A new generation of StarFire GPS receiver is here! John Deere has introduced the new StarFire 7000 which will include an integrated factory-installed model, as well as a universal option like previous generations. SF7000 integrated receivers are coming factory installed on ’23 model X-series combines as well as Sprayers and will begin production on 8R Tractors for MY24. Previous model years that came with integrated SF6000’s will be retrofittable to the new integrated SF7000 receiver. The SF7000 will use the same mounting brackets as the SF6000. As for the universal line, John Deere has now ceased production of the universal SF6000 models and the new 7000’s are available for order today. We anticipate these new orders to ship sometime after the spring season.

Features

• RTK-like accuracy – 2.5 cm pass to pass repeatability.
• SF-RTK achieves 75% faster pull-in times, compared to SF3 signal.
• Guaranteed 5-year repeatability, season to season.
• Drop-in replacement for StarFire 6000 receiver

With the SF7000 we still have the option of SF1 or RTK signal as we have had in the past, however we have introduced a new correction level called SF-RTK as well. SF-RTK has 1 inch pass to pass accuracy with season-to-season repeatability of 5 years. This is achieved without the use of an RTK Radio as compared to traditional RTK. What improves SF-RTK of accuracy is the ability to track 4 different satellite constellations. These include BeiDou, Galileo, GPS, and Glonass. This is twice as many satellites as the SF6000 which will lead to increased accuracy in shaded or obstructed areas and up to 75% faster pull-in time compared to SF3. 

While SF-RTK may be a great option for some, it does not replace traditional radio based RTK. Any guidance lines or boundaries created with radio based RTK will not be compatible with SF-RTK at this time and would therefore need to be redone if you wanted to make the switch. In this scenario our RTK users have the option to continue to use radio based RTK and maintain their current level of success. 450mhz rtk radios, and RTK-ready activations can easily be transferred from previous models to SF7000’s for those wishing to upgrade. SF-RTK is also not recommended for any application requiring precise vertical accuracy like drainage and land-leveling, or applications which require greater than 5 years of repeatability. With this, Sloan implement will continue to maintain our RTK base station network for the foreseeable future.

Lastly, the StarFire 7000 Universal Receiver has more than 20 parts that are completely serviceable. In the unlikely event that there is a problem with the system, many of the individual components can be replaced without replacing everything or sending the unit in to reman repair for extended periods. This saves you time and money that can be used in other areas of your operation.

For any questions you might have regarding the StarFire and switching over, contact your local Sloan Implement AMS Support team.