News Archives
Trimble Acquires Rawson Control Systems
As a follow-up to its recent purchase of Tru Count and its planter clutch technology, Trimble announced on Dec. 4 that it has acquired the assets of privately-held Rawson Control Systems based in Oelwein, IA. Rawson manufactures hydraulic and electronic controls for the agriculture equipment industry, including variable rate planter drives and controllers, variable rate fertilizer controllers, mechanical remote electric control valves and speed reducers.Syngenta, SST Collaboration Eases Aerial Application Planning
Syngenta and SST announced the release of Syngenta EagleView, a custom spray data management system built on the SST Summit Professional software system.2008 Tech Review: Good Times
THE high tide raises all boats, and that was certainly true for the good ship “Ag Technology” on the seas of agriculture in 2008. Across practitioner groups, retailers to consumers to growers were investing dollars in yield-boosting, efficiency-building technology.PrecisionAg In The UK
Dropping technology cost and rising input prices have made precision technology more enticing for growers in the UK. Still, education on the benefits of precision is needed.
Global Profile: PrecisionAg In Switzerland
Even in a country characterized by many small individual farms, technology holds promise for improving farming practices.
Onset Adds Data Transport Device
Onset Computer Corporation announced the release of the HOBO U30 Shuttle, a new data retrieval device for use with Onset HOBO U30/NRC Remote Monitoring Systems.USDA Offers On-Line Risk Management Tool
USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) has launched an online resource to aid farmers and ranchers in focusing on how to protect against down-side risks, as well as how best to take advantage of up-side opportunities in the market.Nebraska Technology Conference Coming In January
The Nebraska Agricultural Technologies Association (NeATA) will hold its annual Conference & Trade Show Jan. 28-29, 2009 in Grand Island.PrecisionAg WORKS For Ray Sneed
Recent precision ag technology adopter Ray Sneed, a Tennessee cotton grower, talks about his reasons for increasing the use of technology on his operation.New Entry Level Display From Ag Leader
Ag Leader Technology recently unveiled a new entry-level precision farming display called The EDGE. The new display combines a greater level of simplicity when combined with Ag Leader's SeedCommand, DirectCommand and yield monitoring capabilities.Automatic Steering Now on MacDon Windrowers
AutoFarm recently announced that its GPS AutoSteer offering is now available for MacDon-built Self Propelled Windrower Tractors.
Topcon AutoSteering System 150 Features G3 Technology
For today’s farmer seeking efficiency and value through precision ag technology, Topcon offers a new solution for AutoSteering. Topcon’s new System 150 provides fast, smooth AutoSteering response and extreme flexibility.
PrecisionAg Works: Risk Management For High Fertilizer Prices
With record fertilizer prices and ongoing concerns about the environmental impact of nutrient use, Kathy Mathers from The Fertilizer Insititute notes that precision practices can help growers manage risk.Trimble Buys Out Tru-Count
Trimble has acquired the assets of privately-held Tru Count, Inc. The Ames, IA company manufactures air and electric clutches that automate individual planter row shut-off. Financial terms were not disclosed.Making Imagery Work
RapidEye is making the last adjustments to its newly launched cluster of satellites, which could at last put satellite imagery over the hump.PrecisionAg And The Turbulent Times
Even with the difficult economic challenges we face, there is value in precision agriculture use and technology innovation.PrecisionAg WORKS: Don Lamker On Technology Benefits
Growers need to get the most out of every acre, and precision technology is helping to make that possible, says Don Lamker, technology sales support manager for AGCO Global Technologies.
PrecisionAg WORKS: Jeff Keiser on Data Utilization
Data provides value for growers on multiple levels. In this interview, Jeff Keiser talks about how John Deere Credit is helping growers put their data to use in unique ways.
Precision Passion: Remembering Mark Hansen
Mark Hansen’s professional career was dedicated to helping growers through the use of precision technology. His passing on October 3 is a significant loss to an industry in need of the passion and dedication he brought to his work and his life.
Autofarm Announces Four New Dealers
GPS equipment manufacturer Autofarm recently announced the addition of four new product dealers in Ohio and North Dakota.GPS equipment manufacturer Autofarm recently announced the addition of four new product dealers in Ohio and North Dakota.ONSET Offers Frost Alarm System For Fruit Market
The new HOBO U30 Frost Alarm System from Onset Computer Corp, simplifies frost management and reduces water usage.PrecisionAg WORKS Video: Sid Siefken on Automatic Steering
Trimble’s Sid Siefken shares some thoughts on developments in automatic steering, and the benefits this technology is delivering.Yetter Adds Touch Screen To Residue Manager
Yetter Manufacturing Co. now offers a touch screen controller for its 2967 e-Series On-the-Go Residue Manager. The new touch-screen controller adjusts the electric actuator to raise and lower each residue manager. This gives producers an easier way to quickly fine-tune the depth of each residue manager during operation.
Raven Industries Releases Switch Pro
Switch Pro provides a state-of-the-art control system when teamed up with either the Envizio Pro or Viper Pro field computers. Switch Pro eliminates consoles from the cab, providing more room with less clutter by combining the technology of several devices into one easy-to-use console including: single product control (liquid or NH3), 10-section boom control, a speed sense control, and AccuBoom boom section control.Cotton Inc. Precision Event Two Weeks Away
As part of Cotton Incorporated's Crop Management Workshop next month, the association will be hosting a Precision Cotton Worshop. The event is being held at the Grand Casino and Resort in Tunica November 11-13.
PrecisionAg WORKS: SST On Compatibility
SST's Matt Waits talks about the importance of compatibility across manufacturers in advancing precision agriculture.VRA Now On Raven's Envizio Pro
Raven Industries recently added variable rate application capabilities on on its Envizio Pro field computers.Growers Planting Using GPS
Our reader poll last week indicates that growers are embracing the use of GPS technology on planters next season.PrecisionAg WORKS: Larkin Martin on Getting Started
Fifth generation cotton grower and cotton industry luminary Larkin Martinshares some thoughts on getting started with precision technology.Precision Ag in Louisiana Moves Forward
Eugene Burris of the Louisiana State University AgCenter Northeast Research Station shares insights on research progress for the state's diverse growers.Education To Take Center Stage At Inaugural Ag CONNECT Expo
In January 2010, The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) is launching a new international exposition for agriculture that promises the latest industry innovations, products and technology. The event, the AG CONNECT Expo, is slated for January 12-15, 2010 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida.Yetter Introduces The Checker for Planters
The 1200 Series Checker from Yetter Manufacturing offers a straightforward method to make precise and accurate row-unit adjustments before the first day of planting.New Planter Display From Kinze
KINZE Manufacturing introduces the new Cobalt Planter Display System, a full-color display system that monitors seed population and accuracy, controls the planter's variable rate drive system, and allows the operator to turn planter sections on and off, on the go, using a manual switchbox.PrecisionAg Works: Marc Vanacht On "Invisible Technology"
Precision consultant and world traveler Marc Vanacht is excited about the future of ag technology because it is becoming more and more engrained in the equipment we buy. He shares his thoughts on the ubiquity of technology and its impact on the future in this PrecisionAg WORKS video presentation.
