If you’re not sure if you want Wifi or not, you can still get a New Rain Bird Controller and get the Wifi feature added later. Also my router is an AC4000 about 35 ft from the unit so it’s not an issue of signal strength. Read TechHive's review Reviewed in the United States on October 16, 2017. It only works with Android 4.4 (KitKat) or later or Apple iOS 8 or higher. Pros: WiFi does work and the idea of adding this to an ESPme controller and use the same modules is great. Very easy to install and very easy to wire up. ST8 2.0, 8-Zone Smart Irrigation WiFi Sprinkler Timer Put control of your sprinkler system in the palm of your hand with a Smart Irrigation WiFi Timer from Rain Bird. 1,022 global ratings | 211 global reviews, Reviewed in the United States on March 22, 2019. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. Rainbird needs to realize the type of consumer who buys these things is pretty tech savvy and will not put up with things like dropped signals when it's a cheap and reliable fix. Very easy to program. Just mark your zone numbers on the wire from the old unit to the new unit. I started with more complicated passwords to the most simple ones thinking it didn’t like characters. Turn them all on and the Rain Bird becomes quite chatty—I was soon inundated with notices that seasonal adjustments had been applied (several times each week), and that the Wi-Fi unit attached to the Rain Bird had disconnected and/or reset. With notifications on, the system does accurately notify you that watering has completed (but not, unfortunately, when it starts). I should have listened to the other reviews. Reviewed in the United States on May 15, 2020. That’s The Intelligent Use of Water™. The ST8I does, however, include a limited seasonal adjustment feature, which will reduce watering if the weather forecast is cooler. Fixed 4, 6 and 8 zone models are available. Freelance Contributor, While the process wasn’t overly complex, I did run into a hiccup where the Rain Bird wouldn’t connect to my wireless network. For most, Rain Bird will also require a full controller replacement for the Wifi to work. The ST8I offers limited reporting and calendaring features, though an app update pushed out during my testing improved this considerably. Copyright © 2021 IDG Communications, Inc. Your recently viewed items and featured recommendations, Select the department you want to search in, Easy to Install and Operate - No Communications Issues at All, Reviewed in the United States on November 2, 2019, Reviewed in the United States on April 28, 2019. With my setup the app has not been laggy or slow to start. If you are outside of the United States, make sure the router is assigning a channel between 1-11 to the Rain Bird WiFi controller. If I have to get close to it in order to use it as a hotspot, then what’s the point? It’s ideal for medium and large residential vegetation areas or small commercial operations. Now, the app features a more full-featured calendar that looks forward 30 days, plus offers one week of historical watering information. This is a great addition to your rain bird and rain sensor. This works about as well as you might predict a piece of connected technology built by an old school irrigation company to work - which is to say not well at all. Once connected, it’s super cool to update your programs and manually run zones. I like that app will automatically adjust watering times to the zip code weather. The New Rain Bird LNK WiFi Module allows easy access and control of a Rain Bird irrigation system from anywhere in the world. How To Upgrade a Rain Bird ESP-Me Controller To WiFi - YouTube Make sure your email client is set up on your mobile device and then press on the email icon on the main screen controller card. For the price and competence, this is a great system to consider. As a bonus: Two AA batteries are included for backup purposes in case the power goes out. Two stars only because it was a no hassle return. This can be changed by delving into the settings menu, where various notifications can be turned on. History details older than that are deleted. BTW, the first thing the message says "if this is concerning the wifi module press 3" Does that tell you they are flooded with unhappy customers about this? Please if you are thinking or have already purchased this Rainbird device please READ “TheEditor” Review! Even worse is you need to do another set up whenever it reconnects. No wonder the won't take a call! Verified Purchase. I am very sad for this product needed to go back to the lab and rework this. There's a problem loading this menu right now. Mind your wiring, and note you’ll need to connect bare AC wires via screwposts. It also analyzes reviews to verify trustworthiness. We've compiled a list of the Best Rainbird Wifi Controller of 2019 to buy, including Top (Highest) Rated Rainbird Wifi Controller Reviews on Amazon.com, eBay, Walmart, Best Buy, Reddit. Such a shame as I love the app functionality. It keeps losing the password to the point of annoyance. I'd say so. Compatible with the