PKY-IC03 vs LoRa Solar Valve Controller (PKY-IC05): What’s the Difference?
This guide explains the key differences between PKY-IC03 and PKY-IC05, helping users choose the right wireless valve control device for their irrigation project based on power supply, functionality, and deployment scenarios.
Introduction
PKY-IC03 and PKY-IC05 are both wireless field devices used in PKYDrip irrigation systems.
However, they are designed for different purposes and different deployment conditions.
This guide explains:
- What each device is designed to do
- How their roles differ in an irrigation system
- Which one should be selected for typical project scenarios
Core Design Difference
The fundamental difference between the two products is design intention.
- PKY-IC03 is a wireless execution controller designed for flexibility.
- PKY-IC05 (LoRa Solar Valve Controller) is a dedicated solar-powered valve actuator designed for simplicity and ultra-low power operation.
They are not interchangeable, and neither one is an upgrade of the other.
Functional Scope Comparison
| Aspect | PKY-IC03 | PKY-IC05 |
|---|---|---|
| Primary role | Wireless field controller | Solar valve actuator |
| Main function | Execute commands + support field I/O | Open / close valve only |
| Power supply | Battery / DC power (larger capacity possible) | Integrated solar panel + battery |
| Sensor support | Yes (pressure, soil moisture, etc.) | No (valve control only) |
| Local logic | Timer, sensor-triggered actions | Simple execution |
| Typical installation | Engineering projects | Fast field deployment |
| Maintenance | Periodic battery management | Minimal (solar self-powered) |
When to Use PKY-IC03
Choose PKY-IC03 when:
- Field power supply is available or larger batteries can be used
- Additional field sensors are required
- Pipeline pressure sensor
- Soil moisture sensor
- Other monitoring devices
- Valve operation depends on local feedback or conditions
- The project is engineered and supervised by technical staff
Typical examples:
- Greenhouses with pressure monitoring
- Main or sub-main pipeline zones
- Mixed systems requiring feedback before valve operation
When to Use PKY-IC05
Choose PKY-IC05 (LoRa Solar Valve Controller) when:
- The site has no electricity
- Only valve open/close control is required
- Long-term unattended operation is expected
- Fast installation and low maintenance are priorities
Typical examples:
- Orchards and vineyards with distributed zones
- Open-field agriculture with long distances
- Projects where trenching cables is impractical
System Architecture Perspective
In a modular PKYDrip system, both devices may coexist:
- PKY-IC03 handles zones requiring sensors or flexible control
- PKY-IC05 handles simple valve-only zones powered by solar energy
This separation improves system reliability and reduces unnecessary complexity.
Related Pages
- 👉 PKY-IC03 – Wireless Irrigation Controller
- 👉 PKY-IC05 – LoRa Solar Valve Controller
- 👉 View all Irrigation Controllers
Summary
- PKY-IC03 is a flexible wireless execution controller suitable for sensor-integrated zones
- PKY-IC05 is a dedicated solar-powered valve controller optimized for simple, reliable valve control
- Selection depends on power availability, functional requirements, and maintenance expectations
If you are unsure which device fits your project, reviewing field conditions and control requirements is the best starting point.