Datatronic 5
Massey Ferguson finally shows a new terminal
In recent years, Massey Ferguson has made considerable improvements to its tractor series. The Datatronic terminal also looks dated. Especially when you look at the offer of the competition. Hopefully that will change soon. In America, MF showed a new generation of terminals in the renewed 8700 series.
There is nothing wrong with the current Datatronic 4 terminal. However, because the screen is quite small by today's standards, it's hard to find all the functions. He doesn't have a touchscreen. Everything is done with rotary and push buttons on the side. It is a common complaint from users. With a little luck, that will soon change. In 1986, MF launched the 'thinking tractor' with an on-board computer. It was able to enjoy the technological lead for a decade. Then it fell behind.
During the National Farm Machinery Show in Louisville, Kentucky, the brand showed the renewed 8700 series. The largest wheel tractor that the brand builds. In the cabin, which has been modified in details, you will find a new terminal: the Datatronic 5. There is a good chance that we will also encounter it in Europe. The Sima seems like an ideal moment. And hopefully the screen will come soon on the smaller models.
We can call the screen a significant step forward. The rotary knob on the side remained. In addition, there are four push buttons. The touchscreen measures 9 inches in diameter. Converted 22,5 centimeters. A significant improvement over the current model. He still has a long way to go compared to the competition. Those from Case IH and New Holland measure 7 or 10,5 inches. At Fendt it is 7 or 10,4 inches and the latest John Deere terminal also comes out at a maximum of 10 inches. The terminal from MF has 4 GB of memory and 1 GB of RAM. One camera image can be shown on it. Furthermore, the screen is equipped with four CAN ports, one USB port, an Ethernet port and Bluetooth. You can arrange the different menus according to your own wishes.
The screen can be used with a large number of machines. Isobus is not mentioned in the press release, but it is likely that this is over. By default, the system is prepared for section control and wireless data exchange from MF itself. For integrated GPS control, you can opt for a Trimble or Novatel antenna. This is special, since Agco mainly does business with Topcon. Especially at MF. Perhaps this is different in Europe.
The new terminal does not bring shocking news, but is a welcome innovation for MF drivers. Especially when it becomes available on the smaller models. Photos floating around the internet also show a revamped S-series from Valtra. MF's Agco colleague brand. You will find exactly the same screen in the armrest. Also at MF, the screen is now incorporated in the armrest and no longer on a bracket next to the door on the right.
Innovations to the trigger itself, apart from the screen, are minimal. LED work lights all around, operation of the hitch on the fender, built-in tool box, coffee cup holder and a lockable Adblue cap. As mentioned, Valtra also comes with an adaptation of their series, which is based on the same frame. Any more news for the Sima?
Niels van der Boom
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