One of our most popular products in the past few years has been the original LINKWIFI module which Rain Bird will now phase out with a new LINK2WIFI (F55005) module. Here we explain the timetable for this change, the new potential features, and more. Rain Bird is a popular solution for homeowners and lawn care professionals for a good reason. If you find this Rain Bird LNK2 WiFi module review helpful, please share it with others.
To utilize this new WiFi remote control technology, you will need both the module and take note that it’s compatible with the following controller series:
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- ESP-ME3
- ESP-TM2
- ESP-Me WiFi
- And ST8 controllers
When Will Rain Bird Introduce LINK2WIFI?
This is considered a direct replacement and will go down on 9/13/21. On that date, Rain Bird will no longer have inventory for LNKWIFI.
Rain Bird LNK vs. LNK2
The most common question we get is, is it worth the upgrade? While both the LNK and the LNK2 have almost the same features, there are some key differences to consider. The LNK2 offers several notable upgrades, such as connecting to more models like the ESP-Me, ESP-TM2, ESP-RZXe, ESP-LXME2, and ESP-LXIVM. In contrast, the LNK is only compatible with ESP-Me and ESP-TM2 controllers. Additionally, the LNK2 is compatible with smart homes in North America, Europe, and Australia and has encrypted wireless communication to protect your privacy.
It is also important to note that the LNK2 module has a dual-band Wi-Fi radio, which allows it to connect to both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi networks, catering to your home’s Wi-Fi bandwidth. Another difference is that the LNK only connects through a hotspot connection, meaning your VPN, spam blockers, or antivirus apps must be bypassed upon connection. In contrast, the LNK2 module allows you to choose from a hotspot or Bluetooth connection, providing you with greater flexibility and ease of use.
Furthermore, the new module comes with an updated mobile app that offers more features and capabilities than the original, including custom watering schedules, real-time flow rates, and usage data, providing an easy and convenient lawn watering experience. Unlike the LNK, the LNK2 has a simplified installation process that uses a QR code and allows for quicker configuration through the app.
Ultimately, if you want a reliable, efficient, and user-friendly irrigation system, the LNK2 is the way to go.
LNK2WIFI Features
According to the manufacturer, At launch, the LNK2 will have the same feature set as the current LNKWIFI module; however, the LNK2 will have additional capacity for us to introduce additional feature sets in the future.
One of the best bits of news is the new module cost is the same as the old one. Unfortunately, we don’t know much about the new features yet; they will be integrated (available through download) with the modules later. We will learn more about the new features in early 2022. Here is what we do know about the product highlights:
- Compatible with all Rain Bird WiFi Controllers, including ESP-ME3, ESP-TM2, ESP-Me WiFi, and ST8.
- It’s easy to differentiate the old from the new because the new module is black (and the old one is gray).
- Strengthened network connection.
- Automatic weather adjustments provide daily run time changes.
- Use your phone just like a wireless remote.
- Excellent zone control allows you to water one zone, to water all zones, or to set a schedule.
- Simple multi-site control.
- Ensure peace of mind with push notifications that you can tailor to your needs.
- Smart home compatible.
- Local weather data is collected to adjust run times to match needs, saving up to 50% in water.
- Privacy is ensured through encrypted communication.
Buy the Rain Bird LNK2 WiFi at PlumbersStock
It’s no secret that PlumbersStock has great deals on sprinklers, sprinkler controllers, and more. It’s no exception with the Rain Bird LNK2 WiFi Module. If you have any other questions about how to get this set up or how it works, please do not hesitate to contact us. Check out the old blog post about the original LNKWIFI for a setup guide (the process is more or less the same). Your new module will have an install guide to get exact instructions. It’s an easy-to-follow, streamlined process. Learn more at RainBird.com.
Hello.
I live in Ohio, but I own a place in Sebring Florida.
I have an ESP-TM2 controller there in Florida, but no WI-FI, because I don’t have local internet service since we’re only there three months a year.
My neighbor has WI-FI that she allows me to “borrow” but not sure about the specs.
My question is … is there any way the new lnk module will let me control the controller without WI-FI ?
Thank you.
Hi there! Thank you for choosing PlumbersStock. The LNK2 module is designed to work thru Bluetooth, but you have to be near the controller to do that. To operate it remotely (like from work or church), it has to employ a WiFi network connection. For more information, please refer to this Technical Specification Sheet
Hello,
In terms of the WiFi specs, what is the difference between LNK and LNK2?
The (preliminary) specs sheet does not specify the kind of connection(speed).
Thank you for choosing PlumbersStock! If you are inquiring about the the WiFi connectivity of the Rain Bird LNK and LNK2 WiFi Modules, both of them will be able to connect to a 2.4 GHz WiFi network only. The Rain Bird LNK2 is considered to be a direct replacement to the discontinued LNK model. We hope this helps. Have a great day!
References:
https://wifi.rainbird.com/rb_faq/how-do-i-know-if-the-network-i-am-trying-to-program-the-lnk-wifi-module-to-is-a-2-4-ghz-wifi-network/
https://www.rainbird.com/products/lnk2-enhanced-control#tab_specs
In the article it says “In contrast, the LNK2 module allows you to choose from a hotspot or Bluetooth connection, providing you with greater flexibility and ease of use.”. So the LNK2 should be able to connect via Bluetooth, yet in your response you say “the LNK2 Module is designed to work on network communications over a WiFi network connection”. so is the LNK2 able to connect vai Bluetooth or not?
