Streamlined transfer of prescription maps to sprayers, spreaders and seed drills is promised by a new app for users of Omnia, a precision farming platform for UK growers from Hutchinsons, an agronomy and inputs supply business.
The Connect app for Apple iPad tablet computers accesses variable rate map data created in the Omnia cloud-based platform, which are then transferred via WiFi and a small communications module connected to the implement controller. In practice, says Oliver Wood, Hutchinsons’ precision technology manager, this means prescription maps generated in Omnia can be sent to anyone, anywhere without having to download map data to a memory stick before uploading it to the implement controller in the tractor cab. Prescription maps can be generated in Omnia from multiple layers of data to create bespoke application plans for individual fields.
For sowing, data on factors that can influence the recommended seed rate, such as soil type, weed pressure and slug activity, in addition to variety and sowing date, can be taken into account. The Connect app is said to be compatible with machine controllers from Amazone, Horsch, KRM Bogballe, Kuhn, Mzuri, RDS Technology, Sky, Väderstad and more, covering a wide range of drills, spreaders and sprayers.
The system can only be used in conjunction with Omnia and it does not transfer ‘as applied’ data back to the crop and enterprise records generated on the platform.
It costs Omnia users £300 a year to use the Connect facility.
Company: Hutchinsons
Name: Omnia Connect
Type: iPad app for transferring prescription map data to implement controllers
Key feature: Wireless uploading of prescription map data for variable rate spraying, spreading and drilling
More info: www.hlhltd.co.uk
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