Hemisphere Enhances Dual Frequency Receiver
Hemisphere GPS recently introduced its enhanced Eclipse dual-frequency GPS receiver. The unit now supports USB communication and enables data logging to standard external USB flash drives.Valley Irrigation Launches GPS-Ready Control Panels
New technology from Valley Irrigation aids precise application of water, fertilizer and other crop inputs.Labor And Precision Ag
Finding good help remains a challenge, opening the door for mechanization in agriculture. .John Taylor Fertilizer Adds RFID Technology
Radio frequency identification (RFID) technology company Intelleflex Corporation recently announced that John Taylor Fertilizers Company, a unit of Wilbur-Ellis is using its RFID solution to automatically track agricultural equipment at its Yuba City, CA, location.New Holland Monitor Adds Compatibility, Capability
New Holland tractor owners working with variable rate planting and spraying equipment can now use New Holland's Precision Land Management (PLM) IntelliView Plus II monitors with two popular third-party variable rate controllers.Cool Technology Leads New Challenger Cab Features
Technology and convenience go hand-in-hand on new Challenger track and articulated tractors, which includes a new comprehensive ISOBUS control center.Pioneer Offering Delivers Valuable Data Opportunity
Pioneer Hi-Bred's FIT mapping combines product-specific informationwith yield performance, delivering more crop history and richer data with repeated use of the system.
Leica, TeeJet Announce Product Partnership
Leica Geosystems and TeeJet Technologies have set up a partnership that will provide Leica better market access, and TeeJet some added technology capability.Topcon, AGCO To Collaborate On Auto-Guide 2
TSD Integrated Controls, the joint venture company between Topcon Positioning Systems and Sauer-Danfoss, announced that it will be the supplier of AGCO’s next generation satellite-guided steering assist system – AUTO-GUIDE2.
Ohio Farm Science Review Next Month
Precision demonstrations and exhibitors are among the many featured attractions slated for the Ohio Farm Science Review, Sept. 18-20 at Ohio State University's Molly Caren Center near Columbus.
AgGateway Accepting Nominations For Annual Award
AgGateway is now accepting nominations for its annual Ron Storms Memorial Award. This award recognizes distinguished individual efforts in the promotion of electronic standards and protocols in agri-business, and is given annually to a member of AgGateway.
GVM Adds Fleet Tracking, Data Management Program
Application equipment manufacturer GVM Inc. announced the release of its Telematics program, a Web-based system that allows the user to manage moving and stationary equipment, field data, and work orders while providing a comprehensive reporting system for custom applicators.
John Deere Adding Equipment Logistics System
Set for limited fall/winter release and full release next spring, John Deere's AgLogic system offers retailers a new way to build and coordinate application schedules, as well as dispatch and track equipment in the field.
Dr. Francis Pierce Honored For Precision Ag Work, Research
A renowned precision technology expert for Pacific Northwest agriculture, Dr. Francis Pierce was honored for his work with as the first recipient of the Pierre C. Robert Precision Agriculture Senior Scientist Award.John Deere Introduces New Seed Monitoring System
John Deere announces a new seed monitoring system, SeedStar 2 for planters and air seeders to help growers more accurately monitor field activities.AGCO: Traceability Is A Focus Of Sprayer Technology Research
AGCO Corp., manufacturers of sprayer technology under the Ag-Chem and Spra-Coupe brands, provide some insights into future product development it is focusing on in the years ahead.
Precision Training Center Opens In Illinois
In Champaign, IL, technlogy equipment supplier PrecisionAg Equipment Co. and crop consulting firm Crop IMS have opened the Prairie State Technology Center, providing access to, and training on, the latest in precision ag technology.
Deere Adds Guidance On The Corn Head
John Deere has announced the availability of a new sensing system on corn heads, AutoTrac RowSense.Robotic Machinery Making Inroads
Simon Blackmore, managing director of Unibots, Ltd., shares new developments on robotic technology for ag.
08 Award of Excellence: Meet The Winners
The 2008 PrecisionAg Award of Excellence winners -- Ted Macy, Allen Myers, and Dr. Joseph M. Russo -- share their thoughts on the state of precision agriculture in exclusive video coverage.
Spray Control, Nozzle By Nozzle
Harrison Ag Technolgies is offering a spray rig solution that provides map-based nozzle control down to the individual nozzle.
AutoFarm's Reflex Improves GPS Continuity
To help users of its automatic steering technology maintain GPS uptime more consistently, AutoFarm has introduced a new built in capability to its line of steering systems called "Reflex Technology."GreenSeeker RT200 Moving Toward ISOBUS
NTech Industries, Inc., manufacturer of GreenSeeker crop sensor technology, will add a new ISOBUS model of its GreenSeekerRT200 system to its product lineup in 2009.Video: International Conference on Precision Ag
PrecisionAg.com group editor Paul Schrimpf reviews the 9th International Conference on Precision Ag, including an interview with FAR President Dr. Harold Reetz.
Click here to watch the videoPrecisionAg Works: An Indiana Perspective
Recent research conducted by the PrecisionAg Institute in conjunction with dmrkynetec took us deep into the strategies and mindset of precision-savvy growers through in-depth interviews. Below, we share the thoughts of a veteran corn grower in IndianaAgGateway Slates November Annual Conference
AgGateway, the agriculture industry eBusiness standards and implementation organization, today announced plans for its 2008 Annual Conference to be held at the Hilton Palacio del Rio in San Antonio, Texas, November 11th - 13th. The theme of this year’s conference is Shrinking World – Growing Markets - Global Business.
Specialty Focus: Growers Seek Guidance
Rosemary Gordon, senior managing editor of American Vegetable Grower magazine, writes about an Ohio study that says more growers are embracing precision ag technology than ever before.Specialty Focus: Precision Pointers
Many experts believe that the successful grower of tomorrow is going to have to incorporate at least some aspects of precision agriculture to compete in an increasingly global economy. One of those experts is Bryan G. Hopkins, an associate professor at Brigham Young University, who has been involved in precision agriculture for the past 15 years. David Eddy, senior western editor for American Vegetable Grower, recently spent some time with Hopkins, and he shared some ideas on how growers can be successful using precision agriculture.
Summer 2008 PrecisionAg Works Special Report
Click on the link at the right to download the pdf version of a 16-page special report on the benefits of precision agriculture use brought to you by the PrecisionAg Institute.
Missouri Soybean Grower Talks Precision
Recent research conducted by the PrecisionAg Institute in conjunction with dmrkynetec took us deep into the strategies and mindset of precision-savvy growers through in-depth interviews. Below, we share the thoughts of a 35-year veteran grower in Missouri who planted 3000 acres of beans in 2007.MAGIE Returns to Bloomington in August
CropLife IRON, our sister publication, is proud to be partnering with the Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association to help produce the Midwest Ag Industries Exposition (MAGIE), and we invite you to attend and test out the latest in application and precision ag equipment.
AutoFarm Enhances FarmPRO Software
Following the successful launch of the new FarmPRO GPS System in early 2008, AutoFarm is now announcing the release of enhanced software for FarmPRO.CASE IH Offers Equipment, Financing Relief For Flood-Ravaged Counties
Responding to the difficult times being faced by flooded regions of the Grain Belt, Case IH and its dealers are poised to lend a hand -- and offer some financial support.PrecisionAg Institute Members Discuss Grower Research Findings
A recent gathering of PrecisionAg Institute Partners in St. Louis showcased new research on the potential profitability, efficiency, and yield benefits of precision agriculture practices for growers who are using precision technology. Click for full video coverage of the event.
