Manual N-Sensor (English)

N-Sensor
Page 1
Operation Manual
for the
N-Sensor
N-Sensor (RNS.EXE)
Version 3.00
Terminal (FO-200.UPD)
Version 3.20 LBS
CardWriter
Version 3.10
Contact address:
YARA GmbH & Co. KG
Research Centre for Plant Nutrition, Hanninghof
Hanninghof 35
D-48249 Dlmen
Germany
Edition: 22 Dezember 2004
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
Page 2
Table of contents
1.
PREFACE..................................................................................................................5
1.1.
Declaration of conformity...................................................................................................... 6
2.
SAFETY.....................................................................................................................7
2.1.
General ................................................................................................................................ 8
2.2.
Contractual use.................................................................................................................... 8
2.3.
Conversions and modifications ............................................................................................ 9
2.4.
Requirements to the personnel ............................................................................................ 9
2.5.
Explanation of safety notes ................................................................................................ 10
2.6.
Safety notes to be observed............................................................................................... 11
2.7.
Alarm and warning notices in the menu to be observed ..................................................... 13
3.
TECHNICAL DATA .................................................................................................17
2.5.1.
2.5.2.
Safety notes in the operation manual ............................................................................................................... 10

Alarm and warning notices in the menu............................................................................................................ 10
3.1.
System components........................................................................................................... 17
4.
SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION .................................................................................19
4.1.
Function ............................................................................................................................. 19
4.2.
System requirements ......................................................................................................... 19
4.3.
Measurement ..................................................................................................................... 20
4.4.
Light limit values ................................................................................................................ 21
4.5.
Spreader control ................................................................................................................ 22
4.6.
Data logging and data transfer ........................................................................................... 23
5.
INSTALLATION.......................................................................................................24
5.1.
Overview............................................................................................................................ 24
5.2.
Installation on the tractor .................................................................................................... 25
6.
START-UP...............................................................................................................27
6.1.
Software Activation ............................................................................................................ 27
6.2.
Radiometric calibration....................................................................................................... 27
7.
OPERATION............................................................................................................29
7.1.
Operating elements............................................................................................................ 29
3.1.1.
3.1.2.
3.1.3.
Included in the scope of supply ......................................................................................................................... 17

Following components are required (not part of the N-Sensor) ...................................................................... 17
Equipment options ............................................................................................................................................. 17
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Page 3
7.2.
Work (1) screen ................................................................................................................. 34
7.3.
Work (2) screen ................................................................................................................. 36
7.4.
System Setup (1) screen.................................................................................................... 37
7.5.
System Setup (2) screen.................................................................................................... 40
7.6.
Tasks screen...................................................................................................................... 42
7.7.
System data screen ........................................................................................................... 44
7.8.
Map screen ........................................................................................................................ 48
7.9.
Alarms and warnings.......................................................................................................... 50
7.10.
Operation modes ............................................................................................................ 55
8.
STANDARD PROCEDURE .....................................................................................57
8.1.
Switching on....................................................................................................................... 57
8.2.
Working procedure on the field .......................................................................................... 58
8.3.
Work start .......................................................................................................................... 59
8.4.
Agronomic calibration......................................................................................................... 61
8.5.
Fertiliser application ........................................................................................................... 66
8.6.
Work finish ......................................................................................................................... 66
8.7.
Downloading the task files.................................................................................................. 66
9.
MAINTENANCE ......................................................................................................67
10.
PROCESSING OF TASK DATA WITH CARDWRITER ..........................................68
8.4.1.
8.4.2.
8.4.3.
Input of agronomic parameters ......................................................................................................................... 61

Calibration at reference plot .............................................................................................................................. 64
Data storage at agronomic calibration .............................................................................................................. 66
10.1.
Installation of CardWriter ................................................................................................ 68
10.2.
Working with CardWriter................................................................................................. 68
10.3.
Downloading task files .................................................................................................... 72
10.4.
Further processing of task data using Sensor Office....................................................... 72
10.5.
Preparation of the data card with field information .......................................................... 74
10.6.
Working with raster files (backed-up maps) .................................................................... 76
10.7.
Offset maps .................................................................................................................... 78
11.
WORKING WITH RASTER MAPS (SHORT OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS) ........80
11.1.
How to work with raster maps produced with Sensor Office ........................................... 80
11.2.
How to work with raster maps produced with NPK-Online .............................................. 83
11.1.1.
11.1.2.
11.1.3.
11.1.4.
11.2.1.
11.2.2.
11.2.3.
Data conversion with Sensor Office.................................................................................................................. 80

Link the RST-file to the log file with CardWriter................................................................................................ 81
What to do on the N-Sensor Terminal? ............................................................................................................ 82
How to control where you are............................................................................................................................ 82
Data conversion with NPK-Online..................................................................................................................... 83
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
11.2.4.
11.3.
11.3.1.
11.3.2.
11.3.3.
11.3.4.
11.3.5.
Page 4
How to use raster maps as offset maps.......................................................................... 86
Preparation of offset maps in your own GIS..................................................................................................... 86

Data conversion with Sensor Office.................................................................................................................. 86
APPENDIX ........................................................................................................................89
Operation Manual
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Page 5
1. Preface
The N-Sensor has the objective to optimise the use of fertiliser
and to increase the production. However, Yara cannot guarantee neither a fertiliser optimisation nor a production increase. If
the given objectives cannot be obtained, no claims for compensation can be derived from this.
We carefully select the materials and components used in the
production process of the N-Sensor. Therefore, we cannot accept any liability for any damages to N-Sensors and other objects of legal protection caused by the use of accessories and
spare parts not delivered by Yara. Neither can Yara take over
any liability for improper use and application of the N-Sensor,
for any procedures not described in the installation and adjustment manual or the operation manual.
We have a policy of constant product improvement and reserve
the right to discontinue or to modify product specifications,
models or designs without previous notice.
This manual describes the utilisation, handling and the application of the N-Sensor. Apart from the general operation procedures, the agronomic calibration in the field, the work with the
N-Sensor as well as the storage of working data, are described
in this manual. Thus, this manual is directed to the user.
The utilisation of the N-Sensor requires a specialised and
proper installation of the N-Sensor on a tractor equipped with
fertiliser spreader and spreader controller.
A proper and trouble-free operation of the N-Sensor is only
possible if the installation was carried through by trained personnel of the distribution partner or the manufacturer.
Yara
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
1.1.
Page 6
Declaration of conformity
CE DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
(According to the EEC guideline 89/392)
The company
Yara GmbH & Co. KG
Hanninghof 35
D-48249 Dlmen
Tel:
Fax:
(0 25 94) 79 80
(0 25 94) 74 55
hereby declares that their N-Sensor systems correspond to the

working protection requirements of the EEC guideline 89/392
and to the modifications of this.
Due to the lack of a harmonised EEC standard, an independent
hazard evaluation was performed, and the standards of the
relevant countries were applied.
Signed
YARA GmbH & Co. KG
Date:
Jan. 26th, 2001
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Page 7
2. Safety
A proper utilisation and a trouble-free operation are only possible in case of a competent and specialised installation. A faulty
installation, or an installation not corresponding to this manual,
any system modifications, as well as the use of accessories and
spare parts not delivered by Yara, can lead to malfunctions and
cause damages to the N-Sensor as well as personal and property damage; Yara does not take over any liability for these
damages.
Work very careful in the proximity of watercourses, ponds,
drainage channels, buildings, gardens or sensible economically
used plants. Consider the wind speed and the wind direction as
well as the possible windward drift. Never stop a completely or
partially loaded machine in the proximity of a water course.
Agrochemicals must be stored in a safe building.
The N-Sensor system is certified according to ISO 14982-2 for

agricultural machines.
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
2.1.
Page 8
General
The concept N-Sensor is only valid for the components installed
by Yara GmbH & Co. KG according to the scope of supply described in the section 3 (Technical Data). For any components
or parts necessary for the operation of the N-Sensor installed
by the operator or by other manufacturers, the operator must
have perform the measures necessary for safety.
The N-Sensor is designed to the state of the art, according to
the valid regulations and to rules of technology.
Nevertheless, there are dangers to persons and properties,
which can be caused by the N-Sensor, if:
if is not applied as to the intended use,
if it is used by untrained staff
if it is not maintained regularly according to the maintenance

instructions
if it is improperly modified or reconstructed
if the safety notes are not observed.
Thus, any person responsible for the operation, must read and
observe the safety regulations. This has to be assured by the
operator of the N-Sensor for every single case.
Furthermore, the operator must assure that all safety regulations for add-on parts or peripheral parts, which do not belong
to the N-Sensor, are known to the persons responsible for the
operation.
Furthermore, the following is valid:
2.2.
Relevant safety regulations
Generally known rules for work safety.
Contractual use
The N-Sensor system, described in the present manual, exclusively serves for the regulation of the spreader, or the field
sprayer with controller, respectively, for the variable dispersion
of nitrogen fertiliser.
All components must only be used within the intended purpose
for the N-Sensor.
Any other use is regarded as not contractual.
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
2.3.
Page 9
Conversions and modifications

