Broadacre Connectivity Deep Dive Series: Data Casting

For most broadacre farmers, the office and admin side of the business is connected to the internet. Shouldn’t your machines and equipment be connected too? Out in your paddocks is where the vital money saving data can be collected and utilised.  

Many of the major farm machinery manufactures now offer in cab technology that can link up all your equipment in real-time and visually display this information, allowing farmers to adjust their operations in real-time to maximise harvesting and seeding efficiencies.  

Data Casting and Machine Sync 

Data casting and machine syncing, offers the ability to share real-time data between multiple pieces of equipment within the same paddock. Both machine operators and the farm office can access live data, tracking each machine's location and the specific activities it has undertaken. This ensures harmonious functioning between all operators and machines, reducing overlaps and gaps in activities like planting, fertilising, and harvesting, especially in non-uniformed shaped paddocks.  

This level of insight optimises machine performance by ensuring operators don’t cover the same runs with seeding and fill in missed runs to 100% of the plantable area can be covered. The same level of optimisation can occur with spraying, nutrient application and harvest too, increasing efficiencies on farm across the seasons.  

The expansive nature of broadacre operations presents unique challenges in monitoring and managing paddocks and crops efficiently. Implementing technologies like data casting and machine sync not only streamlines operational efficiency but also significantly reduces wasted time and resources. The ability to optimise machine use and ensure comprehensive planting coverage of the land can lead to substantial improvements in yield and profitability. 

The Role of Connectivity in Datacasting and Machine Syncing 

The effectiveness of data casting and machine sync hinges on robust connectivity, such as 4G/5G and Wi-Fi. Without a reliable network linking machines to each other and to central control points, the potential of these technologies remains untapped. Broadacre operations, often sprawling over vast and remote areas, face the challenge of establishing and maintaining such connectivity. The solution lies in embracing innovative connectivity solutions tailored to the unique needs of broadacre farming. 

Navigating Challenges and Solutions 

Reliable connectivity is a significant challenge for many broadacre operations as they often fall outside the footprint of mobile coverage, making real-time data sharing and communication challenging.  

With advancements in connectivity technology such as portable coverage extenders, Satellite Wi-Fi, 4G, these challenges can be overcome, connecting remote and isolated broadacre operations. Connected Farms offers Wi-Fi, portable Wi-Fi, Static Wi-Fi, Private 4G Networks, and Satellite options tailored for broadacre businesses so you can connect your operation and unlock real-time machine data and datacasting plus more, such as make phone calls, use data, and connect your staff! 

These solutions are not just about providing internet access; they're about creating a cohesive, connected ecosystem that enables broadacre farmers to leverage the full potential of their machinery and data. By offering customisable options, Connected Farms ensures that broadacre businesses can find the best connectivity fit for their specific operational needs. 

Embracing the Connected Future 

By embracing the capabilities of data casting and machine sync, powered by robust connectivity solutions, farmers can step confidently into the future. A future where efficiency, productivity, and sustainability go hand in hand.  

Are you interested to see how connectivity can work on your broadacre farm? Check it out here.

About Connected Farms  

Connected Farms is dedicated to providing reliable and appropriate connectivity solutions to the agriculture sector. Located in Regional NSW, Regional South Canterbury NZ, and Regional Scotland UK our mission is to connect farmers, agribusinesses, and fisheries to enable digital agriculture, enhancing productivity, safety, and sustainability in farming operations across Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. For more information visit www.connectedfarms.co