Growcontrol GROWBASE EC PRO Instruction Manual

Instruction manual

GROW

BASE EC

PRO

Multifunctional digital climate and CO₂ controller
with timer functions

Schlosserstr. 25
60322 Frankfurt – Germany
Mail: [email protected]
Web: www.growcontrol.de

Instruction manual

GROW

BASE EC

PRO

2

Dear customer,

Thank you for choosing one of our products. Our name stands for innovative and reliable
products that always guarantee the best conditions for your plants. We know how closely the
environmental conditions in which you grow your plants are associated with the end result.

We hope that you enjoy using this product!

• Please read these instructions carefully and observe the relevant information.

• Store this instruction manual and make it accessible to all users.

• Ensure that you include this instruction manual when handing over the device to third

parties.

With kind regards,
GrowControl

Inhalt

1 Safety instructions ....................................................................................................................................... 3

2 Specified normal operation ...................................................................................................................... 5

3 Device description ....................................................................................................................................... 6

4 Initial use......................................................................................................................................................... 8

5 Operation ....................................................................................................................................................... 9

6 Menu overview ...........................................................................................................................................10

7 The menu and its features in detail .....................................................................................................11

8 Appendix for chapter 6 ............................................................................................................................21

9 Description of the interval timer ...........................................................................................................22

10 What to do if there are problems? .......................................................................................................23

11 Technical data .............................................................................................................................................24

12 Disposal .........................................................................................................................................................24

13 Service ...........................................................................................................................................................24

14 Warranty .......................................................................................................................................................25

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1 Safety instructions

Please observe the following information besides the safety instructions of this manual. As with
all electrical devices, use this digital environmental controller carefully and cautiously to avoid
hazards due to electric shock.

Electric shock

Warning!

• Please note that the integrated power sockets of the device are enabled once the

device is connected to an electrical supply.

• Only operate the device at the voltage indicated on the device.

• Do not connect defective equipment to the device.

• Protect yourself from electric shock by avoiding body contact with earthed or grounded

surfaces such as pipes or radiators.

• Check all device parts including the power cable and extension cables as well as plug

connections for their proper condition prior to each use. Check the proper status of all
parts connected to the device. Do not use the device if it is damaged.

• Do not pull on the cables to disconnect the plug from the power socket. Hold the

device plug sockets with one hand while removing electrical equipment by pulling the
plug.

• Do not use the device if it has sustained a fall or if water has penetrated the device

interior.

• Do not use the unit during a thunderstorm.

• In the event of defects or operational faults, switch off the device immediately and

disconnect it from the power socket.

• Never hold or carry the device by the power or sensor cable.

• Maintain a distance between all device parts and warm surfaces.

• Only use the unit in dry and heated rooms.

• Never reach for a device that has been submerged in water. In such cases, pull the plug

out of the power socket immediately.

• Do not subject the device to any impact or drop the device.

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Repairs

Warning!

• Do not open the device.

• Only specialist personnel may perform repairs on electrical devices. Improper repairs

may subject users to considerable danger. For repairs, please contact our customer
service or an authorized customer service point.

• If the device or parts of it are damaged, it must be repaired by the manufacturer or an

authorized customer service point.

Risk of fire

Warning!

• There is a risk of fire if the device is used improperly or these instructions for use are

ignored!

• Never use the device near highly flammable substances.

Operation

Warning!

• The device is only intended for the purpose described in these instructions. The

manufacturer is not liable for damage resulting from improper or careless use.

• Do not connect any technical equipment that exceeds the maximum output indicated

on the device or according to this instruction manual.

• Specifications concerning maximum power output are meant to be nominal power

output (no “dimmed power” at controlled outputs).

• Do not place any objects on the device.

• Do not expose the device to high temperatures.

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2 Specified normal operation

This digital environmental controller is designed for speed controlling of fans and switching a
number of other devices. Depending on the mode of operation, the controller’s power sockets
may be used for connecting devices below:

• Power sockets labeled “Multifunctional Out 1-3”:

o Regular duct fans with running capacitor*
o Humidifier/dehumidifier
o Lights
o Water pumps
o Circulation fans
o CO₂ valves/generators (230V)
o Heating mats

• Power sockets labeled “Multifunctional Out 4“:

o Humidifier/dehumidifier
o Lights
o Water pumps
o Circulation fans
o CO₂ valves/generators (230V)
o Heating mats
o Electric heaters

• RJ45 jacks labeled “In/Out”:

o CO₂ sensor
o Negative pressure sensor
o Temperature sensor for heating matt
o Output extender

• RJ45 jacks labeled “EC Fans”:

o Voltage controlled EC fans

The device is not suitable for controlling any other equipment.

Always ensure that the maximum output power of the individual outputs is not exceeded.

Please find further information on the device’s label or section

11 (page 24, Table 4) of this

manual.

Warning!

