One key offering in North America is AGCO Agro Link which enables growers to access data from different farm-management information systems (FMISs) and file formats for a seamless data stream, allowing for informed decisions to be made and implemented much more quickly.

What is AGCO Agro Link?

Agro Link is one solution offered by AGCO that addresses the challenges presented by different manufacturers using different methods for accepting and exporting files. Files can be moved from a machine to a desktop or FMIS by dragging and dropping them using Agro Link’s web-based desktop or mobile app. Mobile accessibility is crucial for giving growers access to the information they need in order to make decisions without interruption while in the field.

What are the benefits of AGCO Agro Link?

The benefits of Agro Link stretch beyond providing access to all cloud and equipment files from one centralized data-exchange platform. Agro Link increases efficiency and control by utilizing stored data from multiple FMISs. The streamlined centralization of data facilitates the transfer of prescription files to equipment in the field. Growers face many challenges, and thanks to Agro Link, figuring out how to transfer data from multiple FMISs don’t have to be one of them.

How does it work?

Powered by AgIntegrated OnSite® Data Exchange, Agro Link connects mixed fleets and securely stores data. The cloud based data hub uses existing Task Doc Pro hardware on AGCO machines. The embedded converter transforms shapefile to ISOXML, combatting the common challenge of an FMIS not being able to read different manufactures’ proprietary file types. A customer wanting to send a task to multiple machines can use Agro Link to send an ISOXML task to a RoGator® C-series machine, a shapefile on a RoGator® B-series machine via Raven’s Slingshot®, or to a John Deere machine via an Onsite Data Exchange connection to MyJohnDeere, for example.

Agro Link Work Flow

Monitors requiring USB devices for file management can use the Agro Link mobile app by using a SanDisk iXpand flash drive to transfer data from the app to the monitor or vice versa. Data privacy is achieved through the secure storage and transfer of data to trusted advisors.

Agro Link App Content

Data uploaded in the cloud from a machine or FMIS can be dragged and dropped for export using Agro Link Coordinator. This section of Agro Link can also convert data and provides a notification when the conversion is complete. Equipment and FMIS connections are also configured using Agro Link Coordinator.

AGCO Coordinator

Data flows are managed using Agro Link’s Director module. Data can be sent directly from one machine to another via email. Application program interface (API) integration allows data to be sent automatically to a specific folder, machine, or FMIS.

AGCO Director

Providing the necessary tools and options for growers allow them to not only control their mixed fleet data across the entire crop cycle, but also improve their profits, efficiency, and overall success of the farm operation.

Agro Link is a powerful tool for growers to seamlessly centralize data for easier transfer and conversion. Quickly providing all the data necessary to make smart management decisions reduces risk and increases efficiency. Agro Link makes the transition from endless data to useful knowledge more accessible than ever before.

If you are interested in setting up an AGCO Agro Link account, visit https://www.fusesmartfarming.com/products/agco-agro-link/.

To learn more about Fuse, visit www.FuseSmartFarming.com.

Written by: Jonathan Riley and Christy Allen

Jonathan Riley is a Fuse Product Marketing Manager focusing on data connectivity. Jonathan holds a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics from the University of Maryland. Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn.

Christy Allen is a Fuse Intern at the AGCO Acceleration Center.

The post From the Cab to your Mobile or Desktop: Why Seamless Data Transfer Matters appeared first on AGCO Blog.

1. Data Benchmarking

Data can provide valuable information when buying equipment. Having the ability to use the machine data, and tie it into our customers’ operations, has opened our eyes to a new purchase experience. At Butler, we are using telemetry solutions, such as AgCommand to provide customers with more information before their buying decisions. For example, data can show a customer their expected efficiencies on machinery purchases from a field demonstration standpoint. A customer can have a competitive combine, and can compare historical data from their current machine against data from the field demonstration, in turn providing insight of expected machine efficiency after purchase. Data gives us the ability to provide the best customer service experience and tools to make our customer’s operations more efficient.

2. Communicating Between Mixed Fleets

Every machinery dealership knows that the chances of a customer having an entire fleet of their branded equipment is pretty slim. In some cases, they may not sell everything that the customer may need to complete their operation. However, it is critical for our customers to be able to communicate with other branded equipment, and be able to communicate successfully. As an AGCO dealer, our technology solutions align with the Fuse open approach. This means making the transfer of machine and agronomic data as seamless as possible, either through AGCO’s own solutions, through connections to 3rd party partners, or a mix of both. We’ve reached a point with technology that customers really can choose the equipment that best suits their operations and don’t have to be “stuck” with just one color. If you’re interested in purchasing a Challenger® 1000 or a RoGator® C-Series, options such as Reichhardt’s ® GREEN FIT, AGCO Agro Link, AGCO Task Doc, and NEXT Wayline Converter Tool, have made it possible for us to work with competitors’ technology. For example, we have the capabilities to use a customer’s existing John Deere technology, and apply that to our equipment, making their purchase seamless. Now customers do not need to worry about having their machines “not talking” to one another and as dealers, it’s great that we can provide solutions that meet the customers’ needs for their operation. Customers should discuss these options with their dealer as part of the buying decision.

