Step-by-Step Guide
Understanding the Single Station Decoder
The single station decoder is the most common decoder used on the WeatherTRAK H2O 2-Wire system. Every station, zone, or valve on the system requires its own decoder to function properly.
The single station decoder is designed to handle one valve and is wired in between the two-wire path and the valve in the field. The decoder manages all operations for that valve on the two-wire system.
Important Compatibility Information
Two-wire decoders are proprietary, meaning the decoders must match the control system they are being used with. This is a critical consideration when replacing an existing system with a WeatherTRAK H2O 2-Wire controller.
If you are replacing an existing two-wire system with a WeatherTRAK H2O 2-Wire system, you must also replace all of the existing decoders from the previous system. Any two-wire controller is only capable of managing its own type of decoders, so when installing a WeatherTRAK controller, you must also install WeatherTRAK decoders on every station.
Pre-Programmed Decoder Option
Single station decoders can be ordered pre-programmed with the station numbers already assigned to the decoder. This option saves the installer time in the field by eliminating the need to program each decoder on the day of installation.
Decoder Part Number and Packaging
The single station decoder part number is WT2W-H2O-1VD. The decoder packaging includes important information on both sides of the bag.
The back of the bag contains the installation instructions, which detail the process for physically installing the decoder on the two-wire path and on the valve. The back also includes a wiring diagram and a warning that states to always use the right wire nuts. Keep the bag for reference during installation.
Decoder Package Contents
When you open the decoder package, you will find the decoder itself along with all of the proper wiring connections. The single station decoder has red and black wires that connect to the two-wire path, and white and orange wires that connect to the station valve.
Programming a Single Station Decoder
- Locate the terminal on the mini chassis board labeled Station Program. The board will show where the red and black wires should be connected.
- Plug the red and black wires from the decoder into the terminal located on the mini chassis board.
- Press Setup on the controller.
- Press the forward arrow button until you reach Setup 15, which is the Configure H2O 2-Wire screen.
- Press the Plus button until the screen reads Program Decoders.
- Press Select.
- Press the Star button. The controller will read the decoder.
- Press the Plus or Minus button to assign the decoder to the correct station. Continue pressing Plus until you reach the station number you want to assign to this decoder.
- Press the Star button to confirm the station assignment.
- The next screen will ask if you want to change the power level for the decoder. For most stations, leave the power level on Low. If you know you have a high current valve, change the power level accordingly.
- Press the Star button to configure the decoder. The screen will display Programming Successful.
- Note the small orange indicator on the screen, which shows the decoder wire color associated with that valve. The orange wire is associated with that station. This becomes important when working with dual decoders or decoders where you need to differentiate which hot wire goes to which valve.
- Label the decoder immediately.
- Unplug the decoder from the Station Program terminal.
Pro Tips for Single Station Decoders
Label Decoders Immediately: Labeling your decoders clearly and immediately is essential. This practice helps avoid duplicate decoders with the same address on the system. No two decoders should have the same address, as this will create a conflict that takes time to troubleshoot later.
Document Decoder Locations: Always properly document where the decoders are installed. This documentation will minimize troubleshooting time in the future.
Use the Installation Worksheet: Download the WeatherTRAK 2-Wire Installation Guide, which provides a step-by-step installation process and includes a handy worksheet for documenting each decoder. Use this worksheet to record each decoder's serial number and other vital information to help keep track of your decoders throughout the system.
Video Walkthrough
Video originally published December 2020.
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.