NOTE: ExactShot is not available in Australia and New Zealand. Timelines for availability are yet to be determined. The content on the following Sales Manual pages has been compiled for the US/Canada market and therefore may show product information, competitive comparison information, launch dates and marketing and sales activities not relevant for the Australia/New Zealand market. For relevant Australia/New Zealand information, look for New Product Introduction Bulletins published on DealerPath under Tactical Ag Bulletins and What’s New and communicated in the weekly Dealer Newsletters as products become available.

ExactShot delivers product directly onto the seed in-furrow, eliminating waste between seeds

Save on in-furrow fertilizer cost with ExactShot liquid fertilizer dosing system.

High input costs reduce the profitability of any operation. ExactShot can save growers up to 66% of the cost of in-furrow applied nutrients improving their use and efficiency while protecting yield loss along the way. It does this by dosing the product on top of the seed, in the furrow, eliminating the application of product between seeds.

Using less product also results in fewer stops to refill your tanks, improving the overall efficiency of your planting operation.

• Reduce in-furrow fertilizer use up to 66 percent*
• Increase time between starter liquid fertilizer refills in the field
• Maximize nutrient use efficiency by placing product only on the seed
• Enable the potential to add higher-cost or additional applications

*NOTE: Based on internal tests of a prototype ExactShot system performed across 21 farms in six Midwestern states applying a 5.1-cm (2-in) dose on seeds with 15.2-cm (6-in) in-row seed spacing.

How does it work?

When paired with John Deere’s ExactEmerge™ BrushBelt™ technology, the system tracks each seed with infinite accuracy from meter to seed trench, synchronizing each dose with the exact timing of the seed drop. Placing the solenoid directly above the nozzle tip, below the row-unit, adds an additional level of accuracy with each dose not found in similar products.

Two modes of operation 

The overall benefits of ExactShot may vary with different products, crop types, soils, etc. In these scenarios, the system can be switched to a more traditional continuous stream of product directly from the display. This gives operators the flexibility to quickly change their application method without the need to change hardware on the planter.

Dosing mode screen on G5 display

Continuous mode screen on G5 display

Agronomic benefits and savings

Multiple field studies* have shown yields were maintained when the same effective application rate of in-furrow starter fertilizer was dosed directly onto the seed compared to the traditional continuous stream. In some highly responsive instances, as the local rate was increased, yield also increased without adding cost to the application.

By reducing rates, customers can increase their overall profit margins, receiving a higher return on investment with 18.7-L/ha (2-gpa) dosing on-seed compared to 56.1-L/ha (6-gpa) continuous stream. View our ExactShot calculator to see how reduced rates can impact your operation.

Reducing the amount of fertilizer used also reduces the risk of nutrients leaching into nearby rivers, lakes, and ponds.

Additionally, because ExactShot significantly reduces how much product is needed, growers can also gain the ability to use beneficial products in-furrow during planting like biologicals, fungicides, and liquid insecticides that may otherwise be too costly to apply.

*NOTE: Internal tests of a prototype ExactShot system performed across 21 farms in six Midwestern states.

SeedStar 5 screen example

Overview

SeedStar 5 is the latest monitoring software for John Deere planters available for Model Year 2025. This system is paired with G5 displays and Implement Ethernet to provide high-definition documentation, faster data speeds, and more information in the cab.

Benefits

• Faster data speeds
• High Definition (5Hz data) documentation
• Enables new technology like ExactShot and FurrowVision
• Building block for future planter automation

Additional details

Requirement:

• G5 Display
• Planter Implement Ethernet (included on model year 2025 planters)
• Building block for future planter information

Easy Fold is a feature of SeedStar™ 4HP for MaxEmerge™ 5e row-units and ExactEmerge™ row-units equipped on 1775NT and 1795 Planters with a 2-point hitch or DB Planters. This integrated solution replaces the frame-folding box like the manual fold option in SeedStar 3 HP, and it has enhanced the process by controlling and automating the selective control valves (SCVs).

