Step-by-Step Guide
The test menu in the BaseStation 1000 provides diagnostic tools to verify communication and performance of all connected devices, including zones, moisture sensors, and the two-wire path itself. You can test devices individually or run a comprehensive test of all devices at once.
Accessing the Test Menu
1. Navigate to the Test menu on the BaseStation 1000.
The test menu displays several options for testing different components of your system:
- Test individual devices (zones, moisture sensors, etc.)
- Test two-wire path
- Test all devices
Testing Individual Zones
All device tests follow the same procedure and provide similar diagnostic information. Testing a zone verifies communication and provides detailed performance data.
1. From the test menu, select the option to test a zone device.
2. Use the up or down arrow buttons to select the zone number you want to test from the list on the left side of the screen.
3. Press OK to begin the test.
4. Wait for the test to complete and review the results displayed on screen.
The zone test results include the following information:
- Status: Indicates whether the zone is communicating properly (OK or Error)
- Serial number: The unique identifier for the device
- Solenoid current: Current draw of the solenoid valve
- Voltage: Operating voltage at the device
- Two-wire voltage drop: Voltage loss along the two-wire path (where applicable)
- Device version: Firmware version of the device (helpful when contacting support)
Testing Moisture Sensors
Moisture sensor tests provide soil moisture readings, temperature data, and communication status.
1. From the test menu, select Test Moisture Sensor.
2. Press OK to select the moisture sensor you want to test (if you have multiple sensors assigned in your system, use the arrow buttons to choose one).
3. Press OK to run the test.
4. Review the test results displayed on screen.
The moisture sensor test results include:
- Status: Communication status (OK or Error)
- Serial number: The unique identifier for the moisture sensor
- Current moisture reading: Real-time soil moisture level (note: a sensor not installed in soil will show a zero reading)
- Moisture limit: The configured threshold setting
- Temperature reading: Soil temperature in degrees Fahrenheit
- Two-wire voltage drop: Voltage loss along the two-wire path
- Firmware version: Device firmware version
Testing the Two-Wire Path
The two-wire test verifies the communication path and power delivery across your two-wire system.
1. From the test menu, select Test Two-Wire.
2. Press OK to begin the test.
3. Wait while the system tests the two-wire path. This takes approximately one minute.
4. Review the test results.
The two-wire test results include:
- Status: Overall two-wire path status (OK or Error)
- Two-wire voltage: Voltage on the two-wire path
- Current: Current flowing through the two-wire system
- Controller temperature: Internal temperature of the BaseStation
- Firmware versions: System firmware information
Testing All Devices
The test all devices function runs a comprehensive diagnostic of every device configured in your system and compiles the results into a single list.
1. From the test menu, select Test All Devices.
2. Press OK to begin the comprehensive test.
3. Wait while the system tests each device. This process takes several minutes as it cycles through each zone and device on the two-wire path.
4. Review the compiled results list.
The test will display the status of each component, including the two-wire path and all configured zones. Each device will show either OK or Error status in the results list.
Viewing Error Messages
If any device shows an error status during testing, you can view detailed error messages to help diagnose the issue.
1. From the run screen, press the Back button.
2. Press the down arrow button to navigate to View Messages.
3. Press OK to open the messages screen.
4. Use the up and down arrow buttons to scroll through all system messages and review any errors that need attention.
Video Walkthrough
If you have questions, here are 3 ways to get answers:
1. Search within this HydroPoint knowledgebase
2. Visit the HydroPoint 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.