2-Wire Troubleshooting - A Comprehensive Guide

The most important tool for troubleshooting any 2-Wire decoder system is a milliamp clamp meter, such as the Armada Pro95i. If you do not have a milliamp (mA) clamp meter, contact your local irrigation distributor or order one online as Lowes, Home Depot, etc. do not stock this product. 
 
Required Tools 
1. Milliamp Clamp Meter (mA) (Armada Pro Series) 
2. Small Flathead Screwdriver  
3. Wire Strippers & Lineman Pliers 
4. Digital Multimeter (Voltage Measurement Tool)   
5. Extra Decoders & Solenoids  
6. Waterproof Splice Kits (3M DBRY/6) 
 
Know The Signs of a 2-Wire Problem 
1. Irrigation Controller unresponsive or slow to respond.  
2. Stations won't start, seem to run "randomly" or water won't stop.  
3. Controller line lights are solid or not illuminated.  
(Normal light behavior is alternating Red and Green 1/sec)  
4. Active "Short Circuit Alarm" on controller.


Steps for Success:

1. Step 1 - Identify the Fault: Controller or Field Installation (2-Wire Path)
   
2. Step 2 - Establish Your Benchmark & System Layout
3. Step 3 - Enable the Controller's “Short Finding" Mode
   
4. Step 4 - Chase the "High Number" (mA)
5. Step 5 - Locate & Resolve the Problem

Once a repair is complete, return to the controller to identify if the problem / alarm has resolved. Check that the controllers’ LEDs have returned to normal operation or that system current is reduced. Repeat this process from STEP 1 if the short is still active.