Welcome to the Orbit 57946 B-hyve Smart Sprinkler Timer, your advanced indoor/outdoor 6-station WiFi controller. This comprehensive guide helps you unleash smart irrigation, efficiently connecting your landscape to nature. Enjoy seamless control, compatible with Alexa, for a thriving, beautifully watered garden.
Product Overview: Orbit 57946 B-hyve 6-Station Controller

The Orbit 57946 B-hyve Smart Sprinkler Timer stands as a premier 6-station indoor/outdoor WiFi controller, meticulously engineered to transform your landscape irrigation management. This intelligent device effortlessly integrates into your smart home ecosystem, leveraging Wi-Fi connectivity to provide comprehensive control. Users can remotely manage their sprinkler system, ensuring precise watering schedules tailored to their garden’s needs. The 57946 boasts compatibility with Amazon Alexa, enabling convenient voice-activated commands for hands-free operation without the need for an additional hub. Physically, the unit is designed for both indoor and outdoor placement, measuring approximately 10.188 inches in height and 11.375 inches in width, and includes a clear digital display for immediate feedback. It accommodates various sprinkler configurations—fixed, pop-up, portable, and rotary—suitable for both above-ground and below-ground setups. The system offers flexible programming options, including odd/even day schedules and a wide range of timing segments, from one minute up to one hour, allowing for highly customized watering plans; This robust controller is supported by a 2-year limited manufacturer warranty, providing assurance of its quality and durability. The B-hyve app serves as the intuitive interface for accessing all these smart features, offering a seamless user experience.

Key Specifications and Features

The Orbit 57946 B-hyve is a 6-station smart sprinkler controller, ideal for versatile indoor/outdoor use, integrating Wi-Fi connectivity for comprehensive smart home control without a separate hub. It offers voice control via Amazon Alexa for convenient, hands-free operation. The unit features a clear digital display and measures approximately 10;188 inches in height by 11.375 inches in width.
Key programming includes flexible odd/even day schedules and precise timing segments from one minute to one hour, with options like 5, 10, 15, 30, and 45 minutes. It supports various sprinkler types—fixed, pop-up, portable, and rotary—for above-ground or below-ground setups. An alkaline battery back-up ensures continuous, reliable operation. Backed by a 2-year limited manufacturer warranty, the 57946 guarantees exceptional durability and performance. All smart functionalities are efficiently managed through the intuitive B-hyve app, providing accessible and sophisticated irrigation control.

Accessing the Orbit 57946 Manual
Accessing the Orbit 57946 B-hyve manual is easy. Download the official user guide PDF for comprehensive instructions. It covers setup, operation, maintenance, and specifications for your smart sprinkler controller. This vital resource ensures effective use and troubleshooting.
Downloading the Official 57946 User Guide PDF
The official Orbit 57946 B-hyve user guide is readily available for download, providing comprehensive insights into your smart sprinkler system. This essential PDF manual covers everything from initial setup and installation to detailed operation, maintenance tips, and full product specifications for the 6-station WiFi controller. You can instantly access this vital resource, designed to help you efficiently utilize your indoor/outdoor timer.
To obtain your copy, users typically navigate to the product support section of the Orbit website or a reputable manual repository. Often, you’ll find multiple versions, including specific user manuals for models like 57946, 57950, 04080, and 04082. Once located, selecting the appropriate file and clicking a download button initiates the process. Some platforms might require entering an image-based code for verification before the download link becomes active, ensuring a secure and straightforward acquisition. Alternatively, a “View” option might allow online reading without downloading, offering flexibility. This downloadable guide is crucial for troubleshooting and maximizing your B-hyve experience, ensuring your landscape receives optimal care.

Initial Setup Guide for Your Orbit 57946 Timer
Get ready to set up your Orbit 57946 B-hyve Smart Sprinkler Timer. This guide walks you through powering on, checking Wi-Fi pairing, installing the B-hyve app, and using the setup wizard. Achieve smart, efficient irrigation easily.

