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**There are instructions for the new cloud function (OTC) here**
General questions
What is OpenSprinkler?
OpenSprinkler is an open source, web based sprinkler/irrigation controller. It is a drop-in replacement for traditional sprinkler controllers that are not web connected. A web-connected controller like OpenSprinkler offers the following benefits:
- Intuitive user interface (UI) : no more mess with buttons and knobs, no more running to your garage to make a single sprinkler program change. Instead, you use the web browser and mobile applications to set or change sprinkler programs. The web interface is much more intuitive than a small LCD screen.
- Remote access : You can access your OpenSprinkler anywhere and anytime whether you are at home, in the office or traveling away (configuration required)
- Smart control : OpenSprinkler can connect to the Internet and use real-time weather data (including historical and forecast data) to automatically make water time adjustments. Not only does it stop watering when it rains, but it also scales the water amount and time up and down based on your local outdoor temperature and humidity.
- Connection options: We offer both controllers with built-in WiFi and controllers with integrated Ethernet port. In addition, the WiFi version can work without external routers, ideal for situations where you do not have an internet connection in the field.
Who is OpenSprinkler suitable for?
OpenSprinkler is suitable for homeowners as well as businesses, churches, farms, business parks and greenhouses. Typical applications include lawn and garden irrigation, plant watering, drip irrigation and hydroponics. It's cost-effective and expandable: OpenSprinkler can scale from 1-2 zones for a home up to 72 zones for a large company. With our app you can access multiple OpenSprinklers.
Also often used for
- Lawn and plant watering system for hotels and hotel complexes
- Football, tennis and sports fields (court irrigation), e.g. for sports clubs
- Hardware stores with a horticultural market for the exhibition plants
- Golf courses
Solenoid valves (e.g. 24VAC from Hunter, Rainbird and many more) are required for connection to the water pipes.
How many zones are supported?
By default, 8 zones are supported on the main controller. Each expander adds 16 zones. The latest firmware (2.1.9) supports a maximum of 72 zones.
What are the differences between the different hardware versions?
We currently offer OpenSprinkler 3.2 (with built-in WiFi), optionally with Ethernet connection and OpenSprinkler Pi (or OSPI, powered by a Raspberry Pi). In addition, the OpenSprinkler 3.2 is available in three different variants: AC powered, DC powered, and latch. AC power and DC power versions both work with standard 24V AC sprinkler valves. The main difference is that the AC version is powered by a 24V AC power supply and the DC version is powered by a low voltage 7.5V DC adapter. For International Customers: DC adapters are generally much easier to find than AC adapters. In addition, DC power version can work with any input voltage from 5V DC to 12V DC, including 12VDC solar panel. The latch control is also powered by a DC adapter, but only works with self-holding solenoid valves.
How many programs are supported?
The latest firmware (2.1.9) supports up to 35 programs on OpenSprinkler 3.0 and OSPI. Each program allows an individual watering time for each station (from 0 to 18 hours, accurate to the second) and two different appointment types:
1) Weekly Schedule, where you can select any combination of weekday (e.g. Monday and Wednesday);
2) Interval schedule where you can run the program every n days (n between 2 to 127) (e.g. every 3rd day).
Each program also allows two types of start times:
1) up to 4 fixed start times; or
2) Repeat start times (e.g. start at 8:30am, repeat every 45 minutes for 8 times).
The flexible start times can be combined for both cases, so you can set the watering many times a day with recurring intervals.
How is OpenSprinkler different from competitors?
Web-based sprinkler controllers are not a new idea. OpenSprinkler differs from similar products on the market in the following aspects:
- OpenSprinkler has a built-in web interface and runs programs on its own processor. It does not rely on proprietary or PC-only software or cloud-only software. The web interface works with any modern browser. The HTTP API is well documented and allows local access without a cloud server. Our mobile app is free and supports all major platforms.
- You can easily expand the number of zones up to 72. The costs are significantly cheaper than competing products on the market.
- The software introduces an advanced set of features such as support for two independent master zones; Support for rain sensor, flow sensor, program start switch; Manual control using buttons, special station such as remote, radio frequency (RF), GPIO and HTTP stations. It offers flexible program start times, graphical preview of program schedules and log data, custom zone and program names, supports zones either sequentially or in parallel, watering time can be run accurate to 1 second. These features are rarely found in competing products.
- We offer both the WiFi option and Ethernet jack option. In addition, we do not rely on cloud connections so that your controller works even when the internet is offline. The WiFi option also works in AP mode without an external router.
- OpenSprinkler ships worldwide and supports more than 20 different languages.
- OpenSprinkler is based on open source hardware and software. His design files are publicly available. If you are a technical developer, you can easily customize and extend its functionality in both software and hardware.
Where can I find the open source files?