2008 Award of Excellence Winners Announced
The judges have spoken, and the 2008 recipients of the PrecisionAg Award of Excellence have been chosen. This year's honorees truly represent a heritage of excellence that agriculture continues to benefit from today.Adopters Get Rapid Return on Precision Investment
A recent study conducted by independent research firm dmrkynetec demonstrates that precision agriculture adopters gaining a speedy return on their technology investment.The Time is Right For Precision Ag Technologies
Given the new dynamics triving global agriculture these days, the International Plant Nutrition Institute shared the following thoughts on why the time is right for adoption of preciision ag technology.Ag Leader Creates Precision Agriculture Scholarship
Ag Leader Technology recently announced its commitment to support students interested in precision agriculture by establishing the Ag Leader Technology Precision Agriculture Scholarship within the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (ABE) at Iowa State University.Outback Roadshow Launches Next Week
Hemisphere GPS will launch a new promotion program, the Outback Roadshow, on June 17th at its Hiawatha, KS facility.Lechler Adds Nozzle for Contact Spraying
Lechler Inc. recently introduced the IDK-T ceramic, a new air induction twin flat spray nozzle designed for contact spraying
Tech Tips: Before You Hit The Fields
It can take some time to get back in the swing of things as a new season gets cranking. Rod Duncan, Minnesota-based precision ag specialist with Raven Industries, provides some early season precision equipment tips.Cotton And Precision: RTK Payoff
Three years ago, grower Jared Fiveash was asking what a real-time kinematic GPS system could do for his operation. These days, he finds himself trying to find something the system can’t do.Survey: Grower Challenges to Precision Ag Adoption
What do retailers think are the top limiting factors to precision adoption? The annual CropLife/Purdue/Trimble Precision Agriculture Adoption survey sheds some light on the key issues.GPS Receiver Technology Update
This season’s GPS receivers offer more convenience and accuracy to users at both ends of the adoption spectrum.OptiGro Imagery Reemerges as CropAssure
CropAssure Aerial Imagery is now offering imagery products previously provided by the John Deere’s OptiGro.John Deere AMS on Precision In Cotton
Kevin Ripple, senior marketing representative with John Deere Ag Management Solutions, recently answered some questions on state of technology use among cotton growers.Massey Ferguson Improves 5400 Series Tractors
The Massey Ferguson 5400 Series mid-range tractors now feature new Tier III engines inside and a new look.PrecisionAg Works For Steve Sauder
In these times of rising fuel and input costs, Illinois grower Steve Sauder is using his automatic steering system to reduce costs on both.
Lightbars: Improving On The Basics
Basic lightbars have been around for a long time now, but manufacturers are still finding ways to make them better.ICPA Advance Registration Discount Deadline is June 20
You can still save on registration for the 9th International Conference on Precision Agriculture if you register by Friday, June 20. The conference is coming to the Hyatt Regency Hotel in the Denver Tech Center, Denver, CO July 20th – 23rd, 2008. More than 300 educational sessions will be delivered across five tracks, including a special practitioner track.Deere Agri Services Upgrades Ethanol Biz System
John Deere Agri Services recently announced a New Flow Controller Interface as Part of an Improved Ethanol Business Management System.Upgraded mojoRTK features AB line storage
The No Drift mojoRTK automatic steering system by Leica Geosystems has made available a free upgrade with AB wayline storage.PrecisionAg WORKS: Case IH
Case IH's Nate Weinkauf says that input savings and reduced fatigue have added many growers to the ranks of precision ag pracititioners. Nate shared some thoughts on why PrecisionAg WORKS for agriculture at a recent industry event.GreenSeeker Software Update Improves Performance, Compatibility
Updates to the RT Commander software for the GreenSeeker RT200 include features that improve diagnostics and ease of use.
Ag Leader Now Exclusive Distributor for Holland Scientific
Ag Leader Technology recently announced that it has become the exclusive distributor for Holland Scientific’s second-generation active light reflectance sensor products for use in production agriculture.European Handheld Computer Distributor Breaks Into US
HHCS Handheld Computer Specialists AB, a European distributor of rugged handheld computers, recently opened a subsidiary focused on serving the North America market.Surety Mapping Software Improved
AgriData, Inc. recently announced the addition of time-saving features to its Surety customized online mapping software.Digging Through Junk? Make It "Safe"
If you're reaching into a trash heap of junk mail to retrieve this or any other valued e-mail, you may be able to do something about it. Tag desirable emails as safe through a few mouse clicks.PrecisionAg WORKS for Topcon Positioning Systems
Mike Gomes, product manager for Topcon Positioning Systems, says that end users are interested in fully integrated systems that save time and money in the field.Inside Telemetry
Whether you call it “the next frontier” or “the next big thing,” telemetry is set to revolutionize precision ag.IPNI Scholar Applications Now Being Accepted
The International Plant Nutrition Institute is offering $2000 scholarships to outstanding graduate studends in sciences relevant to plant nutrition and crop nutrients through its Scholar Awards Program.
Deere Enters Used Equipment Collaboration
John Deere recently announced an agreement with IRON Solutions to align and integrate product offerings to assist John Deere agricultural equipment dealers in evaluating and pricing used equipment.Subscription Report Offers Yield Forecasting
Planalytics recently launched Green Report, a subscription-based offering that features satellite-derived yield forecasts for wheat, corn, and soybeans, as well as other crops.
Mosaic, GEOSYS Formalize Field InSite Agreement
The Mosaic Co. and GEOSYS Inc. formalized their agreement for GEOSYS to exclusively market Field InSite. Prior to this agreement, Field Insite had been offered to the North American market only through the Mosaic fertilizer distribution network.Leica Adds WI Reseller For mojoRTK
Riesterer & Schnell, Inc. recently announced they will offer the new No Drift mojoRTK Auto-steer by Leica Geosystems, becoming the first reseller in Wisconsin to carry the new auto-steer system and offer exclusive upgrades.Ohio State University: Now's The Time For Precision
If farmers are considering incorporating precision agriculture equipment into their farm operations, now might be an ideal time to adopt the technology.PrecisionAg Works for Ken Dalenberg
Illinois grower and long-time precision practitioner Ken Dalenberg shares his views on the future of precision ag, as well as the benefits of the technologies he uses in this installment of the PrecisionAg Works video series.ASABE TO DEVELOP STANDARD ON MAPPING YIELD AND ASSOCIATED DATA
ST JOSEPH, MICHIGAN— The American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers is in the process of developing a standard for geospatial mapping of crop yield, moisture content, and quality data, including defined data formats and uniform map presentation methods.
The GPS Evolution
WHEN IT COMES to precision farming, global positioning is the heart and soul of any strategy. And as the GPS revolution rolls into its second decade since it truly became a widely available public access technology, much has changed for the better.7 Reasons Why Computers Fail, and What To Do About It
Georgia-based computer expert Chip Reaves shares the secrets to keeping a personal computer running in tip-top shape.Harold Reetz: The Value of (Good) Precision Data
With input and fuel costs going through the roof, the benefits of accurate data mean real dollars saved and efficiency gained. Harold Reetz, president of the Foundation for Agronomic Research, discusses the benefits of precision data in this edition of the PrecisionAg WORKS video series.Precision Ag Works For Helena Chemical Co.
At a recent cotton meeting, Brian Montgomery taked about the evolution of precision ag in the Cotton Belt from a focus on application to a focus on information management.
