Step-by-Step Guide
Identifying the Correct Decoder Type
Before programming, verify that you have the correct decoder for your system. The WeatherTRAK Powered by Tucor (PBT) system uses blue decoders with two blue wires and two white wires. This system was used primarily on projects that started before 2018.
The newer H2O decoders are black, not blue. The two systems use different decoder types and are not interchangeable. If you have a WeatherTRAK Powered by Tucor controller, you must use the blue PBT decoders.
Connecting the Decoder to the Programming Port
The controller has a dedicated programming port with color-coded sides printed on the board—one side marked blue and one side marked white.
1. Take the two blue wires from the decoder and insert them into the blue side of the programming port.
2. Take the two white wires from the decoder and insert them into the white side of the programming port.
Ensure the wires are firmly seated in the correct color-coded terminals before proceeding.
Accessing the Decoder Programming Menu
1. Press Cancel twice to clear whatever is currently displayed on the controller screen. This ensures you start the programming process from a clean state.
2. Press the forward arrow button to scroll through the menu options until you see Main Menu Tests displayed.
3. Press the down arrow once to move from Tests to Decoder Programming.
4. Press Enter to access the decoder programming tool.
Programming the Decoder ID
The screen will display instructions to follow during the programming process.
1. The first instruction prompts you to connect the decoder to the port. Since you've already connected it, press Enter to continue.
2. The screen will prompt you to change the ID. Press Enter to proceed.
3. The display will show Select New ID and will begin at station 1. Use the up arrow button to scroll through the available station numbers until you reach the station number you want to assign to this decoder.
4. When the correct station number is displayed on the screen, press Enter.
5. The controller will display a confirmation message such as "Program Decoder to Station 12" and prompt you to confirm. Press Enter to confirm and begin programming.
6. The controller will program the decoder and verify the programming automatically. Once complete, the screen will display "New Decoder ID Station 12" (or whichever station number you selected).
7. The screen will remind you to label the decoder. Disconnect the decoder from the programming port.
Labeling the Decoder
Immediately after programming, use a permanent marker (such as a Sharpie) to write the station number directly on the decoder body. Labeling decoders at the time of programming will save significant time during field installation and future troubleshooting.
Testing the Programmed Decoder (Optional)
If you want to verify that the decoder was programmed correctly, you can test it immediately.
1. Reconnect the decoder to the programming port using the same blue-to-blue and white-to-white wire configuration.
2. Navigate to the Test Decoder menu option and run the decoder through the test sequence to confirm it responds to the assigned station number.
Programming Multiple Decoders
If you need to program additional decoders, you can continue programming without exiting the decoder programming menu.
1. After labeling the first decoder, remain in the Decoder Programming menu.
2. Connect the next decoder to the programming port (blue wires to blue side, white wires to white side).
3. Repeat steps 2 through 6 of the programming process for each additional decoder, selecting a different station number for each one.
This allows you to program multiple decoders in sequence efficiently without having to navigate back through the menu system each time.
Video Walkthrough
Video originally published September 2023.
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.