Intelligent Valve Monitor
September 28, 2005
Our Intelligent Valve Monitor (IVM) prototypes are seeing more use each day. We've had a number of inquiries about the device, and would like to take a moment to answer some of the most common questions. Please feel free to contact us with any additional questions. We will update this article with new questions as we receive them.
How do I install the IVM?
To install the IVM, line up the opening on the side of the mounting pipe with the inlet of your valve, and lower the IVM on top of the valve until it lies flush with the base. There should be very little side-to-side play; if there is, the IVM should be turned gently clockwise until resistance is encountered.
What do I need to do to retrofit an existing system?
Inside the valve, there is a disc/stem assembly. This assembly needs to be replaced with one of ETC's IVM disc/stem assemblies, included with the IVM. To do so, simply remove the 8 screws on the top of the valve, lift off the cover, and swap the assemblies. Once you've replaced the cover, your valve is ready for our IVM.
What kind of valve can the IVM be used with?
The IVM can be used with K-Rain's 6000 series valves, either the 4-outlet or 6-outlet versions. Both models can be configured mechanically to use less than their maximum outlets (ie, 3 outlets active on a 4-outlet valve), and the IVM can be set up to recognize this.
Will I need a different unit for 4-outlet and 6-outlet valves?
No. Our current IVM can be used on either model; there is an option on the admin page of the unit which allows you to select which valve you are monitoring.
What kind of battery does the IVM use?
Our current model uses a single CR123A, commonly used as a camera battery. This should be readily available in most stores. In the future, a AA or AAA version may be available.
How many events/errors does the IVM store?
In addition to storing the total count and time spent on each outlet, we save the 16 most recent events. Also, if an event occurs more than once in a row, we store the number of times that that event occurred, rather than creating a new entry.
The "Reset" function only clears the period counts. How can I clear the totals?
Currently, the only way to clear the totals is to perform a complete memory erase on the board. Do not do this unless you are absolutely sure that you want to erase everything. When powering on the unit (when you first insert the battery, or when waking from Shutdown mode), hold down the ! button. When the display turns on, release the button and press UP and DOWN together.
How do I wake the IVM from Shutdown mode?
The IVM has a Shutdown mdoe that is intended to conserve battery life during storage, accessible from the Version screen. While in Shutdown, the unit is completely non-functional, and keypresses will not wake the unit up. The unit can be powered up again by holding the OK button for approximately three seconds, until the display turns on.
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