Answers to Common Questions about the Ware Brothers Sprinkler Controller.

I do not want to run a network cable to the controller. Are there other options hook it up?

Although the cable is the cheapest option, there are several other network solutions that can work: 

• There are wall plugged Ethernet bridges that run a Ethernet connection over your electrical lines. NetGear and Siemens (Speedstream) make these modules (the Netgear powerline adapter is model XE10). You can plug one in at the timer and one near computer or hub you want to connect too. I recommend this option because it has been very reliable and easy to setup.
• There are wireless hubs that have 4 or more Ethernet connections on them. You could mount a wireless hub close enough to the timer to plug it in.

How does this controller work?

The Ware Brothers Controller has the same type of relays to operate sprinkler valves that conventional sprinkler controllers use.  Then we added an embedded computer that controls the sprinkler valves and acts as a web server with an Ethernet (network) port.  By connecting your computer or network through the Ethernet port, you can access the software to control your sprinklers through the web browser of your computer. It can also be placed on the Internet to allow you to connect to the controller from anywhere with a web connection. 

To run lights or outlets in your home, we added a serial port that sends a signal into the electric wires in your home to control light switches, outlets, etc...  This allows you to automate anything inside your home without the expense of changing the wiring!  This controller allows you to control your entire home, inside and out!

What are the advantages of this system over conventional sprinkler timers?

Anyone who has stared at the tiny LCD screen, buttons, and dials of conventional sprinkler controllers for very long can easily say that conventional sprinkler controllers are not easy to use.  In addition, they are often limited in their capabilities to meet your watering needs.  The Ware Brothers Controller gives you:

• Individual scheduling control over each zone, with up to 24 start times per day.  Test drive the software on our website and see how easy it is to use!
• Many water and electricity saving features.
• Operate water pumps, fountains, and garden lighting. 
• Control lights and outlets inside and outside of your home without changing the wiring in your home. 
• Respond to rain, moisture, pressure, motion, and light sensors. 
• Use for home security by turning on lights or sprinklers when someone is in your yard when you don't want them there. 
• Compatible with all X-10 home control devices to allow you to use remotes and control pads.   
• And, it gives you access to control all of these items from your home computer, network, or the Internet.

No.  If you use a computer to surf the Internet, you will be able to operate your sprinklers with this controller.  See how easy-to-use and straightforward the software is on our website at the Test Drive the Software link.

Yes.  Connect your sprinkler valve wires to the controller in the same manner you would connect any conventional controller.  The advantage of this controller is that you have an easy to use scheduling program to control your sprinklers and lights from your computer.

No.  The controller has its own computer and memory to execute the schedule that you enter without needing to be connected to your computer.

Yes.  On the Advanced Options page, you can tell the computer to operate your pump any time a sprinkler valve is running.  You will need a 110v relay to operate the pump with the timer.  These are available on our website.

Yes.  It is included in the price.  All software and scheduling information is contained on the controller and is accessed through the web browser on your computer.

For a controller that connects to your home computer or network, you will find that this is much less expensive than controllers on the market today.  In many cases, especially with the 24 and 32 station controllers, the cost is about the same as conventional controllers that don't have a way to control them from your computer.