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Yield Monitor Calibration
Ron Meyer, Area
Extension Agent - Golden Plains Area
Date: 9/29/2011
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Combine yield monitors are
an excellent tool to help determine grain yields while harvesting. However,
proper calibration is required to help maximize their effectiveness and
information provided.
To record yield with accuracy, yield monitors
require careful calibration. The calibration process should begin with a review
of the operators manual on how to properly calibrate all aspects of the yield
monitor system. If a certified scale is not available, acquire a calibrated
weigh wagon to assist in the calibration process.
Before going to the
field, search the web or contact the yield monitor manufacturer for any
software upgrades. Satellite subscriptions should be reviewed to guard against
expiration during harvest and the satellite signal and monitor should be
providing the proper differential correction. The memory card should be
operating properly and any existing data should be saved to another location,
preferably an office computer. Examine measuring devices on the combine to find
wear, loose connections, or missing parts that require
replacement.
Header stop height switches should be checked for proper
operation and adjusted accordingly. Input information for proper row width and
number of rows or platform width should be checked. The combine ground speed
indicator should be observed for proper calibration by operating the combine in
near-field conditions (non-road). The combine grain separator should be engaged
to observe for irregularities in the elevator speed indicator.
Combines
should be at field temperatures and in direct sunlight for calibrating
temperatures. Air temperature readings should be collected near the moisture
sensor.
To calibrate for moisture content, a representative sample of
each grain type should be collected and measured on a properly-adjusted
moisture tester. For the load calibration process, a representative sample from
a uniform crop area should be harvested. This is where the weigh wagon can be
used to check for load weight calibration. After calibrating in uniform areas,
move to non-uniform areas, such as hill sides, and harvest a sample as the flow
rate will likely be different. Again, check the load with a weigh
wagon.
Test weight should be checked on each type of grain such as white
corn, yellow corn, and high-oil corn.
Proper calibration should be
continually checked throughout harvest and adjusted accordingly. If combine
parts are replaced or become worn, recalibration may be necessary.
Recalibration should occur if: 1) there is more than a five percent error
difference, 2) there is a temperature change of 10 degrees or more, or 3) there
is a five pound per bushel difference in test weight.
Data should be
frequently downloaded to another memory card or computer to help guard against
lost data. With proper calibration and periodic system checks, combine yield
monitors will provide accurate and instant yield results from each field on
your farm.
Source: Watermeier, N. Yield monitor calibration tips:
Making the most from your data. ANR-8-04. Fact Sheet. The Ohio State University
Extension. http://ohioline.osu.edu
(verified 8/22/11) Growing Knowledge, issue 1110, Monsanto Agronomy
Center.