Rain Bird Optima PRT-4 User Manual

1
AUTOMATIC
SPRINKLER TIMER
Owner’s Manual PRT-4 / PRT-6
For use with standard 24 VAC automatic sprinkler valves. These timers are designed for use in any 110
VAC /60 Hz ±10% AC outlet (240 VAC, 50 HZ for international version). The PRT Sprinkler Series
Timers provide simple programming and flexible schedules to meet your landscape watering needs.
We recommend you read this Owner's Manual completely before installing the timer to ensure proper
operation and safety.
Thank you for choosing the OPTIMA PRT-4 / PRT-6 Timer. Several innovative features allow you the
flexibility to tailor your program to fit a variety of watering requirements; and, best of all, it is easy to
program!
• Simple to use dials and buttons.
• Three available start times for each station to give you maximum flexibility.
• Off and Winterize features allow you to keep all your program settings while turning off your system
when you want!
Just in case, if you have questions, please call us toll free at 1-800-742-9922. (U.S.A., Canada & Mex-
ico).
ABOUT YOUR LAWN
Optima's PRT Series Sprinkler Timer is the central unit that controls watering times for your automatic
sprinkler system. The following information provides an overview of how the timer works.
Stations
To meet the different watering requirements of your lawn, trees, flowers, and other landscaping, you
can divide your yard into separate areas called "stations" or "zones".* Each "station" has one valve that
controls multiple spray heads or sprinklers. For example, if you have 4 valves, you can divide your lawn
into 4 "stations". See the figure below. (You cannot link more than one valve to one "station.") You can
however, select a different length of watering time for each "station".
* In the sprinkler industry, the terms "stations” and “zones” have the same meaning.
Station
3
Station
2
Station
1
Station
4
House

Rain Bird Optima PRT-4 Specifications

General

Model	Optima PRT-4
Number of Zones/Stations	4
Display Type	LCD
Cycle and Soak	Yes
Wireless Capability	No
Outdoor Use	Yes
Type	Sprinkler Timer
Rain Delay	Yes

Summary

About Your Lawn

Stations Explained

Defines 'stations' or 'zones' for different landscaping watering needs, each with one valve.

Legend and Basics

Watering Schedule Options

Explains three methods to set watering days: specific days, intervals, or preset schedules.

Start Time Configuration

Describes setting up to three watering start times per day for flexible watering cycles.

Watering Duration Settings

Details setting individual watering times for each station, from 1 to 99 minutes.

Tools Needed for Installation

Lists necessary tools and materials for installing the sprinkler timer and wiring.

How to Install Your Timer

Choose Timer Location

Guidance on selecting an appropriate indoor location for the timer, considering environmental factors.

Connect the Battery

Instructions for connecting a 9-volt battery for power outage backup and memory preservation.

Wire the Valves

Detailed steps for wiring sprinkler valves to the timer, including common and hot wires.

Connect the Transformer

Procedure for connecting the timer's transformer to the power outlet after wiring is complete.

Programming the Sprinkler Timer

Set Current Day and Time

Guide to setting the current day and time on the timer using the dial and arrow buttons.

Set Watering Days

Instructions for setting watering days using specific days, intervals, or preset schedules.

Set Watering Start Times

Procedure for programming up to three distinct start times for watering cycles.

Set Water Time Per Zone

Configuring individual watering durations for each station, from 0 to 99 minutes.

Manual Start Cycle or Zone

How to manually start a watering cycle for a specific station or the entire system.

Turn Unit Off for Rain

Instructions on how to temporarily disable the system, for example, during rain events.

System Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Battery Back-Up Maintenance

Recommendation for annual battery replacement and its role in preserving settings during power outages.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Guides users through diagnosing and resolving common problems with the sprinkler timer.