MachineryLink

Case IH has launched its new AFS Connect Steiger series tractor -- models are available in Quadtrac, Rowtrac and wheeled configurations from 370 to 620 horsepower.

The redesigned cab features an all-new armrest with ergonomic controls, automotive-grade design elements and a 12-inch display that is configurable to the operator's needs. Case IH has also included in the Connect Steiger a new operating system and receiver, with a five-year subscription to the AFS Connect farm management portal.

"This tractor sets a new standard for what connectivity and productivity can mean to a farming operation without sacrificing the power, durability and efficiency that Steiger tractors are known for," said Mitch Kaiser, Case IH Steiger tractor marketing manager.

AFS Connect technology is powered by three system components:

-- AFS Pro 1200 display provides great visibility day or night and features four exterior camera feeds, easy Bluetooth pairing to link a mobile device, and remote display viewing to connect operators with farm managers seamlessly.

-- AFS Vision Pro operating system is familiar and easy to use. The control system allows producers to configure the tractor with either a rotary dial or touch screen.

-- AFS Vector Pro receiver streamlines guidance correction options, ranging from base (WAAS and AFS 1) to medium (AFS 2) to high (RTK and AFS RTK+) accuracy levels and has improved guidance.

Case has redesigned the Connect Steiger cab with these features:

-- Ergonomic MultiControl Armrest with eight control buttons, a MultiFunction Handle with four programmable hot keys and an encoder knob.

-- New heating, ventilation and air conditioning.

-- 29 power connectors and diagnostic ports to connect all the devices required to monitor and control the operation.

-- Standard leather luxury seat with ventilation.

-- Advanced steering system with adjustable steering rates to increase performance and maneuverability on every turn of the steering wheel.

-- 360-degree performance lighting that can be grouped to turn on and off as the operator sees fit.

-- Telescoping mirrors that are adjustable from the cab

The AFS Connect portal allows farm managers to precisely manage their farm, fleet and data from a desktop or mobile device anywhere, while feeling assured their data is securely transferring to and from the cloud. Users can log in to AFS Connect to view current field operations, fleet information, agronomic data and more, remotely keeping an eye on their operation as if they are in the cab. Farm owners and managers then have the freedom to share selected agronomic data -- down to the field level -- with third-party partners of their choosing.

Remote display viewing allows a manager or dealer to view exactly what an operator is seeing on the new AFS Pro 1200 display mounted in the cab. Dealers also can use remote service support to identify maintenance needs. Remote software updates allow dealers to wirelessly push firmware updates directly to the tractor.

"Being connected saves you downtime in the field. Whether you are in the tractor or 300 miles away, you'll have the same ability to manage your fleet and your operation. You can easily share and transfer data -- from guidance lines to season-long agronomic and application information," Kaiser said.

The Connect Steiger has given up none of its brawn. Its chassis and axles can carry up to 66,000 pounds.

A choice of two industry-leading transmissions deliver choice to meet an operation's requirements. The fuel-efficient PowerDrive powershift transmission delivers 20% faster shifting and a record-setting 682 peak-horsepower on the Steiger 620 model. The CVXDrive -- the first continuously variable transmission for an articulated 4WD tractor -- automatically balances power and efficiency while delivering 605 peak-horsepower on the Steiger 540.

Dan Miller can be reached at dan.miller@dtn.com

Follow him on Twitter @DMillerPF

(AG)

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