Apr 1, 2007 12:00 PM

Here are automated vehicle and implement steering systems currently available from major manufacturers. Some brands also are available from marketing partners, which are not listed here. In most cases, higher-accuracy systems also require an annual subscription for a satellite GPS signal.

AGCO

Auto-Guide

Accuracy: Submeter, decimeter, sub-1 in. (RTK)

Components: ISO-compliant virtual terminal, self-contained, mobile roof-mounted receiver and antennae, hydraulic kit or steer-by-wire steering interface, RTK base station (RTK systems only)

Price: $10,000 (submeter), $15,000 (decimeter), $30,000+ (RTK with base station)

Plug and play availability: AGCO brand tractors can be ordered from the factory with wiring needed for automated steering systems. AGCO branded tractors are ISO-11783 compliant, which allows a single terminal to monitor tractor, equipment and guidance functions.

Contact your AGCO dealer, call 888/989-8525, visit www.agcocorp.com, or circle 101.

AUTOFARM

AutoFarm RTK AutoSteer

Accuracy: ±1 in.

Components: Cab-mounted touchscreen monitor, roof-mounted receiver and antennae, hydraulic kit or steer-by-wire steering interface, RTK base station

Compatibility: Works on most makes and models of tractors, sprayers, spreaders, and combines

Price: $23,000 to $25,000; with base station, $29,500 to $31,500

AutoFarm DGPS AutoSteer

Accuracy: ±10 to 12 in., ±2 to 4 in.

Components: ATC cab-mounted touch-screen monitor, roof-mounted DGPS receiver and antennae, hydraulic kit or steer-by-wire steering interface

Compatibility: Works on most makes and models of tractors, sprayers, spreaders and combines

Price: $11,000 to $13,000

AutoFarm RighTrac

Accuracy: ±3 in.

Components: ATC cab-mounted touch-screen monitor, roof-mounted receiver and antennae, wheel steering (OnTrac), hydraulic kit or steer-by-wire steering interface, RTK base station

Compatibility: Works on most makes and models of tractors, sprayers, spreaders and combines

Price: $16,500 with OnTrac wheel steering, including base station; $17,500 with hydraulic kit

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