New AGRIS Verion Released
John Deere Agri Services has released AGRIS 9.5, an upgrade to the business management system, focused on improved processing speed with the use of an enhanced database engine.Trimble’s Nomad Goes Broadband
Trimble now offers a broadband wireless modem for the Nomad outdoor rugged handheld computer. The EVDO high-speed cellular data modem, made by Franklin Wireless, allows users to communicate from the field to office or other locations where Sprint cellular connectivity is available in the U.S.PrecisionAg Works: Ag Leader Technology
The yield monitor was a groundbreaking technology in the mid-1990s, and Ag Leader Technology, the company first made it available to agriculture, has continued to improve on it over more than a decade of development. Ag Leader's Mike Olson took a few moments at the Commodity Classic trade show to share his perspective on how PrecisionAg Works for US growers.PrecisionAg Award of Excellence: Nomination Tips
The deadline for submitting nominations for the PrecisionAg Award of Excellence is March 30, so time is running out quickly. As you fill out the nomination form, here are some things to keep in mind to ensure that the nominee is represented appropriately, based on comments from last year’s judges:PrecisionAg Works for Joe Rush
At the Commodity Classic tradeshow, Indiana grower Joe Rush took a few moments to share the practices he uses to ensure that “PrecisionAg Works” on his farm.
Spectrum Catalog Available
The 2008 edition of the Spectrum Technologies product catalog is now available.NORAC Offers Upgrade to UC4 System
NORAC's NC4+ automatic boom height control system upgrades the system's ability to handle severe terrain. The package is offered both for new customers and as an upgrade to existing UC3 and UC4 customers.
AutoFarm’s AF-Viewer II Enables Field Data Transfer
AutoFarm announced the upcoming release of AF-Viewer II software. Developed by Farm Works Software exclusively for AutoFarm, AF-Viewer II will offer AutoFarm GPS steering customers easy collection and field-to-office transfer of GPS-generated farm management data.Building A Web Site Fast
New tools are making it possible to build functional, effective web sites very quickly, says Technology expert Bob PaarlbergNew Cable Ties mojoRTK, AutoTrac Universal Steering Kit
Customers who use Leica Geosystems’ new No Drift mojoRTK can purchase a cable to that links into vehicles equipped with John Deere’s AutoTrac Universal (ATU) Steering Kit.Update From The Upcoming International Conference on Precision Agriculture
The 9th International Conference on Precision Agriculture (ICPA) will be held at the Hyatt Regency Tech Center in Denver, Colorado from July 20–23, 2008. This academic conference brings together researchers, educators, precision practitioners and experts to share the lastest research and technologies in precisin agriculture. Here is the most recent news about the upcoming conference.Ag Leader Adds New Features to DirectCommand
Ag Leader Technology announced the addition of two new features to its DirectCommand application control system.
Super Trackstick Offers GPS Tracking
Available from the Google Earth Store online, the Super Trackstick looks like it could be a pretty cool tool for folks looking for a way to GPS track vehicles.Trimble Adds EZ-Office Software
Available in March 2008, Trimble recently announced its new EZ-Office software, offering growers simplified field-to-office data transfer and an easy way to manage global positioning system (GPS)-collected farm management records and information.New Outback S3 Features Touch Screen
Hemisphere GPS this week introduced its Outback S3, a “next generation” in Outback Guidance products by Hemisphere GPS.Thoughts On The Microsoft/Yahoo! Merger: Scott Nusbaum, Farm Works
Farm Works has been a pioneer in bringing software to the handheld PC, and Scott always has an interesting perspective on the future of technology from his perspective at the top of this organization. Fpr Microsoft, Scott says a desire to be fully vertically integrated is likely a key reason for the deal. A secondary reason could be to get access to Yahoo's GPS and Web-mapping technologies.Thoughts On The Microsoft/Yahoo! Merger: Marc Vanacht, ABC Consultants
Marc is a true futurist, travelling the country and the world for big ideas and new information. His experience with technology is vast, as is his knowledge of agriculture, so his take on the merger is of particular interest.
His perspective expresses concern about the power of information that it would put in the hands of a single company, a concern undoubtedly shared by many in the fiercely independent world of farming and agriculture.
Thoughts On The Microsoft/Yahoo! Merger: Dr. Scott Downey, Purdue Univeristy
Dr. Downey spends a lot of time considering the effects of business and the economy outside of ag on the business of agriculture as assistant professor of ag economics at Purdue. Downey feels this merger says a lot about the growing importance and value of information.Thoughts On The Microsoft/Yahoo Merger: Arthur Lange, Trimble
Art won one of the three PrecisionAg Awards of Excellence we gave out in 2007, and is one of the most fascinating guys in precision agriculture to chat with. He sees the impact of this deal as relatively small vs. what he sees as a much more interesting development -- the move to HD television.Thoughts On The Microsoft/Yahoo! Merger: Joe Russo, ZedX
Joe Russo is a friend and frequent contributor to PrecisionAg. He heads up a software manfacturing company for agriculture, and also does a lot of big thinking about the long term future of technology in agriculture. Joe sees a future Microsoft/Yahoo! combo actively working with large, consolidated ag organizations to streamline and maximize information utilization and flow.Thoughts on Subscription GPS
John Pointon, marketing manager for the subscription-based GPS signal company OmniSTAR, called 2007 a “blockbuster year” for the company, driven largely by the boom in automatic steering technology. We caught up with Pointon to chat about current and future developments at the company.Ag GPS EZ-Guide 250 Is Latest Entry Level Guidance Option
Packing more power into entry level guidance systems has been a goal for GPS manufacturers in recent years, and the AgGPS EZ-Guide 250 lightbar guidance system is no exception.Technology Leads Tulare Top Ten
World Ag Expo recently announced its Top Ten New Products to be showcased at the Tulare, CA meeting in mid-February. This year, six of the Top Ten products were geared toward high technology. Here they are, in no particular order:AutoFarm, Raven To Release FarmPRO Feb. 29
AutoFarm and Raven Industries announce the upcoming release of the FarmPRO GPS Steering & Application Control System. This new GPS system is the result of an on-going collaborative product development agreement between two of the leading precision ag companies.Trimble Adds Agriculture Manager System
Trimble recently introduced the Web-based Agriculture Manager asset management system, which combines Global Positioning Systems (GPS), machine sensors and automated wireless communications that allows farmers to manage and operate large machinery fleets.From Japan: Robot Farming Suit
Despite the technological advancements in agriculture in the last two decades, you still have to move bags of seed, bales of hay and other awkwardly heavy things around the shop.TeeJet Automatic Boom Section Control Now Available
PrecisionAg eNews - TeeJet recently introduced an automatic boom section control capability called BoomPilot to help minimize costly chemical consumption in sprayers and spreader equipment.
PrecisionAg Works in the Cotton Belt
The PrecisionAg Institute serves as a center point for discussion about the benefits of precision agriculture in the Cotton Belt at the Beltwide Cotton Conferences in Nashville.The Music Of Precision Agriculture
Sometimes, the effort that goes into making site-specific ag work is crystal clear.Beltwide Perspective: AgLeader Technology
Seed planter control is the big hit in the Cotton Belt, says David Sullivan, Mid-South territory manager for Ag Leader. Listen to our exclusive interview with David below.
Beltwide Perspective, John Deere
Kyle Collins, senior marketing rep for John Deere AMS, talks about what growers want to see in technology in the Cotton Belt.Steps To Precision Agriculture Success
From PrecisionAg Special Reports, Winter, 2007 To successfully integrate precision agriculture into your business, you must take a 'one step at a time' approach.2008 Outlook: GPS Advances
Looking ahead to the new year, GPS advances among consumers will keep prices coming down, and the application of GPS in agriculture broadening in scope. Existing technology will become more and more standard, and new ideas will blossom.
