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Topcon Athene SM-3 Operator's Manual
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Topcon Athene SM-3 Operator's Manual

Topcon Athene SM-3 Operator's Manual

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Athene SM-3 Spreader Control
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Summary of Contents for Topcon Athene SM-3

  • Page 1 Athene SM-3 Spreader Control Operator’s Manual www.topconpositioning.com...
  • Page 3 © Copyright Topcon Precision Agriculture January 2022 All contents in this manual are copyrighted by Topcon. All rights reserved. The information contained herein may not be used, accessed, copied, stored, displayed, sold, modified, published or distributed, or otherwise reproduced without express written consent from...
  • Page 4 This manual provides information about operating and maintaining this Topcon Precision Agriculture product. Correct use and servicing is important for safe and reliable operation of the product. It is very important that you take the time to read this manual before using the product.
  • Page 5 Table of contents Chapter 1 – Introduction Chapter 2 – Topcon X-Console Implement Setup 2.1. Switching between setup and operation screen 2.2. Enabling ISOBUS 2.3. Setting up a new vehicle 2.4. Selecting an implement 2.5. Setting implement geometry 2.6. Setting up section control 2.6.1.
  • Page 6 6.2. Variable rate control 6.2.1. Source options Chapter 7 – How Dynamic Calibration Works Chapter 8 – Machine Setup Checklist Chapter 9 – Index Chapter 10 – Regulatory and Safety Warnings 10.1. Topcon Positioning Systems, Inc. End User License Agreement 109...
  • Page 7 Shown is a typical retrofitted system (that is independent from the tractor ISOBUS), utilizing a Topcon X-Console. In this scenario, refer to Topcon X-Console Implement Setup, page 3 for console setup instructions.
  • Page 8 tractor / self-propelled spreader or trailed spreader). The master on/off switch is ‘virtual’ (a softkey on the Athene operation screen), or optionally via an external switch mounted next to the operator. The system may be fitted with or without load cells. Machines without load cells: The system relies on volumetric calculation from the known gate height and width, and a known product density.
  • Page 9 Chapter 2 – Topcon X-Console Implement Setup This chapter explains how to setup and configure the Topcon console for use with the Spreader Controller features. Note: If you are using a non-Topcon ISOBUS terminal, go to Athene Setup, page 19 for instructions.
  • Page 10 2.2. Enabling ISOBUS 2.2. Enabling ISOBUS Enables the ISOBUS Universal Terminal server that allows interaction with the Athene ISOBUS compliant ECU. To enable ISOBUS / Universal Terminal: 1. Select System / Features / Console 2. Select FILE SERVER and select Enabled. 3.
  • Page 11 Chapter 2 – Topcon X-Console Implement Setup Universal terminal: Controls whether the UT server is actively receiving connections from other devices. This may be useful if there are multiple UTs on the bus and multiple UTs claim to be the primary UT (in which case the UT will go offline...
  • Page 12 2.2. Enabling ISOBUS and the tractor's UT). If Auto is selected then AUX inputs will be enabled if Universal Terminal is set to online and the UT number is set to 1. Clear pool cache: Clears the contents of the UT pool cache. Should only be used if a UT error is displayed.
  • Page 13 Chapter 2 – Topcon X-Console Implement Setup 2.3. Setting up a new vehicle To create a new vehicle profile: 1. Select System / Features / Guidance 2. Select Auto Steer and select either Enabled for a machine that will use GPS based Auto Steering or select Disabled for a machine that will use manual steering or non-GPS row guidance.
  • Page 14 2.3. Setting up a new vehicle 5. Select the vehicle model and confirm. 6. To change the name, if required, select VEHICLE NAME, enter the name and confirm.
  • Page 15 Chapter 2 – Topcon X-Console Implement Setup 2.4. Selecting an implement Topcon consoles now allow multiple implements to be connected at the same time. There can be any number of ISOBUS implement controllers and ONE specific implement controller with a customized user interface active at one time.
  • Page 16 2.4. Selecting an implement Select Implement: Press to select a different implement profile from the list of manually created implement profiles. Disconnected: Shown next to a manually created and selected profile if the physical implement has been disconnected from the vehicle. : Shown next to the implement profile selected as the 'primary' implement.
