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Understanding the Boundary Wire - Grouw L1200 APP Control

Updated

The boundary wire (edge wire) defines the mower's working area and ensures efficient operation by preventing it from leaving the designated area.
It creates an electromagnetic signal that is picked up by the mower's sensors.

Key components:

  • Boundary wire: Installed along the perimeter of the working area.
  • Signal generator: Located in the charging station: emits the boundary signal.

 

Installation checklist:

  1. Plan the layout:
    • Identify obstacles such as trees, flower beds, and paths.
    • Avoid sharp angles: do not use 90° angles at corners but 2 * 45°.
    • Mark off designated areas such as garden ponds or steep slopes.
  2. Install the wire:
    • Lay the wire flat on the ground, bury it, or place it under paving stones if necessary (up to 5 cm deep).
    • Ensure a complete loop to the charging station.
    • Use stakes to secure the wire at regular intervals (every 30-50 cm).
    • Ensure there are no loose sections to avoid the mower getting stuck.
    • Be careful not to damage the wire when hammering in the stakes. Too hard hammering can cut the wire and create faults.
  3. Connect to the station:
    • Connect the ends of the boundary wire to the designated ports on the charging station (The wire that goes under the charging station should be connected to the red terminal marked with a “+”. The wire that does NOT go under the charging station should be connected to the black terminal marked with “S1”)
    • Test for a stable signal before starting the mower – the charging station's indicator light should be green.

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Common faults and troubleshooting

Error codes and messages:
Robot mowers often display specific error codes related to issues with the boundary wire or the robot's work being obstructed.

Note that the indicator light on the charging station should be a steady green. If it flashes green, it is a sign of poor connections or a break in the wire.

  1. “No signal detected” - flashes red in a triangle on the machine's display.
    • Cause: Break in the wire or faulty connection.
    • Solution:
      1. Inspect the wire for visible damage.
      2. Use a wire tester to locate the break.
      3. Repair using waterproof connectors.
  2. “Weak signal”, the machine experiences periodic faults, runs in circles sometimes and stops mid-path due to lack of signal from the edge wire.
    • Cause: Long wire runs, interference, or moisture.
    • Solution:
      1. Start by checking the machine's error messages in the app or on the machine's fault memory. If it is boundary wire related, proceed with the points below.
      2. Check that the total wire length does not exceed the manufacturer's limits.
      3. Investigate if nearby devices are causing electromagnetic interference.
      4. Check for moisture in connectors or wires, which may have caused oxidation and signal problems. Replace defective connectors and repair damaged wire areas.
      5. Tighten the connections at the charging station.
      6. Avoid excess boundary wire lying coiled behind the charging station.
      7. Ensure that the boundary wire is not lying too closely together and interfering with the signal (refer to the manual for the recommended distance for your model).
  3. “Mower runs outside the area”
    • Cause: Incorrect wire placement or signal interference.
    • Solution:
      1. Adjust the boundary wire to ensure proper coverage.
      2. Test the loop's continuity using the station's indicator – check if the charging station lights up green.
      3. Check if similar products are installed in the area, e.g., at a neighbour's. Adjust the distance between boundary wires and charging stations according to your model's manual.
  4. “Intermittent connection”
    • Cause: Loose connections or physical damage.
    • Solution:
      1. Secure the wire's connections again.
      2. Replace worn or corroded connections/connectors.
      3. Check the output terminal and the ends of the boundary wire for corrosion/rust.

 

Alternative solutions:

  • Boundary wire tester: Detects breaks or weak points in the wire.
  • Check the charging station for insects:

Insects can find their way into the charging station, which can cause damage or disruptions in its function. The inspection should include the following:

-Inside the charging station: Check for spider webs, dead insects, or live pests that may affect the electrical components.

-Ventilation openings: Ensure that the ventilation openings are free from blockages such as insects or dirt.

-Charging points: Inspect the charging contacts for insect debris that may hinder proper charging.

-Overall around the charging station: Inspect the area around the station for insect nests or signs of activity that may lead to recurring issues.

  • Test track: An effective method for diagnosing faults in the boundary wire is to build a test track (approximately 2 m x 1.5 m) in a small size and test the robot within this area.
    If the machine works fine on the test track, the fault is likely in the boundary wire in the garden (see video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTnutx7QYEM).

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