The one-operation fold reduces the need for training inexperienced operators by sequencing the process correctly and reduces time spent folding and unfolding. By utilizing implement automation, the hitch will be controlled by the planter during the fold cycle. Lining up the draft tube to the wing hooks is automated through this process, reducing operator tasks. On DB models, Easy Fold simplifies the folding process functions to one SCV. A manual process is available when needed.

A manual fold option is available from the frame control page on the display for non-compatible or non-equipped tractors or planters. The manual control function is accessible from each step of the Easy Fold process, as shown below.

Manual control option on SeedStar 4HP

Start screen for Easy Fold

Screen with Easy Fold enabled

Screen with Easy Fold in process

Easy Fold completed screen

NOTE: Included in base with ExactEmerge equipped compatible planters. Optional equipment on MaxEmerge 5e equipped compatible planters.

Tractor Implement Automation activation instructions

Use these instructions to download the Tractor Implement Automation activation code at no cost.

1. Go to https://www.deere.com/en/stellarsupport/
2. Click Product Activation.
3. Select Tractor Automation – Manage Product.
4. Add or select existing tractor from list.
5. Select the Activate button.
6. Select Add Manufacturers drop down menu.
7. Select Tractor Implement Automation – John Deere.
8. Select Continue – Tractor Implement Automation – John Deere selected.
9. Accept the Terms and Conditions.
10. Select Finish.
11. Take note of the code for use display.
12. On the Gen 4 4600 CommandCenter Display or 4640 Universal Display select System, Software Manager.
13. Select Activations, then Enter Code from John Deere Stellar Support.
14. Enter activation code into the display in the tractor.
15. Press next after activating Tractor Implement Automation.
16. Take note of the activation code and press OK.
17. The Tractor Implement Automation activation will appear the Software Manager screen.

NOTE: Prior to the 18.1 software release, the activation will be shown as “Unknown Implement 1” with a baler icon.

YouTube is a trademark of Google LLC.

Row Runoff diagnostic test

The test functions from a mobile device

Determine optimum settings without being in the cab

The first day of planting season can be as productive as the last with mobile row-unit runoff. The mobile row-unit runoff activation on the planter main controller (PMC) allows operators to make adjustments to maximize row-unit performance from a mobile device at the rear of the planter for both preseason and in-season use - all enabled through the Equipment Mobile app.

Mobile row-unit runoff allows growers to perform test-stand functions from a mobile device connected to the planter.

The row runoff test provides complete diagnostic checks both preseason and in season. With the row-unit runoff test, the operator can make adjustments from the mobile device, including vacuum pressure, to determine the optimum meter and vacuum settings. This app functionality will help avoid making trips to the cab while validating meter performance.

During preseason planter inspections and set up, utilize the meter performance test to validate meter accuracy, similar to a test stand without leaving the farm. Test all systems on the planter, not just the meter, providing confidence that all planter systems are ready to plant. Reports are generated from the test providing information the operator can save and send for future reference.

Before heading to the field, the operator will benefit from knowing the best row-unit and vacuum settings for each variety selected to plant that spring.

See mobile row-unit runoff in action by watching the "How to Use Mobile Row-Unit Runoff" video.

Mobile row-unit runoff will work with any model year 2015 or newer ExactEmerge™ or MaxEmerge™ 5e equipped planter. Mobile row-unit runoff can be added with attachment AA93169.

For model year 2018 and newer ExactEmerge planters, mobile row-unit runoff is included in base equipment. For model year 2020 and newer MaxEmerge 5e planters, mobile row-unit runoff is included in base equipment. For planters not equipped from the factory, mobile row-unit runoff can be added with attachment AA93169. A mobile row-unit runoff and Easy Fold package can be added with attachment AA97849 (only available with 1775NT and 1795 Planters with a 2-point hitch and model year 2019 and newer DB Planters with Gen 4 based frame folding).

NOTE: Mobile runoff utilizes the Equipment Mobile app available on select iPad® tablets, iPhone® smartphones, and Android™ devices.

Mobile row-unit runoff and Easy Fold aftermarket for field conversion kits

The below software bundles include the functionality explained above for machines not ordered with the feature from the factory. Compatible machines include all the necessary sensors and harnesses needed to make the feature function. The attachment part is software only. Follow the mobile runoff ordering and software push guide below for ordering and installation.

