ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System

Installation & Troubleshooting Guide

 Contents

2-Wire Decoder System Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Advantages of a 2-Wire Decoder System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2-Wire Path Layout and Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Valve Types. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
ESP-LXD Controller Option Cartridges. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Rain Bird LIMR Controller Remote . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
ESP-LXD Control System Flow & Weather Sensors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Rain Bird Weather Sensors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Rain Bird ESP-LXD Series Controller Enclosures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
FD-Series Decoders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
2-Wire Cable & Splices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Grounding & Surge Protection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Flow & Station Management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Rain Bird ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Controller Installation Checklist. . . . . . . . 26
ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Diagnostics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Rain Bird Global Support Plan (GSP)

ESP-LXD Controller purchase includes a 6-month GSP Phone Support Plan. Contact GSP at 877-351-6588 (U.S.
and Canada) for support. Ask about free pre-construction training to get your crew up to speed and avoid
common pitfalls.

Rain Bird Spec Hotline

Please call the Rain Bird Spec Hotline number at 800-458-3005 (U.S. and Canada) for assistance with specifying an
ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder System. You may also send an email with questions to: www.spechotline@rainbird.com
For information contained in this guide related to troubleshooting, please contact GSP support (see above).

Specifications Tools
Specification tools including CAD Details and Written Specifications for the Rain Bird ESP-LXD Series 2-Wire
Control System can be found at www.rainbird.com/esplxseries

Copyright © 2013 Rain Bird Corporation. All rights reserved. No part of these materials may be reproduced by any means, nor trans-
lated into machine language, without written permission of the publisher. Rain Bird®, ET Manager™, IQ Central Control System™,
FloWatch™, FloManager™, FloZone™, and SimulStations™ are trademarks of the Rain Bird Corporation. All rights reserved.

2 ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide

2-Wire Decoder System Overview

A Rain Bird ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System provides modular control of small to large
irrigation systems. Unlike traditionally-wired controllers that power the valve solenoids directly
through individual valve wires, a 2-wire decoder controller uses a 2-wire cable to interconnect
decoders that in turn control the valve solenoids.

An ESP-LXD controller is programmed similar to a traditional-wired controller. The difference

is factory assigned decoder addresses are assigned to stations, master valves, and sensors. As
irrigation programs execute, the controller sends commands via the 2-wire path cable to the
decoders located at each valve and sensor. The decoders directly activate the solenoids on the
valves and monitor the sensors.

Typical 2-Wire Decoder to Valve Connections

ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide 3

 Advantages of a 2-Wire Decoder System

Aesthetics
An ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Controller provides transparent automatic control of the irrigation
system. There are fewer above ground obstructions, making a 2-wire decoder system ideal for an
application in which the environmental elegance of the site is to remain undisturbed. Automatic
irrigation control can be installed on a site with fewer above ground enclosures. The higher station
capacity of the ESP-LXD controller (up to 200 stations) can replace multiple traditionally-wired
controllers (usually a maximum of 48 stations) and required power drops.

Designed for Protection from the Elements

The field components of a Rain Bird ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder System are designed for underground
burial, so they are all completely weatherproof. This makes a 2-wire decoder system a perfect
application for a site that can be affected by flooding. Anywhere that an automatic control system
can be damaged by the elements of nature a 2-wire decoder system can be buried without fear of
damage.

Vandal Resistant
Since all the 2-wire decoders are underground, it is an ideal solution to the problem of vandal
damage on an irrigation system. On a site where vandalism is a concern, a 2-wire decoder system
allows all of the field components to be put underground and out of sight in potentially lockable
valve boxes, therefore, out of the reach of vandals. A single 2-wire cable can replace as many as 200
individual wires in a traditionally-wired control system making it a much lower target for copper wire
thefts.

Flexible Installation and Simple Expansion

A Rain Bird ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Controller System controls the field decoders through a
2-wire path interconnecting the controller and all the decoders. This 2-wire path carries both the
communication and power to operate the decoders and the irrigation valves. 2-wire decoders
can be added to the field in any type of layout desired. This flexible installation simplifies the
installation process, and also allows the installation to be done in multiple phases. When additional
areas are being prepared for irrigation, they can be connected to the rest of the system simply by
splicing into the two-wire path on the existing layout. If a valve needs to be added simply wire
the new valve to a 2-wire decoder, wire the decoder to the existing 2-wire path, and program the
address for this decoder into the controller. This provides for simple expansion or changes to the
decoder system in the future.

4 ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide

2-Wire Path Layout and Connections

The design of a Rain Bird ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Controller system requires careful consideration
to the layout of the decoders on the 2-Wire path. Since a decoder system powers the electric
solenoids through the 2-wire path, the 2-wire path must be able to provide enough voltage to
power the solenoids. There are design specifications limiting the length of the 2-wire Critical Path.
Refer to page eight of this guide for design specifications.

2-Wire Configurations
There are two types of configurations that can be used for the layout of 2-wire paths: STAR or
LOOP. The controller will supply up to four separate 2-wire paths for a STAR configuration and up
to two separate 2-wire paths for LOOP configurations. Depending upon the design of the site,
it is preferable to separate the 2-wire paths into multiple wire runs rather than install a single
2-wire path throughout the site. These wire paths can be configured in either the STAR or LOOP
layout or a combination of the two types. For ease of troubleshooting, the STAR configuration is
recommended.

Star Configuration
For normal installations with 2-wire path runs that are not excessively long, the recommended
layout for the 2-wire path is the STAR configuration. This is to facilitate ease of troubleshooting
the system should it experience a wire fault or short. The distance of the farthest decoder from
controller measured along the 2-wire path is considered the Critical Path of the 2-wire cable for a
STAR configuration. The maximum distance for the Critical Path is 1.65 miles for 14 AWG Maxi Cable,
and 2.63 miles for 12 AWG Maxi Cable. For metric cable the maximum distance for the Critical Path
is 3.0 Kilometers for 2.5 mm² cable.

2-Wire Path Star Pattern Design

ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide 5

 Loop Configuration
If the installation requires longer wire runs than are possible with the STAR configuration (farther
than 1.65 miles away from the controller) then a LOOP configuration may be used. A LOOP
configuration requires looping the 2-wire path out to the farthest decoder then back to the
controller. In a LOOP configuration, the Critical Path is the distance measured by following the
2-wire path around the loop out to the farthest decoder and back to the controller. The maximum
distance for the Critical Path for a LOOP configuration is 6.61 miles for 14 AWG Maxi Cable and 10.52
miles for 12 AWG Maxi Cable. For metric cable the maximum distance for the Critical Path is 12.0
Kilometers for 2.5 mm² cable.

