FOR THOSE looking for a simple and affordable machine guidance package, then the new onTrak hardware and software from Agricision, will be worth a look at the forthcoming LAMMA Show, in Peterborough, on January 17 and 18.

This GPS-based system is available with a new enhanced data service which will give operators access to their field information anywhere and

anytime, said the company who launched a simpler package at last year's event and has sold more than 300 units since then.

Agricision's set-up uses a patent pending combined receiver and lightbar operated via an iPad or iPhone to offer a cheaper guidance solution that most manufacturer add-ons.

While it does not doe auto-steer, the visual lightbar keeps drivers on track and it can swap between vehicles. The receiver is a robust waterproof unit which adheres magnetically to the bonnet of the tractor, placing the lightbar clearly in the eyeline of the driver.

Positioning the GPS receiver there improves responsiveness, since it is in line with the tractor’s front wheels rather than behind them as is the case with in-cab systems, said a spokesman for the company.

All is set up and controlled via a free App downloaded to an iPad or iPhone which connects wirelessly using Bluetooth, while the receiver is powered by an

onboard battery with 24-hour operating capacity and is rechargeable via a standard USB cable.

Guidance records can be stored against a field name for future use before moving onto the next field, and guidance can be paused to refill a sprayer or spreader, for example, resuming when returning to the stop point.

The new onTrak.Cloud service add-on launched this year, will allow users to gain access to their data

recorded and created in a simple format. Field boundaries and recorded work can be visualised on Google Earth or other mapping software and fields

imported into management tools such as Gatekeeper.

Adam Keene, director of Agricision, commented: “There are any number of management software packages available to farmers and our aim is to make the data recorded from onTrak as simple and open as possible, allowing customers the flexibility to work with whichever system they prefer.”

An internet connection will be required for synchronisation to the Cloud but the onTrak app will store the data until a connection is available so that operators can continue to work. A new feature in the basic app allows users to visualise field and area worked on a satellite image in real time.

Mr Keene added: “onTrak is also ideal for mixed and livestock farmers who don’t need sophisticated auto steer systems but can benefit from the increased accuracy offered by guidance."

OnTrak is priced £675 plus VAT.