Mobile runoff ordering and software push guide

iPad and iPhone are trademarks of Apple Inc. Android is a trademark of Google LLC.

Individual Row Hydraulic Downforce (IRHD)

IRHD system

IRHD has been specifically designed to meet the needs of producers that are looking to adjust to the toughest field conditions and provide maximum yield potential from field to field, season after season. IRHD works as a closed-loop downforce system that reacts quickly on an individual row basis to changing soil conditions supporting increased ground contact, which can lead to improved seed depth consistency. When setting planter downforce margin, the system will apply the needed downforce by row to maintain ground contact.

The system allows operators to maintain gauge wheel ground contact leading to desired seed depth placement. IRHD can adjust five times per second and make adjustments of 45.4 kg (100 lb) in less than a second. The system has a total range of applied downforce from 22.7 kg (50 lb) to 204.1 kg (450 lb) and utilizes the power beyond circuit on the tractor. IRHD is 58 percent faster than the active pneumatic downforce solution. Fast reaction and increased ground contact can lead to improved emergence. With uniform emergence, some studies have shown a yield impact from 5 percent to 9 percent.

IRHD is controlled through the G5 Display with SeedStar 5. As shown below, operators can view ground contact or applied downforce using the toggle button.

IRHD screen showing the ground contact graph

IRHD screen showing the applied downforce graph

IRHD accumulator

IRHD accumulator

The IRHD actuator is the foundation of ensuring accurate seed depth and seed-to-soil contact at higher planting speeds up to 16.1 km/h (10 mph). The newly redesigned IRHD actuator was designed with durability and optimal performance in mind. Consisting of a valve, pressure sensor, cylinder, and now, two accumulators, the new design allows the operator to reduce downtime with recharges instead of replacements. With two rechargeable nitrogen accumulators built into the new IRHD actuator, it maintains performance, even at low nitrogen levels. This allows reduced downtime for the operator, and optimal performance over entire operating range. Pressure control from the IRHD actuator ensures optimal system performance by dampening shocks from field obstacles while operating in the field. The reduction of shock loads prevents excessive wear and broken row unit components due to the new robust and durable design. Frequently worn parts such as the accumulator pistons and seals can be replaced. The actuator rod has an internal retention feature to prevent oil loss in the event of a row unit failure.

Heavy-duty parallel arm for IRHD Planter row units available

Downforce and margin example

• A - Margin – amount of additional downforce applied to a row-unit above and beyond what is required for penetration to achieve planting depth. This additional weight will ride on the depth gauge wheels. 
  • 54.4 kg (120 lb) + 36.3 kg (80 lb) = 90.7 kg (200 lb) – 68 kg (150 lb) = 22.7 kg (50 lb) of margin
• B - Weight of row-unit - 54.4 kg (120 lb)
• C - Downforce – force that is applied to the row-unit by the air bag circuit - 36.3 kg (80 lb)
• D - Resistance from soil - 68 kg (150 lb)

Active downforce compressor assembly

A hydraulically driven compressor works with the G5 Display with SeedStar 5 systems to automate downforce control. Just set the row-unit target margin value and the active pneumatic downforce system works automatically. The system will make sure the planter maintains this value, achieving precise soil penetration, and consistent planting depth, without sidewall soil compaction. From the factory, the system is set at 45.4 kg (100 lb) target downforce margin but may be modified for varying field conditions. This frees the operator from constantly making manual downforce adjustments as conditions change.

This system offers a split-rank control feature for 1795 and DB Split-Row Planters. On split-row planters, active downforce will control the front and rear rows independently. This compensates for differing downforce requirements between the ranks that can be caused by things like different tillage or insecticide attachments and will help maintain an accurate planting depth and consistent margin across all the rows.

Active pneumatic downforce is available as factory installed or as an attachment for field conversion.

Set point row-unit downforce

Air compressor mounted on 1775NT outer hitch

On set point, the air compressor will be mounted on the outer hitch or frame assembly. Since the electric air compressor assembly is mounted on the outer hitch (as noted in the picture above) or frame, adjustments for row-unit downforce and related system pressures will be made electronically with the display.

