I know this is a very broad topic, but I’m curious about part quality.
I had a friend build a unit for me, so I don’t know much about the parts selection except that we aimed for affordability. It’s mounted to the tractor I use for planting. And as I frequently interrow cultivate, I’m chasing perfection.
I’m tweaking the settings frequently, and I’m at the point where I’m wondering how much the quality of selected components matters. Mainly receivers and wheel sensors. As I’m looking at building a base station, I think receiver quality is a big question for me. What does more money purchase?
Broad question, I know.
Im at the other end, not chasing perfection, just “good enough”. Im using an old AgLeader free to air gps thats +/- 45cm, which is fine for me currently. I suspect the limiting factor for my accuracy is the wheel alignment and tie rod ends on my 8500hr old loader tractor and the play in the steering column. Time will tell!
My understanding is that any part that works, should work. But in terms of quality its likely a set up thing, maybe you need to trial around a few different WAS set ups for example with different attachment methods to see what will really work well for you.
I think probably the biggest improvement is a survey grade antenna for base/receiver. A hydraulic steering valve is also important. And autosteer tuning is very important!
That leads me to two questions.
For my purpose is hydraulic a superior choice? I wouldn’t have expected there to be a difference.
And what makes a survey grade receiver compared to a ublox one like the one I have? Processing: IMG_6068.jpeg…
Your photo does not show up but I assume you are asking about the ANN-MB antenna (not the receiver) versus a survey grade antenna? A calibrated survey grade antenna makes sense at mm accuracy, a “budget survey antenna” has a better LNA (noise figure 3.2 versus 1.5 dB) and higher gain (withstands a bit longer cable). Nothing dramatic but for the cost difference, makes sense at least for the base. It is important to have a 3 band antenna if the base and the rover are 3 band capable.
WAS sensors are usually for car suspension height measurements, built for about equally challenging conditions, even salt on the roads.
A hydraulic valve keeps the cabin “clean” and steers faster on headland turns etc. An electric motor on the steering wheel works surprisingly well. WAS on AOG clears steering play mostly, except tie rods.
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A better tablet, this is where most of the cost of my system ended up. It is most of the user experience, so why not make it a good one. Originally did not believe how good AOG could be and bought the cheapest tablet possible and it ended up being a headache, If I had not bought the cheap tablet the current tablet could of been even nicer.
The rest of the system can be pretty cheap but pay close attention to the quality of soldering, and the fit of connections.
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