Arbitrary modifications at the N-Sensor are not allowed due to
safety reasons.
A non-observance of this results in a loss of any warranty
claims and may lead to unpredictable dangers for persons or
properties.
Furthermore, with any arbitrary modifications of or complements
to the N-Sensor, the CE declaration of conformity becomes invalid.
In case of repair procedures, only original parts of the manufacturer may be used for the exchange of constructive parts and
wear parts.
2.4. Requirements to the personnel

The operation of the N-Sensor can be carried through by
trained and instructed staff of the operator.
The repair of the N-Sensor is carried through by authorised
staff from Yara and its contracting partners.
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
2.5.
Page 10
Explanation of safety notes
2.5.1.
Safety notes in the operation manual
DANGER
Passages marked with this sign point to possible personal hazards.
CAUTION
Passages marked with this sign point to a possible hazard to
the N-Sensor or to parts of the N-Sensor.
2.5.2.
Alarm and warning notices in the menu
ALARM
A malfunction has occurred and is displayed.
It is not possible to proceed the work, or only with uniform application rate.
355-e-013
WARNING
A malfunction has occurred and is displayed.
Work can be proceeded.
355-e-022
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N-Sensor
2.6.
Page 11
Safety notes to be observed

In the following you will find a list of safety notes to be observed
for the operation of the N-Sensor.
DANGER
Caution when passing below bridges and trees, danger of damages.
CAUTION
Accordingly trained staff of Yara and its contracting partners
should only perform the installation described here.
CAUTION
The tractor roof mounting set is only designed for mounting the
system to the tractors specified in section 3 (Technical Data).
Mounting to other tractors will be at your own risk.
CAUTION
The fixing of the system to the roof of the drivers cabin must be
performed exactly according to the instructions of this manual.
In case of faulty installation, or in case of using spare parts or
accessories, which are not a part of the system, Yara cannot
take over any liabilities for any arising damages.
CAUTION
should only perform the initial start-up.
CAUTION
Perform software updates only on explicit order and under instruction of your contracting partner for the N-Sensor.
CAUTION
Before starting the fertilisation with the N-Sensor, agronomic
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Page 12
calibration must have been carried through.

CAUTION
Accordingly trained personnel of the contracting partner or of
the manufacturer must only perform the radiometric calibration.
The utilities used for this must be acquired from the manufacturer or from the contracting partner.
CAUTION
For radiometric calibration, the sun must be at an angle of min.
30 above the horizon.
CAUTION
During calibration, do never enter an estimated value or an
average value for the entire field, if the calibration was performed on a very small surface or only on a point. This could
lead to a variable nitrogen fertilisation on a wrong nitrogen level.
CAUTION
For data storage, only data cards recommended by the manufacturer of the N-Sensor should be used. These have an extended temperature range. Yara does not take over any responsibilities for data loss.
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
2.7.
Page 13
Alarm and warning notices in the menu to be observed

In the following you will find a list of alarm and warning notes to
be observed for the operation of the N-Sensor.
ALARM
The overall light intensity is too low for the N-Sensor operation.
The system changes over to a uniform application rate.
355-e-013
ALARM
The light intensity of at least one sensor is too high for the NSensor operation. The system changes over to a uniform application rate. This alarm should not occur under normal conditions of operation.
355-e-020
ALARM
Alarm is displayed if one spectrometer (either reflectance or
irradiance) does not receive any signal.
Typically, the visors are down or the irradiance sensor is covered.
Could also indicate that a light fibre is broken.
355-e-020-b
(If the overall light level is too low, the not enough light alarm
will be displayed instead.)
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Page 14
ALARM
The system changed over to uniform application rate due to a
hardware failure. Contact your Yara contracting partner.
355-e-021
WARNING
The solar elevation is too low for N-Sensor operation. The system still works but accuracy decreases.
355-e-022
WARNING
This warning only appears if the selected spreader controller
expects a feedback about the actually applied product quantity
(bi-directional serial connection).
355-e-019-a
WARNING
Appears if a growth stage and a crop type is entered where it
makes no sense to apply fertiliser with the N-Sensor:
355-e-019-b
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Page 15
WARNING
This warning appears after the termination of the calibration in
the reference plot, if the Biomass Cutoff under AgroCal is
greater than the average sensor value S2 (biomass indicator) in
the reference plot.
355-e-023
WARNING
Remark will be shown if the protein quality calibration is selected (only cereals
EC 59...69), because this is significantly different to the usual calibration.
355-e-023a
ALARM
Possible causes:
The N-Sensor does not work (software or hardware failure).
The plug-in connection between terminal and N-Sensor is interrupted, or the contacts are dirty.
355-e-024
ALARM
Causes:
The N-Sensor is still booting (takes approx. max. 20 seconds)
The N-Sensor does not work (interruption of power supply,
software or hardware failure).
The plug-in connection between terminal and the N-Sensor is
interrupted or the contacts are dirty.
355-e-025
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Page 16
Three beeps
GPS signal loss
It is possible that the tractor is in an area with weak signal intensity. However, malfunctions of the DGPS system, or a satellite malfunction, are also possible. Two beeps indicate that the
signal is recognised once again.
WARNING
The cause for this warning may be one of the following malfunctions:
355-e-026
No data card in terminal. Insert a data card.
No task selected. Select a task (see section 8.3 (Work start))
The data card, or the used data file, is full. Check the content
of the data card with a computer. If necessary, insert an
empty card and select a new task.
WARNING
This warning appears if the N-Sensor starts a job, but the logfile on the data card, which is linked to the job, is missing.
Setuo Popup
WARNING
In the System Setup menu, many settings are essential for the
proper use of the N-Sensor. Modification might lead to malfunctions of the whole system.
Warning (S) data loggingdisabled
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Page 17
3. Technical Data
Minimum solar elevation
25
Power supply
12 V DC negative pole to mass

(electrical installation of tractor)
GPS
Data format:
NMEA-0183
Message category:
GGA 4800,8,N,1
or GGA 9600,8,N,1
Temperature limit values
Operating temperature:
0 to +50C
Storage temperature:
-30 to +50C
Visual geometry
Typical swath width: 14 to 18 m on

standard drivers cabin of tractor
Measuring frequency
1 to 4 seconds according to light

conditions
3.1.
System components
3.1.1.
Included in the scope of supply

Sensor box with connection cable
Mounting set for tractor roof (optional)
Tractor cable harness
Terminal with connection cable
Yara data card
CardWriter software
3.1.2.
Following components are required (not part of the N-Sensor)

Fertiliser
Spreader or field sprayer and controller, respectively, for variable application
(D)GPS receiver (optional)
PC with PCMCIA drive for data cards of the ATA Flash type
(optional)
Internet access (optional)
3.1.3.
Equipment options
The N-Sensor system is conceived for the application with following machines:
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N-Sensor
Page 18
Tractors
The fixing support for the sensor box of the N-Sensor system is
designed for mounting of the drivers cabin of following tractor
types:
Case
CS 78, 86, 94, 110, 120, 130, 150
Case
MX 110, 120, 135, 150, 170
* Deutz
Fahr Agrotron 80, 85, 90, 100, 105, 106, 110, 120, 135, 150,
160, 175, 200, 230, 260
Fendt
380 GTA Turbo
Fendt
Farmer 250S, 260S, 280S, 307S, 308S, 309S
* Fendt
Farmer Vario 409, 410, 411, 711, 712, 714, 716, 916, 920, 924,
926
Fendt
Favorit 916, 920, 924, 926
Fendt
XYLON 520, 522, 524
John Deere
New Holland
6510, 6610, 6810, 6910, 7610, 7710, 7810

M100, M115, M135, M160, 8160, 8260, 8360, 8560, G170,
G190, G210, G240, 8670, 8770, 8870, 8970
* Special adapters necessary (available as spare parts)
Controller for spreader application rate

The exact specifications can be asked for at the Yara contracting party. Generally, the N-Sensor can be used with
following controllers:
Bgballe Calibrator 2002, 2003
Dickey John Land Manager
Kverneland Ferticontrol RS-EDW
LH Agro LH5000, LH6000, Rauch Quantron L, Quantron P
Massey Fergusson Fieldstar (serial connection)
Micotron UniSat C3
Mller UniControl
Raven Industries Raven 660, 661
... and others
GPS receivers
The system can be operated with GPS and DGPS receivers.
The system can also be operated without GPS/DGPS receiver,
however, not all system functions are available in this case.
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Page 19
4. System Documentation
4.1.
Function
The N-Sensor system serves for the site-specific determination
of the nitrogen requirements of agricultural cultivated plants,
and for the simultaneous automatic control of a spreader (using
a spreader controller) with the objective of optimising the application of fertilisers in a site-specific way. If desired, the system
stores the working data, so that an application map can be created after the fertilisation.
4.2.
System requirements
The N-Sensor can generally be used as an independent measuring system for the determination of the site-specific nitrogen
requirements of cultivated plants. For the site-specific fertilisation with the N-Sensor, a spreader with corresponding spreader
controller is necessary, too. The spreader as well as the
spreader controller is not a part of the N-Sensor. Please contact
your N-Sensor contracting partner with respect to the requirements of the spreader and the spreader controller.
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
4.3.
Page 20
Measurement
355-e-004
At the left and at the right border of the sensor unit mounted on
the tractors roof, four sensors obliquely directed downwards
are mounted, capturing the ambient light reflected by the plants
on both sides of the tractor. The current chlorophyll content and
the biomass of the crop is determined from the spectral analysis
of the light; the optimal nitrogen amount to be applied is derived
from this measurement.
The ambient light sensor provides a signal, which is used for
the compensation of light intensity variations.
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N-Sensor
4.4.
Page 21
Light limit values
355-e-003
The system is conceived for an application in case of a solar

