2-Wire irrigation controllers are common technology in the commercial irrigation industry today. But what exactly is 2-Wire and what are its benefits? In the article below, we summarize the need-to-know information about this far-reaching technology. 

2-Wire is a wired communication technology designed as an efficient way to connect valves to irrigation controllers and PLCs. 

Unlike traditional multi-wire systems that require a dedicated wire for each valve, 2-Wire systems use a single pair of wires for communication & electrical connection to multiple irrigation components, such as valves, sensors, relays, and even other controllers.  

2-Wire systems rely on digital decoders installed at each valve. These decoders receive commands from a controller and translate them into actions, such as turning valves on or off. This technology offers several advantages, including reduced wiring complexity, easier installation, and greater scalability. 

How 2-Wire Works (Simply)

Most traditional irrigation systems use one wire per valve. 2-Wire systems—like Tucor’s NLP—use just two wires to run an entire irrigation system, even with hundreds of valves. 

Here’s how it works: 

  • The NLP controller sends a signal and power through a pair of wires called the 2-Wire path. 
  • Along this path, there are “decoders” installed next to each valve. These decoders “listen” for their unique address. 
  • When the NLP sends a command (“turn on Zone 12”), only the decoder with that address responds, activating the valve it’s connected to.

Think of it like a group text where only the person with the matching name replies! 

Standard vs 2-Wire Diagram

Conventionally-wired systems rely on a “hot” wire connected to each valve (RED). 2-Wire consolidates power & communication on two wires (GREEN).

Features & Benefits of 2-Wire

Although not all 2-Wire systems are created equal, most 2-Wire systems share these advantages: 

  • Simplified Wiring: A single 2-Wire path replaces the need for multiple individual valve wires, significantly reducing wire and labor costs.  
  • Scalability: 2-Wire can support many valves along the same wire path, and adding additional valves is as easy as adding additional decoders & branching off the existing wire path. 
  • Reliable Communication: Unlike most wireless communications, 2-Wire’s dedicated wire path ensures accurate and reliable communication to valves and sensors, even over long distances. 
  • Power Efficiency: Power is specifically applied to apply just enough voltage to hold 24 VAC solenoids, meaning more valves can be operated simultaneously. 

 

What’s So Special About Tucor 2-Wire?

Tucor is known for its top-quality 2-Wire technology. Building upon this reputation, the NLP’s updated 2-Wire design enhances the features of our already powerful 2-Wire technology: 

  • Durability: Tucor 2-Wire is trusted for quality and is the most robust on the market. Now with the NG decoders’ added short protection, you’ll find that our systems last and last.  
  • Sensor Connectivity: Using the NLP-C Controller’s new 2-Wire technology, you can connect up to 125 sensors of varying types (digital, pulse, 4-20mA & more) via a universal sensor decoder. 
  • Flexibility: Multi-function NG decoders can drive a variety of solenoids, relays and more with a variety of power settings. 
  • Power Efficiency: Our specialty 2-Wire design and  efficient decoders allow users to connect up to 500 decoders on one wire path. With a specialty low-voltage valve operation, activate up to 40 standard irrigation valves at one time. 

About Tucor:  

Tucor provides smart irrigation from the ground up, manufacturing top-quality water management products that solve problems & measurably conserve customer resources. With 7 patents, Tucor was the “first” to introduce many innovations to the commercial irrigation industry. Founded in 1995 as a family-owned & operated small business, Tucor takes pride in its products, customers, and employees, and strives for excellence each and every day.