When adjusting the amount of row-unit downforce using the display, the operator will select the amount of downforce (kg [lb]) to be applied across the planter. Depending on the soil conditions at hand, the operator might need to adjust the relative amount of row-unit downforce being applied during the planting operation. The integrated pneumatic downforce controls within the display will only allow for set-point operation and not automatic control as the planter is operating in different soil conditions. The pneumatic downforce system does not have the capability to automatically adjust downforce.

Pneumatic downforce provides convenient, simple adjustment of downforce for the whole planter from one location. The amount of downforce applied is infinitely adjustable from 6.8 to 181.4 kg (15 to 400 lb). Pneumatic downforce provides more consistent downforce throughout the range of row-unit travel than mechanical spring downforce systems.

Features include:

• 9.5-mm (3/8-in.) air delivery line instead of the 6.4-mm (1/4-in.) line used on model year 2010 and older planters.
• Air compressor assembly increased duty cycle. With this compressor, it provides a 47 percent increase in maximum air flow delivery compared to the prior air compressor.
• Pneumatic air bags with 9.5-mm (3/8-in.) air line inlets that have greater durability.

Pneumatic downforce compressor and gauge

An improved compressor is used to charge the pneumatic system. This compressor can be located on the planter frame or in the tractor cab if desired. A gauge at the compressor indicates the amount of downforce being applied.

Integrated pneumatic downforce system

The functional features of the integrated system are the same as the standard pneumatic system, explained above, with the addition of control through the display.

Heavy-duty adjustable downforce springs

Heavy-duty adjustable downforce spring

Planter row-unit downforce is an important factor to ensure consistent and proper depth control. The heavy-duty adjustable downforce feature provides up to 181.4 kg (400 lb) of downforce. There are four settings available to allow the operator to choose the amount of downforce required for the condition: 0 kg (0 lb), 56.7 kg (125 lb), 113.4 kg (250 lb), and 181.4 kg (400 lb).

Coulter combo row cleaner

Easy Adjust row cleaner

Easy Adjust row cleaner and coulter combo provides a pneumatic row tillage solution that is controlled from the seat of the tractor.

Every decision to make an adjustment during spring planting reduces the acres planted per day and can increase or decrease profitability. An adjustment that can be overlooked is row cleaners due to planter size, difficulty to make the adjustment, and varying conditions across fields and time.

With the Easy Adjust row cleaners on ExactEmerge™ planters, operators now have a pneumatic solution to make on-the-go adjustments that is controlled directly from the seat of the cab. They can be raised from the cab as needed with the push of a button for wet areas, waterways, or end rows. 

The Easy Adjust row cleaners have the capability to save three presets for varying ground engagement based on field conditions. The system is controlled in three sections: at each wing as well as the center (frame or wheel) track rows. The pneumatic lines use air from the active pneumatic downforce compressor, requiring no additional compressor to be installed on the planter. The Easy Adjust row cleaners utilize down and up force air bags. The adjustable air pressure setting for each bag allows the operator to set the ride of the row cleaner depending on the field conditions and the desired results. Making these on-the-go adjustments from tractor cab increases productivity and performance during planting.

For Easy Adjust row cleaner Precision Upgrade options, see the ordering guide.

The row cleaner-only option utilizes parallel linkage to provide the floating action growers require in their fields. Parallel linkage allows for the unit to float up and down in the situation of hills or hard objects. The cleaner and coulter combo does not have parallel linkage, however, the row cleaners have floating rings installed to help provide the same benefits.

The row cleaners utilize the field-proven SharkTooth® design. Row cleaners play a major role in maximizing yield toward uniform emergence, reducing row-unit bounce, and maintaining proper depth. The Easy Adjust row cleaners provide growers with quick and stress-free solutions to customizing the planter in variable field conditions. They are available on most ExactEmerge and MaxEmerge 5e equipped planters.

SharkTooth is a trademark of Yetter Manufacturing Incorporated.

Pneumatic closing wheels are compatible with MaxEmerge™ 5e and ExactEmerge™ row-units. They are available on the following models from the factory: 1775NT, 1795, and DB60 models. The pneumatic closing wheels give operators the ability to adjust closing wheels in seconds without leaving the cab of the tractor.