If the “intake” mode is selected for the “Multifunctional Out 1” output, only standard fans
may be connected. Other devices may be damaged in the “intake” mode. When shipped,
the functions of “Multifunctional Out 1 and 2” are set to “intake” and “exhaust”.

To meet the European EMC directive, the technique used to control the regular duct fans may be

used up to a maximum 600W. Do not connect devices with a power above 600W in “intake” or
“exhaust” mode.

Avoid exposing the temperature and humidity sensor to humility above 95% RH as the

sensor may become damaged.

*When driving S&P® fans of the “TD-Silent” series, problems may occur. Do not connect fans

with an integrated rpm control.

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3 Device description

The digital climate controller GROW

BASE EC

PRO

• is the control center for the ambitious indoor gardener. A number of different devices

and sensors can be connected, which guarantees maximum flexibility. In addition, the
number of power outputs can be extended with an extra device.

• is similarly able to control standard duct fans as well as EC fans, offering maximum

flexibility.

• keeps grow room temperature at the desired value by varying the air flow of the fans.

• keeps the humidity in the grow room at the designed value by switching a humidifier or

dehumidifier.

• can additionally reduce the humidity in the grow room by increasing the air flow.

• is able to control the CO₂ level in the grow room with a CO₂ sensor connected or

without a CO₂ sensor.

• is designed for the connection of the following devices: EC fans (intake, exhaust),

standard duct fans (intake, exhaust), lights, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, water pumps,
circulation fans, heating mats, electric heaters as well as CO₂ valves or generators, CO₂
sensors, negative pressure sensors, additional temperature sensors for a water tank or a
heating mat and an output extension.
The last measured temperature and humidity values are used to calculate the expected
values in the future. This enables the controller to quickly react to changes and achieve
the desired value.

• is able to regulate the temperature and humidity as precisely as ±0.5°C/±1% RH.*

• ensures a constant negative pressure in the grow room, avoiding the escape of odors

from the grow room. To maintain an accurate negative pressure, a pressure sensor can
also be connected.

• supports the option to adjust the length of a day cycle, providing equal yield with less

time required.

• can control the temperature of a heating mat. The temperature can be set to a certain

value or a temperature relative to the room temperature.

• is equipped with an easy-to-use multilingual (English, German) menu. Many different

setups can be achieved, e.g. adjusting the minimum and maximum fan speed
separately for day and night. It offers a range of information including the current
temperature, CO₂ concentration, current humidity, min/max temperature values and
humidity, current fan speeds and other information regarding the operating condition.

• saves the settings permanently to ensure that they remain available after a power

breakdown or after the controller has been temporarily out of use.

*Provided that the sizing of the connected utilities is appropriate and the fresh air temperature is
sufficiently low. The tolerance is related to the repeat accuracy rather than the absolute accuracy.
The absolute accuracy is ±3%.

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Instruction manual

1 Display
2 Rotary switch
3 Programmable power socket (Multifunctional Out 3, 1200W)
4 Programmable power socket (Multifunctional Out 4, 2300W )
5 Mains plug for “Multifunctional Out 4“
6 Mains plug for supplying the controller and the other power outputs
7 Digital sensor for humidity and temperature
8 Hanger for the sensor
9 Programmable power socket (Multifunctional Out 1, 1200W)
10 Programmable power socket (Multifunctional Out 2, 1200W)
11 RJ45 jack for exhaust EC fan
12 RJ45 jack for intake EC fan
13 4xRJ45 jack for Humidity/Temperature sensor, CO₂ sensor, negative pressure sensor,

temperature sensor for a heating mat, output extension

1

4

5

9

10

2

6

7

8

3

13

12

11

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4 Initial use

Warning!

If the “intake” or “exhaust” mode is selected for an “Multifunctional Out 1-3“output, only
standard duct fans may be connected. Other devices may be damaged in the “intake” or
“exhaust” modes. When shipped, the functions of “Multifunctional Out 1 and 2” are set to
“intake” and “exhaust”.

1. Place the humidity and temperature sensor (7) in an appropriate position inside the grow

room, usually at the top ends of your plants. Please use the hanger (8) on the sensor cable.
The sensor should not be directly exposed to the fog stream of the humidifier. Connect the
humidity and temperature sensor to any of the RJ45 jacks labeled “In/Out 1” to “In/Out 4”
(13).

2. Connect the mains plugs (5), (6) to the power supply (regular power socket). The device

has two mains plugs, offering the option to share the load (current) to two different
circuits.

3. Set the function of the “Multifunctional Out 1-4” outputs and set up all other functions

according to your requirements.

4. If using regular duct fans, we recommend disconnecting the mains plug (6) first.

Subsequently, connect the fans to the corresponding power outlets on the controller and
then reconnect the mains plug.

5. Connect appropriate devices to the other power outputs.

6. Connect the EC fans to the RJ45 jacks labeled “intake” and “exhaust” (12), (11) using a

suitable cable.

