The FieldNET™ by Lindsay Spread Spectrum system is a robust monitor and control solution for irrigation management, creating a wireless network connected to the Internet at a single point. This allows for remote monitoring and control of irrigation systems from anywhere with Internet access, a voice portal for phone-based monitoring, and text message alerts to cell phones or email.
FieldNET RTU / SX-N3000 / SX-R3000
Function Description:
The FieldNET RTU (Remote Terminal Unit) is a radio module installed on the center pivot, transmitting and receiving data from a Base RTU connected to the Bridge. For FieldBOSS and FieldVISION modules, the FieldNET Pivot RTU connects directly. For other panels (FieldBASIC or competitive panels), a Basic Link is required in addition to the FieldNET RTU. The RTU is configured using internal switches to select pivot operation or Base RTU functionality, and to choose the hop pattern for communication. FieldNET RTUs are Near Line of Sight (NLOS) transceivers, meaning direct line of sight is not strictly required, but the antenna should not be completely obscured. With good line of sight, the range is approximately 10 miles, though each site requires evaluation. Each pivot to be controlled will have one FieldNET Pivot RTU or FieldNET PRO.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Power: Requires 12 VDC, with a 9V alkaline battery for backup if control panel power is lost. The RTU requires 750 mA from the 12V supply to transmit.
- Communication: Spread Spectrum 900 MHz radio. Near Line of Sight (NLOS) transceivers with a range of approximately 10-20 miles under good line of sight conditions.
- Configuration: Internal switches for selecting hop patterns (0-7) and configuring as a Base RTU (Switch 4 in "ON" position).
- Device ID: Each RTU has a unique 8-character Device ID (numbers 0-9 and letters A-F) for identification on the web portal.
- Antenna: Shipped with a long-range directional antenna. An adaptor cable is used to connect the antenna. Damage can occur if powered up without an antenna.
- LED Indicators:
- Mesh LED: Momentarily turns ON when the RTU successfully "meshes" (communicates) with a Base RTU.
- Signal Strength LEDs (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%): Indicate signal strength when the Signal Strength Switch is pressed.
- Rx/Tx LEDs: Blink to indicate data reception (Rx) or transmission (Tx).
- I/O LEDs (for Basic Link connection):
- LED 1: ON for 8 seconds when a START command is sent.
- LED 2: ON for 8 seconds when a STOP command is sent.
- LED 3: ON when Forward line has 120 VAC.
- LED 4: ON when % Timer line has 120 VAC.
- Power LED: ON when the RTU has 12 VDC.
Usage Features:
- Remote Monitoring and Control: Allows starting, stopping, monitoring wet/dry status, direction of travel, accessory operation, percent timer, and estimating field position via the FieldNET web portal.
- Hop Pattern Selection: Users can select one of eight hop patterns using internal switches to ensure all directly communicating devices are on the same pattern.
- Signal Strength Check: A Signal Strength Switch allows the RTU to enter a mode where LEDs indicate signal strength, aiding in antenna alignment.
- Battery Backup: A 9V alkaline battery powers the RTU if the control panel loses power, allowing it to transmit a "powered down" message.
- Integration: Compatible with FieldBOSS, FieldVISION, FieldBASIC, AIMS Basic, AIMS Advanced, and Valley's Mechanical, Basic, Select, and Pro panels.
- Web Portal Registration: Newly installed RTUs are automatically listed on the web portal's Device List once they mesh with a Base RTU and the Bridge is operational.
Maintenance Features:
- Battery Replacement: The 9V alkaline battery should be replaced at the beginning of each irrigation season. Only 9V alkaline batteries should be used.
- Antenna Handling: Always remove the power cable before removing the antenna to prevent damage to the radio module.
- Configuration Changes: Before changing hop patterns (Switches 1-4), remove power from the RTU and wait 10 seconds for all power to drain. The RTU only checks switch positions during power-up.
- Troubleshooting: The manual provides a systematic troubleshooting guide for communication issues, including checks for power, cable connections, antenna alignment, hop patterns, and signal strength.
- Installation Verification: The Mesh LED on the test FieldNET RTU should momentarily turn on after power-up to confirm communication with the Base RTU. The Device ID appearing on the web portal confirms successful installation.
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