- Take some extra time now to prepare for the growing season and ensure the collection of good data during your field operations.
- As a reminder, we have put together a list of important actions to take when preparing your field systems to make sure things work properly.
The recent warmer temperatures and improving field conditions have many of us thinking spring has arrived, and soon we will all be busy with related seasonal activities. I suggest that in whatever we are doing, we can collect valuable data in the fields.
In today’s production agriculture, having good field records often means utilizing the “as-applied” feature for recording field operations. This is usually the best tool for insuring good information is available later when it is needed. Take the extra time now to prepare before you begin any field operation to ensure the collection of good data, so when you are done you have the quality you are hopeful to acquire. If you already have a good system in place, you likely already recognize the value of good records.
For some users, the new growing season may mean new technology purchased over the winter will be used for the first time. For others, they may be returning to technology in their cab which they’ve not used for a while. In both cases, you might benefit from reviewing the actions listed below to make things work properly when you get to the field. (Depending on the brand or version of field computers and controller software, each of the items may or may not be applicable.)
Update your monitor/controller software and operating systems
- You generally want to have the latest versions available and be compatible with current database information.
- If you start with an older version, it may not be compatible with newer versions when trying to export your data to your Farm Management Information System.
- You will want to perform this step before you head to the field and turn the unit on the first time, as it might take a while and/or have problems with connectivity.
Start with a clean slate, clear your card or data storage medium of old data.
- First, storing valuable data on a flash card or USB drive isn’t a secure, long-term best practice. It should be offloaded into your FMIS system.
- Service providers often receive multiple years or operations on data cards when it isn’t cleared off at the start of a new season. Then when we are looking for specific information, you don’t want to wait while we have to sort through piles of data. At the minimum, copy off and clear the data seasonally.
- If you are utilizing wireless data transfer, this isn’t needed but settings may need checked.
Check to make sure you have good or updated field boundaries in the system.
- This is especially true if you have row or boom shutoff capabilities.
- Update or sync as needed to be current with your FMIS system
Upload any needed A-B lines, navigation paths, etc.
- Past fertilizer events, tillage, etc. may have navigation records you want to use this spring
Upload or enter new product lists or prescription files
- Hybrid/variety information for this year
- Fertilizer, crop protection or seed treatment products, etc.
- Variable rate Rx scripts
Check cables and connections to ensure none are loose or damaged.
- Get them replaced now before heading to the field.
If you’re using a wireless data transfer system, make sure you have reactivated your data plans as needed, since some users choose to pay periodically rather than annually.
Phone Numbers! In case you need assistance before or during planting, have copies of any tech support or services provider phone numbers in the cab with you.
Test your system!
- It is always a good idea to make a test dataset to ensure you have everything set up properly. Don’t wait until the equipment is being put away at the end of the season and learning your controller wasn’t recording properly.
Recording accurate data including company, hybrid or variety information, actual and intended planting population or rates of crop protection products may prove invaluable at the end of the season when trying to evaluate new products or practices. Have a safe spring!