7. Connect other accessories (sensors, output extender) to the RJ45 jacks labeled In/Out 1-4

(13).

Always ensure that the maximum output power of the individual outputs is not exceeded.

Please find further information on the device’s label or section

11 (page 24, Table 4) of this

manual.

Avoid exposing the temperature and humidity sensor to humility above 95% RH as the

sensor may become damaged.

EC fans have their own power supply cable, which should be plugged to a regular power

socket (always on). It should not be connected to a power socket on the climate controller.
The fan’s rpm control and turn off is made via the signal cable from the RJ45 jack on the
controller to the EC fan.

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5 Operation

The controller is operated via a menu, which is divided into two levels. It is controlled by turning
or pressing the rotary switch (2).

• On Level 1 “Info”, different information is displayed.

• On Level 2 “Setup”, all settings – except CO₂ settings – can be configured.

• On Level 3 CO₂ “Setup”, all settings for the CO₂ functions can be configured.

In the right area of the display, currently available menu options are displayed by these symbols:

F Enter (Press)

BC Go to next menu page (rotate)

k Change value (rotate)

i Info screen

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6 Menu overview

RH = relative Luftfeuchtigkeit in % (relative humidity) T = Temperatur in °C

1. Ebene

„Info“

3. Ebene

„CO2-Setup“

CO₂ mode

3 . 1

Temperature

CO₂

3 . 2

Exhaust MAX

CO₂

3 . 3

Intake MAX
CO₂

3 . 6

CO

₂

concentration

3 . 9

Room volume

3 . 7

CO₂ flow

3 . 8

Exhaust MIN

CO₂

3 . 4

Fan speed

intake

1 . 9

Reset

Min/Max

1 . 7

Home-Screen

1 . 1

RH MIN/MAX

1 . 5

T MIN/MAX

1 . 6

CO₂-

concentration

1 . 2

Start

Air
exchange

3 . 1 1

2. Ebene

„Setup“

Desired

humidity (RH)

2 . 1

Desired Temp­erature(T)

2 . 2

Exhaust MIN

day

2 . 6

Exhaust MAX

day

2 . 5

Intake MAX

day

2 . 7

Neg. pressure

in %

2 . 1 4

Dehumidification

mode

2 . 1 8

Display

timeout

2 . 3 1

Function Multif.
Out

2 . 1 9

Pressure sensor

calibration

2 . 1 6

Clock

2 . 2 0

Interval day
ON

2 . 2 4

Time lights
OFF

2 . 2 3

Interval day
OFF

2 . 2 5

Interval night

ON

2 . 2 6

Interval night

OFF

2 . 2 7

Set language

2 . 3 0

Time lights

ON

2 . 2 2

Temperature(T)

Heater

2 . 3

Exhaust MIN

night

2 . 1 0

Exhaust MAX

night

2 . 9

Intake MAX

night

2 . 1 1

Auto calibration

pressure

2 . 1 7

Deviation

reduced rpm

2 . 1 3

Cancel & return
home

2 . 3 3

Return to
„Setup“

3 . 1 2

Negative

pressure Pa

1 . 3

Temperature

heating mat

1 . 4

Reset CO₂

warning

1 . 8

Clock

mode

1 . 1 3

Interval Info

1 . 1 2

Functionens of
outputs

1 . 1 1

Fan speed

exhaust

1 . 1 0

Temperature

unit°C/°F

2 . 2 9

Length of day

2 . 2 1

Temperature(T)

heating mat

2 . 4

Intake turnoff

day

2 . 8

Intake turnoff

night

2 . 1 2

Neg. pressure

in Pa

2 . 1 5

Go to CO₂

setup

2 . 2 8

Save&return

home

2 . 3 2

Intake MAX
CO₂

3 . 5

Enter

„Setup“

1 . 1 4

CO₂ absorbtion
time

3 . 1 0

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7 The menu and its features in detail

1. Level “Info”

1.1 Home screen

This screen is the home screen. It shows the

current temperature (Temp) and relative
humidity (RH).

1.2 CO

2

concentration

This display shows the current CO₂
concentration detected by the CO₂ sensor
(available as an accessory).
ppm = parts per million

1.3 Negative pressure

This display shows the current negative
pressure (vacuum) detected by the pressure
sensor (available as an accessory).
Pa = Pascal

1.4 Heating mat

This display shows the current temperature
detected by the additional temperature
sensor. This function is designed for
controlling a heating mat. It also can be
used for controlling the temperature of a
water tank (this temperature sensor is
achievable as an accessory).

1.5 RH MIN/MAX

This display shows the minimum and
maximum humidity values (RH) that have
occurred since the last reset or start-up.

1.6 T MIN/MAX

This display indicates the minimum and
maximum temperature values (temp),

that have occurred since the last reset or
start-up.

