Active Implement Guidance system installed on a potato planter

Without the use of Active Implement Guidance, drawn implements are susceptible to implement drift caused by varying soil conditions as well as gravity in sidehill applications. John Deere Active Implement Guidance automatically steers the implement to the guidance line by providing GPS receiver position data to the implement steering system, reducing the adverse impact of implement drift.

The benefits of John Deere Active Implement Guidance include:

• Positive impact on inputs 
• High crop quality 
• Industry-exclusive fingertip controls
• Reduced operator fatigue 
• Flexibility of signal options with StarFire™ 3000 and StarFire 6000 Receivers

Optimize inputs with Active Implement Guidance

Active Implement Guidance helps optimize the use of inputs by increasing accuracy at the implement and facilitating seamless, repeatable passes throughout the growing season.

Active Implement Guidance can help to reduce input costs in a variety of applications. Potato producers and other specialty crop producers that make frequent passes through the field have seen the value of Active Implement Guidance as they precisely plant and care for their crop. Additionally, producers employing strip-till practices are better able to align their seed placement with their fertilizer placement, maximizing the uptake of their valuable nutrients.

Completing a field pass with Active Implement Guidance

Maintaining the best crop quality is important in all farming operations, and is made especially difficult in cropping practices that require multiple passes through the field. Each pass during the production cycle puts the crop at risk. With Active Implement Guidance, producers no longer have to worry about the emerged crop, as both the tractor and implement are operating on the A-B line.

A risk is also minimized when seed is planted with Active Implement Guidance. The improved precision of seed placement provides a straighter path for subsequent passes throughout the season. Compaction and crop disturbance are also reduced as Active Implement Guidance achieves its precision by keeping the implement and tractor on the same guidance path.

At the end of the season, the results are better crop quality and improved yield, a value all producers can appreciate.

Manual implement control from the selective control valve (SCV)

Active Implement Guidance requires an implement steering mechanism. This is common with any active implement supplier on the market. The method of controlling the mechanism can only be found from John Deere.

John Deere controls the implement steering device through the tractor's SCV. This industry-exclusive technology allows operators to engage and disengage Active Implement Guidance quickly and easily.

Operators appreciate this when turning in fields with limited headland space. Simply disengage Active Implement Guidance and manually straighten out the implement after a turn by feathering the SCV lever.

Many minutes are saved, even with the most experienced operators, by eliminating the process of backing up after turns to align implements. The time an operator spent getting frustrated turning large implements can now be spent enjoying planting.

The fingertip controls also provide ease when parking implements in tight places or pulling through narrow spaces.

Fingertip control is available for

• John Deere
  • Large-Frame 7X30 and 7R Series Tractors
  • 8XXX  and 8R Series Tractors
  • 9XXX and 9R Series Tractors

Other tractors are compatible with John Deere Active Implement Guidance with the use of an external SCV.

External valve

Active Implement Guidance is available for all other John Deere and non-John Deere tractors with the addition of an external SCV valve and SCV switch. Both can be ordered from a John Deere dealer. The tractor can have an open or a closed-center hydraulic system.

Reduces operator fatigue

AutoTrac™ assisted steering system paired with Active Implement Guidance allows operators to be more productive as they focus on tasks other than steering while traveling down the field.

When operators have to spend their entire workday manually steering a machine while watching for obstacles and checking to make sure the implement is operating as expected, they tend to get worn out.

Using AutoTrac and Active Implement Guidance together greatly reduces the strain on the operator because the system accurately guides the implement down the most optimum pass, accurately placing inputs, such as seed or fertilizer, in the field.

Other benefits to the operator:

• The implement can be monitored more closely to see if parts are wearing out or failing, allowing the operator to be proactive rather than reactive.
• A watchful eye can look for damaging obstacles in the field such as rocks, washouts, or holes caused by broken tile lines.
• An industry exclusive to John Deere, fingertip controls allow operators to turn the implement steering mechanism manually in tight spaces.

All of these benefits result in more uptime for the equipment and an operator who is more alert throughout the day, a benefit everyone can appreciate.