elevation of at least 25 above the horizon, and for light conditions within the limiting values.
In case of a solar elevation of less than 25 the system is operating, but with decreasing accuracy; a warning note will be displayed on the terminal. For the radiometric calibration, a solar
elevation of at least 30 must be given.
In case of lacking light intensity, a warning is displayed on the
terminal. In this case, the system continues to work with a uniform application rate.
355-e-013
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N-Sensor
4.5.
Page 22
Spreader control
355-e-002
The application rate calculated by the sensor unit is transferred

to the spreader controller in the drivers cabin. In order to take
into account the distance between the sensors and the
spreader, and the tractors speed, a time delay can be adjusted.
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N-Sensor
4.6.
Page 23
Data logging and data transfer
CAUTION
For data storage, only data cards recommended by the manufacturer of the N-Sensor should be used. These have an extended temperature range. Yara does not take over any responsibilities for data loss.
A task number can be assigned to each working unit (e.g. a fertilised field). The working data for this task will be stored on a
Yara data card inserted into the card slot at the terminal.
The data of up to 32 tasks can be stored on a single card. After
the end of the work, the data can be downloaded from the card
into a computer for further processing or for archiving.
If a GPS or DGPS receiver is integrated into the system, it is
possible to create a nitrogen application map with the data of
the task.
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Page 24
5. Installation
CAUTION
should only perform the installation described here.
5.1.
Overview
355-e-005
1
Sensor box
2
Bracket
3
Application rate controller
4
Bulkhead connector
5
Power supply cable
6
Cable to tractors starter switch
7
8
9
10
11
Tractor cable harness

Terminal
Swivel bracket
GPS receiver
Tie rod and turnbuckle
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5.2.
Page 25
Installation on the tractor
CAUTION
The tractor roof mounting set is only designed for mounting the
system to the tractors specified in section 3 (Technical Data).
Mounting to other tractors will be at your own risk.
355-e-005
1. Fix two brackets (2) to the tractor roof and secure them with
the clamps and nuts. The threads must be greased.
2. Fix the tie rod and turnbuckle (11) to the brackets and tension them with the tensioning screw.
3. Fix the sensor box (1) to the brackets; set the groove at the
bottom of the box onto the nuts. Tighten the nuts.
CAUTION
The fixing of the system to the roof of the drivers cabin must be
performed exactly according to the instructions of this manual.
In case of faulty installation, or in case of using spare parts or
accessories, which are not a part of the system, Yara cannot
take over any liabilities for any arising damages.
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N-Sensor
Page 26
355-e-005
Installation of tractor cable harness

Install the tractor cable harness (7) in the drivers cabin.
Installation of the terminal

Install the terminal (8) in the drivers cabin; i.e. fix it, preferably
with the provided swivel bracket (9), to a windshield column.
Realisation of connections
Realise the required connections, see figure.
The connection to the starter switch of the tractor should be effected in a way that the system is supplied with current when
the ignition is turned on. Preferably the system is plugged into a
free COBO-socket inside the tractors cabin.
CAUTION
The N-Sensor must be switched on and off with the ignition of
the tractor, with the switch on the cable harness or with a special switch provided by Yara or its N-Sensor service partners.
If in doubt, please contact your N-Sensor service partner.
If the power supply in not installed properly, the N-Sensor might
lose internal system data while shutting down after use. This
can lead to a breakdown of the N-Sensor system.
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Page 27
6. Start-Up
Before the first use of the N-Sensor, an initial start-up has to be
carried out. The initial start-up comprises of a Software Activation and a Radiometric Calibration.
CAUTION
should only perform the initial start-up.
6.1.
Software Activation
Before using software version 2.xx the first time, an 8-digit software release code must be entered once.
Codes are available at Yara.
Without the code, the system cannot be activated.
If a wrong code is entered, the N-Sensor will shut down and the
screen will display Data connection to job computer lost. To
enter the code again, the system must be switched off and on.
355-e-006b
This release code relates to the software version number and

the serial number of the N-Sensor. It must not be mixed up with
the license code entered in the System Setup (2) menu.
6.2.
Radiometric calibration
CAUTION
Accordingly trained personnel of the contracting partner or of
the manufacturer must only perform the radiometric calibration.
The utilities used for this must be acquired from the manufacturer or from the contracting partner.
Note:
Typically, the radiometric calibration is only necessary during the initial start-up.
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Page 28
Perform this measure subsequently after the installation of the

system, or after replacing one of the following components:
Sensor optics
Optical cables or plugs
Sensor processing unit in the sensor box
CAUTION
For radiometric calibration, the sun must be at an angle of min.
30 above the horizon.
The calibration is not affected by a partially or entirely clouded
sky.
Set up and calibrate the system according to the section 7
(Operation).
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Page 29
7. Operation
7.1.
Operating elements
Overview
355-e-001
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Page 30
Main menu
355-e-001-a
Select the desired option in the main menu by pressing the corresponding button. Following options are available:
Work
Display of the Work screen for fertiliser application (see also
section 7 (Operation)).
Setup
Opens the System Setup screen, where the initial adjustments
and the calibration are performed. described in the installation
and adjustment manual.
Task
Assignment of a task number, used for data logging, before
work start (see section 7.10 (Operation modes)).
System
Opens the screen System Data, which contains indications on
the terminal adjustments (e.g. language, buzzer and DGPS coordinates).
Map
Opens the screen Terminal Field Map. The field map is only
available if a raster map with field boundary has been stored to
the data card in advance.
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Page 31
Submenu
355-e-001-a
Select the desired option in the submenu by pressing the corresponding button. The options displayed depend on the selection
of options in the main menu.
Keys
355-e-001-b
Alphanumeric
key pad
For data input.
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Page 32
ESC key
Enter key
Press ESC in order to undo an entry error or in order to return

to the previous screen.
Storage of settings or selected values.
Keys (continued)
355-e-001-c
Not used in this application.
Arrow keys
Cursor movement
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Page 33
100% max key
START/STOP key
Resets the application rate to 100%, after the options -10% and
+10% have been selected.
Starts and stops the fertiliser application and the data logging
during work.
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N-Sensor
7.2.
Page 34
Work (1) screen

The actual N-Sensor fertilisation is performed in the screen
Work.
CAUTION
Before starting the fertilisation with the N-Sensor, agronomic
calibration must have been carried through.
Press the key Work in order to open the screen Work 1:
2
8
4
9
9
10
10
6
7
1 GPS symbol
All symbols
Shows symbol only if no GPS/DGPS.
2 Current application rate

3 Operating mode
options
4 Options +10%
and -10%
These options allow to increase or decrease the rate calculated

by the N-Sensor by the corresponding percentual change.
5 Next page
Go to next page and find screen Work 2.
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
Page 35
6 Symbol
STOP/Work
Shows whether the system works or has been stopped.

System works
System stopped (Symbol flashes)
When the license period has expired, a padlock symbol is displayed.

7 Display of the
selected manual adjustment
Displays the ratio of the selected application rate to the application rate calculated by the system.
Example: If the system calculates a rate of 50 kg/ha N, and
+10% is pressed, the system applies 55 kg/ha N, and the display shows 110%.
8 Light condition
Shows whether the light conditions are sufficient to work in the

Sensor-mode. If conditions are sufficient, no symbol is visible.
Low solar elevation
Solar elevation below 25 - decreased accuracy
Insufficient light
Light amount insufficient for work.

See section 7.9 (Alarms and warnings).
9 Low crop
Signalises a low crop density below the biomass cutoff value.