1.7 Reset MIN/MAX

To reset the saved minimum and
maximum values, press the rotary switch

while this display is shown. After resetting,
the home screen will be displayed.

1.8 CO

2

warning

If the desired CO₂ concentration cannot be
achieved within 10 minutes in the “sensor
controlled” CO₂ mode, this suggests that
there is a problem with the CO₂ supply,
such as an empty CO₂ bottle.
The higher temperature in CO₂ mode can
be harmful for your plants without a
sufficient CO₂ concentration. Therefore, the
controller will switch to the regular “day
mode” without CO₂ dispensing and the
warning “check CO2 supply” will be

Press to reset F
CO2 warning BC

Press for F
reset MIN/MAX BC

T MINC 24.6AC i
T MAXC 26.3ACBC

RH MINC 58.4A i
RH MAXC 61.8A BC

T heating matC i

28.8AC BC

Neg. pressureC i
7pa BC

CO2 concentr.C i
1589ppm BC

RHC 60.7A i
TempC 24.8ACBC

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displayed.
To delete the warning and return to
operation in CO₂ mode, press the button
while this screen is displayed.

1.1 Current fan speed intake

This screen shows the current rpm/power of
the intake fan. The “percent value”
represents the power transmitted to the fan.
The “rpm value” indicates the fan’s actual
rpm. The rpm is detected from EC fans only.
If the percent value alternates between a
number (e.g. 15%) and “off”, it means that a
connected EC fan is driven on 15% and a
standard duct fan is turned off. Please find
further details in sections “2.8 Intake fan
turnoff day” and “2.12 Intake fan turnoff
night”.
rpm = revolutions per minute

1.2 Current fan speed exhaust

This screen shows the current rpm/power of
the exhaust fan. The “percent value”
represents the power that is transmitted to
the fan.

1.3 Functions of outputs

This displays shows the chosen output
functions of the sockets “Multifunctional
Out 1-4” (Out1-Out4). If an output extender
is connected, additional outputs are
displayed according to the number of
outputs.

1.9 Interval info

This display shows the remaining time for
switching an output for which the function
“interval” is selected to switch-on or
switch-off.

1.10 Info Clock/Mode

This display shows the current time and
whether the current mode is on “day” or
“night”. This is determined by the time set
for “lights on” and “lights off” for the clock
timer.
(See also menu “Setup” “2.22/2.23 Lights
ON/OFF”) ON=Begin of day, OFF=Begin of
night.
While the CO₂ control is active, “CO2” is
displayed. The CO₂ function only operates
during “daytime”.

1.11 Enter “setup”

To enter menu level 2 “setup”, press the
rotary switch while this screen is displayed.

Press to F
enter menu BC

12C34C56 i
ModeC Day BC

Intervall ON i
inC 00C10C54 BC

Out1C Exhaust i
Out2C Intake BC

rpm exhaustC i
2876rpm 72ABC

rpm intakeC i
2476rpm 62ABC

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2. Level “Setup”

The changing of a certain setting is
explained below with the desired humidity
value as an example:

1. In the menu, choose the display “2.1

desired humidity (RH)” (see menu

overview).

2. Press the rotary switch. Now the

symbol

k appears and the value to be

set blinks.

3. Choose the desired value by turning

the rotary switch.

4. Enter the chosen value by pressing the

rotary switch.

In order to save all of the changes made,
press the rotary switch while the screen

“2.23 save & return home” is displayed.

2.1 Desired humidity (RH)

Set the desired humidity value (RH).

2.2 Desired temperature (T)

Set the desired temperature value (T).

2.3 Temperature heater ON

Set the temperature to switch on a heater.
When this temperature is undercut, a heater
connected to “Multifunctional Out 4” will be
turned on. Maximum power: 2300W(10A).
In addition, a CO₂ generator (gas burner)
connected to any of the power outputs will
be activated when the specified
temperature is undercut.

2.4 Temperature heating mat

Set the temperature for a heating mat. You
can set a fix temperature or a temperature
relative to the ambient temperature.
“fix” means a fixed temperature
“amb +” means a temperature relative to
the ambient temperature

2.5 Exhaust fan MAX day

Set the maximum fan speed of the
exhaust fan during the “day period”. This

fan speed will never be exceeded. Please
find additional information in chapter 8.

Set exhaust F
day MAXC 100ABC

T heating mat:CF
fix 28ACBC

Set temp. F
heater 16AC BC

Desired F
TempC 25AC BC

Desired F
RHC 65A BC

Desired F
RHC 72A BC

Desired DF
RHC 72A E

Desired DF
RHC 65A E

Desired F
RHC 65A BC

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2.6 Exhaust fan MIN day

Set the minimum airflow of the exhaust
fan during the “day” period. This set fan

speed will never* be undercut. Please find
additional information in chapter 8.

*during pressure, sensor calibration is in process,
all fans are turned off.

