The TrolMaster Substrate Sensor Built for Feed on Demand
Timer-based irrigation waters on the clock, whether the media needs it or not. The WCS-9 replaces that guesswork with real-time readings of volumetric water content, EC and temperature from the root zone. The set includes a sensor display, one WN-9 sensor node, a 16 ft RJ12 cable set and a T-splitter. Each display takes up to four nodes on a daisy chain and reports both the individual readings and their average. Averaging matters because a single probe can be fooled by a hot spot or water channeling in one block. Water content reads from 0 to 100%, and EC from 0 to 30 mS/cm. The node is pre-calibrated for rockwool, and other media only need a single saturated-point calibration. It works in both traditional soil and high bulk-EC soilless substrates. Readings also show in the free TM+ Pro app, with history graphs and high or low alarms. The package measures 5.43 × 6.69 × 2.52 in and weighs 1.39 lbs.
Setting Up the TrolMaster WCS-9 for Crop Steering
Update the controller firmware first, since older versions do not recognize the WCS-9. On Aqua-X controllers, plug the display into the Medium port. On Hydro-X Pro, Tent-X and Green-X, it goes into the Sensors port instead. Press the addressing button on the display to link it, then shake each node to pair it. Normal readings refresh every minute, and the display button forces an immediate update. During a Feed on Demand event the refresh drops to every 10 seconds. Feed on Demand lets you set different moisture targets for morning, noon and evening. Max On Time and Dry Back time settings shape each irrigation shot for precise dry-backs. Aqua-X Pro and Hydro-X Pro support up to 50 displays, Aqua-X Plus up to 20, and the others one each. Owners of older WCS-2 or WCS-3 sensors can check TrolMaster's WCS-9 upgrade program for an exchange.
Key Features
- Complete Starter Set: Display, one WN-9 node, 16 ft RJ12 cable set and T-splitter in one box.
- Up to 4 Nodes per Display: Daisy-chain more WN-9 nodes for an averaged root zone reading.
- Feed on Demand Irrigation: Moisture-triggered watering with morning, noon and evening targets.
- Simple Calibration: Pre-calibrated for rockwool; other media need only the saturated 100% point.
- Free App Monitoring: TM+ Pro app shows history graphs and alarms with no subscription fee.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Part number | WCS-9 |
| Compatible controllers | Aqua-X NFS-1/NFS-2/NFS-3, Hydro-X Pro HCS-2, Tent-X TCS-1, Green-X GCS-1 |
| Measurements | Volumetric water content, EC, temperature |
| Water content range | 0–100% |
| EC range | 0–30 mS/cm |
| Temperature range | 32–122°F (0–50°C) |
| Nodes per display | Up to 4 |
| Refresh interval | 1 min normal; 10 sec during Feed on Demand |
| Input | 12V, 0.1A |
| Operating humidity | ≤90% RH |
| Package contents | WCS-9 sensor display, WN-9 sensor node, 16 ft RJ12 cable set, T-splitter |
| Package dimensions | 5.43 × 6.69 × 2.52 in (138 × 170 × 64 mm) |
| Weight | 1.39 lbs (0.63 kg) |