Claas is to introduce a new mobile RTK network that will cover the whole of Ireland and so enable farmers to benefit from the precision that RTK provides for guidance.

The new Claas RTK network uses a dual sim card mobile modem to receive the correction signal. Claas says this has benefit in areas where mobile network coverage is poor; the unit will always automatically look for the strongest signal available.

For farmers or contractors with a mixed machinery fleet, the Claas RTK network also has the benefit that it uses an open signal, so can be used with any RTK steering system, regardless of manufacturer. The new Claas RTK network in Ireland will be available in late spring 2017.

Automatic steering

The newly developed RTK Field Base from Claas makes it possible to use the correction signal anywhere. That means farmers no longer have to depend on stationary transmitters or mobile communications.

The RTK Field Base has a two-frequency GPS and GLONASS using both US and Russian satellite constellations. Claas says with a maximum deviation of 2cm to 3cm, the quality of the correction signal can compete with that of stationary transmitters.

To use this system, a tractor must be fitted with an auto-steering system to get the full benefit. Depending on the landscape and the legal framework surrounding the use of radio signals, the system can achieve a reliable signal range of 3km to 5km, according to Claas. The benefit of this system is it is a non-subscription service.

The Field Base tripod can be placed in the field or in the yard depending on line of sight with the machine. Claas says the compact size make it easy to move and set up the base station between different locations.

The Field Base system can be used across the entire fleet on the farm, essentially meaning two tractors or a combine can use the signal from the station for RTK guidance. This makes it easier for the farmer to carry out harvesting and direct drilling of rape/cover crops at the same time.

The cost of the system is a once-off payment to buy the unit of £7,900. Prices for Ireland have not been confirmed yet.

The new Claas Field Base mobile reference station will be available from 1 October 2016. Claas has also teamed up with Gatekeeper with its telematics options to offer a full-farm recording solution. More details to follow next week’s machinery pages.