  • Page 17 Chapter 2 – Topcon X-Console Implement Setup If the selected implement is pivoted, the Implement model option displays. This is used to specify whether the 'primary' implement is actively steered. This setting ensures the Auto Section Control operates accurately and headland turn shapes are correctly generated.
  • Page 18 2.4. Selecting an implement...
  • Page 19 Chapter 2 – Topcon X-Console Implement Setup 2.5. Setting implement geometry Sets the implement measurements so that guidance can work accurately. Note: Measure the implement dimensions as accurately as possible. The recommended tolerance is +/- 5 cm. When an ISOBUS implement is connected, some of the geometry items are provided by the implement and cannot be altered in the console user interface.
  • Page 20 2.5. Setting implement geometry Swath Width: Measures the working width of the implement (that is, the width of the area that is treated during one pass of the implement). Working Length: Length from the start to the finish of the working area of the boom.
  • Page 21 Chapter 2 – Topcon X-Console Implement Setup 2.6. Setting up section control Follow these steps to set up section control for the implement. 2.6.1. Enabling section control To use Auto Section Control, this must be enabled. 1. Select System / Features...
  • Page 22 2.7. Setting up speed 2.7. Setting up speed 1. Select Vehicle / Speed & Position 2. Set ISO GROUND SPEED to Enabled. 3. Set GPS NMEA2000 SPEED to Enabled.
  • Page 23 Chapter 2 – Topcon X-Console Implement Setup 2.8. Opening the Athene UT window To view the Athene UT window: 1. Select the Athene UT icon on the left of the operation screen. 2. Expand the mini-view by selecting the arrow in the top right corner, or by swiping left to right across the mini-view (ending the swipe to the right of the mini-view screen).
  • Page 24 2.8. Opening the Athene UT window...
  • Page 25 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup 3.1. Athene primary screens Athene has three primary screens: Main, Totals and Spreader Settings. 1. Press to cycle between the primary screens. 3.1.1. Main screen The main screen displays job information. The buttons and information displayed varies depending which settings are selected / enabled.
  • Page 26 3.1. Athene primary screens Rate control mode. Note: Press and hold the button for two seconds to switch between AUTO and MAN mode. Full automatic mode proportional to forward speed. The target rate is entered on the main screen. The floor (belt) speed is automatically adjusted to maintain the correct rate based on the forward speed and working width.
  • Page 27 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup Main screen fields Forward speed. Calibration mode (see Product calibration modes, page 66). Product remaining (actual weight measurement from load cells for dynamic calibration, or a theoretical calculation otherwise). Live, current application rate. Target application rate. Working width (see Setting up working width, page 51).
  • Page 28 3.1. Athene primary screens Gate height. Belt speed (% of max). If Machine Type is set to Athene + Basic SC Forward speed bar graph is split in to two to show left belt and right belt speed. The green boxes represent the two sections. The L and R buttons on the main screen can be pressed to manually switch off the left or right belt.
  • Page 29 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup The L and R buttons on the main screen can be pressed to manually switch off the left or right belt. Variable screen display The bottom left area of the screen can toggle between job information and spinner speed by pressing the right button, and gate height and auxiliary function by pressing the left button.
  • Page 30 3.1. Athene primary screens speed. Spinners will automatically run at the set speed. In manual mode, they can be adjusted on-the-go. Switching the spinners off in manual mode will reset the speed to zero. Note: Please refer to the machinery manufacturer's manual to establish the correct spinner RPM for the product / desired spread width.
  • Page 31 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup 3.1.2. Spreader settings screen Technician, factory and diagnostics menu should not need to be used during normal use. Technician menu. Requires a password for access. See Technician menu, page Factory menu. Requires a password for access. See Factory menu, page Diagnostics menu.
  • Page 32 3.1. Athene primary screens Alarm setup. See Setting up alarms, page Cycle between primary screens. Select calibration mode (see page 66), add weight / tare (see page 64). Set full working width. See Setting up working width, page Used to test the machine in the factory or if there is a problem with the normal forward speed signal.