All OpenSprinkler design files, schematic, board design, firmware code, app code including circuitry can be found on the OpenSprinkler Github repository page: https://github.com/OpenSprinkler .
Installation and use
What is in the package?
The package contains an OpenSprinkler controller (8 zones). You will still need a corresponding power adapter. For the AC version, the input voltage must be between 22V AC and 28V AC. The DC power version and latch version require a 7.5V DC (5-12V DC) power adapter. For the DC version, an international power adapter is included.
Does OpenSprinkler have an integrated network interface or only wireless?
- OpenSprinkler 3.0 has only WiFi built-in (based on Esp8266 microcontroller), but no integrated Ethernet socket.
- OpenSprinkler 2.3 has an Ethernet socket built-in, but no integrated WiFi.
- OpenSprinkler Pi is powered by a Raspberry Pi, and the networking options depend on your RPi.
- OpenSprinkler 3.2 has WiFi and optionally a network adapter (ENC28J60 10MBit)
- OpenSprinkler 3.3 has WiFi and optionally a network adapter (W5500 100MBit)
What type of cable should I use?
For laying in the garden, use a “telecommunications underground cable”, e.g. “A-2YLY2 diameter 0.8mm”. This is available from 4 to 20 cores.
FOR AC:
| Type US | AWG 20 | AWG 18 | AWG 16 |
| Cable diameter | 0.8mm | 1.0mm | 1.3mm |
| Cable cross section | 0.5mm² | 0.8mm² | 1.3mm² |
| Length max | 200 m | 300 m | 450 m |
FOR DC:
| Type US | AWG 20 | AWG 18 | AWG 16 |
| Cable diameter | 0.8mm | 1.0mm | 1.3mm |
| Cable cross section | 0.5mm² | 1mm² | 1.3mm² |
| Length max | 100 m | 150m | 200m |
FOR LATCH:
| Cable cross section | 1mm² |
| Length max | 30 m !!!!!!! |
Thicker cables allow longer line lengths. Applies to standard valves with approx. 300 mA inrush current as well
- for AC an AC power supply with >= 36VA power (at 24VAC max 1.5A)
- with DC and latch a DC power supply >= 20W (at 7.5V-12V, approx. 2.7A)
The cable of the solenoid valves must be connected to this cable in a waterproof/waterproof manner, e.g “3M Scotchlok 314”
What type of solenoid valves can we work with?
- AC powered OpenSprinkler (including OSPI) works with standard 24VAC sprinkler system valves. It is compatible with existing 24VAC system, including pump start relays, wireless sensors that require 24VAC power. 24VAC valves open when powered and close when de-energized.
- DC powered OpenSprinkler works with both 24V AC sprinkler system valves and 12 VDC (non-latching) valves. It comes with a 2A power adapter, enough for 4 valves. However, for certain 24VAC pump start relays and wireless sensors that require a lot of 24VAC power, you may need to provide a separate 24VAC power supply. 24VAC or 12VDC valves open when powered and close when de-energized.
- Latch OpenSprinkler only works with DC Magnetic catch valves. These are self-holding valves that require an impulse for every change in status.
I am new to using sprinkler systems. How can I install OpenSprinkler with existing solenoid valves?
OpenSprinkler is designed to be a drop-in replacement of your traditional sprinkler controllers. Whether you're installing a new system or replacing an existing controller, do-it-yourself (DIY) installation is easy and can be completed quickly:
- Carefully label wires and remove them from the existing controller.
- Replace your existing controllers with OpenSprinkler, then connect the wires to OpenSprinkler.
- Connect OpenSprinkler to the router (WiFi or wired Ethernet).
- Check out our tutorial videos in the Support – Page – Installation section or that's how it works!
- The manual in German/English/French also explains the installation.
If you have an existing sprinkler system installation, the wires should already be finished and labeled. If you are installing a new system: Typically each solenoid valve has two wires. Connect one wire to that COM (Common) connector, and the other wire to a single zone opening (1 to 8). For multiple valves, one wire from each valve is combined together and goes to the COM terminal; the other wire goes to a single zone port. If you are unsure, consider seeking help from a landscaper, an electrician, or a hardware store.
Is the OpenSprinkler waterproof?
No, the controller is not waterproof and must not be used outdoors without protection. For outdoor installations you should use one waterproof case use, which has a built-in power socket and offers enough space to accommodate an OpenSprinkler, a few expansion cards and WiFi adapters.
Which sensors does OpenSprinkler support?
OpenSprinkler currently has two sensor ports that the software can use for a rain sensor, a soil moisture sensor, a flow sensor or a program start button. Any rain sensor or soil moisture sensor that works either as an opener or as a closer is supported. By default, dry contact flow sensors (i.e. two-wire type) are supported, but some three-wire type (with external supply of 5V) are also supported. Also water meter with impulse outputs. The program start button allows you to connect a switch/button to the sensor port and start a program by pressing the button. The firmware allows you to configure the sensor type and choose the sensor parameters.