TeeJet Adds Automatic Boom Section Control
TeeJet has recently introduced BoomPilot, which provides automatic boom section control for sprayers and spreader equipment to minimize costly chemical consumption.Topcon Lands Handheld GIS Bid in Europe
The country of Romania acquired 530 handheld GMS-2 GIS instruments from Topcon, an indication of high interest in ag technology in former CIS countries.Grabbit Tool: Smart Enough To Make Our List
Clearly this is not a piece of high technology, but we at PrecisionAg were so impressed that we decided to share it with our readers. The product is called Grabbit, and it's a nifty little device for keeping tarps down.Ag Leader Creates Precision Ag Lab at Iowa State
With a recent donation of precision agriculture equipment to the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at Iowa State University, Ag Leader Technology has created a new Precision Ag Lab at the university.AGCO Releases New Spra-Coupe
The newly announced Spra-Coupe 7655 boasts improved suspension front and rear, added joystick capability and the ability to extend the axle to a 152-inch track.Farm Works Releases New Version
Farm Works has introduced their latest version of its software, called Farm Works 2008.Cotton Focus: Seed Planting And Technology
By Henry Gantz The rising cost of seed is leading to research into variable rate planting to save costs for growers.Working In The Zone
SaMZ images are improving a central Nebraska cooperative’s precision ag program.
John Deere Agri Services Adds Chemical Compliance Data Access to AgroGuide
John Deere Agri Services features a new interface to the Agrian chemical compliance label database for the AgroGuide agronomy management system.Asmark Institute’s VIP Network Harnesses Technology to Aid Communication
The Asmark Institute announced that plans are underway to provide a Videoconference Internet Protocol (VIP) Network to its affiliated state and national organizations. The VIP Network allows live video, audio and data to be transmitted across the Internet, enabling participants from two different geographic locations to meet synchronously.Simplot honors SSI as IT Business Partner of the Year
The J.R. Simplot Company honored Software Solutions Integrated, LLC (SSI) as the first recipient of its annual Information Technology Partner of the Year. The award was presented in recognition of excellence in both product development and customer service.
AgRobotics Looking For Strategic Partners
AgRobotics, manufacturer of AutoProbe, the first high-speed, on-the-go implement for precision soil sampling, is currently seeking strategic California partners who see the potential geometric expansion of soil sampling which may result from automating this process.
Horseshoe Base Available On Spectrum Scope
The IPM Scope from Spectrum Technologies, a 2006 Product of the Year at the World Ag Expo, now offers a horseshoe base with new units purchased. The base allows improved viewing of three-dimensional specimens.
Ag Leader’s SeedCommand Now Features Planter Monitoring
Ag Leader Technology announced the introduction of planter monitoring functionality to its planter control system, SeedCommand.Raven Adds Cruizer To Guidance Lineup
Focused on affordability and simplicity for first-time precision ag users, Raven Industries’ new Cruizer guidance system offers a compact, highly functional complete 3-D guidance system at a price of $1,695 US.
Case IH Offers Factory Install of GPS Steering
Case IH recently announced that it is now offering the option of complete factory-installed AFS AccuGuide autoguidance systems on Magnum and Steiger tractors and Axial-Flow combines.Agriculture's Future On The Backs of ... Legos?
University of Illinois engineering students Use Lego building blocks to build a robotic crop harvester.
Rawson Introduces GPS-based Speed Sensor
The ACCU-SPEED System from Rawson Control Systems uses global positioning to measure speed, providing a more accurate alternative to ground speed radar guns.GPS Steering Benefits: Rightsizing The Workforce
Growers using GPS steering are able to chip away at the payroll, says Trimble's Rob Lindores.
Google Offers Low-Cost GPS Tracking
The Trackstick II is now available from Google, a portable device that provides GPS tracking information for a wide variety of applications.Innovation: Tru Count Automates Planter Clutch
PrecisionAg eNews - Tru Count's GPS-driven planter clutch has been quickly adopted by precision manufactuers and OEMs as well as growers for it's efficiency benefits.Cotton Incorporated Research To Be Sensor-Focused
PrecisionAg e-News - Dr. Ed Barnes, director of agricultural research at Cotton Incorporated, says that the big precision ag research focus for the organization in 2008 will be on-the-go sensor technology.John Deere Agri Services Adds Analysis Tool
PrecisionAg eNews - John Deere Agri Services offers a new integrated precision analysis tool for its AgroGuide agronomy management systemPrecisionAg Works for Clay Mitchell
Buckingham, Iowa grower Clay Mitchell has deeply integrated real time kinematic GPS into his operation, providing a wide range of benefits. In this video, taken during the 2007 harvest, Mitchell discusses how he uses RTK steering in a practice known as intercropping -- essentially planting alternating rows of corn and soybeans in the same field.
Topcon Adds PCS-100 Lightbar
Topcon Precision Agriculture recently introduced its PCS-100 Lightbar Guidance System, a ruggedized unit designed to provide an economical yet powerful tool for growers interested in getting started in guidance or upgrading from the basic lightbar.TeeJet Alerts Users of Critical Update for GPS Receivers
Changes in the WAAS satellite constellation will affect certain TeeJet GPS receiver units.Reetz: Managing Risk With Precision Ag
By Harold Reetz Better times for grain growers is improving the payoff for users of precision agriculture, and could help mitigate the growing risk of yield loss.
Retailers: Strong Gains In GPS
The E-Survey, a study of ag retailers and their use of technology, found significant gains in the use of GPS technology.AGCO Revamps Sales And Service Groups for Ag-Chem Brands
AGCO Corporation’s Application Equipment Division has consolidated its sales and service groups into one single source in support of the Ag-Chem brand.Five Technology Offerings Top Expo’s Hot Products
The World Ag Expo In February will feature its Top 10 Products, and five in the list feature high technology and precision ag applications.
Perspective: Precision Ag, Step By Step
Precision ag expert Joe Russo says that to successfully integrate precision agriculture into your business, you must take a ‘one step at a time’ approach.
Spectrum Introduces Soil Moisture Audit
Spectrum Technologies' new Irrigation Soil Moisture Audit system goes beyond the traditional moisture measuring method, measuring the amount of moisture received at the root zone, not just the surface layer.9th International Conference On Precision Ag Coming in July 2008
Denver is the new home of the International Conference on Precision Ag, scheduled for July 20-23, 2008 at the Hyatt Regency Tech Center.
Hemisphere GPS Releases Eclipse Dual-Frequency GPS
Hemisphere GPS announced earlier this week that it has added Eclipse dual-frequency GPS receiver technology to its product line.Precision Ag In China
Consultant Marc Vanacht recently journeyed to the Far East in search of precision agriculture ideas. Here he shares some learnings from China.Perspective: Broadband Internet In Rural America
Robert Paarlberg, executive director of The Broadband Alliance for Agriculture, shares his thoughts on the importance of bringing broadband to rural America.
Topcon Releases GMS-2 GIS Handheld
PrecisionAg eNews - Topcon’s new GMS-2 GIS delivers impressive functionality in a ruggedized handheld mobile GPS receiver format.Paarlberg Heads Broadband Alliance for Agriculture
PrecisionAg eNews - The Broadband Alliance for Agriculture, a leading non-profit organization with the mission of promoting high-speed internet access to rural America, announces the appointment of Robert Paarlberg as their Executive Director.Topcon Adds Boom Leveling Capability to X20
PrecisionAg eNews - Topcon Precision Agriculture’s X20 Ultra Sonic Boom Leveler incorporates a unique dual-sonic/gyro system to keep a sprayer boom at the correct height in the most demanding and difficult spraying situations.Trimble, Dickey-John Announce Partnership
PrecisionAg eNews - Trimble and DICKEY-john announced that they have joined forces to offer farmers a complete precision farming solution that uses the most advanced agricultural electronic technology from both companies.Hemisphere GPS Adds Entry Level Guidance
PrecisionAg eNews - Hemisphere GPS recently introduced Outback S-Lite as its entry-level version of the popular Outback brand.
