AGCO has introduced the AGCOMMAND vehicle-tracking system, a state-of-the-art telematics-based data-recording tool that monitors machine location, operation, and efficiency on-the-go to help manage machine uptime, control costs, and maximize operational efficiency.
"Telemetry-based tracking is an emerging trend within agriculture that has the potential to help managers optimize the performance of their equipment and cover more ground more efficiently," says Dave Swain, technology marketing specialist with Advanced Technology Solutions at AGCO. "We expect sprayer and fertilizer managers to quickly adopt the technology because of its potential to make the tendering process more efficient and minimize downtime as well as to reduce spraying errors through use of the geo-fencing capability. Because the technology also records equipment function and performance, it can be used to identify performance issues for possible adjustment or repair, and it makes maintenance easier to track and plan, helping enhance machine life."
The newly introduced AGCOMMAND vehicle-tracking system from AGCO monitors machine location, operation and efficiency on-the-go to help manage machine uptime, control costs, and maximize operational efficiency. The AGCOMMAND system plots the collected data on maps such as this. Each colored square indicates a machine’s status: working, stopped, or transport.
AGCOMMAND is a plug-and-play device with sensors that configure to any machine and automatically generate near real-time machine status information. The AGCOMMAND system collects GPS satellite location and machine performance data every 60 seconds, allowing users to see where machines are, where they have been and the information collected at each interval. Machine data is sent via a modem over a cell phone network to an easy-to-use website that users can access at any time.
The machine operation tracking logistics of AGCOMMAND let the user anticipate when tendering will be needed for spreaders and spray tanks. Geo-fences, or virtual GPS boundaries, can be created to track when machines enter or exit designated areas. And, the system plots a machine’s exact position on the map so it can be quickly located, to help reduce downtime.
AGCOMMAND also organizes the information collected and develops detailed reports that track engine hours, fuel consumption, operator efficiency and field-specific machine information. These reports can be used to monitor and control operating costs and also can be used for planning, and maintenance scheduling. In addition, AGCOMMAND makes maintenance easier to track and plan through a "service anticipator" which enables the user to see an anticipated timeline of required servicing. Service alerts can be set to signal maintenance intervals. The user also can enable the system for dealer access and notification resulting in faster service response time.
For more information, visit www.AGCOtechnologies.com.