Agriculture in 2024 and Beyond (continued)…
Last month we posted an article containing an overview of John Deere Precision Ag Technology. It generated enough interest that we chose to go a little more in depth this month. Today, I would like to discuss the basic building blocks (enabling hardware and software) a grower would need to reap the benefits of John Deere’s current technology offerings.
To utilize the entire suite of John Deere Precision Ag offerings, both now and in the future, a grower needs connected machines with the latest technology hardware and software. These offerings include the new G5 displays with advanced licensing, Starfire 7000 or 7500 receivers, and M or R modems. If a grower is purchasing all new equipment for the upcoming growing season, the hardware is integrated, ready to be activated and the machines will be compatible utilizing current software. No problem. Everything works as would be expected utilizing John Deere’s integrated technology.
But what does it look like if a grower is updating a planter, but not the tractor that pulls it? What does it look like if a grower is utilizing legacy technology, (GS3, Starfire 3000, etc.) and wants to utilize new technology such as AutoPathTM?
But what does it look like if a grower is updating a planter, but not the tractor that pulls it? What does it look like if a grower is utilizing legacy technology, (GS3, Starfire 3000, etc.) and wants to utilize new technology such as AutoPathTM? This is where John Deere offers growers options to move forward on the technology adoption and utilization journey. Historically, if a grower wanted to upgrade technology, then new hardware would be required and lifetime unlocks would be added to the purchase price - think AutoTracTM and Section Control on displays or SF3 ready upgrades on receivers. This added significantly to the initial cost of the new technology and sometimes the price tag would be an obstacle to overcome when trying to upgrade to the latest technology. This traditional method is still an option, but there is now a more cost-effective option available to assist with technology adoption into your operation.
Last month, we mentioned PUKs (Precision Upgrade Kits) and Deere’s Technology Pricing Strategy (see previous article) . This has led to a new and exciting option for upgrading technology - the Precision Ag Essentials Program. This program offers a whole new way for growers to move forward with technology adoption. The Precision Ag Essentials Kit, offered through a PUK, is a one-time purchase of a G5 display, a StarFireTM Receiver and an M or R modem for only $2,000 (Lower cost of entry). An annual licensing fee of $2,000 for Essentials or $4,250 for Advanced (only pay for what you need) is selected to activate the hardware and the included modem enables data transfer, remote support, and software updates delivered over the air (gets better over time).
If you would like to know more about the Precision Ag essentials Program, please reach out. Sinclair Tractor is excited by technology and wants to be your partner in achieving success.