  • Page 33 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup Technician menu The Technician menu provides the following settings. Display options Speed smoothing: Damping of forward speed displayed. Higher number gives more damping. Rate lock on %: If the actual rate is within this % of the target, then the target rate will be displayed on the main screen.
  • Page 34 3.1. Athene primary screens Loadcell correction Correction span: Amount the calibration factor can change by after each dynamic calibration. If this figure is too large, a false weight spike may allow a large calibration factor change. Default is 2%. Product test weight: Weight of product that must be spread during a product test spread.
  • Page 35 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup machine is switched out of work and resumes when the machine is switched back in to work. Overload log A list showing each time the weight in the spreader went over the maximum permissible load. Factory menu Note: Password is 1234 To select a menu, press the menu to highlight green and press...
  • Page 36 3.1. Athene primary screens Channel select: Scrolls through channels 1-3, using the buttons. Press to lock in the selection. Channel 1: PWM floor speed. Channel 2: PWM first spinner. Channel 3: PWM independent 2nd spinner. In use yes/no: Nominates whether the selected channel is in use. Note: Channel 1 = default ON, Channel 2 and 3 = default OFF.
  • Page 37 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup Gate width and sprocket diameter must be set in Factory menu / Spreader Config. Can use live gate height reading if relevant gate height sensor is fitted (see Gate height, page 24). Athene + Basic SC: (unlock code required) Two belt/floor control channels (left and right).
  • Page 38 ‘boom’ is treated as a single or twin function for the ISOBUS Task Controller. For ISOBUS UTs that support multiple booms (e.g. Topcon), this should be set to OFF and will allow different rates between left and right when applying from a VRC plan.
  • Page 39 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup Spreader config: Max weight: Maximum weight capacity of the spreader. Shaft 1 PPR: Sets the Pulses Per Revolution for spinner 1 monitoring only. This is overidden by feedback in the Channel Setup menu if channel 2 is being used to control spinner speed. Shaft 2 PPR: Sets the pulses per revolution for spinner 2 monitoring only.
  • Page 40 3.1. Athene primary screens Area cut out: Area cut out trigger: Where the master switch is being controlled from: Screen switch (default): The on/off button on the main run page. ECU input: External master switch connected to the Athene auxiliary harness. Area cut out logic: When using the ECU input option, 0V In Work (when the switch in ON, the master will be enabled).
  • Page 41 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup Channels: Channel select: Selects which channel you wish to configure. Note: If the channel was not selected as In Use in the Machine Options menu, it will not appear in Channels. Feedback: Pulses per revolution. Note: When setting the Belt Channel, ensure this is per revolution of the belt roller.
  • Page 42 3.1. Athene primary screens Control delay (on next page / screen): When the floor / spinner output is switched on, this is the time in seconds it waits before making any adjustments to the %PWM. Ramp time: Each time the belt/floor outputs are turned on or off, this is the time it takes for the output to ramp up/down.
  • Page 43 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup Angle sensor: Starts the routine to calibrate the angle sensor. See Load cell configuration, page Loadcell type: Specification of load cells fitted (see label on load cells). Scale Link SL2 options SL2 setup: Enters the setup/calibration page for the SL2 module. Scale Link configuration, page Angle sensor: Starts the routine to calibrate the angle sensor.
  • Page 44 3.1. Athene primary screens ECU object pool: Shows the object pool software version. ECU program code: Shows the current firmware version loaded on the Athene. Gate height setup (settings used if adjustable gate height is fitted). Gate height setup: Min. gate position: Voltage on AnIP1 when the gate is fully closed. Min.
  • Page 45 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup position and press the green button to store this feedback signal as the maximum gate position. Diagnostics menu The Diagnostics menu provides a method to view the following: Forward speed: Shows the current forward speed signals available. Channels: Shows the current forward speed, target floor speed and current/ actual belt floor speeds, belt duty cycle, spinners target / actual speeds and duty cycle..
  • Page 46 3.1. Athene primary screens LCI diagnostics: Voltage and weight from the load cell interface (if fitted). This is also where the firmware version of the Atlas module is found. If the SL2 weighing module is fitted, this page shows the individual weighing channel weights, a total weight and the SL2 software version.