Raven, AutoFarm Expand Development Agreement
PrecisionAg eNews - AutoFarm and Raven Industries announced the expansion of a collaborative agreement for product development opportunities following the launch of the new Raven steering system, QuickTrax.Topcon Adds Weather Station To X20
PrecisionAg eNews - Topcon Precision Agriculture’s new X20 Weather Station module incorporates a combination of sensors – ultrasonic, temperature and humidity – to record and report on important weather conditions.John Deere Updates Swath Control Pro for Planters
PrecisionAg eNews - Available for the 2008 season, new technology from John Deere will allow more efficient use of seed with the Swath Control Pro system for planters.Deere’s GreenStar 2 Gets Enhanced NH3, Liquid Fert Capabilities
PrecisionAg eNews - John Deere's GreenStar 2 (GS2) Rate Controller features expanded capabilities, providing compatibility with certain NH3 and liquid fertilizer applications.Deere Adds Software Enhancements StarFire iTC Receiver
John Deere recently announced enhancement to its guidance software offerings to bring more value and accuracy when using field equipment.Hagie Rigs Add NORAC Height Control
PrecisionAg eNews - NORAC Inc. and Hagie Manufacturing Co. demonstrated the newly available boom height control functionality on Hagie spray rigs at the 2007 Oklahoma Ag Technology Field Day in Chickasha, OK.Trimble Tops 120 million RTK Acres Covered in US
At a field day in DeWitt, IA, Trimble and a local Case IH dealership flipped the switch on a real-time kinematic (RTK) tower network, allowing Trimble to exceed the mark of 120 million acres covered.Raven Adds Capabilities to New Viper Unit
PrecisionAg eNews - Raven Industries announced a new touch-screen based field computer – the Viper PRO. This system builds off of the highly successful Raven Viper by adding a faster processor, more memory, and added features.WAAS Satellite Changeover Impacts WAAS Receivers
On July 30, 2007 two satellites in the Wide Area Augmentation System constellation were shut down by the government. The two satellites that have taken their place have been active and working for some time now, but the shutdown will have an impact on the differential correction accuracy of certain GPS receivers.
PrecisionAg Institute Award of Excellence Video at InfoAg 2007
Video presentation of the inaugural PrecisionAg Awards of Excellence at the InfoAg Conference, July 9, 2007 in Springfield, IL.Raven To Launch A Better Envizio
Set for Fall 2007 availability, the Envizio Pro features touchscreen operations and a host of cool capabilitites.Farm Works Adds Ruggedized Handheld
The Titan RH is built to take ag-sized punishment but fits in your hand.John Deere Makes Getting Hitched Simpler
PrecisionAg eNews, 7/6/07 - With iMatch AutoHitch, operators can change out compact tractor implements without ever leaving the seat.History Channel Profiles Hi-Tech Farming
PrecisionAg e-News, 6/15/07 - The History Channel’s program, Modern Marvels, has featured several episodes on high technology farming practices.Planning Advances for Texas Precision Ag Event
PrecisionAg eNews, June 15, 2007 - The Precision Ag Expo will be held September 6, at the Ollie Liner Center in Plainview, TX. It is sponsored by the Texas Plant Protection Association (TPPA) and co-sponsored by USDA-ARS, Texas Agricultural Experiment Station, Texas Cooperative Extension, New Mexico State University, Texas Tech University, West Texas A & M University, International Plant Nutrition Institute, National Alliance of Independent Crop Consultants and the Texas Farm Bureau publication, Texas Agriculture.Topcon Introduces Improved Land Leveling Control
PrecisionAg eNews - Topcon Positioning Systems’ new AGS-200 land leveling machine control system provides dual-constellation control of two scrapers simultaneously.TeeJet Adds New Flat Spray Tip
PrecisionAg eNews - The new AIXR TeeJet Flat Spray Tip provides a perfect balance of drift control and coverage for improved application.Hemisphere Improves Product Line
PrecisionAg eNews - Hemisphere GPS recently announced increased capability and functionality available in its Outback Guidance products Outback S2 and eDrive.KINZE Vision Released for GPS Planting Functions
PrecisionAg eNews - The latest solution for improving planter control was recently announced by two of the leading players in ag technology: Ag Leader and KINZE. Their combined efforts have resulted in the KINZE Vision system.Cool Tool: WatchDog Sprayer Station
PrecisionAg eNews - Effectively monitor weather conditions that favor pesticide drift using the new ultrasonic WatchDog Sprayer Station from Spectrum Technologies.
Research Asserts Boom Control, VRA Crop Protection Pays
PrecisionAg eNews - A new study on variable rate chemical crop protection products on grain crops coupled with automatic boom section control demonstrated definitive savings for end users.Onset Adds New Soil Moisture Smart Sensors
PrecisionAg eNews - Onset Computer Corporation recently announced that it has added two new plug-and-play Soil Moisture Smart Sensors for use with HOBO Weather Stations.Topcon Upgrades X20
PrecisionAg eNews - Topcon Positioning Systems’ acquisition of KEE Technologies last year has finally resulted in the next generation of its X20 advanced farming system. Upgraded software is delivering a wide range of improved functionality.John Deere acquires Conserva Pak Seeding Systems from Vale Farms Ltd
PrecisionAg eNews - John Deere has agreed to acquire Conserva Pak Seeding Systems from Vale Farms Ltd., Saskatchewan, Canada. The Conserva Pak hydraulic-shank product line will complement Deere’s most recent solutions in the expanding air hoe drill market around the world.Ag Leader Adds Yield Monitoring to Insight
PrecisionAg eNews - The all-in-one Insight display unit from Ag Leader now features available cotton yield monitoring capability in both John Deere and Case IH pickers.AutoFarm Adds RighTrac Steering System
PrecisionAg eNews - AutoFarm recently announced the introduction of its new AutoFarm RighTrac advanced GPS steering system, which offers three-inch accuracy and repeatability at a price point of $16,500.Ag Leader Adds Planter Section Control To INSIGHT
Ag Leader Technology, Inc. recently introduced a new feature to its popular INSIGHT display called SeedCommand, which allows greater control of planter operation. Click for more.Highway Equipment Retools Website
PrecisionAg eNews - Highway Equipment Company has just launched a redesigned website, with enhanced features for current and prospective customers.Hemisphere GPS Adds New Crescent DGPS Receivers
Hemisphere GPS, designer and manufacturer of GPS products, has introduced its new Crescent R100 Series DGPS Receiver. The Crescent R100 provides a technology solution for professional mapping, guidance and navigation applications.AutoFarm Finalizes gps-Ag Investment in Australia
GPS product manufacturer AutoFarm recently announced the completion of a financial investment in gps-Ag, an Australia-based precision product and service provider.Raven Industries announces their newest product, the Autoboom “Glide” series
Autoboom is a height control system that provides hydraulic leveling and height control of agricultural spray booms. The new Glide series will include the PowerGlide, PowerGlide Plus, and UltraGlide systems.Harold Reetz on Cotton Belt Precision Ag
Following some recent travels to the Midsouth, Northwest, and Midwest, Dr. Harold Reetz, president of the Foundation for Agronomic Research and noted precision agriculture expert returned with some interesting observations about the current state of technology use in the Cotton Belt.CDMS and Orange Enterprises Announce Software Integration Integration
Crop Data Management Systems (CDMS) and Orange Enterprises announce the integration of their two services, ChemCheck and Tiger Jill.Raven’s Viper Now An Option on Ag-Chem RoGator & TerraGator Machines
AGCO Corporation now offers the option of adding the Raven Viper controller with five-product VRT on all new Ag-Chem RoGators and TerraGators at no additional cost.AgRobotics To Offer A New Way To Soil Sample
An Arkansas company called AgRobotics has developed a new technology for automating soil sample collection using an innovative new pull-behind apparatus.Trimble Introduces Implement Steering for the AgGPS Autopilot RTK System
Trimble recently announced the availability of its new AgGPS Implement Steering system. This is a key piece of the GPS accuracy puzzle for growers using large implements in diverse terrains.Raven Envizio Plus Set For October Release
Raven Industries' newest multi-use system, the Envizio Plus, will be available from authorized Raven dealers beginning October 1. The new product adds AccuBoom, Autoboom, and data logging capabilities to the initial Envizio release, providing more power and flexibility.CASE IH AFS PRO 600 Monitor Now Available
