The data is logged and mapped to be used in further analysis – or for real-time variable rate applications – in both corn and wheat production.
The OptRx crop sensor helps growers apply nitrogen based on crop vigor. For example, the sensor tells the applicator to apply less nitrogen on healthy corn plants and more nitrogen on weaker, unhealthy corn plants, according to a calibration specific to that field.
In addition, OptRx’s patent-pending advanced light-sensing technology is not dependent on ambient light – offering maximum flexibility to be used day or night.
Real-Life Benefits Your Questions Answered Read more about OptRx FAQs Field Data
The OptRx Difference
What makes OptRx crop sensors stand out from the competition?
Virtual reference strip. Unlike many other crop sensors on the market, the OptRx crop sensor doesn’t require a nitrogen-rich strip for making nitrogen application recommendations. Instead, OptRx relies on a virtual reference strip. Growers simply identify the healthiest area of the field and scan that area in real time, rather than applying excess nitrogen to an area of the field pre-season and mapping that point.
User-friendly. The OptRx sensor offers a user-interface that exceeds previous sensors. OptRx directly interfaces with Ag Leader’s INTEGRA™ display to show the sensor readings and mapping on-screen along with other application data, such as rate control and automatic swath control.
Red-edge light wave. The OptRx uses red-edge light wave to scan plants. Most competitive products use only a red wavelength, which has been shown in studies to be non-responsive when plants are too large. The red-edge lightwave stays responsive to health-stress on plants at later growth stages than competitive products.
Single algorithm. The OptRx crop sensor uses a single algorithm application. Trials have been conducted in several states that have shown positive results of using a single algorithm in comparison to multiple algorithms.
Vegetative Index (VI)
Using built-in intelligence, OptRx assigns a "crop vigor" number or vegetative index value based on plant biomass and nitrogen content. This number determines the rate of nitrogen that should be applied to achieve maximum profit.
Calculating Nitrogen Rate
To determine N rate, OptRx must first identify the VI value that represents a plant with sufficient nitrogen available; this is called the VI Reference Value. To determine a VI Reference Value, users must drive the applicator over the healthiest looking plants for a minimum of 5 minutes. This process calibrates OptRx crop sensors for the given growth stage.