  • Page 47 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup 3.1.3. Totals screen Records the grand total and part totals 1 and 2 of area, weight and the number of loads. This is found by cycling the page button. Note: The Reset button is used to reset the selected total. The figures displayed on this page are based on theoretical weight (rotations of floor), the weight reduction from the load cells, or manual weight accumulation.
  • Page 48 3.1. Athene primary screens Manual weight accumulation This option logs the amount of product spread for each load and provides accurate totals for customers who need to know exactly how much product has been spread. The operator confirms the weight within the spreader when it has been loaded, spreads the load, and then confirms the weight remaining in the spreader at the end of that job.
  • Page 49 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup 2. Press the green button when the displayed weight is correct. To indicate that the start weight has been logged, a red circle is shown on the main screen. 3. Once the load has been spread, press the End button on the Info page.
  • Page 50 3.1. Athene primary screens 4. Press the green button to confirm the weight spread for that job. 5. To view the load / weight summary, press the summary button on the Info page. A table showing the weight of each load, plus the cumulative total is displayed.
  • Page 51 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup 3.2. Setting up units 1. From the Spreader Settings screen, select General Setup Sub Units. 2. Select the required units and press to confirm.
  • Page 52 3.3. Load cell configuration 3.3. Load cell configuration 3.3.1. Can Module 1 configuration 1. To ensure the software is set to communicate with the load cell interface, from the Spreader Settings screen select Factory Loadcell Interfaces. 2. If the machine is not fitted with load cells, set Function to NOT USED. 3.
  • Page 53 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup 6. With the spreader parked on flat ground, press the TARE button and this will zero the angle sensor. 7. To set the zero point for the load cell, with the spreader empty select Factory / Loadcell Interfaces / Loadcell Calibration.
  • Page 54 3.3. Load cell configuration 11. When prompted ‘Is spreader empty?’ select NO and enter the actual weight in the spreader. 3.3.2. Scale Link configuration 1. To ensure the software is set to communicate with the load cell interface, from the Spreader Settings screen select Factory Loadcell Interfaces.
  • Page 55 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup Note: The ON/OFF button switches the angle compensation on/off. Always recommended to be ON. 6. With the spreader parked on flat ground, press the TARE button and this will zero the angle sensor. 7. Select Factory / Loadcell Interfaces and press the SL2 Setup button to enter the SL2 setup page.
  • Page 56 3.3. Load cell configuration The fastest way to setup the system is to directly enter the calibration and setup numbers for each scale channel. These can both be calculated using the SL2 setup documents. Alternatively, if the setup number is not known, the weigh method, scale capacity and scale gain can be entered individually.
  • Page 57 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup 3.4. Setting up working width This sets the full working width of the spreader. Note: Please refer to the machinery operators manual to establish the correct spinner RPM for the product / desired spread width. 1.
  • Page 58 3.4. Setting up working width In the above example, there are three geometry settings identified on the Athene page: Axle to spread pattern: This is the distance from the axle of the trailing implement, to the center of the spread pattern. This is shown as a negative figure on the Athene, as the ISO standard states that it is behind the axle.
  • Page 59 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup 3.5. Setting up pre-start Pre-start is used to start the floor moving when there is no forward speed. This ensures that there is good coverage at the start of each run, and that irrespective of how the product has been loaded, the spreader does not have to start moving until a suitable amount of product has reached the spinners.
  • Page 60 3.5. Setting up pre-start Default = 8 sec Pre-start area If set to ON, the area will accumulate whilst the pre-start time is running. If set to OFF, the area will not accumulate during the pre-start time. 3.5.1. Operating pre-start 1.
  • Page 61 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup 3.6. Setting up border reduction The RPM of a selected spinner can be slowed down, if being independently controlled, to reduce the spread width when traversing the field boundary. Note: The boundary should be driven clockwise if the left spinner is selected and anticlockwise if right spinner is selected.
  • Page 62 3.6. Setting up border reduction Border Mode A or B Border Sets the target spinner RPM for the selected border side. Working width does not change. Value can be set independently for mode A and B. Headland Sets the spinner RPM % reduction when section control has turned reduction off the floor during headland turns.