Powering On and Observing Wi-Fi Pairing Indicators
To begin the initial setup of your Orbit 57946 B-hyve Smart Sprinkler Timer, the very first and most critical step involves connecting the unit to a reliable power source. Upon successfully plugging in your Orbit timer, the device will immediately and automatically initiate a search for a compatible smart device to establish a connection with. This pivotal phase is clearly communicated through a distinct visual cue prominently displayed on the timer’s digital interface. You should direct your attention to the top left corner of this screen. Within this area, you will locate the dedicated Wi-Fi icon. It is essential to note that this icon will not remain static; rather, it will distinctly begin a graduated blinking sequence. This specific and observable pattern of blinking is exceptionally important, as it serves as the primary visual confirmation that your Orbit 57946 timer is not only actively powered on but, more significantly, is now in an optimal ready state, actively seeking to establish a secure wireless connection with your smart device. This consistent blinking sequence is a clear indication that the timer’s internal Wi-Fi module is fully operational and continuously broadcasting its presence, patiently awaiting a pairing request from your chosen smart device. Grasping the meaning of this critical indicator is absolutely fundamental before you can smoothly proceed to the subsequent stages of the setup process, ultimately ensuring a flawless and highly successful integration of your advanced smart sprinkler system.
Installing the B-hyve App and Creating Your Account
Following the successful powering on of your Orbit B-hyve 57946 timer and observing its Wi-Fi pairing indicator, the next crucial step in setting up your smart irrigation system involves your smart device. It is imperative that you install the dedicated B-hyve app, which serves as the primary interface for controlling and managing your sprinkler timer. This application is readily available for download on your smartphone or tablet through the respective app stores. Once the B-hyve app is downloaded and launched, you will be prompted to create a new user account. This account creation is a straightforward process, typically requiring an email address and a secure password. Establishing your personal B-hyve account is fundamental, as it allows for personalized control, secure data storage, and access to all the advanced features of your Orbit 57946 controller. This account acts as your digital hub, linking your smart device to your physical sprinkler timer. Completing the app installation and account setup is a prerequisite for proceeding with the in-app configuration, ensuring you can fully leverage the smart capabilities of your B-hyve system for efficient landscape management.
Utilizing the In-App Setup Wizard and Help Icons
Once the B-hyve app is installed and your account created, you are ready to utilize the highly intuitive in-app setup wizard for your Orbit 57946 sprinkler timer. This wizard is specifically designed to guide you step-by-step through the initial setup of your B-hyve sprinkler timer. It simplifies connecting your timer to your home Wi-Fi network and setting up your first irrigation schedules, including defining zones. The wizard ensures that even first-time users can efficiently program their system, covering essential details like station assignments, watering durations, and start times. This guided process eliminates guesswork, making the setup seamless and user-friendly. Furthermore, the B-hyve app integrates numerous help icons strategically placed throughout its interface. These icons are invaluable resources, offering additional information and useful tips for various features and settings. Should you encounter any questions or require clarification on a specific function, simply tapping on a help icon will provide instant, context-sensitive assistance. Utilizing both the setup wizard and these readily accessible help icons will ensure a smooth and confident journey in configuring and optimizing your Orbit 57946 B-hyve Smart Sprinkler Timer for your landscape’s unique needs.