Does OpenSprinkler support a soil moisture sensor?
Yes, a digital soil moisture sensor is supported from firmware version 2.1.9. Digital means it can display the soil moisture as a yes/no signal. We have this for the OpenSprinkler A2D in the program, which maps an analog signal to digital in an adjustable manner. We recommend this as a soil moisture sensor SMT-50 from our shop.
But be careful: Soil moisture sensors only measure moisture at one point on the soil. If it is partially shaded, the soil moisture values are completely different compared to fully irradiated places. The same applies to different soil conditions. We therefore recommend working with the OpenSprinkler weather services and a rain sensor instead of soil moisture sensors.
New is the additional product “Analog Sensor Board”, which has 8 analog inputs and thus allows the connection of up to 8 analog sensors, such as the SMT50.
Does OpenSprinkler support master zone or pump stations?
Yes. OpenSprinkler uses software-defined master zone/pump station, and supports up to 2 independent master/pump zones. Each of the available ports can be configured as a master/pump zone.
Can I insert two wires into the same zone port?
Yes. But remember that when you do this, the two zones will always open and close at the same time.
Can I run multiple zones at the same time?
Yes. OpenSprinkler firmware allows each zone to operate in 'parallel' mode by turning off the 'sequential' flag. A parallel zone can run concurrently with other zones.
Can I use OpenSprinkler to switch devices, not just solenoid valves?
Yes. OpenSprinkler firmware has built-in support for GPIO (general purpose) IO stations, HTTP stations and radio frequency (RF) transmitters. This makes it possible to directly switch a spare GPIO, send a general HTTP GET command, or talk to RF remote sockets, which in turn switch all powerline devices, such as landscape lights, Christmas lights, pumps, heaters, fans. Details can be found in our Blog – Articles . You can also use 24V AC relays to let OpenSprinkler switch other devices. Details can be found in this Blog – Articles .
What is the LCD and buttons for?
OpenSprinkler has an integrated LCD screen that displays the current time, zone status and rain status. The buttons are used to make OpenSprinkler display the IP address or perform a factory reset.
How do I check the IP address assigned to OpenSprinkler?
Click the B1 button and the IP address will be displayed on the LCD screen.
How do I program a program button manually?
Hold the B3 button until you see a program message. Then follow the instructions on the LCD screen.
What happens if there is a power loss?
OpenSprinkler stores all programs and settings in non-volatile memory. This means the data is retained even in the event of a power failure.
Web connections
How do I access OpenSprinkler?
OpenSprinkler has a built-in web interface that works with most desktop and mobile web browsers. Simply open a browser and enter the controller's IP address in the address bar. We also offer a free OpenSprinkler mobile app. OpenSprinkler mobile app, search for ‘OpenSprinkler’ in your app store. The mobile app can automatically scan the local network and detect OpenSprinkler's IP
Unlike some other web-based controllers, OpenSprinkler does NOT require a cloud connection – your data remains local to the controller. You can access on site without going through the Internet.
Can OpenSprinkler run offline without an internet connection?
Yes. Once programmed, OpenSprinkler can be run offline without a network connection at all. The controller has an integrated real-time clock and battery for time measurement. You can also manually start an existing or test program on the controller using the buttons.
Can I use OpenSprinkler without a WiFi router?
With the latest firmware (2.1.8), OpenSprinkler 3.0, all features are supported in AP mode — it can serve as a wireless LAN hotspot itself, allowing mobile phones and laptops to connect to it and access OpenSprinkler.
How do I access OpenSprinkler remotely?
You can access OpenSprinkler Remote by using Port – Forwarding share, this is available with most routers. To do this, you must go to your router configuration page and create an entry in the Port Forwarding or Sharing section that points to the OpenSprinkler IP address and port.
For a Fritz!Box you can find this under “Internet / Sharing / Port Sharing”. There you add a port share for the IP and the port of OpenSprinkler. In the next step, you must activate the option “Internet access to the FRITZ!Box via HTTPS activated” under “Internet / Sharing / Fritz!box Services” under “Internet Access” or create a corresponding address under “Internet / Sharing / Dyndns”. Your OpenSprinkler will then also be available at the address specified under “Internet address of your FRITZ!Box”.
Important note: For some UnityMedia connections only one IPV6 address is assigned; the IPV4 address is shared by several connections. Unfortunately, this means it is not possible to activate port sharing. However, it still works via WiFi.
NEW: Register an OTC (OpenThings Cloud) token, enter the token in your OpenSprinkler and access it from anywhere. More on the topic here.
Will push notifications support?
Starting from firmware 2.1.7, OpenSprinkler supports push notifications via IFTTT, which can be configured to send notifications via SMS, email or app notifications. Please check this support article for more details.
