Growers can now manage precision farming tasks direct from the tractor cab with the first variable rate application system to run on a tablet.

iSOYL, a new app from SOYL, streamlines the variable rate application process for iPad users, saving grow ers time, money and effort. It uses a smart cable and adaptor to connect with all popular spreader, sprayer and drill controllers, and a data transfer system allows information to be effortlessly and efficiently transferred between field and office.

Simon Parrington, SOYL’s commercial director, says, “We are always looking for ways to make precision crop production as simple as possible, and this is a really exciting development. It is the next generation of precision technology and will enable more growers to use variable rate techniques on their farms.”

SOYL has listened to its customers, and has responded to their feedback by ensuring that iSOYL is easy and intuitive to use. The clear, uncluttered layout makes it easy to find variable rate application files and maps, and the touch-screen interaction allows the user to quickly control and edit them. Tom Parker is business development manager with SOYL and he explains that iSOYL is much more practical to use than current systems. “When you mount the iPad in the tractor cab, you have a large, full colour display making everything really clear and much easier to use than having to peer at a small screen and fiddle with tiny buttons” he says. “That can make a real difference if you are amending your application files on the move or dropping markers to record a point or interest.”

iSOYL allows users to add their own points of interest such as weed populations or crop variation in their fields by simply dropping a pin on the relevant area and recording a note. Because the system uses a GPS signal, it is easy to locate the exact location next time they return to the field.

iSOYL is compatible with iPad, iPad Mini and iPad Air. Tom goes on to explain that many growers are already using iPads, “That helps to keep the initial outlay to a minimum” he says. “Furthermore they will be used to the way that apps work, which will make iSOYL even easier for them to use.”

Using iSOYL will cost $795. This one-off price includes a licence for MySOYLsync, and supply of the smart cable and adaptors and the in-cab mounting system. The app itself is free to download from the Apple App Store. To find out more visit www.isoyl.com.