Rain Bird ESP-SM6 6-station expansion module for ESP-ME3 controller

Add six irrigation zones

The Rain Bird ESP-SM6 expansion module adds six additional stations to a compatible ESP-ME3 irrigation controller. The module installs directly into an available slot inside the controller, making it easy to expand an existing irrigation system with additional watering circuits.

Each new station can control another irrigation zone, allowing additional lawn areas, planting beds, hedges or drip irrigation systems to be integrated into your automatic irrigation system.

Ideal for larger irrigation systems

The Rain Bird ESP-ME3 includes four stations in its base configuration and can be expanded with compatible modules to a maximum of 22 stations. With six additional outputs, the ESP-SM6 is particularly useful when several new irrigation zones need to be added at the same time.

The modular design allows you to start with a smaller system and expand it later without replacing the existing ESP-ME3 controller.

Installs directly into the ESP-ME3

The ESP-SM6 installs into an available module slot to the right of the ESP-ME3 base module. It slides between the designated plastic rails and is secured using the integrated locking lever.

No separate power supply is required. Once installed, the controller automatically detects the additional stations. Rain Bird states that it takes approximately 30 seconds for newly installed stations to become available for configuration.

Hot-swappable expansion module

Rain Bird specifies the ESP-SM6 as a hot-swappable module. It can technically be installed or removed with or without AC power connected.

When working on valve wiring or other electrical connections, the applicable Rain Bird installation and electrical safety instructions should always be followed.

Six additional 24V AC valve stations

Once installed, six additional station outputs become available. Each station can control another irrigation circuit using a suitable 24V AC irrigation valve.

The expansion module does not change the basic wiring concept of the ESP-ME3. Valve control wires are connected to the corresponding station terminals while the common valve wiring continues to use the controller's COM connection.

Combine ESP-SM6 and ESP-SM3 modules

Rain Bird offers both three-station and six-station expansion modules for the ESP-ME3. ESP-SM6 and ESP-SM3 modules can therefore be combined according to the required number of irrigation zones.

For ideal station sequencing, Rain Bird recommends installing all required six-station modules before installing a three-station module.

Technical data

• Manufacturer: Rain Bird
• Model: ESP-SM6 / ESPSM6
• Manufacturer part number: F38260
• Product type: Station expansion module
• Additional stations: 6
• Compatible with Rain Bird ESP-ME3
• Compatible with Rain Bird ESP-Me
• Installs directly inside the controller
• No separate power supply required
• Hot-swappable
• Automatic detection of additional stations
• For additional 24V AC irrigation stations
• Maximum ESP-ME3 capacity: 22 stations
• Can be combined with ESP-SM3 expansion modules

Frequently asked questions about the ESP-SM6

How many stations does the ESP-SM6 add?

The Rain Bird ESP-SM6 adds six additional irrigation stations to a compatible controller.

Is the ESP-SM6 compatible with the ESP-ME3-230V?

Yes. Rain Bird specifically lists the ESP-SM6 as compatible with the ESP-ME3 Series, including the international 230V controller.

How many zones can the ESP-ME3 control?

The ESP-ME3 starts with four stations and can be expanded with compatible ESP-SM3 and ESP-SM6 modules to a maximum of 22 stations.

Does the ESP-SM6 require a separate power supply?

No. The expansion module installs directly into the controller and does not require a separate power supply.

Can I install more than one ESP-SM6?

Yes. Multiple expansion modules can be installed according to the available module slots and the maximum 22-station capacity of the ESP-ME3.

Can ESP-SM3 and ESP-SM6 modules be combined?

Yes. Both module sizes can be used with the ESP-ME3. Rain Bird recommends installing the six-station modules first and a three-station module afterwards for ideal station sequencing.

How quickly does the controller detect the new module?

Rain Bird states that it takes approximately 30 seconds after installation for the additional stations to become available for configuration.

Is the ESP-SM6 compatible with older ESP-Modular controllers?

No. The ESP-SM6 is not backwards compatible with older ESP-Modular controllers. It is designed for compatible ESP-Me and ESP-ME3 controllers.