Hunter debuts ACC ethernet option

Hunter is introducing a new communications solution for IMMS central control: an Ethernet, or Local Area Network (LAN) com module. The ACC-COM-LAN looks like other ACC communications modules from the front, but features a standard network jack on the back for easy connection to a customer’s computer network.

Hunter will also release an updated version of IMMS software that allows IP addressing of irrigation sites. The new version 3.2 software will be a free update for existing IMMS customers, and will become the standard production version for all new orders.

The reverse side has a standard network jack, or 8P8C (8-pin, 8-conductor). This is sometimes called an “RJ-45” jack, and there is probably one on your computer.

Many IMMS customers and prospects already have an existing communications channel at their fingertips. Their computers, printers, and other devices already communicate with one another over what is often simply called, “the network”.

In most cases, “the network” is actually an Ethernet system designed to move data around buildings, facilities, and even entire cities over special cabling. Now, this can be used for IMMS irrigation control and monitoring… and these systems offer many advantages over more traditional communications. Ethernet sites may also be combined with hardwire, dial-up, and GSM sites within a single system, for lowest cost routing of control signals to all locations.

The LAN or Ethernet module can still also be used to reach additional controllers via UHF radio or hardwired cable. Controllers on the site can share the IP connection by adding ACC-COM-HWR to the other controllers, with appropriate radio or hardwire options (RADxxx or ACC-HWIM).

ACC-COM-LAN and IMMS 3.2 software with TCPIP communications settings will be available January 2, 2012, from inventory. ACC-COM-LAN will have a list price of $999.00 USD.