Sorry for posting this. I should have used the Search feature to begin with!

Thanks,

Ros

 

Sorry for posting this. I should have used the Search feature to begin with!

Thanks,

Ros

Glad we could help :waving:

 

I assume you found your solution. Just in case you didnt, heres an Email that went out about 3 weeks ago.

To: Rain Bird Contractor Customers

RE: "MV ERR" Message on Certain ESP Modular Controllers

We have previously communicated this quick approach to correcting false "MV ERR" messages and unexpected controller behavior caused by a ribbon cable condition on some ESP-4M and ESP-4Mi controllers manufactured between April 2005 and June 2007. We are sending this communication to refresh everyone's knowledge on how to correct this condition if encountered during spring start-ups - please note: this is only a reminder and not a new issue.

Syptoms:
MV ERR incorrectly displaying on the LCD
Unexpected values appearing in the controller program.
Date changes to 2002 or 2003
Unexpected station run times (e.g., 16 hours)
Program start times not in 15 min intervals (e.g., 8:23 am)
Seasonal Adjust % not in 10% increments (e.g., 93%)


The simple, fast solution - Install a Jumper Cable:

If you service systems with earlier model controllers, we recommend that you attach a jumper cable in line with the ribbon cable and be sure to perform a factory reset on the controller the next time you complete any system maintenance as a preventative measure.

The jumper cable will permanently resolve the false "MV-ERR" displays and takes less than 30 seconds to install. Master valve and station short circuit error detection will remain fully functional with the jumper cable however the seldom used over-current detection feature will be disabled. To efficiently employ this approach, we suggest that you keep a small supply of the jumper cables on your service truck.

Please note that if you have previously replaced the backplane on the specific controller being serviced, or if it was manufactured after July 4, 2007, there is no need to install a jumper cable.
Backplane Replacement Solution:
Alternatively, you may choose to replace the entire backplane assembly and ribbon cable, and then perform a factory reset on the controller. This will update your older controller to the current production configuration.

To perform a FACTORY RESET on the ESP4M Controller follow these instructions:

1. Place the dial in the SEASONAL ADJUST % position.
2. Press and hold the ON and OFF buttons simultaneously until "CLEARED" is shown on the LCD.

NOTE: Pressing the reset button on the back of the display panel will not perform the required FACTORY RESET on the controller.


What is "MV ERR"?
When correctly displayed, the "MV ERR" message is part of the ESP Modular diagnostics function and identifies a short-circuit condition with the system's master valve. Earlier-model controllers utilized a soldered cable attachment on the backplane (shown directly above) which under certain circumstances may cause these conditions.

More than 18 months ago, Rain Bird began producing enhanced ESP-4M and ESP-4Mi controllers with plug-in connectors for both the front panel and backplane. After extensive reliability testing and thousands of installations, no occurrences of the "MV ERR" issues have been identified with the modified design. Again, ESP Modular controllers produced since July 4, 2007 are not affected by this bulletin.

How to Obtain Solution Kits:
Both Jumper Cables and Backplane Replacement Kits may be obtained free of charge from your local distributor or through your Rain Bird field representative and both include easy-to-follow installation instructions.

We sincerely appreciate your business and apologize for any inconvenience you and your customers may have experienced. If you have any questions, please contact your Rain Bird field representative or call us at 1-800-724-6247.

 

I never received an email!! Just kidding. I actually have one in my truck and one in my shop, both to get fixed. I'm just taking them to Ewing and let them deal with it. I yanked them both out before we got the notification.

Sadly, I have four 5004 rotors to replace as well. Hmmm... funny that I don't have any PGPs to replace.

 

Thanks for your help!

I found the info on the backplane replacement but not on the jumper or how to do the factory reset. I would have just hit the reset button on the back of the panel.

You saved me lots of time and aggrevation!

Thanks again,

Ros

 

Thanks for your help!

I found the info on the backplane replacement but not on the jumper or how to do the factory reset. I would have just hit the reset button on the back of the panel.

You saved me lots of time and aggrevation!

Thanks again,

Ros

I assumed when you said you did a search that you got it figured out. Guess I shouldn't have assumed, huh.

 

We did like over 50 Mv error swap outs last year.