If I have multiple OpenSprinklers, can they talk to each other?
Our firmware supports Remote Controller - a feature that allows an OpenSprinkler to act as a master controller to send function commands to one or more remote controllers to open or close their valves. This is useful if you have a large property with separate groups of valves.
What is the maximum distance between controller and valves?
This depends on the wire size (AWG) you use to connect the valves. Generally you can run up to 200m with 20 AWG wires, 300m with 18 AWG wires and 450m with 16 AWG wires. Thicker wires allow longer distances.
What is the maximum allowed distance between the main controller and the expansion board?
Again, this depends on the wire gauge (AWG) of the extension cable. The standard cable shipped with expansion cards is a 24 AWG 15-inch long cable. You can increase this length using a custom cable with thicker wires.
Can I connect the sprinkler system solenoid valves to garden hoses?
Secure. You will probably need a suitable adapter, which you can get online or at a hardware store.
How do I update the firmware?
OpenSprinkler 3.0 supports firmware update over-the-air (OTA) via WiFi. OpenSprinkler 2.3 requires a USB cable and a computer to update firmware. OpenSprinkler Pi supports network or script-based firmware – update. Check those Firmware – Update – Manual (link) Instructions page.
How can I use a static IP address?
The recommended method is to assign the IP via your router.
Alternatively, you can switch off the OpenSprinkler DHCP option, then you can enter a static IP. Please note that you must set the router IP correctly for all functions to work properly.
How do I reset the settings to factory defaults?
Switch OpenSprinkler off, then switch it on again. When the OpenSprinkler logo appears, do you immediately press and hold the first button B1 until the message 'Reset All' appears? If you are sure you want it, then press and hold the third button B3 until the controller restarts. OpenSprinkler is then back to the factory settings.
How does weather-related irrigation adjustment actually work?
Weather Adjustment first uses your location and queries it via OpenWeatherMap to get real-time weather data. It then calculates a watering % value that is applied to all water stations. The percentage value is calculated based on the local temperature, humidity and precipitation (precipitation) and varies from 0% to 250%. The value is updated every hour. For example, low temperature, high humidity and/or significant rainfall results in reduced or no irrigation, i.e. 0%. On the other hand, high temperatures and drought lead to an increase in irrigation time. In very hot temperatures this can go up to 200%.
How can I help OpenSprinkler support more languages?
In OpenSprinkler, localized language is a crowd-sourced feature, so anyone can help. Go to the web interface -> Sidebar -> About page and click on the localization link.
Can I integrate my own app or can I use my own scripts that access the OpenSprinkler interface?
Absolutely. Please see the support page for API documentation.
Technical questions
What is the difference between the different versions of OpenSprinkler?
OpenSprinkler is a fully assembled commercial product that works out of the box. It comes with buttons and display.
OpenSprinkler Pi (Ospi) is a sprinkler expansion board for RPi - it uses RPi as the main processor. Users expect to have some experience with RPI setup software. Please check the specific product websites for further details.
| OpenSprinkler 3.0 AC/DC/Latch | OpenSprinkler Pi (Ospi) | |
|---|---|---|
| compatibility | AC/DC/OSPI both work 24VAC sprinkler magnets. OSDC supported additionally 12V non-holding DC valves. Latch version only supports DC pulse coils. | |
| Power supply | OS AC and OSPI requires 24V AC power supply (not included as standard) OS DC and Latch are versatile: 5V ~ 12VDC (e.g. 5V USB, 12V solar panel). A 7.5VDC adapter is included in the delivery. |
|
| Number of stations | 8 (expandable to 72) | 8 (expandable to 72) |
| app | Yes | Yes |
| Weather integration | Yes | Yes |
| Logging support | Yes | Yes |
| processor | Esp8266 | Suitable for RPi 1 model A + / B + or RPi 0, 2 and 3 |
| Assembly necessary? | Fully assembled | Requires plugging into RPi and software setup |
| LCD | Yes (O 2.3: 16 × 2 characters; O 3.0: 128 × 64 OLED) | None |
| Ethernet port | OS 3.0: no OS 3.2: yes |
Yes (except RPi 1 A+) |
| Built-in WiFi | Yes | Yes, if your RPi has WiFi (e.g. via USB) |
| Firmware | Unified OS firmware | Unified OS firmware |
| Firmware upgrade | Over the Air (OTA) | via network |
| Target group | Everyone | RPi enthusiasts |
| Package includes | OS – controller, terminal blocks, with enclosure |
Ospi add-on board to plug in, with terminal blocks, with housing. RPi not contain. |
| Housing | Yes, injection molded | Yes, laser cut acrylic |
| Optional add-ons | OS3AC: 24V AC adapter Zone Expander +16 zones |
24V AC adapter Zone Expander +16 zones |