  • Page 63 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup Left spinner = Spinner 1 = Output 3 Right spinner = Spinner 2 = Output 5...
  • Page 64 3.7. Setting up products 3.7. Setting up products The system can store 10 different products with customizable names. 1. From the Spreader Settings screen, select Products 2. Select the Product button and the left / right arrows to change the selected product.
  • Page 65 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup Flow Factor: This accounts for any product flow inconsistencies that may come from pelletized (prilled) or low friction products. It can be established either by carrying out a calibration nudge after spreading a certain amount of product (see Nudge calibration, page 75) or by following the check calibration routine (see...
  • Page 66 3.7. Setting up products Minimum spinner RPM: Sets the minimum spinner RPM at which the product can still be effectively spread. This is the spinner RPM when all width sections have been turned off. Minimum spread width: Sets the minimum working width at which the product can still be effectively spread.
  • Page 67 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup 3.8. Setting up alarms 1. From the Spreader Settings screen, select Alarms 2. Select the alarm field to enter the value beyond which the alarm should sound. The system can be set to show an alarm in the following conditions: RPM Lo / High: Spinners 1 and 2 RPM too slow / too fast.
  • Page 68 3.9. Setting up forward speed 3.9. Setting up forward speed 1. From the Spreader Settings screen, select General Setup Speed Factor. There are four preset options for the forward speed signal: (0): Magnetic sensor (default setting 1 meter per rev) (1): Magnetic sensor (default setting 2 meters per rev) (2): Radar sensor (0.00778 metres per pulse) (3): GPS (NMEA VTG message)
  • Page 69 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup Note: If you overrun the marker, do not reverse - repeat the Auto Cal procedure from the beginning. 3.9.2. Simulated speed If the speed sensor is not providing a signal, or for diagnostic reasons, a simulated speed can be set to continue operation.
  • Page 70 3.10. Adding product / tare 3.10. Adding product / tare The main screen displays the current weight remaining in the hopper (a theoretical calculation if volumetric calibration is in effect, or the actual weight measurement from load cells). The weight setup screen varies, depending on whether the system has load cells fitted or not (see Load cell configuration, page...
  • Page 71 Chapter 3 – Athene Setup Max: The full hopper weight. Confirm that MAX corresponds to the hopper maximum capacity, and adjust if necessary. If loading the hopper to capacity, then press OK to reset to full. Now: The current (theoretical) weight remaining in the hopper. To add: The weight required to replenish the hopper (MAX –...
  • Page 72 Chapter 4 – Calibration 4.1. Product calibration modes If using load cells, there are two calibration modes: Dynamic: Constant, automatic re-calibration on-the-move. This is used when applying higher rates over relatively smooth ground. See Dynamic mode calibration, page 70. For more detail about how dynamic mode works, refer to How Dynamic Calibration Works, page...
  • Page 73 Chapter 4 – Calibration Product calibration table Machines with load cells Without load cells mode Dynamic calibration Static calibration Volumetric calibration The target rate is entered on the main screen. Full automatic mode proportional to forward speed. The floor speed is automatically adjusted to maintain the correct rate based on the forward speed and working width.
  • Page 74 4.2. Volumetric calibration (machines without load cells) 4.2. Volumetric calibration (machines without load cells) This procedure is applicable if not using load cells. The calibration factor is called the ‘T’ factor. It is the volume of product dispensed per revolution of the floor belt roller. It is calculated as: gate height (mm) x gate width (mm) x belt travel per revolution of the belt roller (mm).
  • Page 75 Chapter 4 – Calibration 4. Confirm the recommended gate height or enter a different gate height if desired. The operating speed range is displayed based on the above calculations. 5. Select Start Spreading to end the calibration sequence and return to the main operating screen.
  • Page 76 4.3. Dynamic mode calibration 4.3. Dynamic mode calibration This procedure is applicable if using load cells. This method of calibration is particularly suited for products with more variable density, being applied at higher rates. The weight of the product is constantly measured by the load cells. The amount the actual weight has decreased is compared to the theoretical weight decrease.