The monitor is fully integrated, says Kirk Wesley, global marketing Advanced Farming Systems manager. In addition to autoguidance, the AFS Pro 600 handles yield monitoring and mapping tasks on all Case IH Axial-Flow combine models, including the Axial-Flow 2577 and 2588 combines.Machine-Mounted Sensors May Cut Cost, Increase Yield in Cotton
PrecisionAg eNews - Oklahoma State's Tim Sharp is experimenting with on-the-go sensors for southwest cotton.New Product: New Leader Introduces New Spreader Controller
The New leader 7 is built to work seamlessly with the company’s G4 spinner spreader, and is the only variable product control system with patented technology that adjusts fan frame positions from the convenience of the cab.GreenSeeker Seeks MidSouth Opportunity
Redball, LLC, recently named Eddie Dunavent as precision ag territory manager and GreenSeeker optical sensing and application system product specialist for the Delta and Mid-South regions. We recently got a chance to ask Dunavent about the GreenSeeker technology and its potential for growth in the Cotton BeltGrower Success Story: Strip Till Plus Precision
Mike Shuter, owner of Shuter Sunset Farms, Frankton, IN, has been taking yields on his 2,000 acres of no-till corn to new heights over the past few years, thanks to a combination of strip till and precision techniques.Hemisphere Offers "BaseLine" Alternative To RTK
Hemisphere GPS, recently announced the introduction of Outback BaseLine. The company calls it a "high-definition GPS" unit for agricultural applications that the company says is "much more accurate than standard GPS, and much more affordable than RTK GPS."Mid-Season Report 1: Tim Sharp, Oklahoma State University-Okmulgee
When we visited Tim Sharp last December, he was working to get a brand new precision agriculture degree launched at a campus steeped in technology expertiseLaptop Computer Considerations
With so many options and technologies coming on line now and in the near future, we turned to an "outside of agriculture" source to provide some perspective on the issue of laptop computers. Michelle Fletcher, associate editor at www.cnet.com, agreed to help us sort out the technology in a recent interview.TeeJet Adds New Flat Spray Tip
The new AIXR TeeJet Flat Spray Tip provides a perfect balance of drift control and coverage for improved application.Hemisphere Improves Product Line
Hemisphere GPS recently announced increased capability and functionality available in its Outback Guidance products Outback S2 and eDrive.Retail Precision Survey: Midwest Snapshot
The 12th annual Retail Precision Ag Adoption Survey, conducted by CropLife magazine in Conjunction with Purdue University’s Center for Food and Agricultural Business and with financial support from Trimble, provides some insight into the use of - and growth areas in - precision ag technology in the Midwest. The full story will be available in the next edition of PrecisionAg eNews, but here is some of the headline news from the survey:Farmers Continue to Embrace Technology
A report from the University of Kentucky asserts that growers are finding recent precision ag technology advancements are highly beneficial to their operations.Raven's Envizio Plus Set For October Release
Raven Industries' newest multi-use system, the Envizio Plus, will be available from authorized Raven dealers beginning October 1. The new product adds AccuBoom, Autoboom, and data logging capabilities to the initial Envizio release, providing more power and flexibility.Topcon Acquires KEE Technologies
Topcon Positioning Systems Inc. (TPS), a developer and manufacturer of positioning equipment, recently announced the acquisition of KEE Technologies, an Australia-based agricultural electronics and applications company focused on the precision agriculture market.Farm Works Software Releases X2 Upgrade
Farm Works Software has made what it calls "the most significant improvement in its software applications in more than a decade" with the release of Farm Works version 12, code name X2.Raven Introduces A New Receiver Line
The Phoenix series will include the Phoenix 100, 200, and 300 receivers. The Phoenix 200 is the first to be released in this new line, combining Raven receiver technology with the latest Hemisphere GPS Crescent OEM engine. The Phoenix 200 presents an economical, high-performance sub-meter receiver capable of utilizing two differential correction solutions.DICKEY-john, Topcon and TeeJet--Mid-Tech Join PrecisionAg Institute as Founding Partners
WILLOUGHBY, Ohio (Aug. 7, 2006) - Three additional companies have committed their corporate and financial support to the PrecisionAg Institute, an independent global forum dedicated to the sharing of precision agriculture practices, ideas, research, products, services and success stories. The PrecisionAg Institute is being developed and managed by the CropLife® Media Group of Meister Media Worldwide.Ag Leader Introduces EZ-Boom™
The EZ-Boom joins the DirectCommand system as part of Ag Leader’s family of application products designed to help growers reduce input costs and improve overall accuracy of application operations. The EZ-Boom system is designed to work with the EZ-Guide Plus lightbar system and the EZ-Steer assisted steering system offering end users application, guidance and steering in one fully integrated system.DTN Mobile Delivers Remote Info
DTN Mobile is compatible with any mobile device that has a wireless Web service and a WAP 2.0 Web browser. A true companion to DTN’s online and satellite services, DTN Mobile gives you the ability to acquire the time-critical information you need while on the moveAg Leader Training at Martens Farms in Kansas Coming Soon
The Cost is free for equipment training, and $125 for the computer-based SMS Basic class. Lunch is provided both days, and sessions are open to both tech-savvy and new-comers.The PrecisionAg Institute
The PrecisionAg® Institute is an independent global forum dedicated to the sharing of precision agriculture practices, ideas, research, products, services and success stories.Grower Success Story: Strip Till Plus Precision
Mike Shuter, owner of Shuter Sunset Farms, Frankton, IN, has been taking yields on his 2,000 acres of no-till corn to new heights over the past few years, thanks to a combination of strip till and precision techniques.InfoAg Grows Regional Events
The Foundation for Agronomic Research recently announced plans to add two regional events under its InfoAg banner in early 2007, according to FAR president Harold Reetz.GreenSeeker Seeks MidSouth Opportunity
Redball, LLC, recently named Eddie Dunavent as precision ag territory manager and GreenSeeker optical sensing and application system product specialist for the Delta and Mid-South regions. We recently got a chance to ask Dunavent about the GreenSeeker technology and its potential for growth in the Cotton Belt.New Tools From InTime
The Mississippi-based precision solutions supplier adds three new products to its offerings this season.New WatchDog In Town
Spectrum Technologies, Inc. has introduced the WatchDog 2000 Series Mini Stations to its line of weather stations and data loggers.Preview: CropLife magazine--Purdue University--Trimble PrecisionAg Adoption Survey
The 11th annual retail precision agriculture adoption survey revealed big gains in precision technology to boost efficiencyUnstaffed Terminal Management Available From Kahler
Fairmont, MN-based Kahler Automation Corp. has debuted its new Unstaffed Terminal Management system for liquid and dry blending facilities.New Tools From InTime
The Mississippi-based precision solutions supplier adds three new products to its offerings this season.AGCO Releases GTA300 Mapping Software
Recently introduced GTA300 Mapping PC software from AGCO Global Technologies provides owner/operators with new customized map making and data management options. The software gathers, transfers and analyzess data from tractor and combine mounted GTA Consoles and Fieldstar terminals equipped with GPS as well as other spatial data sources. The software provides data sorting and filtering capabilities to create customized single layered maps that help AGCO customers maintain and improve profitability.Trimble's Introduces EZ-Lease Program
End-users interested in Trimble GPS steering options can take advantage of the company's new EZ-Lease lease/purchase program, featuring a 0% lease interest rate and $4,000 minimum transaction requirement.GPS Steering Trends To Watch
PrecisionAg eNews - Manufacturers continue to be bullish on the future of GPS steering technology, but there will be some important factors to consider in the years to come.Case IH Launches Two E-Learning Programs
Case IH recently introduced two computer-based combine educational programs for North American grain producers and custom harvesters. The programs are built help growers improve harvesting productivity.Mid-Season Report 1: Tim Sharp, Oklahoma State University-Okmulgee
When we visited Tim Sharp last December, he was working to get a brand new precision agriculture degree launched at a campus steeped in technology expertise.