Simultaneously, the recommended N rate is decreased. In
extreme cases, the recommended rate is decreased down to
the adjusted Minimum Application Rate.
10 Raster map
Is displayed if the active task is linked to a raster card, and if

the GPS position is within the defined area.
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
7.3.
Page 36
Work (2) screen

There are 4 markers, which can be switched on and off individually and independently from each other by pressing the corresponding key on the terminal. Marker information is written to
the N-Sensor data file. Marked areas can later be displayed on
the maps generated with Sensor Office.
The user can assign individual field properties to the markers,
like wet areas, problem zones or disease occurrence. If the
markers are used accordingly when fertilizing the field, this information may add additional value to the N-Sensor maps afterwards.
355-e-007
Previous page
Select Previous page to go back to Work 1.
1 Set Marker
Set Mark 1, 2, 3 or 4 to set a marker to your field data. You

can set up to 4 markers simultaneously. In your log-file, data
will be marked with this marker information until the marker is
disabled.
2 Marker enabled
Indicates that a marker is enabled. No symbol is displayed, if

marker is disabled.
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
7.4.
Page 37
System Setup (1) screen

Select Setup in the main menu. The mask Agronomic calibration appears. The agronomic calibration will be explained in
section 8.4.1 (Input of agronomic parameters).
355-e-014a
Status
Gives information on software version, sensor serial number,
operating hours of N-Sensor and N-Sensor with spreader operation, integration time (Tint), intensity of reflected light (Refl),
intensity of global radiation (Global), sensor values S1, S2, date
and UTC time.
355-e-011c
Back
Back to Agronomic Calibration
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
Page 38
System Setup
355-e-011a
Back
Back to Agronomic Calibration.
Type +/Type
Adjustment of controller type.
Press repeatedly on the keys Type + or Type -, until the correct
controller type is displayed.
Units
Selection of the unit of measurement, either metric or English.
Next page
This function leads to the screen System Setup (2)

On the System Setup (1) page the following parameters are
described:
Latitude and longitude

The approximate geographical latitude and longitude must be
entered. This information is necessary for calculating the solar
elevation. If a GPS or DGPS is connected to the N-Sensor terminal, these values will be updates automatically by the current
position data.
Move the cursor to the entry Latitude with the arrow down
key and enter the value.
Note:
If a GPS is installed, the degrees of latitude and longitude will
be displayed in the System Data screen and can be taken from
there.
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
Page 39
Normal Speed
Enter the normal working speed in
the line Normal Speed.
Signal delay
You can calculate this time delay as follows:
A = Distance between sensor box and the
centre of fertiliser application. The
centre of fertiliser application depends
on the working width of the spreader
see manufacturers notes.
B = normal (tractor) speed (m/s)
C = Time constant of the spreader (s) - see
manufacturers notes
X=
A
B
- C 0.5* (s)
* 0.5 s is half of the data logging time of

the N-Sensor system.
More information about the signal delay can be found in the
Appendix.
Working width
Enter the working width in (m).
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
7.5.
Page 40
System Setup (2) screen

Select Next Page to on the screen System Setup (1) to switch
to the screen System Setup (2)
355-e-011b
Previous page
Select Previous page to go back to screen System Setup (1).
License details
Check the license date. If there is no valid licence on the system (padlock is displayed on work screen), select License from
the submenu.
The screen displays:
355-e-012
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
Page 41
Enter the license code and press the enter key in order to
return to the System Setup screen.
The license code is available from your Yara contracting partner.
Operation Mode
Change of operation mode. So far, only N-Application is available.
Zero Rate
Send zero rate: (yes/no)
Determines what happens when the system is stopped through
the START/STOP-key:
If yes, a zero rate (0 kg/ha) is sent to the controller, then the
communication is stopped. The spreader controller closes the
spreader. However, some spreader controllers produce errors
when they receive a zero rate.
If no, the communication is stopped immediately. The spreader
controller remains on the last rate that has been sent.
Appl. Mode
Different application modes can be used with the N-Sensor.
Sensor (default): N-recommendation due to N-Sensor measurement.
Sensor with offset map: N-recommendation due to N-Sensor
measurement combined with offset map (if enable), which adds
or subtracts N-rates due to the offset map.
Sensor with overlay map: either N-Sensor or background
map. If a map is enabled the sensor will apply fertilizer due to
the map, if the raster cell contains an N-rate. If the raster cell of
the cell does not contain any value, the N-Sensor will apply due
to N-Sensor measurement.
Application map: (Nitrogen)
Application due to enabled map, not due to N-Sensor measurement. The cell contents are interpreted as kg/ha nitrogen.
These rates will be divided by the percentage of N in fertiliser
given in the agronomic calibration.
Application map: (Product)
Application due to enabled map, not due to N-Sensor measurement. The cell contents are interpreted as kg/ha product.
This is particularly useful if anything else than nitrogen is
spread. These rates are sent to the controller as they are.
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
7.6.
Page 42
Tasks screen
Check that a data card is inserted into the terminal of the NSensor.
Select Tasks in the main menu.
355-e-018
Set the cursor, using the arrow keys Left and Right, onto the
desired task number (tasks 9 to 16 can be reached by changing from task 8 to the right, to block 2 task 1) and press Start
task.
The data of up to 32 tasks can be stored on the data card. The
indication Task State informs you whether the selected task
was already used before.
The pencil in the lower right corner indicates the amount of free
storage capacity. The pencil fills with black colour if data is being stored in a task.
By means of the cursor keys Up and Down it is possible to access to the individual selection fields. The field currently to be
spread can be selected from the fields given in CardWriter (see
section 10.5 (Preparation of the data card with field information)).
At the bottom of the Tasks screen specific information of this
tasks is provided.
Start task
Press Start task to activate the selected task. From now on
data will be stored on the data card. The display automatically
changes over to the Work menu.
Selecting Tasks in the main menu again, the Start taskcommand will be replaced by the Break task and Finish taskcommand. With these commands, data logging can be interrupted or completed, respectively.
Operation Manual
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Page 43
Grid On
The raster map can be switched on and off with the function
Grid ON. The current status is marked with ON or OFF.
If Grid ON is selected, the N-Sensor is reading the application
rate directly from the raster file.
If Grid ON is selected, the command Balk ON or Balk Off appears. Balk ON/OFF defines whether the rate 0 or the amount
defined under Setpoint is interpreted as application rate.
If Grid OFF is selected, the Balk key automatically disappears.
For more details about raster files see also section 10.6
(Working with raster files (backed-up maps)).
Balk On
Only available if Grid On is enabled.
The current status is marked with Border ON or Border OFF.
The Balk selection determines how much is applied if the NSensor is located outside the field boundaries defined in the
raster map.
If Balk ON is selected, the system will read the rate specified in
Setpoint on the N-Sensor terminal. If Balk OFF is selected, the
N-Sensor outside the field boundary will read the value 0 kg/ha.
If a raster file is used as Offset Map, it is strongly recommended
to set Balk On. Using this option, sensor readings will not be influenced if the vehicle is located outside the field boundary.
For details see also section 10.7 (Offset maps).
Erase Data
Select Erase Data to delete all data stored in the selected task.
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
7.7.
Page 44
System data screen

Select System in the main menu:
355-e-007
Tractor signals
Select Tractor Signals in the submenu:
355-e-008
If the N-Sensor is connected to the signal socket located on the

tractor, the tractor parameters drive pulses, working width,
speed, power take-off shaft pulses, and power take-off shaft
speed can be queried in the submenu Tractor Signals.
In order to obtain the correct driving speed (Speed [km/h]), the
distance counter (drive pulses/100 m) must be calibrated.
In order to calibrate the value for drive pulses/100m, it is necessary to press the key Start 100m, drive a distance of exactly
100 m with the tractor, and subsequently press the key Stop
100m. The current driving speed is then written onto the data
card as additional information.
Adjustment of time and date
Operation Manual
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Page 45
Select Time/Date in the submenu:
355-e-007
The screen displays the same image as under System Data,

however, date and time can be edited.
Enter the date and the time, the cursor automatically moves to
the next entry. If you make a mistake, place the cursor into the
desired position using the cursor menu or the arrow keys, and
enter the correct values.
If you performed the correct setting, press Input End or the
Enter key in order to store the entry.
Select the language

Select language in the submenu.
The screen displays the screen Language Selection with the
options available within this. Currently German, English, French
and Czech are available.
>deutsch
english
francais
cestina
Move the cursor to the desired option with the arrow keys Up
and Down.
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Page 46
Press the Enter key in order to store the settings and in order
to return to the screen System Data.
DGPS ON/OFF
Select DGPS ON/OFF in the submenu
In the submenu DGPS ON/OFF, the user can select whether he
wants to admit only DGPS signals (DGPS=ON) or DGPS as
well as GPS reception (DGPS=OFF).
Note:
If DGPS is set to ON, no positions are being recorded if the
DGPS cannot receive and only GPS can be received instead.
If the DGPS is set to OFF, DGPS signals are received for
DGPS reception and GPS signals are received for DGPS nonreception, provided that the GPS signal can be properly received.
Beep ON/OFF
Select Beep ON/OFF in the submenu.
Enables/disables the sound for error messages.
Further submenus
Select arrow key in the submenu.
This function leads to the second part of the system data submenu:
355-e-009
Operation Manual
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Page 47
Data Mode
The Data Mode option generally determines under which conditions the task area and time counter are being incremented and
data is being logged.
This setting does not have any influence on the N-Sensor operation and data storage at all and can be neglected.
It is recommended to use mode 6 in order to count hectares
and working hours of the N-Sensor and in order to log data only
if the N-application is started by pressing the Start-/Stop-button.
LBS-Monitor
Information for service purposes
Memory intern
Error notes
Download
Downloading new N-Sensor software:
355-e-010
With field-operator 200 a software update for the N-Sensor

terminal can be performed.
With Job-Computer: Hydro-N, a software update for the NSensor can be performed.
CAUTION
Perform software updates only on explicit order and under instruction of your contracting partner for the N-Sensor.
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
7.8.
Page 48
Map screen
Select Map in the main menu.
The Map screen is implemented as help while working with digital maps on the N-Sensor. The user can set up to 3 positions in
the field in order to navigate back to these positions later. E.g. if
the driver has to interrupt the fertiliser application in order to refill his spreader, he can set a position marker and navigate back
to this position later.
It is not required to work with a digital map to set positions. The
only restriction is that a task must be is activated.
A map will only be displayed if a raster file with field boundary is
available on the data card and linked to the active task.
The 3 position markers are only for in-field navigation and must
not be mixed up with the 4 N-Sensor markers, which will be
logged with the data file.
The set positions will be stored as long as they will be overwritten by new positions.
2
3
1
4
10
6
7
355-e-018
1 Current row
and column in
grid cell
2 Current grid
cell value
3 Navigation
window
Shows row and column of current position.

