John Deere announces 19-1 Gen 4 software and Machine Sync updates

OLATHE, Kan.  – To further enhance the automation, documentation, functionality and security of its Generation 4 4600 CommandCenter™ and 4640 Universal Displays, John Deere has released its 19-1 software update. This latest software release includes a higher level of automation activation that enables the company's Machine Sync harvest automation functionality on the Gen 4 platform for tractors and combines.

According to John Mishler, marketing manager for precision ag technologies at John Deere, the 19-1 software update provides more features that customers will benefit from immediately. "It also enables Gen 4 Display compatibility with more John Deere equipment, including 8000- and 9000-Series Forage Harvesters, documentation of weather and field conditions, expands AutoTrac™ functionality and automation on more equipment, and provides additional levels of security than before," Mishler said.

With the 19-1 software update, Gen 4 Displays now show area remaining and estimated time to completion for many field operations. It also doubles the number of legend colors on the display so operators can view yield, prescriptions and as-applied maps in much greater detail when viewed on the display or in the John Deere Operations Center.

Operators can now manually document weather and field conditions from the cab, which can be critical information to include for application and planting records. Data that can be recorded includes wind speed and direction, weather, and soil and field conditions as they change throughout the day. When used with JDLink™ Connect, the information documented on the display can be viewed by any web-connected device through John Deere Operations Center and the MyOperations™ mobile app.

In addition, customers can now use AutoTrac Turn Automation and AutoTrac Implement Guidance with SeedStar™ 4 when planting. These applications allow operators to automate end-row turns and guidance, resulting in easier, faster and more accurate headland turns and ensuring the implement stays on the intended path.

For added security, the 19-1 update gives users the ability to secure John Deere displays and receivers from improper use and theft by using a 4-digit PIN. The feature allows users to lock their devices with administrator, operator or master unlock codes for Gen 4 Universal Displays and StarFire™ 6000 receivers.

Along with the 19-1 software update, John Deere is expanding its Machine Sync feature, which synchronizes tractor and grain cart speed and position with the combine for on-the-go unloading during harvest. Gen 4 Machine Sync uses newer technology already built into all S700 combines and is available at a much lower total solution cost than with previous generations of displays.

As part of the Gen 4 Machine Sync application, customers also can use In-Field Data Sharing to wirelessly share guidance lines, coverage maps, machine location, grain tank fill level and unloading auger status between machines. Other premium precision applications are included, providing even greater value to customers.

"Machine Sync greatly simplifies harvest by automating the combine unloading process, allowing the operator to focus on harvesting the crop or other machine functions," Mishler said. "Its use has proven to speed up harvest operations and reduce grain loss and stress on both the combine and grain cart operators during this busy time, especially when harvesting at night or when visibility is compromised."

Mishler added the 19-1 software update is now available and encourages customers to download and install it on all their Gen 4 Displays before the busy spring season arrives.