New wireless system manages bins, pivots and buildings

Jan 2, 2004 12:00 PM

Manage your grain bins, irrigation pivots and confinement buildings from your computer with a new wireless monitoring system from AgSense. AgSense is introducing WagNet (Wireless Agricultural Network) to help growers become more efficient at managing grain storage, irrigation and livestock production. WagNet includes a suite of products to remotely monitor many variables like weather, bin conditions and an irrigation pivot’s water flow.

WagNet does not require cell phone service or other outside subscriptions. Instead, information from different sites is transmitted via wireless technology to a home computer. Instant information is available anytime.

A grower may control different operations from the computer through WagNet. For example, aeration fans may be operated if bin conditions indicate hot spots are occurring. Irrigation pivots may be started and stopped, water flow changed and soil saturation measured through WagNet. Terry Schiltz of AgSense reports the company has been working with South Dakota State University to develop irrigation monitoring products based on weather, soil conditions and water usage.

In confinment buildings, WagNet is capable of monitoring temperature, humidity and even curtain levels.

The cost of WagNet depends on the components required. For example, a base unit (receiver) that accompanies a computer retails for $500. A cable with heat sensors to monitor an 18-ft. diameter grain bin sells for $300. Larger bins will require more than one cable.

Growers may use their computers to manage the different operations. They also may purchase an internet subscription service that lets them access the farm’s information from any internet-connected computer. For more information, contact AgSense, Dept. Fin, 601 Lincoln St., Huron, SD 57350, 605/352-8350, visit www.agsense.net.