Using the GreenStar™ Display, pneumatic closing wheels can be adjusted to 25 different positions. From the factory the system is setup with two sections, the outer wings and center frame. With this system, producers will see up to a 76 percent increase in consistent force applied at the closing wheel. Consistently applying the correct force at the seed trench is one of the key elements of supporting improved emergence. Studies show potential yield impact on corn from even emergence from 5 percent to 9 percent*.

NOTE: Pneumatic closing wheels can be purchased for existing MaxEmerge 5e and ExactEmerge planters as an aftermarket field kit. Rubber tire, cast iron, and Yetter Twister closing wheels are compatible.

Access the pneumatic closing wheels attachment for field conversion (AFC) ordering guide to fit a 1725 CCS, 1775NT, 1795, or DB60 Planter.

*Planting Outcome Effects on Corn Yield: Doerge, Tom, Jeschke, Mark and Carter, Paul

Curve compensation with planters

Terraces or waterways are two of many field obstacles that make planting on a curve challenging. When planters utilize drive shafts, they are not able to control each individual row-unit; as a result, planting on a curve presents an issue of maintaining 100 percent population. Since the inside rows are moving slower than the outside rows, the inside rows will be overpopulated while the outside rows are underpopulated.

With ExactEmerge™ planters and equipped MaxEmerge™ 5e planters, the curve compensation feature allows each row to receive an individual signal based on the speed at which the row-unit is moving, maintaining the correct population across the width of the planter. Without curve compensation, there could be as much as a 24 percent drop in population accuracy, which is equivalent to 8,600 seeds per acre when planting at 36,000 seeds per acre. Curve compensation measures acceleration within the main planter controller and utilizes speed inputs to ensure each row has the desired population accuracy.

Crop yields have increased through the years along with the amount of residue left in the field after harvest. At the same time, tillage practices have changed, including different tillage operations which maintain large amounts of surface residue, and even no-till practices. Row cleaners are an essential tool in managing this increased amount of residue.

John Deere seeding group offers a variety of row cleaner options to meet the needs of a producer's operation. Compatibility varies by model, row spacing, and other planter equipment.

Screw-adjust, unit-mounted row cleaner

Screw-adjust, unit-mounted row cleaner

The screw-adjust, unit-mounted row cleaner is mounted directly to the face plate of the row-unit, placing the ground engaging components just in front of the row-unit opener blades and depth gauge wheels. This close proximity allows the gauge wheels to control the depth of the row cleaner as well as the row-unit. This compact design also allows greater compatibility with fertilizer openers and other planter attachments.

SharkTooth® wheels are standard equipment on the unit-mounted row cleaner. The swept-tooth design of the wheel provides a clear path for the row-unit openers while resisting residue buildup on the wheel. The screw adjustment knob is accessible through the top of the parallel arms, providing convenient access for adjustments. The row cleaner can be adjusted in 1.6-mm (1/16-in.) increments, providing plenty of flexibility to meet the needs of changing conditions.

Floating row cleaner with unit-mounted coulter

Floating row cleaner with unit-mounted coulter

The floating row cleaner allows a row cleaner to be used in conjunction with a unit-mounted coulter. This combination is often desired in heavy residue loads and reduced tillage planting conditions. The row cleaner provides a clear path for the row-unit, while the unit-mounted coulter helps penetrate tough soil conditions.

Accommodating the unit-mounted coulter means the residue wheels are farther forward from the row-unit face plate than in the case of the screw-adjust row cleaner. To maintain performance, this row cleaner has the capability to float above a defined minimum depth.

Standard depth-gauging bands on the wheels allow the row cleaner wheels to float independently of the row-unit openers, allowing both to perform in varying terrain. The unit may also be set in a fixed position by simply pinning through the bracket if desired. This row cleaner also features SharkTooth wheels as standard equipment.

The floating row cleaner and unit-mounted coulters are available on many planters as factory-installed equipment.

NOTE: Screw-adjust row cleaners are not compatible with MaxEmerge™ 5e row-units with long parallel arms.