2-Wire Path Loop Pattern Design

Maximum Critical Path Lengths for 2-Wire Paths

Max. Length For Critical Path
Ohms per 1000' or
Nominal Ohms per Km (per Star Loop
Wire Size conductor) Km Miles Km Miles
2.5 mm2 7.5 0hms/Km 3.00 1.86 12.00 7.46
14 AWG 2.58 0hms/1000' 2.66 1.65 10.63 6.61
12 AWG 1.62 0hms/1000' 4.23 2.63 16.93 10.52

6 ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide

Decoder to Solenoid Layout
All valves must be connected to field decoders for irrigation management by the controller.
Decoders must be wired both to a valve and by splicing to the 2-wire path. Splices and field
decoders should always be placed in valve boxes (except when valve-in-head sprinklers are used,
which can be directly buried).

NOTE: For secondary wire run, the distance between the field decoder and the solenoid (valve)
can not exceed 450 feet (137 meters) using 14 gauge wire.

Valve Types

The ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Controller is compatible with the following Rain Bird Commercial
Valves:
 PGA Series
 PEB/PESB/PESBR Series
 GB Series
 EFB-CP Series
 BPE/BPES Series

NOTE: The ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Controller will not work with Rain Bird Residential Valves
including DV, JTV, HV, ASVF Series Valves.

The ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Controller is also compatible with Rain Bird Golf Valve-in-Head Rotors
and Rain Bird Commercial PSR-Series Pump Start Relays.

ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide 7

 ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Controller

ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Controller

The ESP-LXD has a standard capacity of 50 stations and is expandable to 125 or 200 stations
increments using the ESPLXD-SM75 75-station modules.

ESPLXD-M50 2-Wire Decoder Module

Included with every ESP-LXD is the ESPLXD-M50 2-Wire Decoder and Flow Smart Module, a “double-
wide” module which snaps onto two adjacent mounts on the controller backplane. The ESPLXD-M50
Module includes the lugs for attachment of the two-wire path cables.
 FloWatch™ logs flow and quickly identifies and isolates high or low flow situations, such
as mainline breaks. Manages up to five (5) Points of Connection each through separate or
combined Master Valves and FloZones – See Appendix for various configurations.

 FloManager™ Manages flow demand and ensures you don’t overtax your water supply. Finds
combinations of stations to operate simultaneously to use all available capacity from the water
supply.

ESPLXD-SM75 75-Station Expansion Module

Adds an additional 75 stations in the ESP-LXD and snaps onto the controller backplane. One
ESPLXD-SM75 module increases the station capacity to 125 stations and two increases the station
capacity to 200 stations.

ESP-LXD Controller Option Cartridges

PBC-LXD Programming Backup Cartridge

Backup and restore programming for up to eight ESP-LXD Decoder Controllers.
 Option: Attach a barcode scanning pen (sold separately) and scan the peel-off barcode labels
from the Programming Chart included with the controller. Your decoder addresses are entered
for you automatically saving you time. MS100-2 Barcode Scanning Pen - Unitech www.ute.com

ETC-LX ET Manager™ Cartridge

The Rain Bird ET Manager Cartridge easily upgrades the ESP-LXD Controller to an ET/Weather-based
irrigation smart controller. Available in most part of North America only, and requires a signal
provider for your geographic area.

IQ Central Control Compatible

Through the incorporation of an IQ-NCC Communication Cartridge, the ESP-LXD controller can
be controlled from the Rain Bird IQ™ Central Control System. Communication options: -GP GPRS/
Cellular, -PH Phone, -EN Ethernet, -WF Wi-Fi, and -RS RS-232 (RS-232 used for Radio or Direct
Connect)

8 ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide

Rain Bird LIMR Controller Remote

LIMR-KIT LIMR-QC603
 900MHz Transmitter,  6-Pin Quick Connect
Receiver, Quick-Connects, Cable, 3 feet
Carrying Case
LIMR-QC630
LIMR-TX  6-Pin Quick Connect
 900MHz Transmitter Only Cable, 30 feet
LIMR-RX
 900MHz Receiver Only

ESP-LXD Control System Flow & Weather Sensors

Flow Sensors
Up to five (5) flow sensors can be installed on the 2-Wire path. SD-210 Sensor Decoder are required
for each sensor. Rain Bird FS-Series Flow Sensors are available in ½” to 4” PVC Tee, 1” to 2” Brass Tee,
and Brass and Stainless Steel Insert Style models.

Rain Bird FS-Series Flow Sensors

FS050P FS400P FS350SS

 ½” Slip x Slip, PVC Tee  4” Slip x Slip, PVC Tee Flow  Stainless Steel Insert
Flow Sensor Sensor (for Pipe Saddle) Flow
Sensor for 3” to 12” Pipe
FS075P FS100B
Diameters
 ¾” Slip x Slip, PVC Tee  1” Threaded, Brass Tee
Flow Sensor Flow Sensor  Pipe Inside Diameter
entry required
FS100P FS150B
 1” Slip x Slip, PVC Tee Flow  1-½” Threaded, Brass Tee Custom
Sensor Flow Sensor  3rd-party flow sensor or
meter
FS150P FS200B
 1-½” Slip x Slip, PVC Tee  2” Threaded, Brass Tee  K-Factor and Offset entry
Flow Sensor Flow Sensor required (supplied by
3rd-party manufacturer)
FS200P FS350B
 2” Slip x Slip, PVC Tee Flow  Brass Insert (for Pipe  Reed-Switch 2-wire
Sensor Saddle) Flow Sensor for 3” output only with
to 12” Pipe Diameters minimum 2 pulses per 10
FS300P
seconds for the lowest
 3” Slip x Slip, PVC Tee Flow  Pipe Inside Diameter
station flow rate
Sensor entry required

ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide 9

 Rain Bird Weather Sensors

One locally wired (to the decoder module) and up to 3 installed on the 2-wire path. SD-210 Sensor
Decoder required for each 2-wire path weather sensor.
Notes:
1. Operates only with switch-type normally closed sensors.
2. Not compatible with tipping rain-can sensors.
3. Compatible with Rain Bird Anemometer Wind Speed Sensor when used with a Rain Bird
PT-3002 Pulse Transmitter.