  • Page 77 Chapter 4 – Calibration 4. Confirm the recommended gate height or enter a different gate height if desired. The operating speed range is displayed based on the above calculations. 5. If you have not previously done so, select Check Calibration to determine the 'flow factor' for the product (continue to the next section).
  • Page 78 4.3. Dynamic mode calibration 6. Otherwise select Start Spreading to end the calibration sequence and return to the main operating screen. 4.3.1. Product flow factor – check calibration routine The flow factor accounts for any product flow inconsistencies that may come from pelletized (prilled) or low friction products.
  • Page 79 Chapter 4 – Calibration Note: If catching the product to be weighed, it is advisable to select enough product for a minimum of 5 Ha depending upon target rate. The system will run the belt for that much product and can then be calibrated once this has been weighed.
  • Page 80 4.3. Dynamic mode calibration 9. Press to continue. The flow factor is recalculated and displayed. Note: Increasing the flow factor has the effect of slowing the belt speed compared to the programmed density. Decreasing the flow factor has the effect of increasing the belt speed compared to the programmed density.
  • Page 81 Chapter 4 – Calibration 4.4. Nudge calibration Some discrepancy between the target weight and the actual weight can occur, often due to variations in the actual density of the product from the theoretical density programmed. The calibration factor can be fine tuned to account for any discrepancy.
  • Page 82 4.5. Product spread test instructions 4.5. Product spread test instructions Software CMS605-001rev23 onwards contains a new routine that enables a new Flow Factor to be calculated. This routine allows a test weight to be spread on the field, and then compares the actual weight spread with the theory weight spread and corrects the Flow Factor accordingly.
  • Page 83 Chapter 4 – Calibration The first screen displays the weight of product that will be spread during the test. If there is a forward speed, Start Test will be greyed out and a prompt will appear. 2. Press Start Test and the current weight in the spreader will be measured.
  • Page 84 4.5. Product spread test instructions 3. Press Start Spreading and you will return to the main spreader screen and SPREAD TEST will flash at the top of the screen to indicate a test is active. Switch spreader in to work and spread as usual.
  • Page 85 Chapter 4 – Calibration the instrument will beep and a full screen warning is triggered. Note: Pressing the red button will abort the test! 5. Press the green button to continue. 6. The theoretical weight of product spread during the test is displayed.
  • Page 86 4.5. Product spread test instructions The actual weight spread is compared to the theoretical weight and summarized. 7. Press the green button to accept and save the new Flow Factor, or press the red button to escape without changing the Flow Factor.
  • Page 87 Chapter 4 – Calibration 4.6. Valve calibration This procedure sets the minimum and maximum PWM to move the spreader belt and spinners. Note: If you enter this area you MUST complete the full calibration to exit and retain the settings. 1. From the Main Menu select Factory / Channels / Valve Setup.
  • Page 88 4.6. Valve calibration 5. With Max Duty selected, increase the belt speed to the maximum it can go. 6. Press to set the maximum PWM output. The Belt Valve Setup screen displays a summary of the new settings. Repeat this process for each proportional valve: for example 2nd Belt Channel, Spinner Channel 1 &...
  • Page 89 Chapter 5 – Updating Athene Software Note: Athene software can only be updated on an ISOBUS compliant console that is file server capable. 1. Copy the folder named 'Athene' onto the root directory of a USB memory stick, and insert at the rear of the console. 2.
  • Page 90 new ISOBUS screen on the display where the progress bar will continue to cycle. DO NOT remove power during this process. When the update is complete the ECU will automatically restart and reload with the normal Athene operating screen. Note: The Athene will automatically download the programmed settings onto the USB as part of the updating process in a file named FACTEXP.xml.
  • Page 91 Chapter 5 – Updating Athene Software 5.1. Saving and loading factors It is also possible to manually save the factors on to a USB stick, or load factors that have previously been saved to USB (for example the factors from an ECU that has already been setup can be saved to the USB stick, and then this file can be loaded on to other ECUs rather than individually typing in the required factors each time).
