High-tech solutions for farming tasks

Topcon Agriculture has released the NORAC Tillage Depth Control system, using the same core technology available on the NORAC Boom Height Control system. This system uses ultrasonic sensors to compensate for differing soil types automatically, while still maintaining correct implement tillage depth. TDC is designed to turn tillage into a high-tech operation, no matter what type of tractor you are running. It can be installed on any trailed tillage tool with hydraulic lift and uses a factory display that supports ISOBUS Virtual Terminal functionality. Learn more at topconagriculture.com.

The KSi AutoBulk bulk handling software system provides a flexible, user-friendly software interface with accurate, high-capacity blending. The system offers data collection and reporting tools, as well as remote call support and service to help producers complete the most complex chemical combinations, and liquid fertilizer and water blends in an accurate way. The system, which is available exclusively through FarmChem, can be tailored to meet the particular needs of a specific facility or location. Visit ksiedge.com, or call 888-574-3277.

The My Yield 6000 Series seed treatment system comes with everything you need to treat seed, including the treater, quick-connect delivery and a C3 conveyor, promoting maximum seed coverage while avoiding the risk of damage, no matter the seed size. After seed leaves the 6000 treater, the C3 conveyor maximizes coverage by gently rotating the seeds. The units have manual and automated options, including the option for an integrated scale system. Visit empoweringfarmers.com, or call 888-529-8768.

A smooth, consistent seedbed across an entire field is the goal of Case IH with the expansion of its Advanced Farming Systems Soil Command agronomic control technology to its Tiger-Mate 255 field cultivator, single-fold True-Tandem disk harrows and vertical tillage tools, and the Ecolo‑Tiger 875 disk ripper. Sometimes shank depth and disk depth are misaligned, leading to uneven finishes. This technology automatically coordinates these settings with the main depth adjustment creating high-efficiency seedbed uses. It interfaces with an AFS Pro 700 ISOBUS VT-compliant display, allowing for in-cab adjustments. Farmers can select four presets for different fields. It will be available in spring 2019.  Contact Case IH, Racine, Wis., at caseih.com.

Force 10G HL insecticide in higher-load granules from Amvac allows farmers to get across more acres without stopping for a refill. If you’re using a 24-row planter with 1,200 pounds of Force 10G HL, you can cover more than 850 acres. This insecticide protects against rootworm, grubs and cutworms. It provides performance and convenience. Contact Amvac Chemical at amvac-chemical.com, or call 888-462-6822.

If you’re ready for the next generation of drones, check out Quantix Hybrid Drone from AeroVironment. It features a hybrid design, launching vertically and transitioning to horizontal flight to maximize efficiency and range. Spokespeople say it can cover 400 acres of crop scouting in 45 minutes. It’s pricy but comes with integrated cameras, including a Normalized Difference Vegetation Index camera. On-board processing delivers true-color and NDVI maps as soon as the drone lands using the Quick-Look trademarked process. List price is $16,500. Learn more at avdroneanalytics.com.

You can track soil fertility levels and crop yields. But how do you track how much profit you’re actually making on specific areas where you invest in fertilizer? Soil Test Pro and FarmServer, a data management system started by Beck’s, Atlanta, Ind., team up to help you do that more easily. Their goal is to help you track return on investment in various parts of each field. Visit soiltestpro.com or farmserver.com.