The minimum fan speed is 10%.
Additionally, “OFF” can be selected. This
means that the intake fan will be switched
off as long as the measured temperature is
below the desired temperature.
Ensure that the fan is still rotating at the set
minimum fan speed and the airflow is
sufficient for cooling the motor.

2.7 Intake fan MAX day

Set the maximum fan speed of the intake
fan during the day period. The specified
value will never be exceeded.

2.8 Intake fan turnoff day

Set the minimum fan speed of the intake
fan for a standard duct fan during the day
period. If this value is undercut in the
controller’s operation, the intake fan will be
switched off to maintain the negative
pressure inside the grow room. The
minimal possible fan speed is 10%.
Additionally, “OFF” can be selected,
whereby the fresh air fan will always be
disabled during the daytime.

This value is only relevant for standard duct
fans. EC fans always turn off at 10%.

Ensure that the fan is still rotating at the set

minimum fan speed and the airflow is
sufficient for cooling the motor.

2.9 Exhaust fan MAX night

Set the maximum fan speed of the
exhaust fan during the “night“ period. This

fan speed will never be exceeded. Please
find additional information in chapter 8.

2.10 Exhaust fan MIN night

Set the minimum airflow of the exhaust
fan during the “night” period. This set fan

speed will never* be undercut. Please find
additional information in chapter 8.

*during pressure, sensor calibration is in process,
all fans are turned off.

The minimum fan speed is 10%.
Additionally, “OFF” can be selected. This
means that the intake fan will be switched
off as long as the measured temperature is
below the desired temperature.

Ensure that the fan is still rotating at the set

minimum fan speed and the airflow is
sufficient for cooling the motor.

2.11 Intake fan MAX night

Set the maximum fan speed of the intake
fan during the night period. The specified
value will never be exceeded.

Set intake F
night MAXC 50ABC

Set exhaust F
night MINC 50ABC

Abluft F
Nacht MAXC100ABC

Set intake off F
dayC m 30ABC

Set tntake F
day MAXC 50ABC

Set exhaust F
day MINC 50ABC

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2.12 Intake fan turnoff night

Set the minimum fan speed of the intake
fan for a standard duct fan during the
night period. If this value is undercut in
the controller’s operation, the intake fan
will be switched off to maintain the
negative pressure inside the grow room.
The minimal possible fan speed at 10%.
Additionally, “OFF” can be selected,
whereby the fresh air fan will always be
disabled during the daytime.

This value is only relevant for standard duct
fans. EC fans always turn off at 10%.

Ensure that the fan is still rotating at the set

minimum fan speed and the airflow is
sufficient for cooling the motor.

2.13 Deviation for reduced rpm

To avoid the fans running on full speed with
only a small exceedance of the desired
temperature, an allowed deviation can be
set.
The actual fan speed within this allowed
deviation depends on the minimum and
maximum fan speeds set on the previous
screens.
Some other manufacturers call this function
hysteresis.

2.14 Negative pressure in %

This setting has two different meanings
depending on whether a pressure sensor is
connected:

Without a pressure sensor connected:

With different fan speeds of the intake and
exhaust fans, a vacuum is maintained inside
the grow room, which avoids the escape of
odors from the grow room. With this value,
the amount of negative pressure can be set.
Furthermore, the intake and exhaust fans
can be balanced if different fans are used.
For example, if a value of 10% is set, this
means that the intake fan will always turn
10% less compared to the exhaust fan.
Please find additional information in section

8.

With a pressure sensor connected:

The setting limits the speed of the intake
fan compared to the exhaust fan. For
example, with a value of 0%, the intake fan
will at a maximum go as fast as the exhaust
fan. With this setting, having positive
pressure in case the pressure sensor is
calibrated inappropriately can be avoided.

2.15 Negative pressure in Pa

Set the desired negative pressure in Pa. This
setting is only relevant when a pressure
sensor is connected.
Pa = Pascal
One Pa is equivalent to the pressure
difference of approximately 7cm altitude in
the earth atmosphere.

Set negative F
pressureC 5PaBC

Set negative F
pressureC 10ABC

Deviation rpm F
reducedC 0.2ACBC

Set intake off F
nightC m 30ABC

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2.16 Pressure sensor calibration

Press the button while this screen is shown
to calibrate the pressure sensor. During
calibration (which takes about one minute_
all fans will be turned off. Further
information can be found in the pressure
sensor’s manual.

2.17 Auto calibration

If “ON” is selected, the pressure sensor will
be automatically calibrated 10 minutes
before the “day period” starts (only when a
pressure sensor is connected).

2.18 Dehumidification mode

When the desired humidity (RH) is
exceeded, depending on the selected

mode the fan speeds can be increased. This
will extract the humidity from the grow
room, given that the humidity of the fresh
air is lower when inside the grow room.
This function is independent of whether a
humidifier or dehumidifier is connected to
one of the power outputs.

