Hydreon RG-11 Optical Rain Sensor with Relay Output
Senses rainfall with no moving parts.
6 different modes of operation: Tipping bucket, Skylight rain sensor, Wiper control, Drop detection, Condensation / Frost Sensing, or Irrigation control sensor.
The RG-11 Rain Gauge senses water hitting its outside surface using beams of infrared light. It uses the same sensing principle used in millions of automotive rain sensing windshield wiper controls.
The RG-11 is optical - not mechanical, chemical, or conductive. Consequently, it is far more rugged, sensitive and reliable than any other technology. The sensor is extremely sensitive, and virtually immune to false trips. Yet, it is completely unaffected by jostling and motion. There are no exposed conductors to corrode, and no openings for bugs to crawl into. There is no place for leaves or other debris to collect.
The RG-11 Rain Sensor includes a DIP switch that allows it to be set up for the mode of operation that best matches the application.
RG-11 Modes of Operation:
- Tipping Bucket Emulation-- Replace your tipping bucket with a low maintenance alternative.
- "It's Raining"-- Close a skylight at the first sign of rain, and open it when it stops raining.
- Condensation / Frost Sensing
- Wiper control
- Irrigation Control - No more watering during a downpour
- Drop Detection
Please note: The RG-11 can't be powered with 5 V via the 5 V pin on the header, as it won't be able to boost its emitter current with just 5 V. Please power the device with minimum 12 V through the main terminal block
Performance of RG-1:
RG-11 is not as accurate as a properly maintained Tipping Bucket, but a better choice for many applications.
We do not guarantee or specify an accuracy for the RG-11, but these are the results we have seen for our three testing stations:
- Cumulative Error for the three stations: -10% to -28%
- Standard Deviation of error for each rain event: 36%
So, long term, expect the current revision of software to read about 10 to 28% low.
The standard deviation means that roughly 2/3 of the time the RG-11 will be within 36% of the tipping bucket. Much of the time the RG will read close to the tipping bucket, but outlier events can be significantly off.
Data taken between October 2011 and November 2012. Software revision – 12 (current is 16, but does not change accuracy). Units for testing range between new and three years of weathering and wear, including tests with intentionally scuffed / excessively worn units.
Snow melt is not included in the totals. Percent error for rain events is for events over 0.02" accumulation. (Tipping bucket does not register below about 0.02")
There is not a clear correlation of any readily measurable parameter. The biggest factor is surface condition.
Input Voltage
- Power supply: 10 to 30 VDC or 12 to 26 VAC
- Surge: 50 V
- Reverse polarity protected: 50 V
Current drain
- When no outputs on, not raining, no heater: 15 mA
- In Micro-power sleep mode: About 1.5 mA
- When output on: 50 mA
- When heater on and 24 VDC input: 55 mA
Output
- Relay closure, normally open and normally closed contacts
- Max.Load 1 A, 24 VDC
Operating temperature: -40 to +60 °C
Dispatch
In-stock orders are dispatched within 2 business days.
Shipping options
We deliver across Australia and internationally by any of the following methods:
- Australia Post Express
- Australia Post Parcel Post
- DHL
- FedEx (only international)
- Freight account. We'll email packaging dimensions when the shipment is ready to be book.
*Transit times vary depending on the shipping method and destination.
Store Pickup - Carrum Downs, Victoria, 3201
Order before 11am to collect after 2pm the same day. Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm, excludes public holidays.
RETURNS
How to return an item Contact us before sending anything back. Email info@oceancontrols.com.au or call +61 3 9708 2390. We'll confirm eligibility and guide you to the return process.
Return window 14 days from dispatch date.
Condition required Items must be unused and in original packaging, including all documentation and manuals.
Restocking fee A 20% restocking fee applies to all accepted returns. Return shipping costs are the customer's responsibility.
Non-returnable items
- Custom-made or specially imported products
- Software licences (some software have trial versions available)
- Items not in original, as-new condition
WARRANTY
How to make a warranty claim Before returning anything, please contact us. Our engineers can often resolve the issue remotely. If a return is required, our team will provide you with a warranty form to include with the goods.
What's covered Defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and correct installation.
What's not covered The warranty does not cover damage or failures caused by factors outside our control, including incorrect installation, unauthorised alterations or modifications, or any installation or use not recommended by the manufacturer.
Standard warranty All products carry a 12-month warranty from the date of purchase unless stated otherwise.
Extended warranty
- Labjack: 5 Years
- Atop: 5 Years
- MeanWell: 3 Years
- Teracom: 3 Years
- Novus: 3 Years














