• Yield Maps - This is the basic type of map produced by any precision agriculture system. As the crop is harvested, information is collected by yield and moisture sensors installed on the combine. At the same time, GPS technology plots harvest data and records the information at variable intervals as the combine rolls across the field. This information is then stored on a PCMCIA data card for transfer to your computer at the end of the day... or whenever you're ready to download it.

• Index Mapping - Unique to Fieldstar Precision Agriculture System, this mapping option allows you to view multiple year yield maps from different crops. Each crop's yield is displayed in percentage terms, as opposed to yield. As a result, you can better determine whether a problem is inherent to a particular year's crop or a sign of a bigger problem.

• Gross Margin Mapping - Also unique to Fieldstar Precision Agriculture System, the gross margin mapping program accepts cost data input and calculates where a field was profitable and where you broke even or lost money. Based on this information, you may wish to give underperforming areas more attention, reduce the input expenses or possibly take them out of production. Any way you look at it, this is information you cause to increase profits or reduce costs.

• Marker Maps - Who knows your fields better than you do? Hence, the marker map allows you capture information about each field's unique characteristics as you harvest. Problems such as heavy weed pressure, inset or weather damage and foreign objects can be plotted quickly and effortlessly. The Marker Map can even accept "layered" marks so more than one problem can be analyzed on the same map.

• Overlaid Marker Map - This program allows the data collected during harvesting or field work and plotted on the Marker Map to be overlaid on the Yield Map. This allows you to "see" how the problems you spotted actually affected yields and to better analyze your input decisions.

• Application Maps - Once you've analyzed all the data, you can use a field map in combination with soil samples and or your own knowledge of the field to create a variable-rate application plan. The application map, in turn, is used to manage precise application of inputs that can include seed, fertilizer, chemicals, etc.

• As Applied Maps - When used for variable-rate or site-specific applications, such as spraying, fertilizing or planting, Fieldstar Precision Agriculture System not only controls the application, but records the application and field location, allowing you to create an "as applied" map for your records. This can be particularly valuable in light of stiffening environmental regulations.

• User-Defined Charts and Graphs - The pie chart and bar graph are a Fieldstar Precision Agriculture System feature which allows producers to view data in various parameters set by the producer. These simple , easy-to-read tools are a valuable component of the Fieldstar Office Package Software.

Export / Import Data

FIELDSTAR lets you easily export and import raw data and field maps to and from your agronomist, fertilizer dealer, crop consultant or farm supplier. Using the Fieldstar Office Package, users can convert yield data to a text format that includes longitude, latitude and yield value. If so desired, the information can even be transferred to a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet for evaluation and record keeping purposes. Similarly, information can be imported from other sources for incorporation into your files and maps. After all, how much value is there in precision agriculture if you can't involve your fertilizer and /or chemical dealer in the variable-rate application process?