Three modes are available:

Off – The airflow will not be increased when
the desired humidity is exceeded.

Medium – When the desired humidity is
exceeded by 10% RH, the air flow will be
increased. A deviation of 1.5°C compared to
the desired temperature will be tolerated.

High - When the desired humidity is
exceeded by 5% RH, the air flow will be
increased. A deviation of 3°C compared to
the desired temperature will be tolerated.

High&heating – In addition to the
“high” mode, the connected heater will
be turned on when the desired humidity is
exceeded by 5% RH as long as the current
temperature is below the desired
temperature.
The relative humidity is physically coupled
to the temperature in the way that the RH
drops when heating.

Off – The airflow will not be increased when
the desired humidity is exceeded.

2.19 Function for “Multifunctional Out”

Choose the functions for the output labeled
“Multifunctional Out 1” to “Multifunctional
Out 4“. When an output extender is
connected, additional outputs will be
displayed.

The following functions are available:
Multifunctional Out1-3:

• Exhaust fan

• Intake fan

• Humidifier

• Dehumidifier

• Clock timer

• Interval timer

• Heating mat

• CO₂ valve

• CO₂&heating*

(Generator/gas burner (230V))

Function Out1C F
Exhaust BC

Dehumid F
modeC lowBC

Auto calibr.C F
ON BC

Cal. pressure F
sensor BC

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Multifunctional Out4:

• Humidifier

• Dehumidifier

• Clock timer

• Interval timer

• Heating mat

• CO₂ valve

• CO₂&heating*

(Generator/gas burner (230V))
*With CO₂&heating selected, the controller
will use the generator for heating and
increasing the CO₂ level. When the CO₂
generator will be activated depends on the
settings.

2.20 Clock

The clock can be set on this menu screen.
Tipp: To set the clock to the split second,
choose the current time + 1 minute and
press the rotary switch (enter) when the
next minute starts.

2.21 Length of day

Set the length of a day cycle (day + night)
on this screen. In some phases of plant
breeding, it can make sense to adjust the
length of a day cycle, which provides equal
yield in less time requirement. For example,
if “23:25” is selected, it means that a day
cycle takes 23 hours and 25 minutes. The
last 35 minutes compared to a regular 24h
day is missing and the clock will directly
proceed from 23:24:59 to 00:00:00. Please
pay attention to this fact when setting up
the time of “Lights ON/OFF” and the clock
time.

2.22 Lights ON

Set the time to switch the lights on. An
output in “clock timer” mode will switch on
according to the set time.

2.23 Lights OFF

Set the time to switch the lights off. An
output in “clock timer” mode will switch off
according to the set time.

Function of interval timer:

Please find further information in section 8.
An output in “interval timer” mode will be
switched on and off according to the set
times.

2.24 Interval day ON

Set the interval time (period) to switch on
the output during daytime.

2.25 Interval day OFF

Set the interval time (period) to switch off
the output during daytime.

hjg

Day OFF F

00C15C00 BC

gih

Day ON F

00C15C30 BC

Lights OFFC F
16C00 BC

Lights ONC F
08C00 BC

Length of dayC F
24C00 BC

ClockC F
12C34 BC

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2.26 Interval night ON

Set the interval time (period) to switch on
the output during night time.

2.27 Interval night OFF

Set the interval time (period) to switch off
the output during night time.

2.28 CO₂ Setup

Press the rotary switch to enter the “CO₂
Setup” menu.

2.29 Temperature unit

Choose the preferred temperature
unit (°C/°F).

2.30 Language

Choose the preferred language for the
menu (English/German).

2.31 Display timeout

H

ere you can set the display timeout. The
time set for the display timeout determines
the time to switch off the display
illumination. The home screen is displayed

2

0 seconds after this time has expired.
When “ON” is set, the display elimination
will be activated at all times. After a period
of 180 seconds, the home screen will be
displayed.

2.

32 Save & return home

Press the rotary switch when this screen is
displayed to save the changes made and
return to the home screen.

2.33 Cancel & return home

When this screen is displayed, press the
rotary switch to discard the changes made
and return to the home screen.

3. Menu level “CO₂ Setup”

To increase the CO₂ concentration, CO₂ can
be dispensed from a CO₂ bottle or by
generating CO₂ by burning gas. A suitable
CO₂ armature can be sourced from our
website or another specialized shop.