Shared signal provides the functionality when pairing two receivers with AutoTrac™ Implement Guidance, Active Implement Guidance™,  Machine Sync combine harvest automation, or AutoPath™ software via the GreenStar™ 3 2630 Display, Generation 4 4600 CommandCenter™, or 4640 Universal Display. Shared signal allows correction signals to be communicated between a pair of receivers, improving relative system accuracy and reducing the initial investment required to use AutoTrac Implement Guidance, Active Implement Guidance,  Machine Sync combine harvest automation, or AutoPath.

• NOTE: When using shared signal, the leader must have the higher correction level.
  • In an AutoPath application, shared signal uses the correction level of the leader.
  • In a Machine Sync application, shared signal uses the correction level of the leader.
    

Supported configurations
All StarFire 3000, StarFire 6000, and StarFire 7000 Receivers are compatible with shared signal and can be used interchangeably.

• The system uses the correction level of the leader. It is important to place the receiver with the highest correction level on the leader.

NOTE: StarFire 3000 Receivers must be updated to 20-2 (2.80S), and StarFire 6000 Receivers must be updated to 20-2 (4.40N). Once both leader and follower are updated to this software, there are no configuration limitations on leader/follower setup between receiver models.

• Leader: the tractor receiver for AutoTrac Implement Guidance, AutoPath, and Active Implement Guidance, or the combine or harvest operation (pull-type harvester) receiver for Machine Sync combine harvest automation.
  • The leader’s correction level determines the correction level of the follower.
  • For highest accuracy or for implement guidance applications, the leader must have the higher correction signal.
• Follower: the implement receiver for AutoTrac Implement Guidance and Active Implement Guidance, or the grain cart tractor receiver for Machine Sync combine harvest automation.
  • The follower may have the lower correction level, but the overall system accuracy matches the accuracy of the leader.

AutoTrac Implement Guidance and Active Implement Guidance

Shared signal enables StarFire receivers to share information when paired using implement guidance. This allows a StarFire receiver using a lower accuracy to be used on the implement for an implement guidance system and take advantage of the higher accuracy used by the machine receiver. The following table describes the accuracy expected from this system:

*Currently only available on StarFire 3000 and StarFire 6000 receivers.

AutoPath

Shared signal enables StarFire receivers to share information when paired using AutoPath. This allows a StarFire receiver with a lower accuracy to be used on the implement for AutoPath and take advantage of the higher accuracy used by the machine receiver. The following table describes the accuracy expected from this system:

*Currently only available on StarFire 3000 and StarFire 6000 receivers.

Machine Sync combine harvest automation

Shared signal enables StarFire receivers to share information when paired using Machine Sync combine harvest automation. This allows the two vehicle receivers to maximize system performance during harvest. To ensure optimal performance and compatibility, always update receivers to the most current software version available on StellarSupport™ portal. The following table describes the accuracy expected from this system:

*Currently only available on StarFire 3000 and StarFire 6000 receivers.

This document lists all the compatible equipment approved with the software update 22-2 release and is subject to change with newer software updates. To ensure complete and proper compatibility, the most current version of implement control unit software, Generation 4 display software, or compatible farm management information software (FMIS) should be used. Non-current software versions will require an update before support can be provided. Unapproved software version configurations will not be supported.

The software update 22-2 release is not compatible with 4600 CommandCenter™ v1 processors. Software update 17-2 is the last release that was compatible with 4600 v1 processors.

Server serial numbers are as follows:

• v1 = RWG prefix
• v2 = PCG prefix

Machine compatibility

John Deere Large Ag Tractors

*NOTE: For latest Precision Ag functionality, update machines equipped from the factory with v1 processor to v2.

John Deere Nutrient Applicators

John Deere Self-Propelled Sprayers

*NOTE: When using the 4640 Universal Display on a Hagie Sprayer, additional mounting and harnessing may be required.

• 4640 RAM™ mount - SJ34503
• 4640 power/video harness - BPF11527 (1-3 video plus machine power), PF90687 (machine power only)

NOTE: Current John Deere/Hagie field kits only offer GreenStar 3 2630 Display parts.

NOTE: Multi-rank section control are not supported on Hagie at this time.

