Irrigation systems are expensive. While cutting corners now may save cost, later you may be in a deeper hole. Decoder systems offer advantages in many areas, primarily cost, but they fall short in protection.
The survivability of decoders doesn’t compare to that of newer systems. Decoders often fall prey to lighting strikes and lack in survivability. In addition, it is also of concern when a decoder system is used for larger systems in hot, dry climates with the possibility of lightning.
The Risk
Decoder systems have no back up watering system in the event of a power surge or 
lighting strike. To start a sprinkler, someone would have to manually key each sprinkler. Unfortunately, there is no way to restart a system in the event of a system crash if you can’t find a decoder, the communication cable or the central PC control system.
If multiple communication cables and decoders need attention, repairs could take days. For most golf courses, no watering for days could ruin the turf. If your turf can’t go 72 hours without watering, the facility could face a disaster. Thankfully there is a solution.
The Solution
Several years ago Rain Bird changed golf irrigation control with the introduction of the Integrated Control (IC) system. The IC combines a latching style solenoid with the control circuitry. This is similar to a decoder system, with the decoder and solenoid combined into one unit. However, because the Rain Bird IC uses a latching type solenoid the energy necessary to open/close is greatly reduced. This offers many benefits such as the ability to turn on and operate many more sprinklers at the same time and often with smaller wire sizes.
No field controllers, decoders, secondary wiring or unnecessary splices mean fewer areas 
that can breakdown, wear out or malfunction. Rain Bird IC component failures are now less than 0.00001%.
The IC System is a combined controller, rotor and valve. This simple yet sophisticated system is built around a new generation of Rain Bird’s proven solenoid and satellite technology. Simplicity results in reliability.
The IC System is designed to always turn off if problems occur. If problems occur such as the wire path is damaged or cut, or if central control communication is lost, the ICM is designed to turn off automatically. The entire control system is below ground because the ICM is built right into the rotor or valve. Unlike field controller systems, the below ground system offers protection against damage from vandalism, flooding and insects.
Contact your nearest Wolf Creek Company location for help finding a system for you from one of our trained professionals.