3.1 CO₂ function

The CO₂ concentration can be controlled
exactly by using a CO₂ sensor, or it can be
increased timing controlled without a
sensor. Furthermore, the CO₂ regulation can
be turned off.
If “sensor controlled” is selected, the
controller will calculate the required amount
of CO₂ to reach the desired CO₂ level based
upon the current measurement. Therefore,

CO2 functionC F
Sensor contr. BC

Cancel D F
return home BC

Save D F
return home BC

Display F

timeoutC 100sBC

LanguageC F
English BC

Temperature F
unitC AC BC

Drucken fur F
CO2-Menu BC

hjg

Night OFF F

00C45C00 BC

gih

Night ON F

00C15C00 BC

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the CO₂ flow on the CO₂ armature, the
room dimension and the desired CO₂
concentration must be set in the menu. By
repeatedly dispensing CO₂ to the room air,
the CO₂ concentration will be kept at the
desired level. To compensate inaccuracy
regarding the actual CO₂ flow and the
entered room dimensions, the controller
will learn from previous CO₂ dispensing.
Thus, it will automatically rectify the
mentioned inaccuracies.

If “sensor&generator” is selected, the CO₂
regulation will operate similar to the
description above. The only difference is
that the minimum time for a CO₂ dosing is
higher given that it does not make sense to
trigger the CO₂ generator for only a second,
for example.
The exact procedure of the “time
controlled” function depends on the
following settings. The procedures principal
is shown in the graph on page 21.
When “OFF” is selected, the CO₂ function is
turned off.

While one of the CO₂ functions is active, the
fans will run according to the settings
below. Furthermore, the “desired
temperature CO₂” will be used.
The CO₂ dispensing will only occur during
daytime.

3.2 Desired temperature CO₂

Set the desired temperature for CO₂ mode.
When this temperature is exceeded, the fan
speeds will be increased as long the
settings following MIN/MAX settings allow..

To avoid high CO₂ wastage, it makes sense
to turn off the fans during the CO₂ mode. If

a negative pressure has to be maintained,
its also a good idea to let the exhaust fan
run on a very low speed.

3.3 Exhaust fan MAX CO₂

Set the maximum fan speed of the
exhaust fan during the “CO₂ period”. This

fan speed will never be exceeded. Please
find additional information in chapter 8.

3.4 Exhaust fan MIN CO₂

Set the minimum airflow of the exhaust
fan during the “CO₂ period”. This set fan

speed will never* be undercut. Please find
additional information in chapter 8.

*during pressure, sensor calibration is in process,
all fans are turned off.

The minimum fan speed is 10%.
Additionally, “OFF” can be selected. This
means that the intake fan will be switched
off as long as the measured temperature is
below the desired temperature.

Ensure that the fan is still rotating at the set

minimum fan speed and the airflow is
sufficient for cooling the motor.

3.5 Intake fan MAX CO₂

Set the maximum fan speed of the intake
fan during the CO₂ period. The specified
value will never be exceeded.

Set intake F
CO2 MAXC AUSBC

Set exhaust F
CO2 MINC AUSBC

Set exhaust F
CO2 MAXC 15ABC

Set desired F
tempCO2C 35ACBC

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3.6 Intake MIN CO₂

Set the minimum fan speed of the intake
fan for a standard duct fan during the “CO₂
period”. If this value is undercut in the
controller’s operation, the intake fan will be
switched off to maintain the negative ­pressure inside the grow room. The
minimal possible fan speed is 10%.
Additionally, “OFF” can be selected,
whereby the fresh air fan will always be
disabled during daytime.

This value is only relevant for standard duct
fans. EC fans always turn off at 10%.

Ensure that the fan is still rotating at the set

minimum fan speed and the airflow is
sufficient for cooling the motor.

3.7 Room volume

Set the volume of the room to which you
wish to dispense CO₂.
Unit: (length * height * width) m*m*m = m³

3.8 CO₂ flow

Enter the flow set on the CO₂ armature or
specified for your CO₂ generator.
Unit: l/min = liter / minute

3.9 CO₂ concentration

Set the desired CO₂ concentration.
(ppm = parts per million)

The next two screens are only relevant

when the time controlled CO₂ function
without a sensor is used.

3.10 CO₂ absorption period

Set the time to wait until the plants have
absorbed the CO₂
This value is only relevant in the time

controlled CO₂ function.

3.11 Air exchange

Specify how long the fans should run in
“day mode” to exchange the room air after
a CO₂ period. If you do not want the air to
be replaced, a time of zero seconds can be
set.
This value is only relevant in the time

controlled CO₂ function.

3.12 Return to “1. Setup”

Press the rotary switch while this screen is
displayed to return to menu level “2
setup”.

Press to F
return BC

Air exchangeC F
30secBC

CO2 absorbtion F
periodC 240secBC

Concentration F
CO2C 1200ppmBC

Flow F
CO2C 10l/minBC

Room volumeC F
18ml3BC

Set intake off F
CO2C m 30ABC

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This graph shows procedure of the timing controlled CO₂ function without a CO₂ sensor.