Displays application rate of current cell.
Shows the number of position marker to be navigated to, the
distance between actual vehicle position and this position
marker and direction to drive.
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
Page 49
4 Set up of position markers
Define up to 3 position markers in the field to navigate to these

positions later. The system will store the actual GPS-position of
the vehicle.
5 Navigate to
position markers
Navigate back to the selected position marker. The distance

between actual position of the tractor and the position marker
will be displayed in the Window Position frame.
6 Navigate to
field
Navigate to middle of the field (only possible, if raster file is

linked to the active task).
7 Window position
Pressing the Window Positioning button respectively will

move the Navigation Window to different positions on the
screen or disable it at all.
8 Field boundary
Boundary of defined field.
9 Position markers
10 Current vehicle position
Current marker positions.
Current vehicle position in the field.
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
7.9.
Page 50
Alarms and warnings
Not enough light

ALARM
The overall light intensity is too low for the N-Sensor operation.
The system changes over to uniform application rate.
The reasons for this alarm could be the following:
One or more sensors are covered; check whether the covers
are flapped upwards and whether the sensors are free from dirt.
355-e-013
The ambient light level is too low to N-Sensor operation.

One or more optical cables are broken or separated. Contact
your Yara contracting partner.
Too much light

ALARM
The overall light intensity is too high for the N-Sensor operation.
The system changes over to uniform application rate. This
alarm should not occur under normal conditions of operation.
If this alarm is displayed, a malfunction of the system optics can
be supposed as cause. Contact your Yara contracting partner.
355-e-020
No Light detected
ALARM
Alarm is displayed if one spectrometer (either reflectance or
irradiance) does not receive any signal.
Typically, the covers are down or the irradiance sensor is covered.
Could also indicate that a light fibre is broken.
(If the overall light level is too low, the not enough light alarm
will be displayed instead.)
355-e-020
Hardware malfunctions
Operation Manual
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Page 51
ALARM
The system changed over to uniform application rate due to a
hardware failure. Contact your Yara contracting partner.
355-e-021
Solar elevation below limit

WARNING
The solar elevation is too low for N-Sensor operation.
The system still works but accuracy decreases.
355-e-022
No connection to the spreader controller

WARNING
This warning appears if the N-Sensor is unable to establish a
connection to the spreader controller or if the connection is lost.
This warning may have following causes:
A wrong spreader controller is set. Set the right controller.
The cable connection to the spreader is interrupted; check the
connection.
355-e-019-a
The spreader controller is not set up properly. Check with the

controllers manual.
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
Page 52
Biomass value too low

WARNING
the reference plot.
355-e-023
Application with N-Sensor not recommended at this growth stage

WARNING
Appears if a growth stage and a crop type is entered where it
makes no sense to apply fertiliser with the N-Sensor:
355-e-019-b
Protein quality calibration

WARNING
Remark will be shown if the protein quality calibration is selected
(only cereals EC 59...69), because this is significantly different to
the usual calibration.
355-e-023a
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Page 53
Data connection to job computer lost

ALARM
Possible causes:
The N-Sensor does not work (software or hardware failure).
The plug-in connection between terminal and N-Sensor is interrupted, or the contacts are dirty.
355-e-024
The working screen LBS-JOB appears in Work

ALARM
Causes:
The N-Sensor is still booting (takes approx. 20 seconds)
The N-Sensor does not work (interruption of power supply,
software or hardware failure).
The plug-in connection between terminal and N-Sensor is interrupted or the connection is dirty.
355-e-025
Three beeps: GPS signal loss

WARNING
It is possible that the tractor is in an area with weak signal intensity.
However, malfunctions of the GPS system, or a satellite malfunction, are also possible.
Two beeps show that the signal is recognised once again.
Operation Manual
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Page 54
No data logging possible

WARNING
The cause for this warning may be one of the following malfunctions:
355-e-026
No data card in terminal. Insert a data card.
No task selected. Select a task (see section 8.3 (Work start))
The data card, or the used data file, is full. Check the content
of the data card with a computer. If necessary, insert an
empty card and select a new task.
Note:
In order to avoid the logging of too many data, stop data logging
when the tractor is stopped.
WARNING
This warning appears if the N-Sensor starts a job, but the logfile on the data card, which is linked to the job, is missing.
Setuo Popup
WARNING
In the System Setup menu, many settings are essential for the
proper use of the N-Sensor. Modification might lead to malfunctions of the whole system.
Warning (S) data loggingdisabled
Operation Manual
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Page 55
7.10. Operation modes

Following modes of operation are available in the submenu:
Sensor
Use of the application rate calculated by the N-Sensor (sensor
control).
If a grid map is available and enabled by the Grid ONcommand in the Tasks-menu and the vehicle is located inside
that area, the current cell content is added to the sensor recommendation and the standard rate specified in the task is subtracted.
As a result, the application rate is calculated as
Sensor recommendation + grid cell content - standard rate
The subtraction of the standard rate is required because application maps cannot contain negative values.
Appl. map
Product application according to previously prepared card. In
this operating mode, the system transfers the application rates
directly from the card to the spreader controller without using
the measured values of the sensor.
On the System Setup (2) screen under Appl. Map it is possible to define whether the application rates are interpreted as
amount of nitrogen or as amount of product, respectively.
Raster card
Is displayed if the active task is linked to a raster card, and if

the GPS position is within the defined raster.
Uniform
Application of a uniform application rate, which must be previously set in AgroCal below Uniform Rate. On the screen, the
given value of Uniform Rate is displayed.
In order to return to the sensor control after the use of other
modes of operation: Press Sensor.
Minimum
Application of a minimum application rate, which must be previously set in AgroCal below Minimum Rate. This mode of operation serves for a spontaneous switch-over to a low N quantity, on parts of the field where N-Sensor recommendation is not
desired (dry spots, proximity to waters etc.).
Options +10% and -10%
These options increases or decreases the application rate calculated by the system in steps of 10%. (If you have chosen one
of these options and if you want to return to the application rate
Operation Manual
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Page 56
calculated by the system, press the 100% max key).

Interruptions and pauses
If the application is to be interrupted, for example in order to fill
up the spreader, press the key STOP/START and turn off the
tractor. This interrupts the data logging, thus saving storage
space. In order to proceed with the application and the data
logging, press the STOP/START key once again.
Alarms
Check the alarm displays in the Work screen and perform the
necessary working steps.
Operation Manual
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Page 57
8. Standard procedure
In this section the standard procedure of N-Sensor operation in
the field is described.
8.1.
Switching on
Note:
12 V DC of the tractor supplies the system. It is switched on
with the tractor ignition or by a separately mounted switch.
Switching on
Flap open the covers on both sides of the sensor box and remove the cap from the ambient light sensor.
Switch on the ignition or the separate switch until the screen
Work appears on the terminal display (this lasts about 20 seconds):
355-e-006
Set up the system and do the agronomic calibration as described in the following sections.
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
8.2.
Page 58
Working procedure on the field
DANGER
1
Collecting the necessary information

Note down all information on the respective cultivated plant and
the product, required for calibration and for the work.
Spreader preparation
Drive onto the field and fill up the spreader. Perform the required calibration and the adjustments of the spreader and of
the spreader controller according to the instructions of the
manufacturer.
Performing the agronomic calibration

Select Setup and perform the agronomic calibration (see section 8.4 (Agronomic calibration))
Fertilising the field

Apply the fertiliser on the field. Use the working modes on the
screen Work.
Go to the next field

If any further fields have to be fertilised, repeat steps 3 and 4 for
each field.
Downloading working data

After work finish, load the data from the data card into a computer (see section 10 (Processing of Task Data with CardWriter).
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
8.3.
Page 59
Work start
1. Check that a data card is inserted into the terminal of the NSensor; subsequently press the key Task.
355-e-018
The data of up to 32 tasks can be stored on the data card. The

indication task state informs you whether the selected task was
already used before. The pencil in the lower right corner indicates the amount of free storage capacity. The pencil fills with
black colour successively when the file fills with data.
By means of the cursor keys Up and Down it is possible to
access to the individual selection fields. The field currently to be
spread can be selected from the fields given in the CardWriter
(see section 10.5 (Preparation of the data card with field information)).
Set the cursor, using the arrow keys Left and Right, onto the
desired task number (tasks 9 to 16 can be reached by changing
from task 8 to the right, to block 2 task 1) and press Start task.
Now the task is activated; from now on, data can be stored on
the storage card.
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Page 60
3. Drive the tractor to the first track and press the key
START/STOP.
Note:
Only if the symbol System works is visible, data is transferred
to the spreader controller and stored on the data card.
If the Stop sign is visible, the N-Sensor performs the measurement of the crop, as well as the calculation of the nitrogen
rate. However, the data are neither transmitted to the spreader
controller nor stored on the data card.
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
8.4.
Page 61
Agronomic calibration
The agronomic calibration sets the system up for the normal
operation (i.e. with sensor control with variable application rate),
the parameters are used as shown.
During work, the sensor signals generate a sensor value,
which is applied for the application rate. The parameters of cultivated plant and product modify the ratio between sensor value
and application rate according to the current task.
8.4.1.
Input of agronomic parameters

