Trimble Introduces Implement Steering for the AgGPS Autopilot RTK System

MOULTRIE, Georgia, Oct. 17, 2006—Trimble (NASDAQ: TRMB) today introduced its new AgGPS® Implement Steering system for keeping implements pulled by tractors using the Trimble RTK Autopilot™ automated steering systems on the same repeatable path, even on extremely sloped fields.

The announcement was made at the Sunbelt Farm Expo.

The system includes its own implement-mounted GPS receiver and T3 roll-compensated control system. A single display in the tractor communicates desired path information to the implement, instantly adjusting the steerable coulters. This information instructs the implement to directly follow in the path of the tractor.

"By solving the problem of side draft, the new AgGPS Implement Steering system allows growers with RTK-corrected AgGPS Autopilot systems to steer their implements with the same repeatable accuracy as their tractors. This includes operations with high-value crops on level ground or crops planted on slopes," said Erik Arvesen, general manager, Trimble Agriculture Division.

The new AgGPS Implement Steering design includes components of the Tracker IV implement guidance system from Orthman Manufacturing Incorporated of Lexington, Nebraska. "Combining the precision and durability of the Tracker IV with Trimbles leadership in GPS positioning results in the agriculture industrys most advanced implement guidance system," said John McCoy, Orthman president.

Growers Don and Jim Rogers of Wray, Colo., have used Trimbles AgGPS Autopilot automated steering system with RTK correction for two years. They tested the new AgGPS Implement Steering system this fall with a 30-foot drill on steep, sandy slopes. "This implement steering system completes a package that is unmatched by anything we have seen or heard about before. From what weve experienced, it can enhance implement performance to produce almost perfectly repeatable guess rows on some seriously bad slopes," said Don Rogers

Draft Problem Common

Variable soils, compaction zones, slopes and other factors often cause planters, seeders and tillage tools to swing from several inches to several feet either side of a tractors path across a field. Such random but severe side draft can make later field operations that need sub-inch repeatability impossible. In addition, side draft causes costly wear and tear on implements and tractors.

The AgGPS Implement Steering system is expected to be available in December 2006 from Trimble resellers. For more information, including the location of your nearest Trimble reseller, call 1-800-865-7438 or visit www.trimble.com.