HayTime Controller
A smart timer for DIY hay cabinets. Automate your horses' feeding: the controller operates electric locks and opens the hay hatches at the times you set.
Features
Choose 1, 2 or 3 locks for your order. Each lock can be set with up to two opening times per day, and the locks open exactly at the set time.
The rechargeable battery lasts about 12–24 months on one charge, depending on use and weather. Charge it before winter with a standard USB-C cable.
How HayTime Controller works
The locks keep the hay cabinet hatches closed until the set time.
Install
Fix the controller dock and the locks to your cabinet with the supplied screws. No prior knowledge needed.
Set the times
Choose opening times for each lock and stagger the feeding as you like.
Refill
The hatches open on time and the hay drops down for the horse. Close the hatches and refill with fresh hay for the next opening.
Package contents
- Controller unit
- your chosen number of locks
- connecting cables in your chosen lengths
USB-C charging cable not included.
Technical specifications
User manuals
Install the controller where it is protected from direct rain and snow.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Controller need mains power or external batteries?
No. It runs on a built-in battery charged via USB-C. The battery lasts about 12–24 months depending on use and weather, and a full charge takes only a few hours.
How many locks do I need?
One lock controls the opening of one hatch. Choose 1, 2 or 3 locks depending on how many hatches you want the system to open. If you only need the unit itself, you can also choose 0 locks.
What cable length do I need, and can I extend it?
Measure the length with a piece of string from the controller position to the locks. Cables can be chained: for a 3 m run, order a 2 m cable with the controller plus a 1 m intermediate cable as a spare part. The maximum chained length is 6 m.
How is HayTime Controller installed?
Fix the controller dock with the supplied screws and snap the controller onto it. Install the locks and hooks using the supplied installation tool and snap the cables between the controller and the locks. Finally set the opening times. All screws and instructions are included.
Do I have to reset the opening times every day?
No. The Controller remembers the times and repeats them daily when Repeat mode is on. One lock can have up to two opening times per day.
Can the locks be set to open at the same time?
Yes. The locks then open one after another, a few seconds apart, so one Controller can drop hay in up to three places at once.
Do I have to visit the stable between openings?
Yes. The hatches open automatically, but they must be closed by hand after feeding, and new hay is loaded at the same time for the next opening.
How much weight can one hay shelf take?
One lock withstands 50 kg of direct pull. Because the hatches are usually hinged, only part of the weight acts on the lock: in practice a hinged hatch can take up to 100 kg.
Does the Controller withstand frost and humidity?
Yes, but place it where it is protected from direct rain and snow. All our devices are tested for Nordic winter conditions. We recommend charging the battery before winter.
How do I know if HayTime Controller fits my hay cabinet?
The Controller is designed to be versatile and fits most DIY hay cabinets. If in doubt, write to info@haytime.fi and send photos of your cabinet plan so we can think it through together.
Does HayTime sell ready-made hay cabinets?
No. We focus on timers. On our site you will find instructions for building a hay cabinet with HayTime Controller.
Didn't find your answer? Write to us: info@haytime.fi