1. Power on the system, wait approximately 15 seconds until
the screen Work is displayed; press Setup.
355-e-014-a
2. With the numeric keypad, enter the data for:

Crop Type
Growth Stage
% N Fertiliser
Minimum Rate
Maximum Rate
Uniform Rate
Crop Type
Indicates the type of crop to be worked. The quantity of fertiliser recommended by the N-Sensor depends on the type of
crop set here.
Growth Stage
The growth stadium of the cultivated plants, expressed as

digital Zadock code (e.g. GS 32 = 2 cm between two nodes).
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Page 62
% N Fertiliser
Percental proportion of nitrogen in the product (weight proportion) (can be taken from the manufacturers specifications).
The application rate of product application is always given in
kg/ha N (quantity of nitrogen per hectare) and not as product quantity per hectare. The application rates can be calculated from the nitrogen content of the fertiliser (%N fertiliser)
(can be taken from the manufacturers specifications); use
following formula to do this:
Application rate = (product quantity, kg/ha) x %N fertiliser / 100
Minimum and
maximum rate
Uniform rate
Reference rate
The limit values in kg/ha N; the system is supposed to be operated in-between these values.
Application rate for a sensor error (e.g. low light level), or as
default for a uniform fertilisation (in kg/ha N).
The reference application rate is kg/ha N in the reference plot.
This value should only be calculated via the calibration in a
reference plot (see section 8.4.2 (Calibration ). The calibration
is to be carried through in a part of the field where the plants
cultivated there are typical for that field (reference plot).
Ref. Sensor
The sensor value measured during the reference application.

This value should only be calculated via the calibration in a
reference plot (see section 8.4.2 (Calibration )).
Biomass Cutoff
The level of a (measured) biomass indication, where the application rate is reduced for very thin crop stands. The N-Sensor
predetermines this value, depending on the type of crop and on
the growth stadium. In individual cases, this value may be
adjusted to the individual of the field.
CAUTION
The entered value influences the indication of the application,
and thus, to a vast extent, the control characteristics of the NSensor.
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Page 63
The cursor automatically moves to the next menu entry. As

soon as the first number is entered, the main menu changes
over to the adjustment menu:
355-e-015
3.
Move the cursor with the arrow down key onto the parameters
to be edited and introduce the desired value or accept the
default values.
4.
Save the adjustments with the ENTER key.
Operation Manual
N-Sensor
8.4.2.
Page 64
Calibration at reference plot

The calibration in the reference plot is performed in order to adjust the N-Sensor to crop type specific and field specific differences.
The calibration is to be carried through in a part of the field
where the plants cultivated there are typical for that field (reference field). Border tracks, headlands, areas with shadows from
trees, as well as crops with apparently bad growth or visible defects, should be not be used as reference plot for this calibration.
1. Drive the tractor to the reference plot and press Ref. Plot in
the submenu Agronomic calibration. The screen displays:
355-e-016
2. Follow the instructions and work the reference plot; the system captures the measured values once a second.
If the reference plot is big:
Press the key C-Pause before each turning manoeuvre and

before problematic areas, in order to avoid a distortion of
the captured pattern. After the turning manoeuvres or after
passing the problematic areas, press the key C-Start.
3. After the end of the calibration, press C-Stop. The screen

displays:
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Page 65
355-e-017
4. Enter the desired amount to be applied on the reference plot

and change the growth stage, or confirm by pressing the Enter
key. The menu automatically changes over to the screen
Agronomic calibration.
With the performed calibration, Reference rate and Sensor
value reference Ref. Sensor are now updated.
Note:
The nitrogen quantity corresponding to the best possible recommendation for the reference plot, must be entered as the
corresponding application quantity. This best possible recommendation can be determined, e.g., using the N-Tester, taking
into account the cultivar and the type of crop. You can purchase
the N-Tester at your N-Sensor contracting partner, or directly at
Yara.
CAUTION
During calibration, never enter an estimated value or an average value for the entire field, if the calibration was performed on
a very small surface or only on a point. This could lead to a
variable nitrogen fertilisation on a wrong nitrogen level.
WARNING
the reference plot, which is visible during the procedure Calibrate at reference plot.
355-e-023
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Page 66
8.4.3.
Data storage at agronomic calibration

During the calibration procedure sensor data can be stored on
the data card. The data card must be inserted, a task must be
activated and the N-Sensor itself must be not active (STOP
sign). If then C-Start is selected, positioning data and sensor
data is written to the card until C-Stop is pressed.
This data can be displayed later using Sensor Office. It will help
the user to locate the calibration area afterwards.
8.5.
Fertiliser application
Once the system is started, the mode Sensor is automatically
selected in the screen Work, and the N-Sensor applies the fertiliser with variable application rate, according to the current requirements.
Drive along your track and observe the application rate in the
screen Work and on the spreader controller.
Please observe that the controller typically gives the application
rate in kg/ha product. However, on the terminal the application
rate is given in kg/ha nitrogen. According to the signal delay
entered in the screen System Setup, the quantity displayed at
the controller is delayed.
8.6.
Work finish
1. Press the START/STOP key at the end of your last track.
2. In the Task menu, press the key Finish task. Data logging is
now finished.
3. Cover the sensors and the ambient light sensor.
4. If necessary, go to the next field.
If your working day is over, cover the sensors. Remove the data
card and copy the task files onto a computer. For downloading
the files to a computer, we recommend the program
CardWriter.
8.7.
Downloading the task files

1. Insert the data card into the PCMCIA card reader of the computer (most laptop computers have a card reader).
2. Use the software CardWriter for downloading the data file.
Read section 10 for this (Processing of Task Data with CardWriter).
3. Use Sensor Office in order to process the nitrogen application maps. This program is available on the Internet.
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9. Maintenance
DANGER
Before each use, check the tight fit of the device on the roof
of the tractor.
Keep the sensors clean and flap down the covers when the
sensors are not in use.
Store the system in a dry and protected place.
If you do not need the system for a longer period, dismount

the sensor box from the vehicle and store it in a dry place.
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10. Processing of Task Data with CardWriter

With the N-Sensor, data of up to 32 fields can be stored on a
PCMCIA data card, in 32 so-called task files.
CardWriter is designed to help the N-Sensor user to download
the application data to the computer on the farm and to prepare
the data card properly before data will be logged on it.
Before it is possible to save data to the PCMCIA data card by
means of the N-Sensor, the card must be initialised with CardWriter. For this purpose, CardWriter generated up to 32 empty
files as a pattern on the data card. Field names and additional
information can be previously determined with CardWriter.
However, it is also possible to determine the field names only
during the application on the tractor, if the data card was preconfigured properly.
10.1. Installation of CardWriter

You can obtain the program CardWriter from the N-Sensor service personnel or through the Internet homepage
http://www.sensoroffice.com
Start the program and follow the instructions to install the software automatically.
Any language selection made through the installation process
can be changed after the installation at any time.
In case a previous release of CardWriter (version 2.00 or 2.01)
is already installed on your computer, it is not necessary to uninstall the previous release. If the same target directory is used
(usually C:\rns2000\CardWriter), fields and crops entered with
the previous release will not be erased.
Please note that the current version 3.xx of CardWriter will only
be compatible to terminal software version 3.xx LBS. In case
you are using an older terminal version (2.xx) you must continue to use CardWriter 2.00 or 2.01. Otherwise the system will
not work properly and data may be lost.
10.2. Working with CardWriter

The basic condition for working with CardWriter is a PCMCIA
drive connected to your computer. This drive needs to be assigned to a drive letter in Windows.
Please contact your N-Sensor service personnel in order to install this drive.
Some card readers dynamically reassign the drive letter for the
flash card. In this case, you should insert the data card before
starting CardWriter.
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If you are working with Microsoft Windows you will find CardWriter by clicking Start on the Windows toolbar, and then clicking Programs, N-Sensor and CardWriter.
After the first program start you will be asked to enter the drive
letter of your PCMCIA drive:
355-e-027
If this window does not show up, check in Options and Data
card whether the drive letter for your drive is assigned correctly;
if necessary, change the drive letter.
CAUTION
Please note that all files in the root directory of the selected
drive will be deleted. Therefore it is strongly recommended to
double-check again whether the drive letter is really correct and
whether you are sure to erase the files on that data card.
In Options and Directory you can define whether you want to
store your data always in the same directory or if you want to
choose a new directory before each data download.
355-e-027b
If you want to choose a new directory before each download,

enable Selection before reading the data card.
If the directory should be fix, enable Always use the following
directory and browse for the correct path.
In Options and Email you can define an Email address, where
to send the data after the download. Data can be forwarded by
CardWriter after the download as described in section 10.4
(Further processing of task data using Sensor Office).
Please note that the option Email is only available if an Emailsoftware is installed on your computer.
If the drive letter for the PCMCIA-drive is defined and one of the
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options for the target directory is enabled, you can start to work
with CardWriter.
After starting CardWriter, the following screen appears:
355-e-028
Depending on the chosen data model, you can prepare up to 32

tasks on your data card.
Insert a data card into the corresponding PCMCIA drive. Make
sure that you have chosen the correct drive letter in the Options - Data card menu.
Choose a Data model under Options. You can select between
the following models:
4x 1792 KB (about 16 hours per task)
Within this, the given times are calculated as pure spreading
times without breaks or loading times.
Now select Initialise data card. The following warning is displayed:
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355-e-029
Confirm with Yes if the data card does not contain any important information still to be used.
If you previously have chosen 8x 896 KB (about 8 hours per
task), the following information is displayed:
355-e-030
If you have previously chosen the data model 16x 448 KB