3. Support

With every machinery purchase, come questions. The equipment is new to the grower/operator and we are often asked, “How do I use the equipment, and most importantly, how do I use the technology?” Having someone from the dealership show you the “ins and outs” of the equipment before and after the sale, is key to maximizing the value of the equipment purchase. Having someone you can call with questions is even more critical. With shorter planting and harvest windows, down time is very expensive. We pride ourselves on support. We have after-hours parts and service support, along with a group of Product/Technology Support Specialists, and a Call Center, to assist customers with questions. We are also using telematics to quickly resolve, and in some cases prevent, machine issues.

2018 was a great year filled with learning opportunities and I’m excited to see where 2019 takes us in the farming industry. Today’s machines are more than iron; they’re data centers on wheels. At Butler, we are ready to partner with customers to take advantage of everything these machines can offer, from connecting each customer’s unique fleet, to taking advantage of data to minimize downtime and improve efficiency.

To learn more about Butler Machinery’s involvement with ag technology, please visit https://www.butlermachinery.com/technology/ag-technology/.

To learn more about AGCO’s open approach to smart farming, please visit FuseSmartFarming.com.

Written By: Jason Weaver, Ag Technology Supervisor of Butler Machinery Company. Connect with Butler Machinery Company on Twitter @Butlermachinery and on Facebook.

The post Dealer Tips: 3 Things to Consider When Making Your Next Equipment Investment for 2019 appeared first on AGCO Blog.

We couldn’t possibly name all the agriculture events we enjoy and attend year after year, but here are 10 events in chronological order where you will be certain to find AGCO this year. Hopefully we will see you on the road!

1. IPPE
   When: February 12-14
   Where: Atlanta, Georgia, USA
   Website: http://www.ippexpo.com/
2. National Farm Machinery Show
   When: February 13-16
   Where: Louisville, Kentucky, USA
   Website: https://www.farmmachineryshow.org/
3. SIMA
   When: February 24-28
   Where: Paris, France
   Website: https://en.simaonline.com/
4. AGMA China
   When: April 10-12
   Where: Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
   Website: http://www.agromach.com/
5. Agrishow
   When: April 29-May 3
   Where: Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
   Website: https://www.agrishow.com.br/en/Home.html
6. NAMPO Harvest Day
   When: May 14–17
   Where: Bothavillle, South Africa
   Website: https://www.grainsa.co.za/pages/nampo/nampo-home
7. AGROACTIVA
   When: June 26-29
   Where: Armstrong, Sante Fe, Argentina
   Website: https://www.agroactiva.com/
8. Farm Progress Show
   When: August 27-29
   Where: Decatur, Illinois, USA
   Website: https://www.farmprogressshow.com/en/home.html
9. Expointer
   When: August 25 – September 2
   Where: Esteio, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
   Website: http://www.expointer.rs.gov.br/inicial
10. Agritechnica
    When: November 10-16
    Where: Hanover, Germany
    Website: https://www.agritechnica.com/en/

The post 10 Agriculture Events You Won’t Want to Miss in 2019 appeared first on AGCO Blog.

5) An IDEAL Combine Harvester

We heard from many of our followers that they are hoping to be gifted the AGCO IDEAL combine – wow that’s quite a request! If you are looking to splash out on the latest in harvesting technology, the state-of-the-art AGCO IDEAL combine harvester available from Fendt and Massey Ferguson is the perfect gift for the arable farmer. With the longest rotor in its class, the largest threshing area and the quickest unload speed, this is certain to be the perfect choice…given you can get it under the tree.
If you aren’t ready to invest in the full-size IDEAL, maybe the Fendt or Massey Ferguson IDEAL 9T model is the way to go. Both are available online at the Fendt Shop and Massey Ferguson Shop.

4) Farming Simulator 19

For the gaming farmer, there is no better choice than newly released Farming Simulator 19 from GIANTS Software. We at AGCO have again partnered with GIANTS Software to bring you all the latest and greatest from AGCO and our brands. With over a million copies sold worldwide it is no surprise that this stocking stuffer made the nice list.