RSDBEX
 Wired Rain Shutoff Sensor, Bracket Mount
 Configure as Rain Sensor

RSDCEX
 Wired Rain Shutoff Sensor, Conduit Mount
 Configure as Rain Sensor

WR2RC
 Wireless Rain Shutoff Sensor
 Configure as Rain Sensor

WR2RFC
 Wireless Rain/Freeze Shutoff Sensor
 Configure as Rain/Freeze Sensor

ANEMOMETER
 Wind Speed Sensor (WSS)
 Requires Rain Bird PT3002 Pulse Monitor
 Configure as Wind Sensor

WS1
 Soil Moisture Sensor (SMS)
 Irrometer Water Switch - www.irrometer.com
 Configure as Soil Moisture Sensor

Custom Prevent
 Normally-closed sensor that prevents station operation when sensor circuit opens

Custom Pause
 Normally-closed sensor that pauses station operation when sensor circuit opens

10 ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide

Rain Bird ESP-LXD Series Controller Enclosures

The ESP-LXD Series 2-Wire Decoder Controller standard enclosure is a NEMA 3R rated, plastic,
locking, wall-mount enclosure. Optional painted metal and Stainless Steel enclosures include:
LXMM
 Painted metal, locking, wall-mount enclosure, NEMA 3R

LXMM-PED
 Painted metal, locking pedestal for LXMM enclosure, NEMA 3R

LXMM-SS
 Stainless Steel, locking, wall-mount enclosure, NEMA 3R

LXMM-PEDSS
 Stainless Steel, locking pedestal for LXMM-SS enclosure, NEMA 3R

Metal Cabinet & Pedestal

The ESP-LXD controller standard plastic case field installs into the LXMM or LXMM-SS enclosure for
wall-mount applications. Add the LXMM-PED or LXMM-PEDSS pedestal for free-standing controller
applications.

ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide 11

 FD-Series Decoders

Field Decoders - FD-TURF Series (Grey) & FD-Series (Black)

Field Decoders are used to control station and master valves. The decoder model number first
digit represents the number of decoder addresses (stations or master valves) and the last digit the
quantity of solenoids that can be activated per address. Each decoder is factory programmed with
a unique three, four or five digit address that is utilized to associate with a station or master valve.
There are five types of field decoders:

Rain Bird Field Decoder Models

Maximum Maximum
Number of
Decoder Number Of Addresses
Addresses
Model Solenoids Operating
Per Decoder
Per Address At Once
FD-101 1 1 1
FD-102 1 2 1
FD-202 2 2 2
FD-401 4 1 4
FD-601 6 1 6

Note: When activating valves and pump start relays that are not manufactured by Rain Bird,
there may be exceptions to the maximum number of solenoids per address that can be energized.
Contact Rain Bird for more details..

Notes:

12 ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide

FD-101 One address – controlling one valve

Example Address # 12345

FD-102 One address – controlling two valves simultaneously

Example Address # 12346

Notes:

ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide 13

 FD-202 Two addresses – each controlling two valves simultaneously

Example Address # 12347

Example Address # 12348

Notes:

14 ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide

FD-401 Four addresses – each controlling one valve

Example Address # 12349

Example Address # 12350

Example Address # 12351

Example Address # 12352

Notes:

ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide 15

 FD-601 – Six addresses – each controlling one valve

Example Address # 12360

Example Address # 12361

Example Address # 12362

Example Address # 12363

Example Address # 12364

Example Address # 12365

16 ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide

Field Decoders – FD-TURF-Series (Grey) or FD-Series (Black)
The Rain Bird ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Controller is compatible with two types of FD Series Field
Decoders.
 FD-TURF Series (Grey) Field Decoders are sold in the U.S. and Canada.
 FD Series (Black) Field Decoders are sold in the rest of the world.

The ESP-LXD controller automatically configures itself, by measuring the incoming voltage
frequency, to operate with the correct type of decoder.
Note: FD-TURF Series (Grey) and FD-Series (Black) Field Decoders cannot be used on the same
system.

Examples:
1. The ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Controller has been installed at a site in the U.S. where the incoming
power is 120 VAC @ 60 Hz. When the controller is powered, it will automatically be configured to
operate FD-TURF (Grey) Field Decoders.
2. The ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Controller has been installed at a site in Europe where the incoming
power is 230 VAC @ 50 Hz. When the controller is powered, it will automatically be configured to
operate FD-Series (Black) Field Decoders.

Sensor Decoder – SD-210 (Green)

The Rain Bird ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Controller integrates the use of select flow and weather
sensors. The SD-210 Sensor Decoder is pre-programmed with a unique five digit address that is
utilized to associate with a flow or weather sensor input.

Note: SD-210TURF Sensor Decoders are required for use in U.S. and Canada (60 Hz power).
SD210 Sensor Decoders are required for use in the rest of the world (50 Hz power).

ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide 17

 Lightning Surge Protector – LSP-1 (Yellow)
The ESP-LXD controller and the 2-wire path must be properly surge protected and grounded. Doing
so can help prevent damage to the controller and irrigation system and also significantly reduce
troubleshooting, repair time and expense. Failure to do so could result in failure of your controller
and voiding the warranty.

Refer to page 24 of this guide for recommended location and quantity of LSP-1 Lightning Surge
Protectors.

2-Wire Cable & Splices

MAXI Cable
Use only MAXI Cable for 2-Wire path applications.

Construction: Special irrigation control wire

Conductor: Tin coated, soft drawn bare copper (ASTM Spec. 33)
Two (2) conductors Solid (14awg and 12 awg)
Insulation: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
Outer Jacket: Polyethylene (PE)
Colors: Red, White, Black, Orange, Blue, Yellow, Purple, Brown, Pink, Grey, & Green
Temperature: 60°C
Voltage: 600 volts

18 ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide

Wire Splices
Use only 3M DBR/Y-6 splice kits for all electrical wiring connections to the 2-wire path. Improper
wiring can cause serious damage to your controller or irrigation system.

Grounding & Surge Protection

The ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Controller and the 2-wire path must be properly surge protected and
grounded. Doing so can help prevent damage to the controller and irrigation system and also
significantly reduce troubleshooting, repair time and expense. Failure to do so could result in failure
of your controller and voiding the warranty.
To comply with proper installation specifications, the following components should be grounded:
 ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Controller
 ESPLXD-M50 2-Wire Decoder Module
 LSP-1 Lightning Surge Protector
 SD-210 Sensor Decoder
 FD-401 Field Decoder
 FD-601 Field Decoder
Notes:
1. Each installed grounding system shall maintain a maximum ground resistance of 10 ohms,
or less.
2. Refer to the Rain Bird Grounding Recommendations document for proper specifications on
Grounding System Installation and Grounding System Design.

ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Controller

TThe ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Controller is protected against electrical surges through the ground
provided by the primary ground of the incoming power to the controller.

ESPLXD-M50 2-Wire Decoder Module

The ESPLXD-M50 2-Wire Decoder Module provides a ground lug on the front of the module that
accepts a #6 AWG Bare Copper Wire that is connected to a ground rod or plate.
A grounding wire on the module should be connected to the ground (GND) spade connector on the
small terminal strip above the transformer. It is not necessary to connect this ground lug to an earth
ground.

ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide 19

 LSP-1 Line Surge Protector
The LSP-1 Line Surge Protector provides surge protection for the ESP-LXD controller and the 2-wire
path and should be spliced into the 2-wire path in three distinct areas:

1. ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Controller – The LSP-1 Line Surge Protector provides surge
protection for the ESP-LXD controller against electrical surges originating from each 2-Wire
Path utilized. The LSP-1 Line Surge Protector shall be spliced into each 2-Wire Path in close
proximity to the ESP-LXD controller.

2. 2-Wire Path – The LSP-1 Line Surge Protector provides surge protection for the following
FD-Series Field Decoders installed on the 2-Wire Path:
 FD-101
 FD-102
 FD-202

Note: The 2-wire path shall be surge protected and grounded with one LSP-1 Line Surge Protector
every 500 feet or every 8 decoders, whichever is smaller.

3. Termination of 2-Wire Path – An LSP-1 Line Surge Protector shall be installed at the end of
the 2-wire path in a STAR configuration.

SD-210 Sensor Decoder

SD-210 Sensor Decoders have a built-in line surge protector to provide surge protection for each
sensor installed on the 2-Wire path.

FD-401 and FD-601 Field Decoder

The FD-401 and FD-601 Field Decoders have a built-in line surge protector to provide surge
protection for Field Decoders installed on the 2-Wire Path:
 FD-101
 FD-102
 FD-202

Note: Because the FD-401 & FD-601 Field Decoders and SD-210 Sensor Decoder have built-in
surge protection, the 2-wire path surge protection requirement could be stated in the following
manner: The 2-wire path shall be surge protected and grounded with one LSP-1, FD-401, FD-601
or SD-210 every 500 feet or every 8 decoders, whichever is smaller.

20 ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide

Flow & Station Management

The ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Controller can manage up to five (5) water points of connection, five (5)
Master Valves, and five (5) FloZones through a variety of hydraulic configurations using the following
concepts and/or features:
 Master Valve – A valve or pump start relay that controls (turns on/off ) a point of connection
where the irrigation system connects to the water supply.

 Flow Sensor – Used to monitor the irrigation system real-time flow rate. The current system
flow rate is displayed at the controller and totalized in a flow log. The flow rate is used to detect
high or low flow conditions and diagnose and shutdown the problem valve or water source and
issue alarms.

 FloZone – A group of stations that receive water from one or more points of connection. Each
water source would have its own Master Valve and Flow Sensor. If a mainline receives water
from two or more points of connection the controller combines the input from all associated
flow sensors to determine the FloZone real-time flow rate.

There are two primary Flow Management features:

 FloManager (available on ESP-LXD and ESP-LXD models)– Manages the total system flow rate by
dynamically selecting one or more stations that operate simultaneously to use the full capacity
of the water source. Operating the irrigation system at peak flow capacity shortens the overall
time it takes to irrigate the site and reduces pumping power costs

 FloWatch (available on ESP-LXD models only) – Monitors and logs the real-time system rate
with a flow sensor. A Learn Flow Utility learns and records the nominal flow rate of each station.
If a high or low flow condition is detected, the controller will follow user configured steps to
diagnose and eliminate the problem (problem station valve or water source is quarantined).

SimulStations™
The ESP-LXD can operate multiple programs and stations concurrently. The controller ensures
sufficient power is available to operate a maximum of eight (8) valve solenoids simultaneously.
 The range of SimulStations available per program (ABCD) is one (1) through eight (8)

 The range of SimulStations available for the entire ESP-LXD controller is one (1) through (8) for
irrigation and non-irrigation stations.

 Each normally closed master valve that needs to be open for irrigation to occur reduces the
maximum SimulStation by 1. Example: The system has one (1) normally closed master valve.
The maximum number of SimulStations is reduced from eight (8) to seven (7).

ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide 21

 FloZones
The following example designs represent the capabilities of the ESP-LXD controller to manage the
FloZones of the irrigation system:

22 ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide

Flow Sensor Sizing

 FS050P, FS075P, & FS100P flow sensors have an operating range 2 to 20 ft/sec (water velocity in
pipe).

 FS150P, FS200P, FS300P, FS400P, FS100B, FS150B, FS200B, FS350B & FS350SS flow sensors have
an operating range 1/2 to 30 ft/sec (water velocity in pipe).

 Select a flow sensor size based on the smallest station flow rate and the largest system flow rate.

 If a single flow sensor is outside the operating range of a single sensor a dual bypass flow sensor
system is recommended.

Suggested Suggested Suggested

Model Operating Range Operating Range Operating Range
(Gallons / Minute) (Liters / Minute) (Cubic Meters / Hour)
FS050P 1.9 - 18.9 7.2 - 71.7 0.43 - 4.3
FS075P 3.3 - 33.2 12.6 - 125.8 0.75 - 7.5
FS100P 5.4 - 53.9 20.4 - 204 1.2 - 12.2
FS150P 5 - 100 18 - 378 1.1 - 22.7
FS200P 10 - 200 36 - 756 2.3 - 45.4
FS300P 20 - 300 78 - 1134 4.5 - 68.1
FS400P 40 - 500 150 - 1890 9.1 - 113.6
FS100B 2 - 40 6 - 150 0.5 - 9
FS150B 2 - 82.6 6.3 - 313 0.4 - 18.7
FS200B 4.9 - 294 18.5 - 1112 1.1 - 66.7
FS350B 12 - 45000* 48 - 168000* 2.7 - 10200*
FS350SS 12 - 45000* 48 - 168000* 2.7 - 10200*
* Depends on pipe size and material

Notes:

ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide 23

 Flow Sensor Installation
 Sensor to be placed in straight run (sensor run) of pipe.

 A sensor run of no less than 10 times the pipe diameter on the sensor inlet is required.

 A sensor run of no less than 5 times the pipe diameter on the sensor outlet is required.

 The associated master valve would typically be installed on the upstream side before the
sensor run.

Low Flow Bypass Design

A Low Flow Bypass design is where two (2) flow sensors are utilized to accurately measure both low
& high flow rates on a single water source.
 The larger master valve’s pressure regulator is set three (3) to five (5) lbs. lower than the pressure
regulator on the smaller master valve.

 Low flows will automatically flow through the small master valve and flow sensor until the flow
rate increases to the point where the three (3) to five (5) PSI differential is overcome and flow
will automatically flow through both master valves and flow sensors.

 Configure both master valves and flow sensors on the same FloZone.