(about 4 hours per task), the log files 00000009.log to
00000016.log will follow.
Now the data card can be removed from the PCMCIA drive and
be inserted into the N-Sensor terminal. The processing of tasks
is described in section 8.3 (Work start).
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10.3. Downloading task files

After the tasks have been completed on the N-Sensor, start
CardWriter and activate Read Tasks.
If the option Always use the following directory was enabled
under Options and Directory and a path was defined there, all
data will be saved in this directory.
If the option Selection before using the data card was enabled, under Options and Directory, the following window appears:
355-e-031
Choose the target directory where you want to store the data
files recorded by the N-Sensor.
After pressing the Ok button all tasks that have been used on
the N-Sensor will be downloaded from the data card and copied
to the target directory. Unused tasks will not be copied.
The filename will be created automatically and consists of the
N-Sensor serial number, possibly customer name, field name,
date of recording and task number.
10.4. Further processing of task data using Sensor Office

After the data have been downloaded using the Read taskscommand on the Sensor data card tab go to the Sensor Office
tab, where you will find the commands Start Sensor Office,
Archive Data and Send data.
Start Sensor Office
From the data generated in the field it is possible to generate,
print and export biomass maps and N-application maps, using
the Internet-based program Sensor Office. Furthermore, all
these data, together with their corresponding geographic position, can be exported as ASCII numeric tables, and can thus be
imported into any Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
In CardWriter, activate the Sensor Office tab. You will find a list
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of all files that have been read from the data card in the previous step. You can modify this list by adding more files or removing files. If you remove a file, it will still be present on your
hard disk, but will not be transmitted to Sensor Office.
Select Start Sensor Office.
Your default Internet browser will be started automatically and
you will be connected to the Sensor Office homepage. The files
in the list will be automatically transferred to the server. Just follow the instructions given in Sensor Office.
Note:
The software Sensor Office is offered as an additional service
by Yara. However, it is not a part of the N-Sensor.
In case you want to process your files later, just exit CardWriter.
You can open Sensor Office directly with your internet browser
and process the files without starting CardWriter again.
Archive Data
If you do not want to process the data on your own, but send
them to a service provider, select the Archive Data button and
create a compressed ZIP archive containing all listed task files.
Send this file with your standard email client to the desired recipient.
Send Data
With the option Send Data, you can send all log-files from the
list to an Email-address, which was pre-defined in Options and
Email.
This command will automatically open your Email-software to
send the data.
Please note that the option Send Data is only available if an
Email-software is installed on your computer and an Emailaddress was entered under Options and Email.
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10.5. Preparation of the data card with field information

Apart from the simple data card preparation method described
in section 10.2 (Working with CardWriter), it is possible to transfer field information like field name, field size, crop, and a possibly used raster files to the data card. This information will then
be displayed on the terminal to guide the operator.
In addition, customer names, worker names and any comments
can be assigned to certain tasks.
It is recommended to process the Master data, Tasks, Sensor
data card and Sensor Office tabs consecutively. Click the tabs
directly or use the functions Previous and Next in order to
move between the tabs.
Master data
355-e-032
In the Master data tab different fields can be generated in a database. Information can be entered in the columns Field name,
Size [ha], Crop, Customer and Comment, respectively. In a
next step, these fields can be assigned to tasks and become
visible when the tasks are displayed on the N-Sensor terminal.
In order to generate fields in the database, go to an empty line
below Field name and enter the desired name.
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Use the functions
+
-
to add a further line,

to delete a line.
Enter the field size in the Size [ha] column and select the Crop.
Clicking the Crop column, a table with specified crops will open.
If the desired crop does not display here, you can enter it manually. Once inserted this crop, it will then be available in the list of
specified crops.
Alternatively, crops can be edited separately in the File - Crops
menu.
Clicking the Customer column, a table with specified customers opens. If the desired customer does not display here, you
can enter it manually. Once inserted this customer, it will then
be available in the list of specified customers.
Alternatively, customers can be edited separately in the File Customers menu.
All columns can be sorted by clicking the column header. Click
once to get an ascending order, twice to get a descending order.
Tasks
355-e-033
In the Tasks tab fields can be assigned to task numbers just by

clicking in the column Field name and selecting one of the
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fields that have been previously generated in the Master Data

tab. The size and the crop type will be automatically added from
the Master Data table.
Information as Size [ha], Crop, Customer and Comments are
recalled from the Master data table. They cannot be edited as in
the previous CardWriter versions.
Before choosing fields, you can narrow down the choice of customers using the Customer field above the table. Default is All
Customers.
All specified information will be linked to the respective task
number and stored to the data card. It will then be displayed in
the Tasks menu of the N-Sensor terminal.
If you need less tasks than available in a certain data model,
you should adjust the Number of Tasks to the actual number
of required tasks. This will speed up the data card access as
well in CardWriter as in the N-Sensor terminal.
Sensor datacard
Select Sensor data card and press Initialise Data Card to
copy the prepared tasks to the data card. Proceed as described
in section 10.3 (Downloading task files).
10.6. Working with raster files (backed-up maps)

Raster files (*.RST files) offer the possibility to use the NSensor to apply fertilizer due to previously prepared application
maps. Thus, the N-Sensor can be used already for the first
spring application, even though a measurement of the nitrogen
requirement of the crop is not yet possible.
If you want to work with backed-up maps, you must indicate a
raster file (RST file). These can be generated with the internet
software Sensor Office or NPK-Online. You will find Sensor
Office and NPK-Online on the Internet homepage
To create raster maps, follow the online help instructions in
Sensor Office or NPK-Online manual.
A detailed description how to process raster maps is also given
in section 11.1 (How to work with raster maps produced with
Sensor Office) and 11.2 (How to work with raster maps produced with NPK-Online).
Proceed as described in section 10.5 (Preparation of the data
card with field information).
Assign raster files by clicking into the empty field in the column
Raster file in the Tasks tab.
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355-e-034
Click on the small grey square with the three dots and select a
raster file (*.RST). If necessary, change to the directory where
you have previously stored the raster files.
As Amount [kg/ha] enter the quantity you want to apply in
those areas not covered by the raster file. This is typically the
area outside the field boundaries.
Nitrogen-rate or product-rate can be entered for the Amount
[kg/ha], respectively. If the raster-map is applied with the NSensor, it has to be defined on the N-Sensor terminal in the
window System Setup (2) under Appl.map, whether Amount
[kg/ha] and the grid cell values are to be interpreted as nitrogen
or product rates, respectively. See also section 7.5 (System
Setup (2) screen).
If the card is initialised through Initialise Data Card and then
inserted into the N-Sensor terminal, the field information defined
in CardWriter becomes visible.
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355-e-018-b
The raster map can be switched on and off with the functions
Grid OFF and Balk OFF. The current status is marked with ON
or OFF.
If Grid OFF is selected, the Balk key automatically disappears.
The Balk selection determines how much is applied if the system is outside the field boundaries defined in the raster map:
If set to Balk ON, the system will apply the rate specified in the
CardWriter as Amount [kg/ha] and displayed in Setpoint on
the N-Sensor terminal.
If Balk OFF is selected, 0 kg/ha will be applied outside the field
boundary.
If Picture is selected, the map will be displayed.
After starting the task the N-Sensor displays the Work menu.
Change to the Appl. Map operating mode. If you are within the
given boundaries, the raster map symbol appears.
You can display the field boundary by pressing the Map key. In
addition, the current location in the field is displayed with a
crosshair.
10.7. Offset maps

Offset maps allow the user to automatically change the NSensor recommendation dependend on the position on the
field.
Offset maps are generally created in the same way as raster
maps, see section 10.6 (Working with raster files (backed-up
maps)).
In contrast to raster maps the N-Sensor needs to continue to
work in the Sensor operating mode. The application rate will be
calculated by adding the map rate to the N-Sensor recommendation and subtracting the Setpoint rate (specified at Amount
[kg/ha] in CardWriter).
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Consequently, to create a negative offset (i. e. to reduce the NSensor recommendation on a certain spot in the field) the value
in the map must be smaller than the Setpoint rate. Map values
larger than the Setpoint lead to an increase of the application
rate and if the map value is equal to the Setpoint rate the NSensor recommendation will not be changed at that location.
CAUTION
If a raster file is used as Offset Map, Balk On must be enabled
in the Task-menu of the N-Sensor.
Using this option, sensor readings will not be influenced if the
vehicle is located outside the field boundary.
A detailed description, how to work with offset maps is given in
section 11.3 (How to use raster maps as offset map).
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11. Working with raster maps (short operating instructions)