following Rain Bird controller models: The app is much better to use than the system itself. Reviewed in the United States on July 2, 2020. After several months of use, the Rainbird WiFi solution with ESPme is the BIGGEST disappointment of any product in the last 10 years. Manually resetting the network (as guided by the app’s help system) fixed the problem and eventually got things up and running, but in a less timely fashion than I’d like. Could not answer the question "Easy to use" and "value for money." I have security cameras on the other side of the house that work just fine. The ESP-RZX Controller provides zone based set up that is easier to understand by untrained users. Previously, the app maxed out by showing just a few days of your upcoming calendar and nothing in the way of historical information. As well, the ST8I doesn’t include the typical “smart settings” feature that most products in this space offer. TBOS-BT Bluetooth, Battery-Operated Irrigation Controller… The ESP-RZX provides flexible scheduling features […] Enables WiFi control in ESP-TM2 and ESP-Me series controllers. Rain Bird now offers the LNK™ WiFi Module for Residential and Light Commercial Rain Bird controllers. Rain Bird Online Store; Public Agency; Corporate; Careers; TRAINING. If a rain sensor is set to active through the Rain Bird App, […] My WiFi Controller Watered After Rain, Even with a Rain Sensor Your WiFi controller can make daily watering adjustments when Automatic Seasonal Adjust is on but it does not prevent scheduled watering events, and it may take more than 24 hours for the Automatic Seasonal Adjustment values to reflect actual rainfall. The problem is connectivity to the app. Rain Bird Knowledge Center; Rain Bird Training; AGENCY REWARDS; PRODUCT INFO. First let me say I am using a Net Gear nighthawk WIFI router. I'd like my half day back that was wasted on this. WiFi Controller Password and What it Protects. I never have to go in the garage to change setting or start watering. My builder already installed a rainbird so rather than buy another setup, I thought I could just "upgrade" with this device. Doesn’t matter. Reviewed in the United States on July 11, 2020. Overall, I think this is a very solid wifi sprinkler control set up, especially give how inexpensive it is. It's good in theory, but not functional. Read our, The app is capable of managing multiple controllers, Relatively cumbersome installation (both hardware and software), Very slow and rather limited mobile app (apart from the multiple controller feature). It also produces a bevy of controllers, and at the end of 2016, it finally added Wi-Fi connectivity and smart features to its line of timers. It is a 39 dollar addition at best. The WiFi Module is compatible with WiFi channels 1-11, but it is not compatible with WiFi Channels 12-14. Maybe some folks have better luck but not working on the WiFi is a deal breaker for me. Fixed 4, 6 and 8 zone models are available. Will not connect. Every time you run the app, it has to connect to the ST8I to download the settings stored on the unit. At least, it doesn't work in any way that other connected devices you may have around your house work. Very big improvement over my 17 year old Rain Bird 408 controller. I’d give it my recommendation. Check out the timer on amazon: http://amzn.to/2nHbyIZSUBSCRIBE→ https://www.youtube.com/c/AdamDIY?sub_confirmation=1Adam Hill -DIYPO Box 95278South Jordan … TechHive |. From here, app setup is largely in line with competing products. "Enabling Alexa opens up a whole new world for customers using our WiFi-enabled controllers," said Nick Kelsch, senior product manager for Rain Bird controllers. The New Rain Bird LNK WiFi Module allows easy access and control of a Rain Bird irrigation system from anywhere in the world. Similarly, sprinkler leads attach via screw-in connectors. BONUS: A friend pointed out that this system may be eligible for a rebate. Reviewed in the United States on June 20, 2020. Rain Bird ST8I-WiFi Smart Irrigation Indoor Timer/Controller. Meaning you cant use the app if you are out of town and want to turn on your irrigation system, you will need to be right by your system to use it. I probably wouldn't either knowing that I can't fix your problem. The software component (IOS) is easily the worst user interface of any product I have ever used. Rain Bird ST8O-WiFi 8-Zone Irrigation Smart Controller . What is the Best Affordable, Best Inexpensive, Best Cheap Brands to Buy. Hardware setup is a bit more complex than most smart sprinkler controllers, in part because the AC adapter doesn’t plug into a socket; it has two bare wire leads that must be screwed onto posts on the ST8I. Christopher Null is a veteran technology and business journalist. Note: When you purchase something after clicking links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. Plus your router needs to be right next to your wireless Irrigation controller for it to work properly. Of final note, unlike many smart watering systems, the Rain Bird ST8I app is designed to manage multiple