If you didn’t jump on the lightbar manual-steering guidance bandwagon early in the decade, fear not. Why?

• You can now buy assisted-steering technology for the price of an early lightbar system.
• Or, you can still ease yourself and your wallet into GPS-based steering accuracy by buying an improved lightbar system.

Why buy a lightbar?

• A lightbar with any GPS signal will improve your driving and quickly pay for itself.
• It’s a lower-cost initial investment than assisted steering.
• It’s more reliable and accurate than foam markers, at higher speeds.
• With an ability to upgrade, it may offer all the features you currently want.
• You can farm more acres with the same equipment. Purdue research says a 1,800-acre farm could expand to 2,600 acres with the same 12-row planter while maintaining the same planting timeliness.

Why skip the lightbar for assisted steering?

• You focus on the operation, not the driving, except to turn around (and new Deere technology will handle the turnaround, too).
• Assisted steering offers greatly reduced stress without the common arm/shoulder/neck aches from steering and looking back and forth.
• Assisted steering gives greater accuracy, reduced overlap and greater input cost savings compared to a lightbar.
• Controller technology usually offers more features and add-ons to handle more tasks compared to a lightbar.
• You can farm even more acres with the same equipment. Purdue research says a 1,800-acre farm could expand to 3,100 acres with the same 12-row planter while maintaining the same planting timeliness.

If you’re unsure which technology is best for your operation, check out this link that might help determine the right guidance choice for you.

Content courtesy of Farm Industry News.