3) A New Car

It looks like tractors, combines and implements aren’t the only equipment our farmer followers are hoping for this year. According to the feedback we received, some would like a truck, while others prefer something a little fancier such as a “brand new Mercedes” or Tesla. We can’t argue as all three sound like pretty good gifts to us.

2) A Relaxing and Peaceful Time of Year

With the long hours that farmers put in all year round, it was nice to see not only material items as many said they would simply like to have a relaxing and peaceful time during the holidays as their gift. For all those that are wanting this over the holiday period, we hope you have a nice break from all the hard work you put in to feed the world and enjoy time spent relaxing with family and friends.

1) …and the number one choice this holiday season (cue the drum roll)…A BRAND NEW TRACTOR!

This should come as no surprise at all, our followers told us LOUDLY that they want a new tractor; sounds good to us. We heard a lot about Challenger, Fendt, Massey Ferguson and Valtra tractors (and a few others we won’t mention ). You will be pleased to know that this is an area of speciality for AGCO.

Regardless of what you gift each other this holiday season, everyone at AGCO and our brands wishes you a safe and joyful holiday and a prosperous new year. Happy Holidays everybody!

The post Top 5 Gift Ideas to Get a Farmer this Holiday Season appeared first on AGCO Blog.

AGCO’s IDEAL Combine Makes Its Premiere Appearance In Farming Simulator 19

Some of our newest additions include the IDEAL combine harvester range which was developed from scratch based on the feedback from our customers and our industry-leading engineers and designers. Available through our Fendt and Massey Ferguson brands, these 7, 8 and 9 performance class combine lead the industry in rotor length, threshing area and the grain tank capacity. To find out more about the industry-leading IDEAL combine harvester range, contact your local dealer or:

• Visit IDEALHarvesting.com if you are located in North America.
• Visit ideal.masseyferguson.com if you are in Europe & Middle East.
• Visit ideal.fendt.com if you are in Europe & Middle East.

All The Latest and Greatest Award-Winning AGCO Brand Products & More

Fendt 1000 Series Farming Simulator 19

Also joining the AGCO offering is the award-winning Fendt 1000 Vario Series which boasts a rating of up to 517hp. This high horse power tractor range embodies true strength combined with full traction, masterful controls and intelligent connectivity. The Fendt fans across the globe will now have 7 tractor ranges to choose from, giving you the perfect machinery option for your virtual farming needs.

We have also included our “Tractor of The Year 2018” award winning Valtra T series inclusive of the new Valtra SmartTouch armrest which brings together all tractor functions into one easy to reach console providing full customization. The 4th generation of the Valtra T series is the perfect high horsepower tractor range due to its low operating costs, reliability and ease of use. The T series is joined by the full suite of Valtra tractors including the A, N and S ranges which means you now have horse power options from 75 through to 271 to choose from.

The Challenger range has also been widened to include the track tractor MT800E Series and MT900E Series. Farming Simulator fans around the world will now be able to operate their farm like the professionals with the unmatched torque of our AGCO Power engine and the industry leading Mobil-trac undercarriage system which ensures maximum power to the ground – efficiently. If precision, power and performance are key to your farming operation, look no further than the impressive range of farming solutions that Challenger has to offer.

If that wasn’t enough, you also have new additions to the Massey Ferguson range of farm machinery which is back by popular demand. Massey Ferguson is the trusted farm machinery provider to millions of farmers across the world, both real-life and virtual. In the Farming Simulator 19 release you have tractor range options from 100 to 400 horse power, industry-leading combine harvesters, headers, tele-handlers and wagons to give you a full farm machinery package.

Here is a full list of all the AGCO brand additions to Farming Simulator 19 that will keep you entertained until the cows come home:

AGCO:

• IDEAL (Fendt, MF)
• DynaFlex 9255 Header (Challenger, Fendt, MF)
• PowerFlow Header (Challenger, Fendt, MF)
• 650 Weight
• 1100 Weight
• 1500 Weight
• 2300 Weight

Challenger:

• MT700 Series
• MT800E Series
• MT900E Series

Fendt:

• 500 Favorit
• 300 Vario
• 700 Vario
• 900 Vario
• 1000 Vario Series
• 900 Vario MT
• 1100 MT
• 3300 (Weight)
• Tigo XR 75 D\

Massey Ferguson:

• MF 5600
• MF 7700
• MF 8700
• MF 9407 S
• MF Activa 7347 S
• MF FreeFlow 25FT
• MF 3012

Valtra:

• A Series
• N Series
• T Series
• S Series

Be sure to get your copy of Farming Simulator 19!

The post AGCO Is Back with Even More Farm Machinery in Farming Simulator 19 appeared first on AGCO Blog.

The post The “Oats” So Simple AGCO Arable Quiz appeared first on AGCO Blog.