  • Page 92 5.1. Saving and loading factors 4. Press Load Factors. This will take the factors from the FACTEXP.xml on the USB and save them to the ECU.
  • Page 93 Chapter 6 – Operation with Topcon Console 6.1. Opening auto section control Auto section control is available when an implement and ECU have been set up and Auto Section Control has been enabled in the Setup screen (System / Features / Implement 1.
  • Page 94 6.1. Opening auto section control Operator Manual for more information on these. ASC on/off: Turn auto section control on/off on all booms. Boom control Control mode: Use the slider or number keypad to set to avoid overlap (0) or avoid gaps (100). If avoid overlap is chosen, there may be some spaces where product is not applied.
  • Page 95 Chapter 6 – Operation with Topcon Console 6.2. Variable rate control Before use, Variable Rate Control (VRC) must be set up with a controller and must be enabled on the Setup screen (System / Features / Implement Select to enable or disable the VRC Map display on the guidance screen.
  • Page 96 6.2. Variable rate control Source: The rate source for the target: None: No rate control for this target. Fixed: Fixed values for Default, Out of Field, and Position Lost. Task prescription: Use a grid based prescription map associated with the selected task, created on external software. Shapefile: Import a shapefile (.shp) from USB or TAP, or select from shapefiles stored on the display.
  • Page 97 Chapter 6 – Operation with Topcon Console Task prescription source Tasks may be created on an external system with associated prescriptions configured in a grid format. These tasks can be imported from USB via the inventory manager. If the selected task has a prescription associated, this option may be used to apply it to a target.
  • Page 98 6.2. Variable rate control Once the shapefile is selected and imported the following screen displays. Attribute: Select which attribute from the shapefile you want to use. Scale: This defaults to 1, which means that the prescription defined in the source will be used directly. However, depending on weather conditions, the operator may choose to increase or decrease the...
  • Page 99 Chapter 6 – Operation with Topcon Console rate of application. This allows a uniform increase for all defined rates. For example, a scale of 1.1 will apply 110% of the rate defined in the source. Default: Defines the rate to use if the source doesn’t specify a rate for that region of the field.
  • Page 100 Chapter 7 – How Dynamic Calibration Works Note: See Loadcell correction, page 28 for definitions of each setting in the Loadcell correction screens. The empty spreader is loaded and switched into work. Auto pre-start begins and the floor starts to move based on the simulated forward speed.
  • Page 101 Chapter 7 – How Dynamic Calibration Works Start delay time expires, Dynamic time and Dynamic weight begins. Then, Dynamic time expires. The weight has reduced by > Dynamic weight. A new 'T' factor is calculated. Cal factor delay time expires, Dynamic time and Dynamic weight begins. Then, Dynamic time expires.
  • Page 102 Spreader is switched out of work. Then, spreader is switched back in to work. Since speed is >2km/h, pre-start is not applicable. The Headland delay starts. Weight has not increased by >Dyn fill weight so spreader has not been refilled.
  • Page 103 Chapter 7 – How Dynamic Calibration Works Spreader is almost empty. Application alarm will be seen as the floor cannot go fast enough to reach target. Then, spreader empty and switched out of work. Spreader is refilled. Weight has increased by >Dyn fill weight so considered refilled.
  • Page 104 Chapter 8 – Machine Setup Checklist Machine options (see page Machine type = Athene Enable channel 1 = Belt Enable channel 2 = Spinners (if controlling spinners) Spreader configuration (see page Set max capacity Shaft 1 PPR = Spinner RPM sensor setting if not controlling spinners through channel 2 Gate width Roller diameter...
  • Page 105 Chapter 9 – Index alarms 61 tare 64 angle sensor 46, 48 technician menu 27 ASC 87 totals screen 41 auto section control 87 update software 83 border reduction 55 valve calibration 81 calibration variable rate control 89 check 72 VRC 89 modes 66 working width 51...
  • Page 106 WEBSITE AND OTHER STATEMENTS - No statement contained at the website of TPA or any other Topcon Group company or in any other advertisements or TPA literature or made by an employee or independent contractor of TPA modifies these Terms and Conditions.
