With the introduction and development of pressure controlled irrigation systems, solenoid valves can now be switched using 9v battery powered irrigation controllers. This means there is no need for a mains connection, making fitting quick and wiring simple.

Toro's new DDCWP (Digital Dial Controller Waterproof) is a fully functioning outdoor (IP68) irrigation controller that programs just like its mains voltage counterpart. Crucially, though, it does not need a connection to the mains supply, making installation much easier. Requiring two 9v batteries (which will last for a whole season), it is compatible with the wired rain sensor and is used in conjunction with the Toro latching irrigation manifold kits.

To save time and money, we have pre-selected all the components required for a reliable and easy-to-fit irrigation manifold set. For an irrigation manifold with more than six solenoid valves, simply add an extension kit for every additional solenoid required.

These controllers could not be easier to use. Just turn the dials to set the required run time then set the watering frequency (how often you want the irrigation to operate). There is a manual start button for the immediate activation of the program for testing and an intermittent LED system to indicate when the valves are open. The new LCD version indicates how many minutes are left until the next program starts, as well as a countdown for any cycles in progress. The Multipla will control up to six valves and is powered by a 9v battery (sufficient for an entire season), so mains power is not required.

These easy to program valves are designed to be mounted in-line and below ground for discrete installation. As they are low-voltage, they do not require mains wiring and will run for a whole season on one Procell 9v battery. The control unit is used in conjunction with a Multipla solenoid valve and comes with a special support to provide wall-mounting for easy programming and maintenance.

These multi-core cables are used to send the signal from the controller to each solenoid valve on the manifold. The 6-core cable will run up to five solenoid valves and 10-core will run up to nine solenoids (one core is used as the common wire).