NOTE: DB models have the option for either unit-mounted coulter, screw-adjust row cleaners, or pneumatic row cleaners (only compatible with MaxEmerge 5e or equipped ExactEmerge™ models). The DB60T is only available with a less row cleaner option.

SharkTooth is a trademark of Yetter Manufacturing, Inc.

Drawbar hitch

A factory-installed, optional drawbar hitch is available for use with 1775NT 16- and 24-Row, 1775NT Central Commodity System (CCS™) 16- and 24-Row, and 12.2-m (40-ft) 1795 Planters. For all DB models the drawbar hitch is in base. All DB models are available with Category 5 drawbar hitch. The following DB models are not available with Category 4 drawbar hitch: DB80 48R20, DB88 48R22, DB90 36R30, DB90 54R20, and DB120 48R30.

The planter drawbar hitch provides easy operation with plenty of ground clearance. The hitch design utilizes a hydraulic cylinder to raise the planter hitch for transport. Hydraulic oil for the hitch cylinder on 1775NT and 1795 Planters comes from the row marker system. Activation of this cylinder is accomplished using a single switch on the display and the marker selective control valve (SCV).

Due to the hydraulic system design, the drawbar hitch requires the planter be equipped with independent markers (not tied to planter lift circuit). Removal of markers from all planters, except the 1775NT 24Row30, makes the drawbar hitch inoperable. The 1775NT 24Row30 is the only planter where the drawbar hitch, less markers, is a valid combination.

For planting on 38.1-cm (15-in.) row spacing with a 16/32-Row 1795 Planter, the drawbar needs to be offset 19-cm (7.5-in.) on the tractor to center the planting rows behind the tractor. When the 16/32 1795 has a drawbar hitch, operators may not be able to offset the hitch to the exact specifications of 19-cm (7.5-in.) when planting in 38.1-cm (15-in.) operation, and could be off as much as a 1.3-cm (0.5-in.). To compensate, additional adjustments to the marker will be necessary.

When using a guidance system such as parallel tracking or AutoTrac™ assisted steering system, operators will need to use their implement offset when planting with all rows on 1795 Planters equipped with the drawbar hitch to compensate for the offset.

The drawbar hitch is ideal for those who have 9000 Series Tractors without a 3-point hitch. For these, the planter drawbar hitch is the economical choice instead of adding a 3-point hitch.

To accept the planter drawbar hitch, the tractor drawbar must be ordered with, or upgraded to, a Category 4 drawbar with the heavy-duty package or Category 5 to be compatible. Track tractors with wide-swinging drawbars are not compatible with the planter drawbar hitch due to a lower hitch-load capacity.

Each 1795 or 1775NT Planter ordered with the drawbar hitch will be shipped with a Category 4 hitch link installed. A Category 5 hitch link is also shipped with the planter if the planter is to be used with a Category 5 drawbar. See pre-delivery instructions included with the planter for changeover information.

Compatibility:

• Category 5 implement hitch links are not compatible with Category 4 tractor drawbars.
• Category 5 tractor drawbars are not compatible with Category 4 implement hitch links.

This hitch also adds 0.6-m (2-ft) to planter length during transport and field operation. There are some combinations of planter options that are not compatible with the drawbar hitch option due to tractor drawbar limitations.

Option code 2625 – Liquid fertilizer with row-unit mounted in-furrow applicator:

• This option contains a ground driven pump, plumbing to a manifold, and routing to each row-unit. The in-furrow applicator places fertilizer after the seed and before the closing wheels.

The DB60 24Row Split 47 Planter and DB60 24Row Split 48 Planter applies fertilizer on 76.2-cm (30-in.) row spacing only.

CCS

CCS seed delivery adds productivity through increased seed capacity, bulk fill capability, and easy, thorough cleanout.

The two tanks have a combined capacity of 2466.7 L (70 bu) on 9.1-m (30-ft) planters and 3523.9 L (100 bu) on 12.2-m (40-ft) and larger planters. CCS tanks are manufactured using a rotomolded, polyethylene design to ensure maximum durability. The translucent tanks allow easily viewing the amount of seed in the tanks. The tanks are separated by 54.6 cm (21.5 in.) for enhanced rear visibility during transport and backing.