MV FS200P

MV FS100B

24 ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide

Master Valves
The ESP-LXD Controller can support up to five (5) Master Valves via FD-Series Decoders configured
as a Master Valve. Each is programmable by station. Both Normally-Closed and Normally-Open
Master Valves are supported.
 Normally-Closed Master Valve (default) – The valve is powered to open and opens each time a
station operates.

 Normally-Open Master Valve – A specialty valve that is powered to close and will only close
when a flow problem is detected by the controller. Normally-open master valves are popular
for systems with quick coupling valves making water available for manual watering at any time.

PSR-Series Pump Start Relays

Rain Bird PSR-Series Pump Start Relays can be used with FD-Series Decoders configured as a Master
Valve to start a pump. For more information go to: www.rainbird.com/landscape/products/pumps/
PumpStartRelays.htm
See installation detail below for connecting the ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Controller to the Pump
Start on the Pump Station Panel.

ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide 25

 Rain Bird ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Controller Installation Checklist

1. General Project Information

Project Name____________________________________________________________________
Location________________________________________________________________________
City______________________________________ County________________________________
Brief Project Description___________________________________________________________
Designer________________________________________________________________________
Contractor______________________________________________________________________

2. Station Capacity  50*  125  200

ESPLXD-SM75 Expansion Module  0 1 2
* 50 Stations are provided with the ESP-LXD Decoder Controller

Master Valves  0 1 2 3 4 5
Note: Quantity of Master Valves and Flow Sensors should be the same.

3. Sensors
Flow Sensors **  0 1 2 3 4 5
Types  FS050P  FS075P  FS100P  FS150P  FS200P  FS300P
 FS400P  FS100B  FS150B  FS200B  FS350B  FS350SS
Weather Sensors  0  1  2  3 Remote**  Local
Types  RSD  WR-2  WRF-2  WSS (with PT-3002)  SMS
** SD-210 (Green) Quantity _______
** One SD-210 required per 2-wire sensor

4. Option Cartridges
PBC-LXD Programming Backup Cartridge  Yes  No
ETC-LX ET Manager™ Cartridge  Yes  No
IQ-NCC Network Communication Cartridge  Yes  No Model ______________

26 ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide

5. Optional Enclosure  Yes  No
Wall-Mount Enclosure Pedestal
Model  LXMM Painted Metal  LXMM-PED Painted Metal
 LXMM-SS Stainless Steel  LXMM-PEDSS Stainless Steel

6. Field Decoders  Grey Turf  Black

FD-101 Quantity _______ FD-202 Quantity _______ FD-601 Quantity _______
FD-102 Quantity _______ FD-401 Quantity _______

7. Grounding & Surge Protection

Grounding Rod Quantity _______
Grounding Plate Quantity _______
LSP-1 (Yellow) Quantity _______
Notes: Install one LSP-1: 1) per Wire Path from Controller 2) Every 500 feet / 150 meters on Wire Path
3) Termination of each Wire Path.

8. Maxi Cable & Splices

Layout  Star  Branch
Maxi Cable – Quantity _______  14 AWG  12 AWG
3M DBR/Y-6 Splices Kits – Quantity _______

ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide 27

 ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Diagnostics

The ESP-LXD Controller includes multiple diagnostic functions to help you troubleshoot and
pinpoint the source of a problem. Refer to section C / Systems Diagnostics in the ESP-LXD Controller
Installation, Programming & Operation Manual for step-by-step instructions to use the diagnostic
features.

Tools and equipment

 An accurate “as-built” showing wire path and decoder locations, the number and type of the
decoders on each wire path, and decoder addresses

 Filled out ESP-LXD Controller Programming Guide with decoder addresses and station/MV/
sensor assignments

 A Volt/Ohm Meter (multi-meter) capable of reading 0 to 50 volts AC/DC and resistance from 0 to
1,000,000 Ohms

 A Clamp Meter for measuring AC current with a precision of 1.0 mA (milliamp).

 Wire tracing and fault finding equipment

 Spare system components and tools including: spare FD-Series Decoders, SD-210 Sensor
Decoders, 3M DBR/Y-6 wire splice kits, wire strippers, DPU-210 Decoder Programming Unit
(optional)

Calculating the total system mA (milliamp) draw

 Each single address FD-Series Field Decoder (FD101, FD102) draws 0.5mA

 Each multi-address FD-Series Field Decoder (FD202, FD401, FD601) draws 1.0 mA

 Add up the total decoders of each type for each wire path and calculate the wire path mA draw

 Add the mA for each wire path together for the total system mA draw

Types of field wiring issues

 Broken wire

 Short circuit

 Ground fault

Notes
• A majority of field wiring issues are caused by poor wire splices! Use only 3M DBR/Y-6 Wire
Splice Kits. All splices should be made in splice boxes.
• If the 2-Wire Path is Looped, disconnect the loop half way out before troubleshooting

28 ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide

Break / open circuit in the 2-wire path cable
 You will notice one or more stations are not running even though they are programmed to
operate. If the system is using flow sensing, you will receive a low (zero) flow alarm for each
disconnected decoder station.

- Use the Test All Stations to check which stations are operating

 Controller diagnostics

- Turn dial to Test All Stations / Check System; Select 2-Wire Diagnostics

- Select Decoder Test - The results will indicate that one of more decoders have an Open Circuit
and you will be prompted to Check Wiring; Go the location of the decoder that are not
responding and check wire splices

 2-Wire Path diagnostics

- Check your as-built drawing. If you notice that all the decoders that are not responding are
in a single leg of the 2-wire path, the open circuit exists between the last working decoder
and the first non-working decoder. Check the splices at that location first. Also look for signs
of recent construction/digging between the working and non-working decoders.

- Turn the controller dial to 2-Wire Diagnostics; Select Short Finding; Turn Short Finding Mode
On. Use a Clamp Meter to measure the Amp Draw of the 2-wire path cable conductors at
the last working decoder and the first non-working decoder. Note any discrepancies in the
readings. You must know the number and type of each decoder downstream to know what
the mA reading up should be reading (see Calculating the total system mA draw section for
more information).

Short circuit (red and black wires crossed) of the 2-wire path cable
 The controller alarm light will be illuminated and the alarm will inform you the controller has
switched to Short Finding Mode. You must fix the short circuit before the controller will switch
back to normal irrigation mode.

 2-Wire Path diagnostics

- Disconnect each 2-wire path cable one at a time from the controller ESPLXD-M50 Decoder
Module until the controller exits Short Finding Mode. Reconnect that 2-wire path cable, and
if the Short Finding Mode returns you know the short is on that leg of the 2-wire path.

