Rain BirdLNK2 Smart WiFi Module (2nd Generation), Compatible with TRU Rain Bird Irrigation Timers and ESP-LXIVM, ESP-ME, ESP ME3, ESP-TM2, LXME2, RZXe Controllers Made After 11/2/16

Whereas the Rainbird control module itself is not especially easy to operate, particularly for several zones with varying run times and frequencies, the mobile app is brilliant. Setting up the WiFi module was simple and I had all my zones programmed on the iPhone app in a matter of minutes. Easy to monitor watering, set up zones, and run manually right from the mobile app.

Using in a 6-station Rainbird TRU controller mounted in my garage. WAP is located in nearby guest apartment immediately adjacent to garage—so WiFi signal is strong. Has to use 2.4 GHz band, but as far as I know, all routers and WAPs that have 5GHz are dual band with a 2:4 GHz band as well. At first I wondered if I would use the remote controlling feature enough to justify the (considerable) expense of this module. Well—I love the convenience! Use it all the time—never use the controller front panel. Programming is much easier through the app, and in case of rain, the rain delay feature is a visual “slider” that you advance to the number of days you want to skip before the watering schedule resumes. Works like a CHARM. I cannot compliment the software enough. (One other thing—there was a glitch during initial setup and the WiFi connection never completed—got the spinning circle that did not go away. Just started all over and no problems the second time. Has worked perfectly since.).I first struggled with whether to add the LNK2 to my TRU controller or—for less $$—return the new TRU and buy the WiFi-control-only ARC8 for lower cost than the LNK2 alone. I was concerned that someone (family, sprinkler repair personnel) might need to control the unit in my absence, so bit the dollar bullet and got the LNK2. But to my understanding, the ARC8 software is exactly the same. For some people, that might be a cheaper way to go.In the case of the TRU controller, I didn’t see how the LNK2 would fit when looking at the TRU with the wire cover off. Ends up thr LNK2 does extend below the bottom edge of the back of the housing, but the cover is taller at the bottom than the controller back, and it easily covers thr LNK2. See picture.

I have a Rain Bird controller for a tiny strip of grass in my driveway. It's a simple one with no wifi or connectivity functionality. Aside from changing the time twice a year, I never touch it. Once I initially had it all set up, there was never any need to. Recently I landscaped my front yard and installed an advanced Rain Bird controller with wifi capability. The yard is divided up into 3 zones. Much more involved than my driveway grass. I initially hesitated getting this wifi add-on because I thought, will I even touch it after I have it all dialed in like the driveway unit? Should I spend a hundred bucks for the novelty of being able to app-control it? Well let me tell you, the answer is a resounding YES!Because of the complexity of the front yard I have had to access the controller numerous times. The controller is located outside on the side of the house so it's not too difficult to access, but my landscaper installed it rather low, so you have to crouch down to mess with it. Not anymore! Since I installed this little transmitter, I haven't touched that actual unit once. I've made many changes to the programming and experimented a lot. If I had to do that outside manually on the device, I doubt I'd have the customization I have setup now. And as a bonus, I have a Flume water usage monitoring system and was able to Integrate the two. You can even have it work with Echo, but it doesn't work very well.So don't hesitate, it's not a novelty, it's one of my more practical smart home automation systems.

The Rain-Bird LNK2WIFI WiFi Module (2nd Generation) is a game-changer for anyone upgrading their irrigation system. Installation was straightforward, and it connected seamlessly to my existing Rain-Bird controller. The smooth app integration allows me to control and monitor my sprinkler system from anywhere. Adjusting schedules and weather-based adjustments are now effortless, and the module even sends helpful alerts if there are any issues. The 2nd gen improvements make a difference in connectivity and reliability. I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to make their irrigation system more intelligent and efficient!

I finally got this installed after 2.5 hours of effort.First, the module would not connect to my cell phone so I had to use second cell phone. Then, I could not find my SSID in the app. I had to change my router setup and move the router much closer to the controller. After that worked, the application failed to add the controller to the application. I reset the module and re-entered everything again. Finally, the system was set up correctly.I order a Wi-Fi booster from Amazon.Summary:Pros:o Application provides all kinds of functionality from anywhere in the worldo Module installation is very easyo Module works with almost all controllerso Wi-Fi is actually okay, don't know why I had so many problems connectingCons:o No printed instructionso Bluetooth connection is sketchy but eventually I got good connectivityo Wi-Fi setup was difficulto Had to literally go through the setup about 20 times to make it workEven with the setup issues, I would buy this again. Functionality is worth the effort.

I've had the wifi adapter installed for 2 weeks now and it is working perfectly. It's a very simple plug-in to install and it connected to our wifi network quickly and easily. It is SO much easier to set watering schedules through the app. It will be great to be able to adjust our irrigation schedules when we're away from home for extended periods.