#182 - Approachable 2-Wire with Rain Bird's Steve Barendt

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Summary

In this episode of the Sprinkler Nerd Show, host Andy Humphrey sits down with Steve Barendt from Rain Bird to explore the company's new ESP 2-Wire Controller—a product that's making 2-wire irrigation systems significantly more approachable for contractors who may have previously avoided them due to complexity.

The Origin of the Conversation

Andy first encountered Steve at the IA Show, where Steve delivered an impromptu 2-minute elevator pitch on the new controller. That pitch sparked Andy's interest in Rain Bird's new approach to two-wire systems, leading to this deeper dive discussion.

Steve's Background

Steve brings a decade of experience at Rain Bird, including seven years on the sales team working directly with contractors in the Austin, Texas area. His background in the field informs his work as a product manager, enabling him to better understand real-world customer needs and challenges.

Why "Approachable" Matters

Historically, two-wire systems have been considered complex, especially around wiring specifications, connector types, and troubleshooting. Rain Bird's ESP Two-Wire Controller aims to lower the barrier to entry, making it easier for contractors—even those new to two-wire installations—to adopt the technology.

The term "approachable two-wire" is intentional. Steve explains that Rain Bird designed this controller to work with standard irrigation wire and connectors, rather than requiring specialized components. As long as the wire is direct burial irrigation wire (down to 18 gauge) and connectors are rated for 600 volts, users can leverage what's already on their trucks—reducing the learning curve and installation costs.

A Big Shift: De-Energized Two-Wire Path

A key innovation is that the two-wire path is not constantly energized, as it is in traditional two-wire systems. Instead, it's only powered when actively running a station or performing diagnostics. This reduces heat at the connectors and decreases corrosion risks, allowing the use of standard connectors and simplifying troubleshooting.

Positioning: Who's It For?

The ESP Two-Wire Controller isn't designed to replace all two-wire systems. Instead, it's aimed at light commercial and large residential projects with about 12 to 30 stations—an area where contractors often debate between traditional wiring and larger two-wire systems.

Key highlights:

50-station capacity (though ideal use is around 12–30 stations)
Cost break-even point starts around 12 stations, lower than the 30+ typical for traditional two-wire setups
Two solenoids can operate simultaneously
Compatible with a standard flow sensor (hardwired)

By offering a lower break-even point and simpler installation, this controller fills a gap between traditional modular controllers like the ESP ME3 and higher-end commercial platforms like LX IVM.

Troubleshooting Tools and Diagnostics

Rain Bird has invested heavily in diagnostics features that make this controller easier to troubleshoot:

LED Feedback on Decoders: Each decoder includes red, green, and blue LEDs that indicate operational status, short circuits, and open circuits.
Short Finding Mode: Allows energizing the path for diagnostics with a clamp meter.
Power-Measure Mode: Helps track power issues in the field.

These features empower contractors to isolate and resolve issues faster without needing advanced tools or specialized knowledge.

Auto-Addressing Decoders

Perhaps the most contractor-friendly feature is the auto-address functionality. Rain Bird decoders come in numbered order, and if installed sequentially, the controller will auto-scan and assign decoder addresses to stations with no manual input. This drastically reduces setup time and minimizes human error.

While other systems may require manual address entry or use specialized software, Rain Bird's solution is faster and simpler—especially when paired with the mobile app.

No Field Grounding Required

Another simplification: unlike other two-wire systems, no field grounding is required for this controller. Though contractors can choose to ground the system if they wish, it's not necessary for functionality or warranty compliance.

Connectivity and Software Integration

The controller is WiFi-enabled via Rain Bird's LNK2 module. It currently connects to Rain Bird's legacy mobile app, but a transition to Rain Bird's 2.0 app and IQ 4 web platform is planned for 2025, which will bring expanded access and remote management options.

Simplified SKUs and Installation

Rain Bird is offering this platform with just two SKUs: the controller and a single-station decoder. That's a major advantage for distributors and contractors, who won't need to manage complex inventories of sensor decoders, grounding kits, or multi-station decoders.

Behind the Scenes: Product Development

Steve shared insights into the 2–3 year development timeline, which included field testing, focus groups, and engineering across multiple departments. The goal: simplify, streamline, and make two-wire technology accessible to more contractors. Multiple patents were filed as part of the innovation process, particularly around the auto-addressing and system architecture.

Final Thoughts

This controller isn't for every project—but that's the point. Steve emphasized the importance of positioning the right tool for the right job. When used in the right context—light commercial sites, fast food chains, hotels, and medium-size properties—Rain Bird's ESP Two-Wire Controller can offer a compelling mix of ease-of-use, cost savings, and performance.

Contractors interested in learning more are encouraged to reach out to their local Rain Bird representatives via their distributor or visit the Rain Bird website for product videos and specs.

Key Takeaways

Designed for simplicity and approachability
Compatible with standard wire and connectors
De-energized two-wire path reduces risk and simplifies install
Auto-addressing decoders streamline setup
Troubleshooting tools built-in (LEDs, short find mode, power measure)
Ideal for 12–30 zone projects
Connects via WiFi and will be fully app- and web-integrated in 2025
No field grounding required
Just two SKUs for the system

#182 - Approachable 2-Wire with Rain Bird's Steve Barendt

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