- Refer to the as-built to see the location of the 2-wire path. Walk the route of the 2-wire path
cable and check for signs of recent construction/digging.

- Find a decoder location about half-way down the 2-wire path cable. Disconnect the splices.
See if the controller is still in Short Finding Mode. If the Short Finding Mode has cleared, the
problem is downstream of this location. If the controller is still in Short Finding Mode, the
problem is between this location and the controller. Keep disconnecting segments of the
2-wire path until you isolate the problem.

ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide 29

 - Use a Clamp Meter to measure the Amp Draw of the 2-wire path cable conductors at the last
working decoder and the first non-working decoder. Note any discrepancy in the readings.
You must know the number and type of each decoder downstream to know what the mA
reading up should be reading (see Calculating the total system mA draw section for more
information).

- The problem may be caused by a decoder or LSP-1 Line Surge Protector damaged by a
lightning power surge. The controller will exit Short Finding Mode when this damaged
decoder or line surge protector is disconnected from the 2-wire path.

Earth ground fault / 2-wire path cable/splice leaking to earth ground

 A 2-Wire Path Cable conductor is leaking to ground possibly due to a bad wire splice, or a
nicked or damaged cable. This issue may come and go depending on the soil moisture level.
When the soil is very wet the problem will be worse than when the soil is dry.

 Controller diagnostics

- Turn dial to Test All Stations / Check System; Select 2-Wire Diagnostics

- Select Line Survey. Note the Milliamp (mA) reading. The mA reading will be higher than
normal when current is leaking to ground. You must know the number and type of each
decoder in the system to know what the mA reading should be reading (see Calculating the
total system mA draw section for more information).

- Disconnect each 2-wire path cable one at a time from the controller ESPLXD-M50 Decoder
Module. Recheck the Line Survey to isolate which segment of the 2-wire path has the
ground fault.

- Find a decoder location about half-way down the 2-wire path cable. Disconnect the splices.
Check the Line Survey to see if the ground fault has been isolated. If the Line Survey is
normal, the problem is downstream of this location. If the Line Survey still shows the ground
fault, the problem is between this location and the controller. Keep disconnecting segments
of the 2-wire path until you isolate the problem.

2-Wire Path diagnostics

 - Turn the controller dial to 2-Wire Diagnostics; Select Short Finding; Turn Short Finding Mode
On. Use a Clamp Meter to measure the Amp Draw of the 2-wire path cable conductors at
various splice locations. Note any discrepancy in the readings. You must know the number and
type of each decoder downstream to know what the mA reading up should be reading (see
Calculating the total system mA draw section for more information).

30 ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide

ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Troubleshooting

Consult the ESP-LXD Controller Installation, Programming & Operation Guide (shipped with the
controller or available on-line) for detailed information on the built-in diagnostic features of the
controller.
 Section A / Auto – The controller displays the current status of the system along with any alarm
conditions in the Auto dial position.

 Section C / Systems Diagnostics – System diagnostic and troubleshooting tools are available in
the Test All Station / Check System dial position.
Troubleshooting
Category Issue Potential Cause Solution
Controller Red alarm light on the The controller is reporting an Turn dial to Auto, press the Alarm button, review the
Alarms controller front panel is alarm condition. alarm conditions, and address the issue(s).
illuminated.
Controller alarm; No The ESPLX2-M50 Module is Check the upper status light on the ESPLX2-M50
2-Wire Module. not properly attached to the module. It should be solid green if it is properly
controller module slots. connected to the controller. Remove and reinstall the
module making sure it is fully seated in the module
slots.
Controller alarm; 2-Wire Someone has manually Turn dial to Off, press the 2-Wire Path button, and turn
Path Off. turned the 2-wire path Off. the 2-wire path On.
Controller alarm; Duplicate decoder addresses Note the duplicate decoder addresses posted in the
Duplicate Decoder have been entered. alarm screen, verify and enter the correct decoder
Address. addresses.
Controller alarm; Short 2-wire path is shorted and the Disconnect the 2-wire cables from the ESPLX2-M50
Finding Mode. controller has automatically Module one at a time until the alarm condition clears.
switched to the Short Finding The lower left status light on the controller will alternate
Mode. The lower left status between red and green when the wire path with the
light on the controller is dark. short is removed.
- Trace the path of this 2-wire cable and look for source
of issue (disturbed soil, new tree or fence post, etc).
- Disconnect the 2-wire cable halfway between the
controller and end of cable and check to see if the alarm
clears to help identify short location on the cable.
- Use a volt/ohm and clamp meter to identify which
devices are receiving power.
- Fix the short and check that the alarm is cleared.
Controller alarm; No Decoder addresses have not Turn dial to Setup Wizards and select Station Setup.
Decoder Addresses. been entered for any stations. Enter the address (see label on each decoder) for each
station. Addresses are also required for Master Valves,
Weather and Flow Sensors.

ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide 31

 Troubleshooting
Category Issue Potential Cause Solution
Controller Controller alarm; Zero The Learn Flow Utility has Turn dial to Flow and Smart Module - Module Status,
Alarms Learned Flow. recorded a zero (0) flow rate select Flow Smart Module, View Flow Rates, View
for one or more station. Station Rates. Check for stations that have a 0 flow rate
and are labeled Learned.
- If all stations have learned a 0 flow check flow sensor/
input connections, Flow Sensor configuration, FloZone
assignments, etc.
- If only one or a few stations have learned a 0 flow rate
check the valve operation (flow control stem position,
solenoid, wiring, etc.).
- If just small flow rate valves/stations (like drip zones)
have learned a 0 flow rate the flow sensor may be
too large for the lower flow rates. Check the product
technical specs for the minimum flow rate of the flow
sensor.
Controller alarm; Flow FloWatch (flow sensing utility) Turn dial to Flow and Smart Module - Module Status,
Alarm. has detected a high or low select Flow Smart Module, View Flow Alarms, and
flow condition. review the posted Station and/or FloZone (mainline)
flow alarms. Note the station(s) or FloZone(s) that were
identified. If you configured FloWatch to Diagnose &
Eliminate or Alarm & Shut Down, the problem station(s)
or FloZone(s) will be quarantined. Clear the Flow
Alarms and test the system.
- Station flow alarms – Manually turn on the station.
Turn dial to Module Status, select Flow Smart Module,
View Current Flow. The current and expected flow rates
will be listed. Check the valve & sprinklers to identify
the issue and correct it. If sprinklers or nozzles have
been replaced, relearn the station flow rate.
- FloZone alarms - Manually start a program. Turn
dial to Module Status, select Flow Smart Module, View
Current Flow. The current and expected flow rates will
be listed. Check the water source(s) and mainline to
identify the issues and correct it.
- If FloZone high flow alarms are being triggered by
manual watering (QCV, manually bleeding valves, etc.)
consider using the MV Water Window located under the
Manual Watering dial position. Configure window open
and close times, days of the week, MV(s) you want open,
and the expected additional flow rate to allow for the
manual watering.