  • Page 107 Chapter 10 – Regulatory and Safety Warnings (i) disaster, accident or abuse (ii) normal wear and tear (iii) improper use and/or maintenance (iv) unauthorized modifications of the product; and/or (v) use of the product in combination with other products not supplied or specified by TPA. Software accompanying any product is licensed for use in connection with the product and not sold.
  • Page 108 FCC Title 47 §15.21 Changes or modifications made to this equipment not expressly approved by Topcon may void the FCC authorization to operate this equipment. FCC Title 47 §15.105(a) This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules.
  • Page 109 TOPCON Precision Agriculture instructions, it may cause interference with radio communication. You can check if interference is being caused by this equipment by turning the Topcon equipment off to see if the interference stops. If the equipment is causing interference to...
  • Page 110 Remember that YOU are the key to safety. Good safety practices not only protect you, but also the people around you. Study this manual as part of your safety program. This safety information only relates to Topcon equipment and does not replace other usual safe work practices.
  • Page 111 Topcon accepts no responsibility or liability for damages to property, personal injuries, or death resulting from the misuse or abuse of any of its products. Further, Topcon accepts no responsibility for the use of Topcon equipment or the GNSS signal for any purpose other than the intended purpose.
  • Page 112 Important Safety Information Operator Alertness and Responsibility The display helps the operator to steer the vehicle, but the operator remains in charge and must be alert and in complete control of the vehicle at all times. The operator is ultimately responsible for safe operation of this equipment. It is essential that safety requirements are met when operating the display and any of its components.
  • Page 113 Chapter 10 – Regulatory and Safety Warnings On/Off and Manual Control WARNING: Ensure the steering switch is Off to prevent unintentional engagement of the assisted steering. When repairing or maintaining the vehicle/implement, ensure the vehicle CANNOT be moved. Disengage steering, apply brakes and remove keys.
  • Page 114 Topcon Agricultural Products are hardy and designed to work in tough conditions. However, if equipment is unused for a length of time, store away from water and direct heat sources. Alert Symbols In this manual two alert symbols are used: Note: This offers additional information.
  • Page 115 (collectively, the “Software”) is owned by Topcon and your use is subject to the terms and conditions of this End-User License Agreement (“Agreement”). The Software is intended for use on and/or as embedded in a Topcon display/console upon/in which the Software is intended (pursuant to its applicable documentation) to be installed and used (each a “Device”).
  • Page 116 Agreement only as part of a permanent sale or transfer of the Device (or equipment of which the Device is a component). The license is effective until terminated. Topcon may terminate your license if you fail to comply with the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
  • Page 117 Software, will at all times be, and shall remain, the property of Topcon or any third party from whom Topcon has obtained rights. Except as expressly provided in this Agreement, no rights or licenses are granted to you by Topcon with regard to the Software.
  • Page 118 TOPCON DOES NOT WARRANT OR GUARANTEE THE ACCURACY OR SERVICE OF GPS UNITS THAT ARE USED IN CONNECTION WITH THE SOFTWARE. 6. Limitation of Liability. TOPCON AND ITS DISTRIBUTORS SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR EDITORIAL ERRORS OR EDITORIAL OMISSIONS CONTAINED IN THE SOFTWARE OR ITS DOCUMENTATION.
  • Page 119 9. Data Protection. You and Topcon acknowledge and agree that you and Topcon will comply with any applicable data protection law. If it is necessary that Topcon will handle personal data, it will be processed by Topcon in accordance with the applicable data protection laws and Topcon’s Privacy Statement available at:...
  • Page 120 Topcon as a result of this Agreement. The failure of Topcon to enforce any right or provision in this Agreement shall not constitute a waiver of such right or provision unless acknowledged and agreed to by Topcon in writing.
  • Page 122 Avenida de la Industria 35 Tres Cantos 28760, Spain Phone: +34-91-804-92-31 Fax: +34-91-803-14-15 Topcon Corporation 75-1 Hasunuma-cho, Itabashi-ku Tokyo 174-8580 Japan Phone: +81-3-5994-0671 Fax: +81-3-5994-0672 © 2022 Topcon Precision Agriculture All rights reserved Specifications subject to change without notice 1041998-01...