NOTE: VIN detection on Hagie Sprayers is only supported on model year 2019 and newer machines.

NOTE: 22-2 and newer software allows the Gen 4 4640 Universal Display to control the Hagie/Montag Fortifier configuration.

**NOTE: The 4640 Universal Display will replace the GreenStar 3 2630 Display on the armrest. Dual display with the GreenStar 3 2630 Display is not supported with sprayers. The 4640 Universal Display does not use the external display navigation buttons located on the armrest, so these buttons are disabled in this configuration.

John Deere Self-Propelled Forage Harvesters (SPFH)

NOTE: When adding the 4640 Universal Display to a John Deere SPFH, it will only be compatible as a precision ag display and is installed on the side rail.

John Deere Combines

NOTE: Competitive equipment may be compatible with 4640 Universal Display and 4240 Universal Display.

*NOTE: When adding the 4640 Universal Display to a John Deere combine, it will only be compatible as a cornerpost precision ag display.

NOTE: RowSense™ sensor voltage readings and sensor offsets are displayed on Original GreenStar Monitor emulator on 50, 60, and 70 Series Combines.

Equipment compatibility

John Deere planters

SeedStar™ 4HP planters are only compatible with 4600 CommandCenter displays with a version 2 (v2) processor and 4640 Universal Displays. Displays should be running the most current version of tractor applications to be compatible with SeedStar 4HP planter applications. Additionally, dual-display mode is available for use with SeedStar 4HP planter applications, along with Generation 4 Extended Monitor. SeedStar 4HP planters are compatible with no more than two GreenStar Rate Controllers.

The SeedStar 2 configuration below is available only on factory-installed model year 2011 and newer planters and may be field-installed on model year 2009 and 2010 planters. Green PM/PA controllers (factory-installed on model year 2009 and 2010 planters) are not supported with a Generation 4 display.

Service ADVISOR™ is needed to update SeedStar 2, SeedStar XP, and SeedStar 3 HP software. Documentation is not supported when using a rate controller to control row clutches on a John Deere planter.

*NOTE: For implements requiring ground speed input (radar), utilizing a 4240 Universal Display may require an additional 4240 radar speed kit.

John Deere Air Seeders

The C650 and C850 Air Carts and N500C Seeder are not supported with a GreenStar 3 2630 Display. Additionally, tow-behind C850 Air Carts are compatible with AutoTrac™ Implement Guidance (passive) with software update 18-2 and newer.

*NOTE: For implements requiring ground speed input (radar), utilizing a 4240 Universal Display may require an additional 4240 radar speed kit.

John Deere Tillage

*NOTE: For implements requiring ground speed input (radar), utilizing a 4240 Universal Display may require an additional 4240 radar speed kit.

John Deere Round Balers

John Deere Cotton Harvesters

NOTE: Update cab controller software to the latest version on model year 2017 and newer cotton harvesters to use Harvest Identification, Cotton Pro.

NOTE: When adding the 4640 Universal Display to a John Deere Cotton Harvester, it will only be compatible as a cornerpost precision ag display.

John Deere Self-Propelled Windrowers

NOTE: When adding the 4640 Universal Display to a John Deere self-propelled windrower, it will only be compatible as a cornerpost precision ag display.

*NOTE: For 22-2, a virtual windrower option is available to support W110 to W170 Self-Propelled Windrowers. VIN detection is not available on these machines.

John Deere Large Square Balers

Precision Ag Technology software compatibility

*NOTE: See additional information below.

StarFire Receivers

StarFire Receivers can be updated in the following ways:

• Receiver USB port (available only for StarFire 6000 Receivers)
• Generation 4 display USB port
• Remote software updates application (in ISOBUS VT app)

John Deere Operations Center

To use RDA on a Generation 4 CommandCenter Display with a GreenStar 3 2630 Display connected in the same machine, GreenStar 3 2630 software version 3.22.1095 (SU2014-1) or higher is required (for 4600 CommandCenter Display and 4640 Universal Display only).