The following crops can be planted with CCS: corn, sweet corn, popcorn, cotton, sunflowers, sugar beets, soybeans, and sorghum (milo).

Filling the tanks is convenient due to a central filling location. The staircase and railing provide access to the filling platform between the tanks. If filling the tanks with an auger, minimum recommendations are a 15.2-cm (6-in.) diameter, 4.3-m (14-ft) auger. Each tank has an adjustable bin-level sensor to alert the operator when it is time to fill.

A standard fill light package is available on machines equipped with CCS. This feature includes two lights conveniently mounted on the railings of the machine. The lights are turned on and off with their own switch located at the bottom of the staircase.

If the seed-carrying vehicle requires hydraulic power to run the unloading system, the auxiliary hydraulic coupler option is available. These couplers are located at the bottom of the staircase and can be coupled under pressure. The system has a separate system filter that ensures the planter hydraulic system remains free of contaminates.

Seed delivery process

CCS is about reducing the time spent filling the planter with seed while maximizing the time spent planting. CCS for planters is a form of seed handling and delivery. The row-units perform the final task of seed metering and placement.

The CCS seed delivery process relies on a hydraulically driven fan to move seed from the CCS tanks to the row-unit hoppers. A flow control valve and gauge, located near the tank, allows for the proper tank pressure setting based on seed type. For normal operation, the CCS functions of fan and agitator control, as well as bin level sensing alerts, are controlled by status of the height switch. The CCS functions are enabled when the machine is lowered and disabled when the machine is raised. In addition, the CCS functions can be engaged for CCS hose cleanout using the switch on the back of the planter when oil flow is present. On models with software-based CCS control, CCS functions can be enabled or disabled through software interface in the cab as well as the switch on the back of the planter.

Air from the fan pressurizes the CCS tanks and delivers seed to the seed hoppers. Airflow enters the seed tanks through a nozzle in the manifold which pressurizes the tank. The air then picks up seed and moves it out the other end of the nozzle into seed delivery hoses. These hoses route the seed toward the hopper. A small amount of seed is traveling in the delivery hoses only when needed.

The hopper fills with seed until the delivery hose (discharge elbow) is covered. Once the opening is restricted, seed flow through the hose stops. Air flowing to the row-unit travels into the hopper and is the source of air for the vacuum system. This provides a much cleaner air source than previous meter designs. As the seed is picked up by the meter and planted, the seed pool shrinks until the end of the delivery hose is uncovered. At that time, the airflow and seed delivery resume and the seed pool in the hopper is replenished.

CCS tank scales for DB Planter models

The CCS tank scales for DB models are a stand-alone system from Digi-Star®. Load cells are installed at the factory and can be ordered for CCS or CCS with Refuge Plus.

There are three load cells, two at the rear of the CCS cradle and one at the front. They weigh both tanks as one; individual tank weights cannot be determined. 

The load cells and display are made by Digi-Star. They are not on the controller aread network (CAN) bus system so they are not integrated into SeedStar™ software in any way. The monitor is sold separately through Digi-Star.

CCS seed cleanout

Seed cleanout could not be much easier with a CCS planter. When finished planting, any remaining seed can simply be removed via access doors at the bottom of the CCS tank.

Because seed is only traveling through the CCS delivery hoses when required by the meter, there is not much left to clean.

CCS seed delivery hoses are then purged with air from the CCS fan, and the excess seed is pushed to the individual meters. The vacuum meter door is opened and seed is removed with the supplied catch pan. 

Small seed CCS components

Manifold nozzle and nozzle with cover installed

Straight seed inlet installed in mini-hopper

CCS seed delivery system increases planting productivity across the seven approved crops listed above. While highly effective delivering seed from the CCS tanks to the vacuum meters, small or light seeds (sorghum and small cotton) will require two additional components to aid in proper seed delivery. 

Manifold nozzle covers (clips) should be installed to ensure seed is adequately picked up into the air stream for delivery to the row-unit. Mini-hopper discharge elbows should also be changed from the standard elbow (holes) to the small seed elbow (slotted openings) when planting sorghum (milo) and small cotton. 

Digi-Star is a trademark of Digi-Star LLC.