accessing data in the mobile app
Users download the Rain Bird mobile app to their iOS or Android smartphone or tablet. When launched, the app syncs with the Azure cloud to retrieve the latest data from the LNK module. It displays current flow conditions, valve status, and error alerts. Users can also access schedules, water usage reports, and zone details.
From the app, users can manually activate valves or programs. They can also modify runtimes, watering schedules, and other programming options. The app sends programming changes back to the LNK module over the Azure cloud which then implements them in the actual irrigation system.
Key Features and Functions
Some of the key features provided by the Rain Bird LNK WiFi module include:
- Remote monitoring – View valve, flow, and error status in real-time from anywhere via the app.
- Manual watering control – Manually activate valves, programs, or test cycles from the app.
- Programming – Remotely edit watering schedules, run times, start times, and other programming options.
- Water usage tracking – Monitor sprinkler system water usage over time to identify leaks or other issues.
- Alerts – Get notified of flow rate errors, pipe breaks, or valve malfunctions via push notifications.
- Multi-user access – Share app access with family, tenants, or landscapers so multiple people can control the system.
These capabilities make the LNK WiFi module a convenient option for anyone who wants to be able to monitor and control their sprinkler system remotely from anywhere they have an internet connection.
LNK Module Hardware Specifications
Here are some key hardware specifications for the Rain Bird LNK-WIFI module:
WiFi | 802.11 b/g/n (2.4 GHz only) |
Supported Sprinkler Controllers | Rain Bird ESP-LX Series, ESP-LXD Series, ESP-ME Series, ESP-RZX Series, ESP-TM2 Series, ST8 Series |
Input Power | 24 VAC, 150mA (powered by controller) |
Surge Protection | 1KV surge and ESD protection on control wires and WiFi |
Dimensions | 4.5″ x 2.5″ x 1″ (114mm x 64mm x 25mm) |
Connectivity | 10/100 Ethernet, RJ45 |
Operating Temperature | 14°F to 140°F (-10°C to 60°C) |
As noted, the LNK module gets its power directly from the sprinkler system controller via the control wires. It does not need any separate AC power source. The WiFi radio operates on the 2.4 GHz band only.
How to Install the LNK WiFi Module
Installing the Rain Bird LNK WiFi module involves three main steps:
- Mount the module near the sprinkler controller
- Connect the module to the controller
- Connect the module to the WiFi network
Here are more details on each installation step:
1. Mount the Module
The LNK module can be mounted on a wall near the irrigation controller using the built-in mounting holes. It should be located within wireless range of the home’s WiFi router. The module is weatherproof and can be placed indoors or outdoors.
2. Connect to the Controller
The module requires a connection to the controller’s two-wire path and its 24VAC power wires:
- Two-wire path – This allows communication between the module and controller. It carries valve, sensor, and programming data.
- 24VAC power – Provides power to the module from the controller’s transformer.
Inside the controller, locate the two-wire path and 24VAC terminals. Run wires from these terminals to the corresponding terminals on the LNK module. Consult the installation guide for complete wiring details.
3. Connect to WiFi
With the module powered on and connected, you can now connect it to the WiFi network:
- On your smartphone, go into WiFi settings and select the network created by the LNK module. It will be named something like “RainBird-XXXX”.
- Open a browser and go to setup.rainbird.com to access the module’s web-based configuration utility.
- Select your WiFi network from the list and enter the password to connect the module.
- The module will now join your WiFi network to establish its internet connectivity.
Once connected to WiFi, you can sync the module with the Rain Bird mobile app and begin controlling your sprinkler system remotely. The module will automatically maintain its WiFi connection going forward.
Troubleshooting Rain Bird LNK WiFi Issues
Some common issues when installing or operating the LNK WiFi module include:
Module won’t power on
- Check wiring connections to 24VAC and two-wire path from controller.
- Verify controller has AC power and is turned on.
- Try disconnecting then reconnecting wiring to reset module.
Can’t connect to WiFi
- Make sure WiFi password was entered correctly in module’s web utility.
- Verify WiFi network has adequate signal strength at module’s installed location.
- Reconfigure the WiFi setup if network settings have changed.
App loses connection to module
- Check for issues with home WiFi network – reboot router if needed.
- Verify module has solid WiFi signal in current location.
- Restart the module and reload the app.
Programs not starting properly
- Ensure schedules are properly programmed in the controller itself.
- Check two-wire path connections between module and controller.
- Verify clocks match on controller, module, and mobile device.
For any persistent issues, consult the LNK WiFi module installation manual or contact Rain Bird technical support. They can assist with troubleshooting any problems getting the module up and running.
Conclusion
The Rain Bird LNK WiFi module delivers a convenient way to monitor and manage home irrigation systems remotely. Its wireless connectivity and mobile app integration provides complete control over the sprinkler system from anywhere. Key features like water usage tracking, leak detection alerts, and flexible scheduling help optimize watering efficiency.
The module installs by connecting to the two-wire path and power wires from the compatible sprinkler controller. It then links to the home WiFi network to establish its internet access. With the mobile app synced to the cloud platform, users can control watering, view status, and configure programs without being onsite. Troubleshooting tips can help resolve any issues establishing connectivity or communicating with the controller.
With smart control capabilities, flexible scheduling, and remote access, the LNK WiFi module from Rain Bird makes it easier than ever to monitor and manage an irrigation system from anywhere for maximum efficiency and convenience.