GreenStar Rate Controller Dry

GreenStar Rate Controller Dry (GDC) 2.11A was the last software version available through Software Manager. GDC 2.20A has been available since spring 2015 and contains diagnostic language updates. This software can only be obtained through Service ADVISOR.

John Deere Rate Controller 2000

The John Deere Rate Controller 2000 will not control the planter clutches or half-, third-, or quarter-width disconnects on a John Deere planter.

AutoTrac Vision

AutoTrac Vision Guidance is only compatible with Generation 4 18-1 software 10.10.404-345 or newer. 


ISOBUS implements

Generation 4 displays support two Agricultural Industry Electronics Foundation (AEF) certified ISOBUS control units. The use of two ISOBUS control units is limited to the configuration of one front and one rear implement. The use of multiple ISOBUS control units as rear implements is not supported. Generation 4 displays support AEF-certified ISOBUS implements with Task Controller Section Control (TC-SC) functionality and AEF certification for TC-SC include sprayers, fertilizer spreaders, planters, seeders, manure applicators, etc. For third-party FMIS compatibility, reference the John Deere Operations Center.

A software update performed by an authorized ISOBUS implement dealer may be required to obtain compatible software. ISOBUS implements must be certified through the Agricultural Industry Electronics Foundation (AEF) to be recognized by the Generation 4 CommandCenter Display. Visit www.aef-online.org for more information; visit www.aef-isobus-database.org for an active list of compatible implements.

ISOBUS implements with VT4 are now supported by Generation 4 displays. Generation 4 displays still support older VT versions (example: VT2 and VT3). If an implement is not loading after updating to Generation 4 software update 2017-2 (or newer on 4600 CommandCenter v2 processors), it is recommended that the implement manufacturer be contacted to get a software version that is either VT3 or VT4.

Implements without controllers

Implements without controllers can be documented as a stand-alone operation or with a rate controller from John Deere. Additionally, multiple implements without controllers cannot be documented together.

AutoPath

AutoPath is compatible with 4600 CommandCenter (v2 server) and 4640 Universal Displays running 20-3 or later software.

AutoPath requires specific source operation data (including an implement receiver) gathered during the first field operation of the year.

For more information on AutoPath functionality and requirements, refer to the Sales Manual.

AutoTrac Implement Guidance (passive)

• AutoTrac Implement Guidance is compatible with SeedStar 4HP, SeedStar 3 HP, SeedStar 2, and SeedStar XP.
• AutoTrac Implement Guidance is compatible 1990CCS Seeders as well as 1910, C650, and C850 Tow-Behind Air Carts.
• AutoTrac Implement Guidance is NOT compatible with N500C seeding tools and tow-between air carts.
• For more information on AutoTrac Implement Guidance, refer to the Sales Manual.

AutoTrac Turn Automation

To use the AutoTrac Turn Automation application, specific compatibility is required. AutoTrac Turn Automation is compatible with the following machines:

• 8030 Series Tractors
• 9030 Series Tractors (if equipped with PowerShift™ transmission)
• Model year 2012 and newer 6R Tractors (if equipped with Infinitely Variable Transmission [IVT™] and ITEC™ functionality)
• Model year 2011 and newer 7R Tractors (if equipped with CommandQuad™ transmission, e23™ PowerShift transmission, or IVT)
• Model year 2010 and newer 8R/RT Tractors
• Model year 2012 and newer 9R/RT/RX Tractors

NOTE: Integrated tractor IMS must be turned off on 30 Series Tractors to use AutoTrac Turn Automation on the Generation 4. Integrated Tractor iTEC must be turned off on the following tractors to use AutoTrac Turn Automation on the Generation 4:

• Model year 2012-2014 6R
• Model year 2011-2013 7R
• Model year 2010-2013 8R
• Model year 2012-2014 9R

NOTE: If instead an operator chooses to use the machine’s integrated IMS/iTEC functionality, then AutoTrac Turn Automation and iTEC must be turned off in the Generation 4 Universal Display.

AutoTrac Turn Automation is compatible with SeedStar 4 HP, SeedStar 3 HP, SeedStar 2, and SeedStar XP planters, 1990CCS Seeders, and 1910, C650, and C850 Tow-Behind Air Carts.