The post AGCO Smart Farming Quiz appeared first on AGCO Blog.

Planting Depth

Down-Force Control

Residue Management

Soil Moisture, Temperature and Organic Matter

The post What We’ve Learned: AGCO Crop Tour 2018 in North America appeared first on AGCO Blog.

IDEAL Banner Trek travel route.

The IDEAL combine is a global effort that leveraged the expertise of our employees around the world. Now, those employees are signing the IDEAL Employee Innovators banner across 12 global cities to celebrate their contributions. The IDEAL Employee Innovators signature banner was created in Duluth, Georgia, U.S. at our headquarters by the Global Corporate Marketing and Brand Communications team to celebrate this global achievement.

Get ready for power! Here comes IDEAL.

AGCO has boldly gone where no other combine has gone before. The IDEAL combine harvester range was designed from the ground up using the best minds across our global AGCO family. This was a rare opportunity because most ultra-large combines are modified to accommodate necessary updates. Not this beast. The IDEAL combine is an original. It incorporates the newest digital advances in the agriculture industry and addresses today’s competitive farming needs. It took us more than five years of testing, designing and more testing. The result is exceptional power, flexibility and dependability. Engineered with cutting-edge technology and profitability top-of-mind, IDEAL leads the industry in both grain capacity and efficiency.

What makes IDEAL, ideal?

Here we see what makes the IDEAL combine range an industry leader.

Designed as the most intelligent combine in the industry, IDEAL provides breakthrough innovation and never-before-seen capabilities in our industry. Its superior grain handling, narrow-body design, and outstanding throughput make it the machine for virtually every farmer in the world.

IDEAL’s fully-connected, revolutionary technology optimizes the overall customer experience. The combine includes an advanced mobile monitoring feature that remotely sends machine data to customers in real-time — just one of IDEAL’s many forward-thinking services.

During development, our company worked closely with our global centers of expertise and developed each module so that it gives perfect results under any harvesting conditions. Special attention was paid to efficiency, grain and straw quality, absolute reliability, easy and logical user-friendliness, as well as a revolutionary sensor technology for optimal machine setting.

A Global Initiative. Our Team: The Power Behind IDEAL. Driven By Employee Innovation.

Promoting #WeAreAGCO – Senior Vice President, Global Business Services Lucinda Smith; Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Martin Richenhagen; and Chief Communications Officer Ulrich Stockheim

IDEAL was developed to meet customer requirements and global market trends of today and, in the future. The combine fills a future-oriented market niche environment, which is why AGCO developed this unique IDEAL combine in performance class 7, 8 and 9 with 451, 538 and 647 HP.

To find out more about the industry-leading IDEAL combine harvester range, contact your local dealer or:

Visit IDEALHarvesting.com if you are located in North America.

Visit ideal.masseyferguson.com if you are in Europe & Middle East.

Visit ideal.fendt.com if you are in Europe & Middle East.

The post AGCO Employees Celebrate IDEAL Combine appeared first on AGCO Blog.

Trial By Farm

Read how growers can multiply the benefits of on-farm trials and increase return on investment. In collaborative research with universities, commodity groups and companies such as AGCO, producers glean data and recommendations faster and more accurately than solo efforts, all the while decreasing inputs and increasing yield.

Follow These Steps To Grow High-Yielding Winter Wheat

“That will never work in my area.” Growers often say this when presented with the idea of raising high-yielding winter wheat, but it’s possible to realize a better harvest and greater return on investment. From genetics and seeding rates to optimum nutrition and pest control, read what crop specialists recommend for boosting the bottom line.

Air Out Your Nitrogen Application Window

Because of its ability to be applied quickly, urea is a popular nitrogen source for topdressing and sidedressing. However, fertilizer quality, application equipment accuracy and weather conditionscan adversely affect whether the crop truly receives the fertilizer it needs, when it needs it. Read about the results from an Iowa State study that shows the agronomic advantages to using a pneumatic boom application, such as the AirMax^®180.

TerraGator C Series: The Best Get Better

When it comes to floaters, applicators who test-drove the new TerraGator^®C Series say they saw gains in productivity, accuracy and more when treating fields. Read their reviews and more details about how the TerraGator’s improved features help provide excellent, affordable crop care.

AGCO Crop Tour 2018: What We’ve Learned

Preliminary results from the third year of the AGCO Crop Tour are in from on-farm agronomic plots across the Midwest. This year’s plots confirmed previous best planting practices in terms of emergence and expected yield. Also, a new diagnostic tool—the SmartFirmer seed firmer from Precision Planting^®—provided new insight in the furrow.

The post Browse the Fall 2018 Issue of Performance Agronomy appeared first on AGCO Blog.