Topcon Precision Agriculture offers CropSpec, a real-time integrated plant nutrient monitoring and application system for agricultural equipment. Topcon engineers, in cooperation with Yara Intl., designed CropSpec as a powerful crop canopy sensor. The Topcon system utilizes a two-sensor system (left and right side of the cab) that allows an operator to monitor plant conditions and apply fertilizer and other inputs as needed.

Sensing method is non-contacting, non-destructive, provides consistent and repeatable readings

• Used with Topcon's X20 console (System 200), links to Topcon's Maplink variable rate control (VRC) program for sprayers or spreaders
• Sensors measure nitrogen levels; X20 controller executes prescription, controlling output in one pass
• Two basic operation modes: read/record and fully automatic mode giving operator choices about how variable rate application is determined from sensor readings
• Gives operator choices about how rate is determined from sensor readings
• Greater sensor-to-crop distance (2-4 meters) and a larger sensing footprint covers more crop area per pass