Mid-Season Report 2: Tim Norris, Agronomic Information Technologies
PrecisionAg eNews - In December, Ohio precision consultant Tim Norris was not only in the formative months of taking his consulting business independent, but he was finding partners and building out a new real-time kinematic tower network in central Ohio.Hemisphere Offers "BaseLine" Alternative To RTK
Hemisphere GPS, recently announced the introduction of Outback BaseLine. The company calls it a "high-definition GPS" unit for agricultural applications that the company says is "much more accurate than standard GPS, and much more affordable than RTK GPS."Revisiting the Power Users, Mid-Year Report
Since December 2003, PrecisionAg Special Reports has been covering the fortunes of four individuals using precision agriculture technology in their professions. In this issue of PrecisionAg e-News, we talk to two of these profiled individuals to get a report on their progress so far in 2006. A full accounting of their activities this coming season will be featured in the December 2006 PrecisionAg Special Report.Weighing Up GPS Steering Options
YOU PROBABLY won't find a more competitive market segment in agriculture these days than GPS steering. But despite the differences among manufacturers and marketing, there's one thing they agree on -- the potential buyer needs to be absolutely clear about why he needs GPS steering, and what he intends to do with it.Case offers new AFS200 Color Monitor
Expanding on its Advanced Farming System (AFS ) precision product line, Case IH recently announced that its AFS200 color monitor will serva as the new user interface for AFS AccuGuide automatic guidance systems in its MX Series Magnum and STX Series Steiger tractors.Mini-Sat Remote Weather Monitor
The Mini-Sat Field Station provides remote monitoring and control from anywhere using satellite transmission.Laptop Computer Considerations
With so many options and technologies coming on line now and in the near future, we turned to an "outside of agriculture" source to provide some perspective on the issue of laptop computers. Michelle Fletcher, associate editor at www.cnet.com, agreed to help us sort out the technology in a recent interview.Texas Precision Ag Expo Coming
The Texas Plant Protection Association (TPPA) will be hosting the Precision Ag Expo on June 7 at the Texas A&M University Research and Extension Center in Corpus Christi. The conference is designed for farmers, extension agents, agribusiness representatives, crop consultants, and others involved in crop production.International Precision Ag Conference Coming This Summer
The Eighth International Conference on Precision Agriculture returns to Minneapolis July 23-26, 2006 at the Minneapolis Marriott.Boom Benefits 2: Automatic Boom Height Adjustment
Hilly terrain and in-crop application provides a tough challenge to even the most experienced spray rig operator – keeping the boom at the proper height on the go.Two manufacturers are providing automated solutions to this field challenge.
Retail Precision Survey: Midwest Snapshot
The 12th annual Retail Precision Ag Adoption Survey, conducted by CropLife magazine in Conjunction with Purdue University’s Center for Food and Agricultural Business and with financial support from Trimble, provides some insight into the use of - and growth areas in - precision ag technology in the Midwest. The full story will be available in the next edition of PrecisionAg eNews, but here is some of the headline news from the survey:Hemisphere Improves Product Line
Hemisphere GPS recently announced increased capability and functionality available in its Outback Guidance products Outback S2 and eDrive.TeeJet Adds New Flat Spray Tip
The new AIXR TeeJet Flat Spray Tip provides a perfect balance of drift control and coverage for improved application.Precision Pioneer Offers Advice: Interview With David Wildy
David Wildy has spent a decade in search of technology to improve his farm operations. Here he shares his insights on precision cotton production.
Swiss GPS Company Takes Root in US
PrecisionAg eNews - Leica Geosystems recently announced the naming of a new head of its North American Agricultural Division in its Colorado-based office.Rawson Offers Better Speed Sensing Solution
PrecisionAg eNews - The ACCU-SPEED GPS Ground Speed System from Rawson Control Systems offers an alternative to traditional ground-speed radar guns, and is designed to increase variable rate efficiency and profitability by providing growers and custom applicators more reliable speed sensing during seed and fertilizer application.Trimble, Ag Leader Offer True Midrange Steering Product With New AgGPS EZ-Guide 500
PrecisionAg eNews - This week, Trimble introduced a new high-performance version of its popular AgGPS EZ-Guide Plus lightbar guidance system, the EZ-Guide. Ag Leader Technology is also offering the Trimble-built unit under the AgGPS EZ-Guide 500 name.Raven Adds QuickTrax Steering System
PrecisionAg eNews - Raven Industries announces the release of their newest assisted steering system, the QuickTrax system. This system offers all of the same features as the standard SmarTrax steering system, such as hands-free steering, quick line acquisition, and sub-meter and decimeter modes, but with a much improved and simpler installation than the standard hydraulic valve system.The ISOBUS Standard: Reaping A Harvest of Benefits
PrecisionAg eNews - Editors occasionally receive stuff from manufacturers promoting upcoming products, or participation in a trade show, or some new service they're offering, so it wasn't too unusual to find a box hit my desk this week from Rich Gould over at TeeJet. It was a bit strange, though, to find a large metal connector inside. Turns out that I've seen one before, only not by itself - it was an ISOBUS connector. At the Farm Equipment Show in Louisville the week of Feb. 12, TeeJet will be showing off its ISOBUS plug, and more importantly, the potential of ISOBUS as an equipment standard, in his booth at the show. I gave Rich a call and asked him to talk a bit about ISOBUS, and here's what he had to say:Product Focus: Topcon X20
Topcon's acquisition of KEE Technologies in recent months has led to the full integration of KEE's product line, including the X20 Control Console. Topcon's Rhett Schildroth, Agricultural Product Marketing Manager discusses the product's functionality today as part of the company's line of controllers.Deere Introduces Rate Control for Pull Type Sprayers
PrecisionAg eNews - [John Deere]] just announced that its GreenStar 2 Rate Controller now has the capability to provide automated spray rate control and to enable Swath Control Pro on pull-type sprayers. The addition boosts the system's capability, which already provided the same control capabilities in Deere's 4710, 4720, 4920, and 4930 self-propelled sprayers.New Raven/AutoFarm Announce Joint Agreement, release QuickTrax
Raven Industries and AutoFarm announce their partnership in the development of Raven's newest steering system, the QuickTrax.Farmscan USA In Limbo For Now
PrecisionAg eNews - Precision manufacturer Farmscan is working through some uncertainties here in the states and awaiting direction as its Australian parent company works through a reorganization procedure.