controllers from a single phone. Also, the season adjustment feature works great in my area of Florida. (Available in International Markets Only) The ESP-RZXe Controller provides zone based set up that is easier to understand by untrained users. Also of note, by default the ST8I does not provide any push updates when watering runs occur. Like all of Rain Bird’s controllers, it features a full collection of controls built into the hardware itself, with an LCD panel and a few simple buttons giving you full power over scheduling and manual watering runs. I purchased this controller about a week ago and even though I received it late in the afternoon around 6:15 PM I had it up and running by 7:00 PM as this was just a changeout. After viewing product detail pages, look here to find an easy way to navigate back to pages you are interested in. Disabling it will result in some disabled or missing features. Push notifications will even prompt through the Rain Bird App to inform you what’s happening in your yard even when you’re not home. They certainly have one here! Prime members enjoy FREE Delivery and exclusive access to music, movies, TV shows, original audio series, and Kindle books. Way easier to program the unit than using the front controls. You will know What is the best Rainbird Wifi Controller on the market? First of all, will not connect to WiFi even though other devices have no problem and router in next room. This may be handy for some users, but I found the Rain Bird reducing watering times even as the temperature in my neighborhood was soaring to nearly 100 degrees and when watering should have been at its highest. With the LNK WiFi Module and Rain Bird’s FREE mobile app, get access to off-site management, real-time alerts and advanced water management tools via your smart phone or tablet. Rain Bird makes managing multiple controllers incredibly easy, although that does mean you’ll spend at least twice as much time waiting for the app to load. This Rain Bird controller works for 4, 6, and 8 stations. With this app I never have to use the knob again, I love it. Rain Bird is compatible to use with Alexa; however, there are limitations when it comes to smart gadget compatibility. The $180 Rain Bird ST8I-WiFi is an eight-zone system designed for internal mounting only. Rain Bird is a venerable company that makes all manner of outdoor watering equipment, from sprinkler heads to valve boxes. Easy setup but requires extremely strong WiFi signal, Reviewed in the United States on July 2, 2019. Sharing Controller Access with Another User. It looks like by adding a rain sensor I could get up to … https://www.techhive.com/article/3220438/rain-bird-st8i-review.html Now when you are taking about WiFi it clear that this item is only WiFi when you are around it. (Don’t plug it in before you wire it!). Super easy to connect to my ESP unit and I was able to get it to connect to the app and my WiFi. From the time I start a manual watering to the sprinklers turning on is maybe 8 to 10 seconds. I really wanted it to work, I really did. Unlike many smart sprinkler controllers, the ST8I’s mobile app serves primarily as a way to manage its onboard controls remotely. Please make sure that you are posting in the form of a question. Strong signal strength. They will just buy from another brand. Enter your controller password. Integrated weather reports are handy, but tend to run hotter than reality. You can still see all customer reviews for the product. Then the recording tells you to call back. It makes setting and programming the rain bird easy. I am worried that plastic knob contact is going to fail prematurely. Some countries outside of the United States allow for the use of channels 12-14. He contributes regularly to TechHive, PCWorld, and Wired, and operates the websites Drinkhacker and Film Racket. El Módulo WiFi LNK permite a los usuarios conectarse de manera remota a un programador de riego ESP-Me o ESP-RZXe de Rain Bird a través de un accesorio extraíble y un teléfono móvil con sistema operativo Apple iOS o Android y acceso a Internet. this especially because i use it to water a garden as well as grass in Central Texas heat. Rain-Bird Lnk Link WiFi Module Mobile Wireless Irrigation Controller Upgrade for Indoor Outdoor ESP-TM2 and ESP-Me Series Controller Sprinkler Systems 4.5 out of 5 … Amazon sells the ST81 for about $137, and the ST80 for around $174.) Read honest and unbiased product reviews from our users. To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Rain-Bird Lnk Link WiFi Module Mobile Wireless Irrigation Controller is not capable of doing what it said it could do. See all details for Rain-Bird Lnk Link WiFi Module Mobile Wireless Irrigation Controller... © 1996-2021, Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Reviewed in the United States on May 20, 2020. Our smart sprinkler controller reviews: Show More . The ST8I can be set to skip watering altogether if it’s raining, but only if you have a wired rain sensor installed. But I would buy it again at 90 LOL. The popular Rain Bird ESP Series of