Great question, Tired Dad (relatable).
It is most definitely Bluetooth compatible. Specifically, it’s Bluetooth: v4.0, BLE
The other response you referenced was confusing, and I’ve fixed it. Thank you for pointing it out.
I have two homes with Rainbird ESP-TM2 sprinkler controllers. One is already using WiFi at location1 and I have the app on my cell phone. If I add a WiFi accessory to location 2 (on different WiFI system, will I be able to control it through the same app I have already installed on my cell phone? If not, how can I easily manage both?
Hello! Thank you for sharing your concern with us regarding the Rainbird ESP-TM2 sprinkler controllers. Yes, you can control both of your controllers using the Rainbird F55005 LNK2WIFI WiFi Module. This plug-in device is designed for users who manage multiple controllers. Additionally, this features a free mobile app that provides user access to real-time alerts as well as advanced water management capabilities. Once you have added the WiFi accessory, installed the latest version of the Rain Bird mobile app, and as long as your locations are both connected to the internet via their respective WiFi systems, you should be able to control both Rainbird ESP-TM2 controllers through the same app on your cell phone. Please see these product videos Rain Bird LNK Wifi Module: Installation, Setup, and Connection and scroll down this page for other helpful videos. Thank you for asking for help from us! Have a great day!
So it’s still useless I guess with 5G as 2.4g is required. What am I going to do with this useless module?
Sorry for your troubles. The reason it is 2.4 is that frequency travels much further from the wireless router source, and these timers are installed outdoors, often far from the router.
You may want to look into getting a router that has both frequencies. They’re becoming pretty standard for this very reason. You may be able to get an extender/repeater that converts the 5 to 2.4, but I’m not certain on that.
If your router is 5g, it also handles 2.4
Hello,
I have the original LNK module installed. What benefits will I gain from LNK2? I cannot find any comparisons via Google.
Thanks
John b
What a great question. You reminded us to update the post. The LNK2 allows you upgrade more controller models than the original LNK. The other benefit is that it’s dual band WiFi (2.4 GHZz and 5 GHz).
Hello,
I have the ESP-ME controller. But I am not sure if the LNk module works on my controller because I don’t know if the unit is from before or after 2016 and according to your article I’m missing the “wifi” part in the name of the unit.
How do I know for sure that the LNK2 module works with my ESP-ME controller?
Thanks!
Answer:
If you’re looking to enhance the functionality of your ESP-ME controller with the LNK2 module, it’s essential to determine its compatibility. By following a few simple steps, you can ensure seamless integration and enjoy the benefits of advanced features.
Step 1: Check for a White Label
To begin, examine your ESP-ME controller for a white label. This label can be found either inside or outside the case and contains crucial information such as the model number, date code, and serial number. Locating this label is the first step towards determining the compatibility of the LNK2 module.
Step 2: Identify the Manufacturing Date
Once you’ve found the white label, focus on the date code mentioned on it. This code reveals the manufacturing date of your ESP-ME controller. If the code indicates a date before 2016, it means your unit was manufactured prior to that year. However, if the code suggests a date on or after November 2016, it means your unit was manufactured in or after that year.
Compatibility Options
Depending on your controller’s model and manufacturing date, there are two possible compatibility scenarios:
Scenario 1: Compatible Models Manufactured after November 2016
If your ESP-ME controller is one of the specified models (ESP-TM2, ESP-ME, or ST8) and was manufactured after November 2016, you can utilize the LNKWIFI Module (F55000). This module serves as a vital component for enabling Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing your controller to connect to your smartphone (Android or IOS). With the LNKWIFI Module, you can conveniently control your irrigation system remotely and enjoy the convenience of wireless technology.
Scenario 2: Incompatible Models or Pre-November 2016 Manufacturing Date
If your ESP-ME controller does not fall under the specified models manufactured after November 2016, an alternative solution is required. In this case, you will need the Rain Bird 639340 WIFI Capable Replacement Panel. This supplementary faceplate is designed to update your controller, making it compatible with Wi-Fi. By replacing the existing faceplate with the Rain Bird 639340, you can unlock the wireless capabilities of your ESP-ME controller.
To fully utilize the benefits of this technology, you must have the Rain Bird LNKWIFI Module (F55000). However, if your controller does not fall under the specified compatible models manufactured after November ’16, you will also require the Rain Bird 639340 WIFI Capable Replacement Panel to update your controller accordingly.
Why in some places the LNK2 is described as dual band and other places is says that is only works on the 2.1 WiFi band?
This is a good question. Can you please point me to where you are seeing that it’s not dual band? Once I have your source, I may be able to find better information.
Hi I work for a irrigation company, and we was always told that there is a short distance that we can use the controller from our smartphones using Bluetooth or hotspot. But then is was just talking to a friend and he said we can use it anywhere we go as long as we have phone reception, can you tell me if I use this at a customer’s home are we able to walk anywhere on the property and use the app without a problem with the distance thanks.
Thank you for the question. For Bluetooth technology, you need to be in close enough proximity for your phone to connect to the controller. This is not the case with WiFi technology, like with this Rainbird LNK2 module. All that’s required is that your controller needs to be in close enough proximity to your home’s wifi router, and then it can connect to the internet, which means you can control it from anywhere your phone has an internet connection.