8 Appendix for chapter 6

To keep the menu descriptions clear,
additional information is provided in this
appendix:

Regarding 2.14 Negative pressure in %:
For better understanding, here two
examples are given.
Example 1: When using to equal fans for
intake and exhaust, a negative pressure of
20% means that the intake fan will generate
an air flow 20% smaller compared to the
exhaust fan.
Example 2: When operating a very small
intake fan, a negative “negative pressure”
can be chosen. This will increase the fan
speed of the intake fan compared to the
exhaust fan. When a negative pressure of

-30% is set and the exhaust fan is operating

at 60%, the intake fan will operate at 90% of
its maximum speed.
Please also pay attention to the information
below.

Regarding “Exhaust fanMAX”:
Please note that this value cannot be
smaller than the value set in “Exhaust fan
MIN”.
To always turn off the exhaust fan, “OFF”
can be selected. This is possible if “Exhaust
fan MIN” is also set to “OFF”.
Please note that his value cannot be larger
than 100% + ”negative pressure in %”. This
means that the maximum possible value
can be below 100% in case a negative
“negative pressure” is set. (e.g. -10%)

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Example: for a negative pressure of -15%,
the maximum possible value would be 85%

(100% + (-15%) = 85%).

9 Description of the interval timer

The interval timer is a recycling timer that can be used to switch devices like water pumps or
circulation fans on and off according to the times set in the menu. The time for each period
(ON/OFF) can be chosen to the split second and separately for day and night (0 seconds – 168
hours). When it switches according to the settings for day or night is determined by the clock
timer (“Lights ON”/”Lights OFF”).

This diagram shows the method of operation of the interval timer.

Day

Night

On

Off

Day

Night

On

Off

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10 What to do if there are problems?

Problem Reason Advise/ Workaround

No display The mains plug is not

connected to a power
socket.

Connect the mains plug to a
power socket.

The maximum exhaust

fan speed “Exhaust fan

MAX”

cannot be

changed or the value

rang is limited.

This value cannot be smaller
than the “Exhaust fan MIN”
setting. Additionally, this
value cannot be smaller than
100% + negative pressure.

Please observe the instruction on
pages 13, 14 or 19 regarding the

“Exhaust fan MAX” menu screen.

The measured humidity
values are inaccurate or
the humidity is
permanently displayed
as 99.9%.

The sensor has been
exposed to high humidity or
wetness.

The sensor should be replaced.
Alternative:

1) Keep the sensor at a
temperature of 50 to 60°C and a
humidity <10%RH for 2 hours;

2) Following the previous step,
keep the sensor at a temperature
of 20 to 30°C and a humidity
>70%RH for 5 hours.

One or more power

outlets on the controller
are not activated, even if
the display is
illuminated.

The power output was

overloaded by a faulty or
unsuitable device.

The controller must be repaired.

Please contact customer service or
an authorized customer service
point.

The display is frequently
or permanently showing
“Sensor error code X”.

The sensor is broken. The sensor should be replaced.

One or more regular
duct fans do not run as
expected or they only
run for a short time.

The device is disturbed by an
electronic ballast.

Ensure that a distance of a couple
of centimeters is maintained
between the cables of the ballast
and ALL other cables.

Table 3

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11 Technical data

Dimensions (LxWxH) 170mm x 100mm x 90mm
Length of sensor cable (T/RH) ca. 5m
Length of mains cables ca. 1.4m
Power supply 1 100-240V~ 10A 50-60Hz
Power supply 2 (for “Multifunctional Out 4“) 100-240V~ 10A 50-60Hz

Maximum power per output “Multifunctional Out 1,

2, 3“

1200W@230V 630W@120V

Maximum power “Multifunctional Out 1+2+3“ 2300W@230V 1200W@120V
Maximum power “Multifunctional Out 4“ 2300W@230V 1200W@120V
International protection marking/Protection class IP42/
Repetitive sensor accuracy T/RH ±0.1%RH/±0.2°C
Absolute sensor accuracy ±3%RH/±0.2°C
Allowed ambient temperature 10-40°C

Table 4

12 Disposal

Observe the local regulations for material disposal. Dispose of the device in accordance with EC
Directive 2002/96/EC – WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment). If you have any
questions, please contact the local authorities responsible for waste disposal.

13 Service

GrowControl wants to provide you the best level of service. To contact the customer service,
please send an email to [email protected].

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V1.3en ©GrowControl, Excepting errors and changes

14 Warranty

This product is guaranteed against manufacturing defects for one (1) year from the original date
of purchase. GrowControl’s sole obligation in the event of such defects during this period is to
repair or replace the defective part or product with a comparable part or product at
GrowControl’s sole discretion. Except for such replacement, the sale, or other handling of this
product is without warranty, condition or other liability even though the defect or loss is caused
by negligence or other fault. Damage resulting from use, accident, or normal wear and tear is not
covered by this or any warranty. GrowControl assumes no liability for any accident, injury, death,
loss, or other claim related to or resulting from the use of this product. In no event shall
GrowControl be liable for incidental or consequential damages relating to or resulting from the
use of this product or any of its parts.

Please consider the laws and regulations of the respective country.