EtherRain Support - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
To view and download configuration software, click here.
EtherRain Frequently Asked Questions
Is EtherRain currently available? How long has it been on the market?
EtherRain is currently available via direct purchase and can be shipped to both US domestic and international locations. EtherRain has been reliably controlling automated sprinkler systems since 2008. We are constantly enhancing our easy-to-use schedulers and our reliable and innovative LawnCheck Internet Irrigation/Sprinkler scheduling app to provide increased features and even more value to our customers.
Does the EtherRain Valve Controller have a built-in Scheduler?
EtherRain does not have a built-in scheduler. It requires the use of an external scheduler such as OptiRain Open, LawnCheck, or a home control system. These schedulers send only a single command to EtherRain and EtherRain executes the full cycle itself. This system design offers higher functionality with improved reliability and reduced maintenance. EtherRain executes commands that are sent to it so it requires no tedious clock setting. In addition it has no battery thus eliminating battery replacement chores.
Schedulers that reside on local or remote servers are very feature-rich and are capable of providing much greater value than can be provided on a controller with an embedded web-browser interface in this price range. Centralized scheduling servers are capable of offering more sophisticated irrigation flexibility and more control with a far easier user interface thus offering a far superior solution compared to simple embedded web-interface timers. Schedulers like QuickSmart's OptiRain and LawnCheck have a large, easy-to-use interface. They are designed with built-in water saving features and so can help reduce your monthly operating expenses.
What Platforms are available to provide scheduling control for EtherRain?
Currently QuickSmart offers feature rich scheduling servers for use on Windows 10 (OptiRain) Linux (including Raspberry Pi), MacOS X (OptiRain Open 2) and a complete Internet Sprinkler Controller application (LawnCheck). A script set is available to provide easy control with HomeSeer (2 and 3) and a plugin is available for MiCasa Verde Vera.
QuickSmart's OptiRain, OptiRain Open, and LawnCheck scheduling applications provide sophisticated scheduling and water saving functionality. They are much more user friendly and easier to learn(ie, intuitive, easy-to-use) than the scheduling software available for competitive products. The EtherRain controller has the widest scheduling platform support in the industry.
In addition to Windows, Linux, MacOS X, and Internet (LawnCheck) EtherRain can also be controlled by the powerful HomeSeer Home Control Server through a set of easy-to-use scripts and webpages provided by QuickSmart specifically for HomeSeer 3. Users of the popular Vera home controller can also use EtherRain to control irrigation using a third party developed plugin.
In addition, mcsSprinklers, the sophisticated irrigation control software from MCS Automated Solutions, also provides support for EtherRain.
Please contact us if you are interested in support for other platforms.
Will EtherRain work with my Vera 3 home controller?
Yes. The best place for information on the using EtherRain with Vera is the MiCasaVerde Support forum for EtherRain. In addition Vera plugins are available here: UI4 or UI5
Are SmartPhone Apps available for EtherRain?
Yes. The ZonePopper iPhone App is available for iPhone and iPad. ZonePopper Android App is available for Android phones and tablets. These apps provide immediate local control for valve testing. ZonePopper also runs manual cycles.
Do I have to configure EtherRain prior to using. If so how?
In most cases EtherRain should be configured prior to installation. Configuration consists of giving your EtherRain a unique name. If you are using LawnCheck then you must also input your LawnCheck account number and set mode to "poll." This configuration can be easily accomplished by using EtherRain Admin. Rev C EtherRains have this configuration available through an internal web interface.
How do I attach power to EtherRain?
EtherRain requires an external standard 24VAC irrigation transformer for use as a power supply. This transformer also supplies the power to activate your valves so you only need one power supply for both EtherRain and your valves. 24VAC transformers for irrigation use are readily available in hardware and gardening supply stores. You can purchase a transformer from us as a matter of convenience (we'll test the transformer and attach the EtherRain connector).
What is the default password for EtherRain?
The default password is: pw (two letters, lower case).
I've configured EtherRain for use with LawnCheck, but it's not connecting to LawnCheck. What could be wrong?
If your EtherRain is configured for use with LawnCheck, per the above response, and it isn't communicating with LawnCheck, first make sure that your EtherRain controller name matches exactly with your LawnCheck device name. You can test host access and validate device access using EtherRain Admin from the "Config" screen. For more information on LawnCheck, visit the LawnCheck forum.
How do I configure EtherRain for Use with LawnCheck?
To configure EtherRain for LawnCheck, from the configure screen within EtherRain Admin, click the "poll" option and enter your 10 digit LawnCheck Account number in the field provided then click the update button. For more information on LawnCheck, visit the LawnCheck forum.
indivdualI don't have an Ethernet port where my irrigation wires are located in my house. How can I connect?
Low cost wireless bridges are available to extend your LAN to remote locations that are accessible via WiFi. Various brands are available. One, two, and four port models are available. For more information, please view this note: Economically Connect EtherRain to WiFi(.pdf).
I'm using a commercial rain sensor from RainBird, Hunter or other manufacturer. Will it work with EtherRain?
Yes it should work. Check your rain sensor installation guide to locate the wires used with a Normally Open (NO) installation.
I'm using a WIRELESS commercial rain sensor from RainBird, Hunter or other manufacturer. Will it work with EtherRain?
Yes it should work. For example, if you are using the Hunter Wireless Rain-Clik, follow the install instructions (Hunter Wireless Rain Clik installation guide)for a normally open installation. In this case, connect the yellow wires to the power transformer and the blue and the orange wires to the EtherRain rain sensor input. Please check the installation manual provided with your sensor to get the right wire colors.
I've just received my EtherRain, plugged in power and the network connection, how can I test it?
The easiest way to test EtherRain is by using EtherRain Admin. Select the device (the controller should appear automatically when EtherRain Admin is executed). Click "test" button to test, click the "seconds" radio button, enter some zone times in, and click "begin." You should see the green "relay power" LED turn on at the center front panel of the controller, and hear clicks as the relays close and open.
My installation has a master valve. Can I use EtherRain?
Yes. For installations that have a master control valve you'll need to order the EtherRain 7P. This version supports 7 zones plus a master valve or a pump control valve.
I'd like some local control from my smart phone. What are my options?
If you have an iPhone, the ZonePopper for iOS App will provide local valve control.
If you have an Android phone, the ZonePopper for Android App will provide local
valve control and run manual cycles.
Can EtherRain Control Lighting and Outdoor Power?
Rev C versions of EtherRain feature self-timed control for individual zones. So this is possible and practical with the Rev C version of EtherRain. Up to 5 zones can be active at the same time. We do not have a scheduler available to support these applications. From a practical standpoint, you'd want to use an EtherRain dedicated to power control to ensure that your irrigation scheduling doesn't impact your power control.
Still have a question that you don't see an answer to here or on the LawnCheck forum? If so please contact us: support@quicksmart.com (or use our email contact form.)