How the TrolMaster AC Remote Station Talks to a Mini-Split
The ARS-1 is a learning infrared remote that puts a mini-split under Hydro-X control. It works with most mini-splits and some window units that came with an IR remote. During setup the original remote teaches its codes to the station one button press at a time. It learns OFF, then every temperature step from the lowest setpoint upward, for 24 setpoints in all. Remotes that move one degree per press and those that move two degrees are both supported. After that the Hydro-X sends the day or night setpoint, chosen by the photocell, and the emitter passes it to the indoor head. The LCD shows the active setpoint above the current room temperature. The box holds the station, an IR signal emitter, a 16 ft RJ12 cable, a 4 ft RJ12 cable and an RJ12 T-splitter. Firmware updates load from a Micro-SD card of 32 GB or less. It is rated for 32 to 122 °F at humidity of 90 percent or less. The package measures 160 by 86 by 86 mm and ships at 0.95 lb. It carries CE, FCC and ETL marks, a three year warranty and the distributor part number TRCARS1.
Setting Up a Mini-Split AC Controller in the Grow Room
A mini-split AC controller earns its keep at lights on and lights off, when the heat load changes fastest. Mount the station on the wall near the indoor head with its snap bracket. Stick the emitter where it has a clear line of sight to the head's receiver window. Nothing should hang between them, not a duct, a light cord or a leafy plant. Press the addressing key at first power up so the Hydro-X lists the station. Then teach the remote codes with fresh batteries in the original remote, in a quiet moment with no other remote in use. If the screen shows an error, send the same setpoint again from the remote. Pick a day target that holds the canopy where the plants like it under full light. The night target can sit a few degrees lower to keep the swing gentle. Keep the station dry and away from the head's condensate line. TrolMaster lists Daikin, MRCOOL, Innovair, Denali Aire and Cooper & Hunter units as not compatible. Check the brand before planning a room around it.
Key Features
- Learning IR remote: Copies the codes from the mini-split's own remote.
- 24 setpoints: Learns OFF plus every temperature step; one or two degree remotes.
- Day and night control: Hydro-X picks the setpoint by photocell status.
- Emitter included: Aims at the indoor head's receiver.
- LCD readout: Active setpoint and current temperature.
- Cable set included: 16 ft and 4 ft RJ12 cables plus a T-splitter.
- Micro-SD updates: Cards of 32 GB or less.
- CE, FCC and ETL: Three year warranty from TrolMaster.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | TrolMaster |
| Model | ARS-1 |
| Distributor part number | TRCARS1 |
| EAN | 6970207970533 |
| Controller | TrolMaster Hydro-X |
| Controls | IR remote mini-split and window AC units |
| Not compatible | Daikin, MRCOOL, Innovair, Denali Aire, Cooper & Hunter |
| Learned setpoints | 24, unary or binary remotes |
| Setpoint switching | Day and night, by photocell status |
| Display | LCD |
| Firmware | Micro-SD, 32 GB or less |
| Operating range | 32 - 122 °F (0 - 50 °C), humidity 90% or less |
| In the box | 1 x ARS-1, 1 x IR signal emitter, 1 x 16 ft RJ12 cable, 1 x 4 ft RJ12 cable, 1 x RJ12 T-splitter |
| Package size | 160 x 86 x 86 mm |
| Gross weight | 0.95 lb (0.43 kg) |
| Certifications | CE, FCC, ETL |
| Warranty | 3 years |