Which B-hyve Hub Works With My Timer?
B-hyve hub guide: the Gen 1 hub (21006) works only with Gen 1 hose timers; Gen 2 timers, XD timers and flood sensors need the Gen 2 hub (21027).
Match the hub to the timer generation. The Gen 1 hub (21006) works with the original Gen 1 hose timers (21005, sold in the 21004 kit). The Gen 2 hub (21027) works with Gen 2 hose timers, XD timers and flood sensors. A Gen 2 hub does not support Gen 1 hose timers, and the Gen 1 hub does not support XD timers or flood sensors.
This is an independent B-hyve resource. B-hyve is made by Orbit.
Which hub does each device need?
| Device | Hub it needs |
|---|---|
| Original hose timer 21005 (kit 21004) | Gen 1 hub, 21006 |
| Gen 2 1-outlet timer (21205, 90205Z) | Gen 2 hub, 21027 |
| XD 1-port (24511), 2-port (24632), 4-port (24634) | Gen 2 hub, 21027 |
| XD 2-port with hub (24637), 4-port with hub (24639) | Gen 2 hub, included |
| Flood sensors (71000, 71005) | Gen 2 hub, 21027 |
| Sprinkler controllers (57915 to 57995) | No hub. They have built-in Wi-Fi. |
The Gen 2 hub 21027 is the same hub as 21008, according to Orbit. Do not assume that every package carrying either number has identical contents.
What does a hub do?
Hose timers connect to your phone by Bluetooth without a hub. You can set up and run them locally when you are in range. A hub adds Wi-Fi: remote access, WeatherSense smart watering, automatic weather delays, notifications and watering history. See Can B-hyve work without Wi-Fi?.
Which timers does the Gen 2 hub list as compatible?
The 21027 listing names these model numbers: 24511, 24516, 24632, 24537, 24634, 54539, 71000, 71003, 71005, 90205, 90204, 90205Z, 90204Z, 21205 and 21204. It also states that one hub can control multiple compatible devices within 150 ft. Treat 150 ft as a setup guideline, not a guaranteed range. Walls and metal structures reduce performance.
Which timers does the Gen 1 hub support?
The 21006 listing is titled for the 21005 timer only (bundled in the 21004 kit). Its description says the hub is for models 21004 and 21005. Either way, it is for original hose timers. It is not compatible with XD timers or flood sensors. It requires 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, not 5 GHz.
Can I use one hub for several timers?
Yes, as long as they belong to the same generation. One Gen 2 hub can handle several Gen 2 timers, XD timers and flood sensors. A Gen 1 hub handles several Gen 1 timers. Do not mix generations on a hub.
Where should I place the hub?
Hubs are for indoor use, even when the timers are outside. Orbit's listing recommends a central location between devices with as few walls or metal structures as possible. It includes a wall adapter.
Is there another way to bridge an original timer?
Orbit has an article saying a second-generation underground sprinkler controller can act as a Gen 1 bridge for compatible original hose timers. That does not mean a Gen 2 hose-timer hub works with Gen 1 timers.
Do bundles include a hub?
Some do. The 24637 and 24639 XD packages include a Gen 2 hub, and so does the 21206 Gen 2 2-pack. The standalone 24632, 24634 and 24511 timers do not. Check the package title for "with Wi-Fi Hub".
Where do I confirm my exact model?
Check the model number on your timer and the Orbit manual library. Manuals are listed for 21005, 21006, 24511, 24632, 24634, 21027 and 71000.
Related
B-hyve Programs, Start Times and Cycle & Soak
How to program B-hyve: build custom programs with start times and run days, or use smart watering. Cycle and soak uses multiple start times.
B-hyve Gen 1 vs Gen 2 Hose Timers
B-hyve Gen 1 vs Gen 2 hose timers: they use different hubs. Gen 2 adds longer range, a built-in flow meter and a Gen 2 hub that also works with XD.