controllers has been expanded to provide a contractor grade irrigation controller for residential and light commercial applications. Overall: 8.5/10. I play with stuff quite a bit. It is simple to setup customized watering schedules that can be adjusted automatically all year long to ensure a healthy, beautiful landscape saving you time and money. CR’s take: The Rain Bird ST8-2.0 earns a high spot in our ratings, but it does have a few shortcomings. Rain Bird ESP-RZXe WiFi Smart Controller (Garden Maintenance Product): 1 out of 5 stars on Australia's largest opinion site ProductReview.com.au. I’ve tried connecting it to my main network and also the guest network. so WIFI connectivity is a non issue. I love being able to check the garden and just start watering from there. Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Rain-Bird Lnk Link WiFi Module Mobile Wireless Irrigation Controller Upgrade for Indoor Outdoor ESP-TM2 and ESP-Me Series Controller Sprinkler Systems at Amazon.com. After a day or two, you can’t use the app because it says “bad password”. Let me be clear first it is easy to install, second the app is very easy to navigate around. Resetting four times and it still doesn’t work. That’s right! Top subscription boxes – right to your door. Some irrigation apps are designed to support only one controller at a time, and if your yard requires two controllers, you must use separate accounts (and separate apps on separate mobile devices) to control them. Rain-Bird Lnk Link WiFi Module Mobile Wireless Irrigation Controller... Rain-Bird Lnk Link WiFi Module Mobile Wireless Irrigation Controller Upgrade for Indoor Outdoor ESP-TM2 and ESP-Me Series Controller Sprinkler Systems. Rain Bird’s first-generation smart controller is rather utilitarian and its performance is slow, but it features enough extras to merit a look in some environments. This can be time-consuming (up to 15 seconds each time) if all you want to do is check on the watering schedule or start a manual watering run, and it isn’t the “smartest” use of a mobile app we’ve encountered in this space, though certain settings, like the time, are synced from your phone automatically. TUCSON, AZ (Feb. 14, 2018) — Users of Rain Bird controllers featuring the company's LNK™ WiFi Module can now "talk" to their irrigation systems, thanks to Amazon's popular voice-activated personal assistant, Alexa. If I can't get my money back, then it's a $85.00 lesson learned. We steer you to products you'll love and show you how to get the most out of them. None of that is ideal, but it’s at least an improvement. The app isn’t the most responsive, and it took me a few days of using the ST8I to figure out exactly why. (Note that the integrated weather forecast can take up to a day to show up in the app after initial installation.) 5.0 out of 5 stars The system is working great and the equipment was delivered as promised. This page works best with JavaScript. The ESP-RZXe provides flexible scheduling features that make the controller ideal for a wide variety of applications including residential and light commercial irrigation systems. Tom Konor - May 22, 2017. The New Rain Bird LNK WiFi Module allows easy access and control of a Rain Bird irrigation system from anywhere in the world. I get 2.4 signal down the block on an iPhone 7plus. (Mind that you run all your wires through the central porthole, unlike the sloppy job I did in the photo below.) During the setup of a Rain Bird WiFi controller users are asked to enter a controller password. Verified Purchase. I think for what it is, it is extremely overpriced. Well, I got tired of calling back and getting the same message time after time. Each time you launch the Rain Bird app, prepare for a wait…. Won't even let you leave a message and say someone will get back to you asap. In order for another user to have access to your controller, you need to send them an email invite. (The ST8O, which is clad in a weatherproof case for outdoor use, costs $229 but is otherwise the same product. Reviewed in the United States on June 25, 2018. Connect your Rain Bird controller to your mobile device to turn on sprinklers, set up customized watering schedules, and automate weather adjustments, saving you water and money. It’s also compatible with Con LNK, Wi-Fi, and has 6 programmable user settings. I turn the dial/knob a lot on my controller to water a certain station when I think it needs it. You call customer service for help (think, ok, they'll walk me through this) and get a recording that they cannot answer the call. Even with the signal booster that I placed in the garage, the signal would be dropped. This password is specific to the controller and protects access to the following areas of the controller: Connected Home Settings; TechHive helps you find your tech sweet spot. Rather than making a guess about ideal run times based on your environment, it’s up to you to decide how long you want your various zones to run. Reviewed in the United States on February 26, 2020. 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