Physical Installation and Wiring Instructions
Proper physical installation and wiring are crucial for your Orbit 57946 timer. Ensure secure wire connections using wire nuts. In wet environments, use Orbit Grease Caps to prevent corrosion and protect from water infiltration, guaranteeing reliable performance.
Secure Wire Connections for Your Sprinkler System
The integrity of your sprinkler system relies heavily on secure and protected wire connections when installing your Orbit 57946 B-hyve Smart Sprinkler Timer. Proper wiring ensures consistent communication between the controller and your valves, guaranteeing efficient irrigation. Begin by carefully stripping insulation from the ends of your sprinkler wires, exposing enough copper for a robust and reliable connection. All wires should be joined together using reliable methods. It is imperative to use appropriate techniques like wire nuts, which provide a tight, insulated connection, or employing solder for a permanent electrical joint. Additionally, wrapping connections with high-quality vinyl tape adds an extra layer of insulation and protection against environmental factors; Each connection point, whether from the controller to the common wire or individual zone wires, must be firmly established to prevent intermittent operation or complete system failure. A loose connection can lead to frustrating troubleshooting. Therefore, take your time and ensure each joint is solid and secure. Double-check all connections before proceeding to confirm electrical continuity and prevent any potential short circuits. This meticulous approach to wiring safeguards the long-term performance and reliability of your Orbit 57946 system.
Preventing Corrosion with Orbit Grease Caps in Wet Environments
In wet environments, such as inside a valve box or any outdoor location prone to moisture, safeguarding your sprinkler system’s electrical connections is critical for the long-term functionality of your Orbit 57946 timer. Water infiltration and humidity can lead to severe corrosion of wire connections, compromising conductivity and potentially causing system malfunctions or complete failure. To prevent such issues, it is highly recommended to utilize Orbit Grease Caps. These specialized caps are designed to provide superior protection by creating a robust, watertight seal around wire splices. The integrated grease within the cap further enhances this protection, actively preventing corrosion and oxidation of the metal connections. By encasing the wires in this protective environment, Orbit Grease Caps ensure that your electrical joints remain dry, secure, and fully functional, even under challenging conditions. This simple yet vital measure extends the lifespan of your wiring and maintains the reliable operation of your Orbit 57946 B-hyve Smart Sprinkler System, minimizing the need for future maintenance and repairs.

Programming and Smart Control with Orbit 57946
Unlock advanced programming with your Orbit 57946, enabling smart, efficient irrigation. Utilize the B-hyve app for flexible schedules, including various timing segments. Enjoy remote access and voice control, connecting your landscape to nature through Wi-Fi for optimal watering.

Understanding Programmable Irrigation Schedules and Timing Segments
The Orbit 57946 B-hyve Smart Sprinkler Timer excels in flexible irrigation scheduling, allowing you to tailor watering precisely to your landscape’s needs. Understanding programmable irrigation schedules is paramount to maximizing water efficiency and promoting healthy, vibrant plant growth. This smart controller offers robust programming capabilities, managed conveniently and intuitively through the B-hyve app on your smart device. You can set up various program types, including intelligent odd/even day schedules or custom cycles, ensuring your lawn receives water only when necessary. The system allows for defining specific timing segments, providing granular control over watering duration for each zone. Available timing segments include: 1 minute, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 45 minutes, and 1 hour. This versatility enables you to create a highly optimized watering plan, perfectly adapting to different plant types, soil conditions, and local weather patterns. The comprehensive user manual for the Orbit 57946 provides detailed instructions on how to effectively program these schedules and utilize the diverse timing segments, ensuring you master the timer’s operational intricacies for a perfectly maintained garden. The in-app wizard and help icons assist navigating these advanced programming options.
Voice Control and Remote Access via Alexa and B-hyve App
The Orbit 57946 B-hyve Smart Sprinkler Timer offers seamless voice control and robust remote access. It is fully compatible with Amazon Alexa, allowing hands-free management of your irrigation system. No additional smart home hub is required for voice control, simplifying setup. You can effortlessly start, pause, or adjust watering schedules with simple voice commands, enhancing daily convenience.
For comprehensive remote access, the dedicated B-hyve app is essential. After installing the B-hyve app and creating an account, you gain complete control from anywhere. Utilizing Wi-Fi, the app allows you to monitor activities, modify schedules, and make real-time adjustments whether home or away. This powerful combination of intuitive voice commands via Alexa and full remote management ensures optimal landscape care with maximum flexibility, connecting you to nature’s needs;

