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GPS Farm Equipment: Signal Options
Global Positioning Systems (GPS) have transformed farm equipment from the basic fertilizer spreader your father knew to precision instruments capable of providing the unquestionable accuracy that can lower overhead costs and boost productivity.
Like most technology, the choices in GPS farm equipment can often be overwhelming, but by reviewing your operational needs you can easily define what type of GPS farm equipment will work best for you. There is a multitude of GPS tractor guidance hardware and units that offer a plethora of options, but it's often best to start the decision making process by choosing what type of GPS signal source you need.
While the popularity of GPS has grown in many applications, many people aren't aware of the options in signal sources. The options include:
- Coast Guard Maritime DGPS: The Coast Guard broadcasts correction signals on radio beacons for users near coastal waterways. The signal is free, but provides only 1- to 3-meter accuracy and is not useful inland.
- WAAS: Wide Area Augmentation System is the most popular land-based signal which utilizes a series of ground-based stations that process information, send it to satellites and then broadcast back to end users. OmniSTAR is a popular subscription based WAAS provider that can provide accuracy around six inches. OmniSTAR's newest option, OmniSTAR HP, operates in real time without base stations, and delivers 3- to 4-inch accuracy.
- RTK: Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) systems require a fixed base station or surveyed point that transmits to mobile receivers in the field. RTK requires line of sight to the base station, but provides 1 – 2 inch accuracy that is repeatable.
There are distinct advantages to utilizing each of these three GPS signals, but before making the final decision you should consider how you will be combining the use of your GPS and farm equipment. If a fertilizer spreader is the extent of your GPS farm equipment needs, then you can rely on a system with 3 meter accuracy for guidance. However, if you plan on planting with your system, which requires exact placement and repeatability, then RTK is ideal.
When choosing GPS farm equipment, the important thing to remember is that it's possible to start with a basic system and upgrade as needed.
Related Articles:
Variable Rate Application: Increase the efficiency of your Fertilizer Spreader Hopper
Precision Farming Systems 101
Variable Spreader Options
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