AutoTrac Turn Automation is compatible with N500C Series Air Tools with selective control valves (SCVs) operating in manual mode. See the "Additional Information" section of DTAC solution 115995 for more information.

AutoTrac Turn Automation is NOT compatible with the following implements and implement configurations:

• Front-mounted implements
• Tow-between air carts
• Multiple implements pulled in series where the work piece is not connected directly to the tractor

For more information on AutoTrac Turn Automation, refer to the Sales Manual.

Machine Sync

Supported leader platforms

• Combine:
• X Series Combines, S Series Combines, W Series Combines, T Series Combines, 70/60/50 Series Combines
• Self-Propelled Forage Harvesters
• 9000 Series and 8000 Series
• John Deere Tractors
• John Deere tractors with Gen 4 4600 CommandCenter Displays and John Deere tractors compatible with the Gen 4 4640 Universal Display

Supported follower platforms

• John Deere tractors (wheeled models)
• 6R Tractors with Infinitely Variable Transmission (IVT™) (iTEC™ functionality required)
• 7R Tractors with CommandQuad™ Eco transmission, e23™ transmission, and IVT
• 8030 Tractors with PowerShift™ transmission and IVT
• 8R Tractors with PowerShift, IVT, and e23 transmission
• 9030 Tractors with PowerShift transmission
• 9R Tractors with PowerShift transmission with Efficiency Manager™ feature
• John Deere tractors (tracked models)
• 8RT/8RX Tractors with PowerShift, IVT, and e23 transmission
• 9RT/9RX Tractors with PowerShift transmission with Efficiency Manager feature
• NOTE: John Deere 8030T and 9030T models are not compatible with Machine Sync.

Reprogramming Application Controllers 1100 and 1120

4600 CommandCenter v1 does not support reprogramming on the UCC2 version of Application Controller 1100 and 1120. Service ADVISOR or compatible displays may be used.

Distance Trip documentation/Yield Documentation, Specialty Crop

A UCC2 Application Controller 1100 with 19-2 software or newer, running on a 4600 CommandCenter v2 server enables documentation of field operations. If a UCC2 replaces a UCC1 Application Controller 1100 on a CommandCenter v1 server, documentation is not available.

Camera compatibility

Voyager® cameras are supported on Generation 4 displays. All other camera types are not supported.

Non-John Deere Precision Ag

4600 CommandCenter v2 and the 4640 Universal Display are compatible with the following RS-232 configurations with software update 18-2 and newer:

• Global positioning system (GPS) receivers with serial port connection
  • Will not enable AutoTrac guidance functionality
• Raven RS-232 control units (440, 450, or 660) on tractors configured as implement-based applications
• Generation 4 displays are not compatible with the DN345 Drawn Dry Spreader at this time.

4600 CommandCenter v2 and the 4640 Universal Display are compatible with the following RS-232 configurations with software update 20-3 and newer:

• Yara N-Sensor
• Fritzmeier
• Trimble® GreenSeeker®
• LH 5000

Machine Communication Radio (MCR)

Generation 4 displays are not compatible with MCR.

APEX™ software

• Generation 4 display work data is not compatible with and cannot be viewed in APEX software.
• USB files including pre-assigned APEX tasks and iTEC Pro sequences will not import into Generation 4 displays.

NOTE: Gen 4 data is only compatible with the John Deere Operations Center. All Gen 4 activations are machine specific and cannot be transferred to a different machine. If not using WDT, an 8- to 32-GB USB is required to transfer data to and from the Gen 4 display. Implement settings are display specific and cannot be imported or exported from the Gen 4 display.

RAM is a trademark of National Products Inc. Montag is a trademark of Montag Manufacturing, Inc. Hagie is a trademark of Hagie Manufacturing Company and similar to John Deere branded equipment, John Deere will support Hagie equipment. Reichhardt is a trademark of Reichhardt GmbH Steuerungstechnik. iOS is a trademark of Cisco Technology, Inc. used under license by Apple Inc. Android is a trademark of Google LLC. Voyager is a trademark of ASA Electronics, LLC. Trimble and GreenSeeker are trademarks of Trimble, Inc.