Auto Steering Guidance Systems

Of all the current agricultural applications for global-positioning technology, few have had the impact of GPS-based guidance. Whether they’re using manual, lightbar-type systems or hands-free auto steering systems, growers who have adopted the technology report reduced fertilizer, seed, chemical and fuel costs, as well as reduced wear on equipment – and operators. But with a growing number of manufacturers, a wide range of products, and ever-improving technology, choosing the right guidance system can be a challenge.

Emmetts employ auto steering specialists who can advise you on your specific situaton.

Our range of auto steering solutions includes products from Leica Geosystems and John Deere.

These satellite-assisted guidance systems are the latest technological revolution in agriculture. These auto steering systems have brought more efficiency to planting, spraying, tillage, and harvesting by reducing overlap, saving fuel and chemicals, and reducing operator fatigue.

John Deere GreenStar Systems

John Deere is a leader with auto steering guidance systems on Tractors, Sprayers, and Combines; and has helped to introduce this technology to producers throughout the world.

In order to bring this technology to an even larger number of growers, John Deere introduces StarFire™ iTC and the next generation of Parallel Tracking.

"The new Parallel Tracking system will be a more economical system to help producers get started with guidance technology," says Gordon Culp, Division Manager Marketing, John Deere Ag Management Solutions. "The basic package includes the three common GreenStar™ components and a Parallel Tracking KeyCard, providing a manual guidance system at a very economical price. This system can be used on any Tractor, Sprayer, Combine, or any other machine with a 12-volt power source."

The three common components include a StarFire iTC receiver, GreenStar display, and mobile processor. Parallel Tracking guides the operator through the field, and while the operator steers the tractor, the display keeps him on a straight or curved path. New or used equipment, any make or model, can use the system.

The key advantage of Parallel Tracking is, it's built around the scalable StarFire™ iTC receiver. A customer who purchases Parallel Tracking will be able to use the same components and easily upgrade to AutoTrac (as long as they own an AutoTrac capable vehicle), which would allow auto steering by satellite. "For someone who would like to try a guidance system without a substantial financial investment, this would be the introductory system," says Culp. "Then if they are pleased with what the new technology can do for their operation, they can upgrade at any time to a more advanced satellite guidance system. This is truly guidance you can grow with."

For more information on the StarFire iTC receiver and the next generation of Parallel Tracking contact your local Emmetts branch or visit www.deere.com.au.