 

Question; Can I get one of those jumper cables from my irrigation supplier? (should they have them in stock?) I have a one year old controler in my garage that was having this problem, over and over. The previous guy came out and "fixed" it and then a couple weeks later the problem started again. They had me replace it with a Hunter Pro-C (my choice). Now I have a nice, new-ish RB controler with 13 stations worth of modules I could fix...

nevermind... I read the rest of the post with the info in it and got my answer!

 

Question; Can I get one of those jumper cables from my irrigation supplier? (should they have them in stock?) I have a one year old controler in my garage that was having this problem, over and over. The previous guy came out and "fixed" it and then a couple weeks later the problem started again. They had me replace it with a Hunter Pro-C (my choice). Now I have a nice, new-ish RB controler with 13 stations worth of modules I could fix...

Take the controller into your supplier and just get the backplane replacement.

 

Take the controller into your supplier and just get the backplane replacement.

Will do, if I ever remember to throw it in the truck when I'm heading that way

Of course, is it unethical to replace something like this, at the customers expense, and then fix the old one and re-use it? Maybe I'll keep my eyes open for a good place to donate it too, or just keep it for my own place when I move again, whenever that will be...

 

Hmm.. I personally would say so.

If it's not too late give it back to the original customer?

 

Will do, if I ever remember to throw it in the truck when I'm heading that way

Of course, is it unethical to replace something like this, at the customers expense, and then fix the old one and re-use it? Maybe I'll keep my eyes open for a good place to donate it too, or just keep it for my own place when I move again, whenever that will be...

Jason you are a good midwestern person. Do you really need help with ethics? Just do the right thing and feel good about it.

 

Of course, is it unethical to replace something like this, at the customers expense, and then fix the old one and re-use it? Maybe I'll keep my eyes open for a good place to donate it too, or just keep it for my own place when I move again, whenever that will be...

Same here. No way I'd resell it, but it could be a good Friday afternoon emergency controller when needed, or a giveaway to a family struggling, or a friends or family deal.

 

I took my bad ESPm into Ewing yesterday, and they had to get a new strip/terminal from Denver. Not sure why they don't keep them in stock. Got it replaced today. I think I may ask if they can get me 2 or 3 to have on hand so we don't have to go through the process of getting them in, making a couple extra trips, and wasting time and money.

 

get me 2 or 3 to have on hand so we don't have to go through the process of getting them in, making a couple extra trips, and wasting time and money.

If I went through that many, I'd think about using another clock.

 

If I went through that many, I'd think about using another clock.

Kinda like your WM solenoids? Oh yeah which ones did you switch to? After which failed solenoid change?

I'm thinking one for each truck.

And once again, I didn't install these. But I do when replacement is needed. I like 'em.

 

Kinda like your WM solenoids?

Does RB give you free clocks when they fail?

 

Does RB give you free clocks when they fail?

Hunter will. When I *****ed about 1 yr run pro c,s not recognizing the rain senser, next trip to supply house there was 8 panels in a box with my name on it.

 

Of course, is it unethical to replace something like this, at the customers expense, and then fix the old one and re-use it? Maybe I'll keep my eyes open for a good place to donate it too, or just keep it for my own place when I move again, whenever that will be...

I would consider reselling it, but at a reduced price and after giving the client the heads up.

 

I would consider reselling it, but at a reduced price and after giving the client the heads up.

Ive done that before, usualy to someone selling their home or caught in a short term financial bind.

 

Ive done that before, usualy to someone selling their home or caught in a short term financial bind.

Yup, or cheap landlords. I've pulled perfectly good controllers during upgrades, prorated, and sold them to other clients who didn't want to pay for a new controller but needed an upgrade.

I don't see anything wrong with it as long as the client is aware and you have fairly priced the used unit.

 

And they realize it comes with no warrenty.

 

And they realize it comes with no warrenty.

Well, that depends on the age of the controller. I still warranty the install for 10 years, and if the controller is still in good shape, I will prorate the warranty on the controller as well.

 

You warrenty a clock for 10 yrs?

 

You warrenty a clock for 10 yrs?

I warranty any work I do for minimum of 10 years.
Material warranty depends on what it is.
Clocks will get manufacturer + 2 if I am confident in the quality of the clock ... otherwise only manufacturer.