by Ann Withanee — May 20, 2011—Cyber-Rain, maker of easy-to-use Internet-based smart sprinkler controller systems, has announced the availability of the XCI Cloud, which allows owners and managers of commercial and residential properties to manage an unlimited number of controllers through any Internet-connected computer.
For the first time, users can monitor and control watering — as well as access critical data in an easy-to-read format — from any location. Cyber-Rain even offers a free iPhone app that lets customers control their systems.
Most sprinkler control systems in use today rely on timers that need to be manually adjusted, says Cyber-Rain. As a result, hundreds of millions of gallons of water are wasted every year because plants get watered when they don’t need to be, including on cold days and even when it’s raining. Cyber-Rain is a pioneer in using Internet-based weather data to water only when it’s necessary. So far, its customers have saved nearly 120 million gallons of water using the system. In fact, Cyber-Rain reports that it is so efficient it even qualifies for many water-efficiency rebates.
“What we are providing is smart irrigation in the palm of your hand,” says Cyber-Rain CEO Diana Schulz. “XCI Cloud gives property owners and managers a graphical tool that lets them manage watering from any Internet-connected computer in the worldand even through an iPhone app. Users can create efficient watering schedules that are customized to their landscape through an intuitive interface that is easy to use.
One of the biggest innovations of XCI Cloud is a comprehensive dashboard-based reporting capability that lets users know how much water (and money) they are saving. We track usage not only by property, but also by zone, which allows property managers and owners to maximize their watering efficiency. We also provide users comprehensive reporting on everything from valve diagnostics to detailed logs of all irrigation activity.”
For more information, visit the Cyber-Rain Web site.