Is a guidance system a viable option for your operation? That's a question many producers are asking themselves as the advantages of auto-guidance technology become increasingly evident. The in-row steering system allows for precise application of seed and materials, which in turn saves inputs, reduces the effects of compaction, and decreases operator fatigue. For many producers, the investment in the technology can make a dramatic difference in their bottomline.

Manual or automatic?

There are two main types of guidance systems: manual and automatic.

1. The manual guidance system helps the operator navigate in the field. Operator steering is still needed, however directions are given visually by the system. An example of this type of system is the EZ-Guide™ Plus lightbar guidance system available from your New Holland dealer. The lightbar screen walks you through a simple set-up procedure for each field, then displays a map showing your current position and the path you need to follow. With the EZ-Guide Plus system, you can work with one-foot pass-to-pass accuracy.

2. For greater accuracy, you can choose an auto-guidance system. An auto-guidance system controls the vehicle's steering without operator intervention except for end-of-row turning or whenever the operator chooses to take control of the steering wheel. An example of this type of system is the New Holland IntelliSteer™ system available for TJ and TG tractors. Depending on the level of accuracy required, three levels of precision are available from +/- 10 inches to +/- one inch.* (Read more about these three GPS options in the next issue of PowerManager.)

Like all tractor auto-steering systems, IntelliSteer is dependent on GPS technology. The system continuously receives GPS satellite signals and employs satellite or base station correction signals to improve accuracy. The auto-steering system uses GPS position data as the primary input, with secondary input provided from a steering sensor in the front axle.

1. The NAVIGATION CONTROLLER is the heart of the IntelliSteer system. Its main job is to continuously collect data to be used in the final command to the steering system. It mounts inside the cab, receives user, satellite, correction and steering inputs and provides the control to guide the tractor. It includes three gyrometers and three accelerometers for operation in uneven terrain.

2. The NH252 RECEIVER/ANTENNA mounts on the cab roof and gives the controller global position data as well as speed and related information.

3. The STEERING SENSOR relays the position of the vehicle's wheels to the controller.

4. The ELECTRO-HYDRAULIC STEERING VALVE receives commands from the Navigation Controller and translates them into the tractor's steering action. The steering valve and manifold are plumbed into the tractor steering system. Slightly turning the steering wheel immediately returns total tractor control to the operator.

5. The NEW HOLLAND VIRTUAL TERMINAL DISPLAY is used as Human Machine Interface (HMI). It monitors activities and displays information to the operator as well as helps in generating the commands (lines/swaths) that the vehicle has to follow.

6. The REMOTE DATA LOGGER (RDL) serves as a storage device and enables operators to move information to their home office computer as well as use the information on the vehicle whenever needed. It can be used to log where the tractor has run.

7. Two other components on this diagram relate to an operation with a more precise system called Real-Time Kinematics (RTK) Auto-Steering System. It utilizes a base station to provide a correction signal for accuracy normally in the +/- one-inch range.
a. BASE STATION creates very accurate position signals that enhance the GPS signals. It can be either portable or perma- nently mounted. The optional tripod can be used with the portable base station to mount and locate the GPS and radio link antennas in the field.
b. RTK TRACTOR RADIO receives the base station signals and feeds them into the receiver/antenna.

In the next issue of PowerManager, we'll talk more about the Global Positioning System and how it can be augmented to provide better accuracy to enhance your productivity.

*NOTE: The accuracy of any auto-steering system is dependent on satellite communication, field location, terrain, tractor and implement condition and setup, system installation, and calibration. A field demonstration and trial is the best way to determine actual guidance system accuracy in each situation.