In the ever-evolving landscape of agricultural and horticultural technology, efficient irrigation control systems have become indispensable. TrolMaster's Aqua-X line of controllers stands out as a robust solution designed to meet the diverse needs of modern growers. This article delves into a comparative analysis of the Aqua-X (NFS-1), Aqua-X Plus (NFS-3), and Aqua-X Pro (NFS-2) controllers, highlighting their features, capacities, and advanced functionalities.
Quick Look
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Size & Display:
- Aqua-X (NFS-1): Equipped with a backlit 128 x 128 LCD display.
- Aqua-X Plus (NFS-3): Features a larger 7" LCD color display.
- Aqua-X Pro (NFS-2): Boasts a 10.1" LCD screen, providing a more expansive and clearer interface.
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Control Mechanism:
- NFS-1: Utilizes button control.
- NFS-3 and NFS-2: Both models employ a touchscreen for easier navigation and control.
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Data Management:
- NFS-1 and NFS-3: Support Micro-SD for saving, copying, importing, and exporting data.
- NFS-2: Utilizes USB for data management and offers online firmware updates.
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Package Content:
- NFS-1: Includes the Aqua-X controller, water detector sensor, touch spot, and mounting plate.
- NFS-3 and NFS-2: Come with additional sensor boards and RJ12 cable sets for enhanced connectivity.
Product Capacity
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Water Sensors:
- NFS-1: Supports up to 1 AMP-2 sensor board, 1 pH sensor (PPH-1/2/3), 1 EC & temp sensor (PCT-1/2/3).
- NFS-3: Accommodates up to 5 AMP-3 sensor boards and can handle up to 5 pH and EC & temp sensors.
- NFS-2: Can integrate up to 50 sensor boards (AMP-3) and water detectors (WD-1/2) in combination, making it ideal for large-scale operations.
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Water Detectors:
- NFS-1: Manages up to 25 water detectors (WD-1/2) and 8 water content sensors (WCS-1/2).
- NFS-3: Handles up to 20 water detectors and 20 water content sensors.
- NFS-2: Supports a comprehensive integration of up to 50 sensor boards and water detectors.
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Control Modules:
- NFS-1: Controls up to 5 OA6-24 (24V - 6 outputs) modules, DSV-1 (24V), OA6-110 (110V / 1.5A - 6 outputs), DSP-1/2 (110V / 240V & 10A), and DSD-1 (Dry Contact & 6A).
- NFS-3: Expands control to up to 10 modules for pumps and valves, managing up to 120 pumps and valves in total.
- NFS-2: Capable of controlling up to 50 modules, handling a maximum of 600 pumps and valves, highlighting its suitability for extensive agricultural setups.
Advanced Functionalities
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Irrigation Control:
- All models provide comprehensive water EC, pH, and temperature monitoring, medium moisture level monitoring, watering confirmation monitoring, and leak detection.
- NFS-3 and NFS-2: Also include advanced features like crop steering, multi-zone monitoring, auto-filling for reservoirs, and calendar reminders.
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Scheduling & Connectivity:
- NFS-1: Allows for 12 individual time schedules per day and supports a linked master pump.
- NFS-3: Enhances scheduling capabilities with up to 50 schedules per day and supports up to 120 linked master pumps.
- NFS-2: Offers unparalleled flexibility with up to 50 schedules per day and the ability to control up to 300 linked master pumps.
- NFS-2: Provides web-based program/app connectivity, enabling remote control and monitoring.
Conclusion
TrolMaster's Aqua-X controllers, namely the NFS-1, NFS-3, and NFS-2, cater to a wide range of irrigation control needs from small to large-scale operations. The NFS-1 offers a solid foundation for basic irrigation control, while the NFS-3 enhances capabilities with more sensor and control module integrations. The NFS-2 stands out with its extensive sensor and module capacity, advanced features, and robust web-based connectivity, making it an excellent choice for complex and large-scale agricultural applications. Whether you are managing a small greenhouse or a vast agricultural field, TrolMaster’s Aqua-X controllers provide the versatility and reliability needed to optimize your irrigation management.
