Top Crop Manager

Combines/Harvesters
Harvest more data

Gleaner combines equipped with the new GTA Console II in-cab terminal are taking harvest operations and data harvest to a new level. The factory installed Console II is the 'operations control centre' for the new Fieldstar II yield monitoring and machine control sy28a1stem.

November 20, 2007  By Top Crop Manager


Gleaner combines equipped with the new GTA Console II in-cab terminal are taking harvest operations and data harvest to a new level. The factory installed Console II is the 'operations control centre' for the new Fieldstar II yield monitoring and machine control system. With its ability to display and record output from almost all combine sensors, the Console II offers unprecedented machine function and crop harvest monitoring. The SD (secure digital) card slot and GTA100 Communicator personal computer software make it easy to download data to a personal computer for in-depth analysis.

The key to the new terminal's capability is the CANbus system that connects the Console II to every sensor on the combine able to output a signal, including the new Fieldstar II yield monitor with moisture and temperature sensors. Using the touch screen, soft keys and rotary dial controls, the operator can quickly and easily select from a wide variety of screens to view combine functions and crop yield data. Geo-referenced field and machine data can be assigned to individual fields or farms as it is collected and stored on SD cards similar to those used in digital cameras.

The 10.4 inch, colour display screen features automatic contrast control. Its daylight sensor ensures visibility remains constant day or night, and the display also adjusts to counter glare. Easy to recognize icons make it simple for the operator to navigate selections. To activate the icons, touch the screen, press the soft key, or scroll through options with the rotary dial and then press it in toward the screen. As new selections appear, touch selection or scrolling offers new options and settings, such as moisture limits for a given crop, which then can be selected and adjusted.

Advertisement

Using the Console II, operators can track and log information on area covered, work rates, fuel consumption and other field and combine data. Selecting a job for a field or farm when first entered ensures that all data gathered on site will be assigned to that field or farm for later analysis. Data can be stored on any size SD card between a minimum 64MB and a maximum 1GB. All 5 series combines currently equipped with DataTouch terminals are easily upgraded. All plugs and wiring harness connects remain the same. The older terminal is removed and a ball mount is installed on the backside of the console for mounting.

Advertisement

Stories continue below