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End-row smart

Ag Leader Technology has introduced a new feature, called SeedCommand, to its Insight display. SeedCommand implements the popular AutoSwath feature on planters and seeders, allowing users to automatically turn individual planter sections on and off, saving money on seed costs and making planting easier. SeedCommand also allows growers to map variety/hybrid locations and record split-planter operations for better record keeping and decision making.

The power of SeedCommand comes from the AutoSwath feature for planters, which automatically controls the Tru Count planter clutches. The clutches control the seed meter drive from the planter transmission, enabling planter sections to be turned on and off automatically based on already planted areas or areas designated not to plant, which helps reduce over-planting of seed on end rows, point rows and waterways. SeedCommand also saves time by eliminating the need to slow down to accurately lift and lower the planter or seeder on end rows.

Ag Leader Technology has also introduced SMS Mobile to its family of software, which already includes SMS Basic, SMS Advanced and the SMS Booklet module. SMS Mobile is a powerful new software package that allows users to take SMS software to the field on a Windows based mobile device.

SMS Mobile supports a number of in-field logging options. SMS Mobile provides a boundary mode for defining or editing field boundaries. It also provides a general logging mode that allows the logging and editing of points, lines or polygons which is useful for logging tile lines or management zones. SMS Mobile can log coverage data in coverage mode for tracking field operations such as tillage or mowing. SMS Mobile will also feature a soil sampling mode that will allow creation and/or navigation to an area to pull soil samples (available in the fall of 2007).

SMS Mobile is designed to work seamlessly with SMS Basic and SMS Advanced desktop packages. Field names, field boundaries, backgrounds (aerial photography, soil and yield maps) and many other items can be transferred from SMS desktop packages to SMS Mobile. This ensures efficient work in the field and that accurate information is passed back to the desktop software.

SMS Mobile will be available in two different packages, the complete SMS Mobile Field PC kit or SMS Mobile software only. The SMS Mobile Field PC kit includes the rugged Field PC handheld, SMS Mobile software, secure digital memory card, compact flash GPS, weather proof end cap, power cable and USB cable. SMS Mobile software is also sold by itself and can be installed on any personal digital assistant (PDA) running Microsoft Windows Mobile OS 5.0 or higher.