How to Program Two-Wire Decoder with Mobile Phone
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A two-wire decoder system is a communication method where a central controller sends power and data over just two wires to multiple devices—called decoders—spread throughout a field, site, or building. Each decoder receives instructions from the controller and activates a connected device, such as a valve, light, or motor.
The magic lies in the fact that both power and signals share the same two wires, reducing the need for multiple cables running back to the controller.
In a decoder-based irrigation system, only a pair of cables — typically referred to as the two-wire path — is used to connect multiple valves, pumps, and sensors across a large site.
How It Works:
- The controller sends both power and digital commands along the two-wire path.
- Each decoder is installed at a valve, pump, or sensor location.
- Every decoder has a unique address or ID number that allows the controller to:
- Activate a specific valve (e.g., for watering Zone 3),
- Start or stop a pump,
- Or read data from a connected sensor (e.g., soil moisture or flow sensor).
Communication and Control:
1. The controller sends a command like:
- “Turn on Valve 12” or
- “Read flow sensor 02”
2. All decoders hear the signal, but only the one with the matching ID responds.
3.The decoder either:
- Activates its device (e.g., opens a valve),
- Turns off a device,
- Or sends sensor data back to the controller.
Programming Decoder
One of the main drawbacks of traditional decoder systems is the complexity of decoder configuration and troubleshooting. Most manufacturers require proprietary programming tools, which are often expensive and not easily accessible.
Fortunately, AgroGlide has introduced a more user-friendly and cost-effective solution. Their decoder system uses NFC (Near Field Communication) technology, allowing communication between the decoder and any NFC-enabled smart device — such as a smartphone — through the AgroGlide app (available for both iOS and Android).
This means you can program or troubleshoot decoders using just your phone — no special programmer required.
Another key feature of AgroGlide’s system is that the decoder’s memory is powered by energy harvested from the communication signal. As a result, decoders can be programmed even when not connected to a live power source.
Another advantage of the AgroGlide decoder system is its ability to assign the same zone number to multiple decoders. This makes it convenient to operate multiple valves simultaneously under the same zone, which is especially useful for large areas requiring higher water flow or synchronized irrigation.
All decoders — including both input and output decoders — communicate with the controller at regular short intervals. This continuous feedback allows the system to quickly detect issues, such as wire breaks or communication failures, ensuring faster troubleshooting and improved reliability.
More details: https://www.agroglide.com/two-wire