32 ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide

Troubleshooting
Category Issue Potential Cause Solution
Controller Controller alarm; Invalid A non-compatible module has Remove any recently added modules, one at a time,
Alarms Module Config. been inserted into one of the until the alarm condition clears.
controller module slots.
- ESP-LXME/-LXMEF Controller 4-, 8-, & 12-Station
Modules & FSM Flow Smart Modules are not
compatible.
Controller alarm; No PGM Incomplete programming. Turn dial to Test All Stations / Check System, select
will Auto Run. Confirm Programs, Program Summary. Missing
programming parameters are identified by an N. For
programs to automatically run you need to program
Start Days, Start Times, and Station Run Times.
Controller Alarm; Missing 75-Station Module has been An ESPLXD-SM75 75-Station Module that was installed
SM75. removed. in the ESP-LXD Controller has been removed. The
programming information for these stations has been
preserved. Reinstall a 75-Station Module to restore the
stations and programming supported by this expansion
module.
Controller Alarm; No No primary power to the Check the power input to the controller transformer.
Power – Irrigation controller transformer The display is being powered by the 9v backup battery.
Functions are Disabled.
Front panel ribbon cable is Check both ends of the ribbon cable to make sure it is
disconnected firmly connected to the backplane and front panel.
2-Wire Path Communication with 2-wire cable or splices are Turn dial to Test All Stations / Check System, select
Issues 2-wire devices is leaking to ground or between 2-Wire Diagnostics, 2-Wire Survey. The controller
intermittent. conductors. voltage output and 2-wire path milliamp draw will be
displayed.
- If there are no issues you will see Current Limit OK,
Current Overload OK.
- If the 2-wire cable leaks are drawing a high amount
of current you will see Current Limit Not OK, Current
Overload OK. Use the troubleshooting tips above to
find and fix the 2-wire cable/splice issues.
- If the 2-wire cable leaks are drawing a high
amount of current you will see Current Limit Not OK,
Current Overload Not OK. The controller will have
automatically switched to Fault Finding Mode. Use the
troubleshooting tips above to find and fix the 2-wire
cable/splice issues.
Controller loses Communication signal and Single-jacketed cable and/or incorrect wires splices
connection to 2-wire power leaks to ground. were used. When incorrect cable/splices become
decoders after a heavy submerged it can create leakage to ground. Double-
irrigation or rainfall event. jacketed 14-2UF Maxi 2-Wire Cable and 3M DBR/Y-6
Wire Splice Kits are required.

ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide 33

 Troubleshooting
Category Issue Potential Cause Solution
SD-210 The controller is not Sensor wiring polarity is Many sensor including flow sensors require wires to be
Sensor getting data from a reversed. connected with correct polarity (+ / -). If the sensor has
Decoders flow or weather sensor colored or labeled wires, connect as follows:
connected to a SD-210 • Sensor red (+) wire to the SD-210 Sensor Decoder red
Sensor Decoder on the wire.
2-wire path. • Sensor black (-) wire to the SD-210 Sensor Decoder
black wire.
Flow sensor output pulse rate The ESP-LXD Controller requires a minimum input of 2
is not compatible with the pulses per 10 seconds for the smallest station flow rate.
ESP-LXD Controller. Pulse rates of less than 2 pulses per 10 seconds will not
be registered. Change to a compatible flow sensor.
Weather sensor type is not The ESP-LXD Controller is not compatible with 4-20
compatible. mA or 0-5V weather sensors (discrete switched sensors
only).
Programs Programs are running at Multiple start times have been Turn dial to Test All Stations / Check System and select
random times. programmed unintentionally. Confirm Programs then Review Program. Review
each program using the Program slide switch to select
the program. Check for multiple start times on an
individual program. In some cases users’ mix-up start
times and stations and can inadvertently program the
system to start multiple times per day.
Water Windows have been Turn dial to Delay Watering and select Water Window.
configured so programs are Use the Programs slide switch to select a program
paused and resume later. (ABCD). Water Windows control the hours of the
day a program is allowed to operate. If a program
starts outside a Water Window it is paused until the
window opens. If the program is still running when the
Water Window closes the program is paused and will
automatically start the next time the window opens.
Adjust the Water Window open and close times to allow
the program to complete.
Station Stations are not running Station Sequencing set to The ESP-LXD offers 2 station sequencing modes:
Sequencing in station number Sequence by Station Priority • Sequence by Station Numbers (default) – Station
sequence selection criteria: a) Non-Irrigation Priority; b) Station
number low to high; c) Program assignment ABCD.
• Sequence by Station Priority (automatically used
if FloManager is On) – Station selection criteria: a)
Station Priority Non-Irrigation, High, Medium, Low;
b) Station Run Time longest to shortest; c) Station
number low to high; d) Program Assignment ABCD.
To change Station Sequencing mode turn dial to Station
Settings and select Station Sequencing. Use the +/-
softkeys to change the selection.

34 ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide

Troubleshooting
Category Issue Potential Cause Solution
Station A station valve is not Valve is manually closed or Turn dial to Manual Watering and select Start Station.
Valves operating. solenoid is damaged. Select the station making sure it has a run time and
press run. Check to see if the valve is operating and if it
isn’t address the valve issue.
Station does not have run Turn dial to Test All Stations / Check System and select
time for a program with start Station Run Time. Note which programs the station
days and a start time. has run times programmed. Use Program Summary to
make sure that program has start days and start times.
Station A station valve is not Decoder or valve wires are not Turn dial to Test All Stations / Check System and select
Valves operating. spliced correctly. 2-Wire Diagnostics. Select Ping Decoders, Station
Decoder and ping the Station Decoder address. If the
ping test fails check the decoder and valve wire splices
and repeat the ping test.
Incorrect Decoder address. Check the Decoder address of the station (label on
Decoder that is connected to the valve) and verify the
address is entered correctly. Turn dial to Setup Wizards
and select Station Setup to access Station Decoder
Address.
Incorrect Valve Type Turn Dial to Setup Wizard and select Valve Types. Valve
types configure the decoder inrush amps and duration
for opening a valve solenoid. The ESP-LXD Valve Types
are preconfigured for Rain Bird commercial valve
models. Information for configuring Valve Types to work
with other valves can be found in the controller manual.
Note: Rain Bird residential valves (DV, JTV, HV) are not
compatible with the ESP-LXD system or FD-Series
Decoders.
2-wire path from the Ping other valves on the same 2-wire path leg. If these
controller is not connected to pings are also unsuccessful, check for an open wire
this area. connections on the 2-wire path.
Master The Master Valve will not MV is assigned to a different Turn dial to Setup Wizards and select Master Valves.
Valves open when stations are FloZone than the stations. Press Next to advance to FloZone (FZ) Setup screen.
operating. MV needs to be assigned to the same FloZone as the
stations that receive water from this water source.
MV is Normally Open but If the MV valve is Normally Open (powered to close)
has been configured as a it needs to be configured as Normally Open. Turn dial
Normally Closed MV. to Setup Wizards, select MV Setup. Change MV from
Normally Closed (default) to Normally Open.
Station not configured to Go to Valve Setup Wizards, Station Setup to make sure
open Master Valve. the station is configured as requiring a Master Valve.
MV Decoder address is Check the Decoder address of the MV (label on Decoder
incorrect. that is connected to the MV) and verify the address is
entered correctly. Turn dial to Setup Wizards and select
Master Valves to access MV Decoder Address.

ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide 35

 Troubleshooting
Category Issue Potential Cause Solution
Master The Master Valve will not Decoder or valve wires are not Turn dial to Test All Stations / Check System and select
Valves open when stations are spliced correctly. 2-Wire Diagnostics. Select Ping Decoders, MV Decoder
operating. and ping the MV Decoder address. If the ping test fails
check the decoder and valve wire splices and repeat the
ping test.
Decoder is not functioning or Turn dial to Test All Stations / Check System and select
damaged. 2-Wire Diagnostics. Select Ping Decoders, MV Decoder
and ping the MV Decoder address. If the ping test fails
swap the Decoder, enter the new Decoder address and
repeat the ping test.
ESPLXD-M50 No output from the Fuses in the decoder module Find the source of the short or power connected to
Decoder ESPLXD-M50 Decoder have blown due to short or the 2-wire path and address the problem. ESP-LXD
Module Module. secondary power connected controllers with date codes of September 2013 or
to the 2-wire path. earlier have replaceable fuses. Contact Rain Bird for
replacement fuses for this version of the module.
Module is in Automatic Short Find the source of the short or power connected to the
Finding Mode due to short or 2-wire path and address the problem. Controllers with
secondary power connected date codes of October 2013 or later have self resetting
to the 2-wire path. fuses. These modules should have normal output once
the 2-wire path issue is fixed.
Pump Start The controller cannot Amp draw of the pump Use a Rain Bird PSR-Series Pump Start Relay that
Relays close the pump start start relay is more than the incorporates an ice-cube relay, double relay system.
relay that is connected to Decoder can provide. You can also add an ice-cube relay to the existing
a Decoder. pump start relay. Contact Rain Bird Technical Services
or Global Support Plan for relay model and wiring
diagram.
Controller The controller display is The display contrast needs to Turn dial to Off, press Contrast +/- buttons to adjust
LCD Display either too light or too be adjusted. display contrast.
dark.
Controller display is Controller LCD display is Plug in a 9V battery into the battery slot on the back
blank. damaged. of the controller front panel. If information is now
visible on the display it is not damaged and working
correctly. See other potential causes. If no information
is displayed, remove the decoder module. If the alarm
light on the front panel turns on after 1 minute but no
information is in the display, the LCD is damaged and
the front panel should be replaced.
Primary power to the This can be verified by checking the status lights on the
controller has been lost or decoder module. If both status lights on the module
turned off. are dark the primary power is likely off. Find primary
power source to the controller and turn it on. If the
power breaker is tripped or fuse is blown, find source of
problem, fix the issue, and turn the power back on.
Controller ribbon cable is not Check to make sure the ribbon cable is securely
connected or damaged. connected to both the controller backplane and the
front panel. If the cable has broken wires or connectors,
replace it.

36 ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide

Troubleshooting
Category Issue Potential Cause Solution
Simul Too many or too few LXD (Controller) SimulStations Turn dial to Station Settings and select SimulStations.
Stations stations are operating are configured incorrectly. Select LXD SimulStations and adjust the maximum
(Simul- simultaneously when number of simultaneous irrigation stations you want to
taneous program(s) operate. allow to operate across all programs at any time. Non-
Station Irrigation SimulStations control stations with Non-Irr
Operation) Priority.
PGM (Program) SimulStations Turn dial to Station Settings and select SimulStations.
are configured incorrectly. Select PGM SimulStations and adjust the maximum
number of simultaneous irrigation stations you want
to allow to operate simultaneously within the currently
selected program. Move the Program slide switch to
select the other programs (ABCD).
Program- The Programming Programming cannot be ESP-LXD controller programming backed-up to the
ming Backup Cartridge (PBC- restored to a different PBC-LXD Programming Backup Cartridge can only be
Backup LXD) is not restoring the firmware version of the restored to an ESP-LXD the same vintage of firmware.
Cartridge programming I backed- controller. ESP-LXD’s with date codes of December 2010 or earlier
up from a different have a different firmware vintage than ESP-LXD’s with
controller. a date code of January 2011 or later. Contact Rain Bird
Technical Services or Global Support Plan for assistance.
Weather Weather sensor is not This is by design. Manual station, program or test program operation
Sensors preventing controller (from the front panel or a remote) is allowed regardless
manual operation. of the weather sensor state. To see the current state of a
weather sensor, turn the dial to Test All Stations / Check
System and select Wthr Sensor Status. The status of
each sensor is displayed.
Wireless weather sensor Sensor receiver is not wired The ESPLXD-M50 Decoder Module includes 4 terminals
is not providing input to to the controller module for wireless weather sensor connections. Wiring
the controller. correctly. connections should be made as follows:
• Sensor receiver power wires to + and – terminals.
• Sensor receiver sensor wires to Sen and C terminals.
Controller I am having trouble Unlike knock-outs on a metal Prior to installing the cabinet, place on a flat surface
Knock-outs removing the knock-outs enclosure, these plastic with the knock-out facing up. Locate the dimple in the
on the ESP-LX Series knock-outs are designed to be center of the knock-out you wish to remove. Place the
Controller plastic cabinet. removed by applying force to tip of a large Phillips screwdriver in the dimple. Use a
the center at the dimple. rubber or wooden mallet to firmly strike the top of the
screwdriver. The knock-out should pop out in a single
piece. If it breaks, use pliers to remove the pieces. Do
not use a flat-bladed screwdriver around the outside of
the knock-out as this could crack the case.

ESP-LXD 2-Wire Decoder Control System Installation & Troubleshooting Guide 37

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