Raster files (*.RST files) offer the possibility to use the NSensor to apply fertilizer due to previously prepared application
maps. Thus, the N-Sensor can be used already for the first
spring application in cereals, even though a measurement of
the nitrogen requirement is not yet possible.
If you want to work with raster maps, you must indicate a
raster file (RST file). These can be generated with the Internet
software Sensor Office or NPK-Online. You will find Sensor
Office and NPK-Online on the Internet homepage
In addition, you can create raster maps with any geographical
information system (GIS). If you export the raster data as CSVfile, these data can be uploaded to Sensor Office and being
converted to a raster map in RST-format.
11.1. How to work with raster maps produced with Sensor Office
What is a raster map?
A raster map is a digital map, which contains product- or Nrates to be applied on the field. These data are transferred to a
job-controller and sent to the spreader or sprayer.
The digital map can also be applied with the N-Sensor, if you
select Appl. Map instead of Sensor or Uniform on the NSensor in the Work-menu.
11.1.1.
Data conversion with Sensor Office
Go to the homepage www.sensoroffice.com.
Start the Internet software Sensor Office (Services/Sensor

Office).
After Start Sensor Office select Transfer files (HTTP).
Browse for your log-file or csv-file
If you just loaded one file, it will be enabled automatically,

the Parameter will be set to N-Recommendation. Leave it
like it is and click Next.
If a CSV-file is loaded, define your CSV-Import Parameters

to tell Sensor Office in which columns to find latitude, longitude and N-rates. Click Next.
On the Point data Preview you will see the points as dotted
lines, select Raster Map.
On the Preview Raster map page you can define the Cell
size of your raster map. This will of course highly influence
the accuracy of your grid. Please note that the grid size of
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your raster map is limited to only 16,384 data points. If the

number of data points is too high, the N-Sensor terminal
cannot handle the raster file anymore. In Sensor Office you
will get an error message. In that case reprocess the map
with a bigger Cell size.
11.1.2.
If needed, you can modify the raster map if you select Edit
Raster Map. Keep in mind that the upload of this page can
last a couple of minutes if you are working with a dense
grid, e.g. 6m.
Select Export.
On the Export Application Map-page select N-Sensor

(*.rst). This format will contain N-rates in contrast to all the
other formats, which contain product rates. In case you select WTK-Adis, Sensor Office will export product rates instead of N-rates.
Select Download, now you are asked to define the field

boundaries, click Ok.
In the Control field boundaries-window you must Define

field boundaries. To do this, draw a polygon around the
field (as described in the Sensor Office Online-Help).
If the boundary is defined click OK.
Click Next.
Back on the Export Application Map page select Download again.
Enter your login data and download the RST-file to your

hard disk.
Link the RST-file to the log file with CardWriter
Start the CardWriter program.
Insert a PCMCIA-datacard to your specific drive.
Select Options and Data model to define the desired data

model.
Under Master data you can store general information of

your fields. See also section 10.5 (Preparation of the data
Under Tasks select the field name specified in the Master

data table, enter the Amount [kg/ha]-value, which will define the rate outside the field (usually 0), and link your
Raster-file to your task.
Under Sensor Data card select Initialize Data card
After writing the files to the data card, take the card out to
the tractor.
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11.1.3.
11.1.4.
Page 82
What to do on the N-Sensor Terminal?
Insert the data card to the N-Sensor Terminal.
Select Map in the Work menu.
Select Setup.
Press Page-down until you find the option Appl. Map.
Press Appl. Map once to set it to Nitrogen or Product.
If Application Map is set to Nitrogen, the values in the digital map will be interpreted as N-rates and will be multiplied
by the N-content, which is defined in the agronomic calibration, before the values are sent to the controller.
If Application Map is set to Product, the values in the digital map will be interpreted as product-rates and will not be
multiplied by the N-content, which is defined in the agronomic calibration. Instead, the values are sent to the controller as they are.
Select Tasks
Choose one of the tasks
Select Grid On, if the grid is not enabled (Usually the grid
should be enabled by default, if Map-mode is selected in the
Work manu).
Select Balk On
Select Start Task
Now the screen switches over to the Work menu
Press the Start/Stop-button to transfer data to the

spreader-controller.
How to control where you are

If field boundaries were defined in Sensor Office before the
raster map was exported, this boundary should be displayed, if
you select the main menu Map. You will see the field boundaries of your field and a cross hair showing your position.
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11.2. How to work with raster maps produced with NPK-Online

What is a raster map?
A raster map is a digital map, which contains product- or Nrates to be applied on the field. These data are transferred to
job-controller and sent to the spreader or sprayer.
The digital map can also be applied with the N-Sensor, if you
select Appl. Map instead of Sensor or Uniform on the NSensor in the Work-menu.
11.2.1.
Data conversion with NPK-Online
Start the Internet software NPK-Online (Services/NPKOnline).
After Start NPK-Online select Transfer files (HTTP).
Browse for your yield-file or csv-file.
If you just loaded one file, it will be enabled automatically. If

more files are loaded, select your file and define the format,
if not detected automatically.
Click Next.
If a CSV-file is loaded, define your CSV-Import Parameters

to tell NPK-Online in which columns to find latitude, longitutde and yield-information. Click Next.
lines, here you have the possibility to define new field
boundaries, if you only want to take a part of the field into
account.
Now follow the program until page Recalculate. Use the

online-help, if needed.
On the page Recalculate you can define the Cell size of

your raster map. After modification you have to select the
command Recalculate. This will of course highly influence
cannot handle the raster file anymore. In NPK Online you
with a bigger Cell size to reduce the number of datapoints.
Select next.
On the page Application Map you can modify the raster

map if you select Edit Raster Map. Keep in mind that the
upload of this page can last a couple of minutes if you are
working with a dense grid, e.g. 6m.
Select Next.
On the Export Application Map-page select WTK-Adis,

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NPK-Online will export product rates instead of N-rates.
11.2.2.
11.2.3.


field (as described in the NPK-Online-Help).
If field boundary is defined click OK.
Click Next.
Back on the Export Application Map page select Download again

harddisk.
Insert a PCMCIA-data card to your specific drive.

model.


data table, enter the Amount [kg/ha]-value, which will define the rate outside the field (usually 0), and link your
Raster-file to your task.
Under Sensor Data card select Initialize Data card
the tractor.
Insert the data card to the N-Sensor Terminal.
Select Map in the Work menu.
Select Setup.
Press Page-down until you find the option Appl. Map.
Press Appl. Map once to set it to Nitrogen or Product.
If Application Map is set to Nitrogen, the values in the digital map will be interpreted as N-rates and will be multiplied
by the N-content, which is defined in the agronomic calibration, before the values are sent to the controller.
If Application Map is set to Product, the values in the digital map will be interpreted as product-rates and will not be
multiplied by the N-content, which is defined in the agroOperation Manual
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nomic calibration. Instead, the values are sent to the controller as they are.
11.2.4.
Select Tasks
Choose one of the tasks
Select Grid On, if the grid is not enabled (Usually the grid
should be enabled by default, if Map-mode is selected in the
Work manu).
Select Balk On
Select Start Task

spreader-controller

If field boundaries were defined in NPK Online before the
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11.3. How to use raster maps as offset maps

What is an offset map?
An offset map is a digital map, which contains N-rates to be
added or subtracted from the N-rates recommended by the NSensor based on the optical measurement.
The offset data in combination with the sensor-recommendation
are transferred to N-Sensor and sent to the spreader or
sprayer.
The digital map can only be applied with the N-Sensor. How
you link a raster file to your log-file and which settings to be
made on the N-Sensor Terminal, you will find in sections 11.3.3
and 11.3.4., respectively.
The problem working with offset maps is that the N-Sensor
terminal does not understand negative application values
(originally it was designed to send product rates to a
spreader controller, which are usually positive values or
zero). Therefore an offset has to be added to all values,
which has to be subtracted on the N-Sensor terminal later.
11.3.1.
11.3.2.
Preparation of offset maps in your own GIS
Create an offset-map due to reliable agronomic parameters

of the field. Please note that an offset-map may have significant influence on the nitrogen-recommendation of the NSensor!
As the N-Sensor is only able to work with positive rates, it is

necessary to a constant value to all offset values. This constant value will be subtracted later on the N-Sensor, if you
enter 50 kg/ha as Amount [kg/ha] in CardWriter. In case
you want to apply for example +40 and -40 kg N/ha, you
should add 50 kg N/ha to all values in your offset-file. Using
this trick, you only have positive values.
Export this file as CSV-file from your GIS-system. This file

should have columns with longitude, latitude and the Nrates (+50 kg N/ha), separated with ,''
;'or a space.
Data conversion with Sensor Office
Start the Internet software Sensor Office (Services/Sensor

Office)
After Start Sensor Office select Transfer files (HTTP).
Browse for your CSV-file
If you just loaded one file, it will be enabled automatically,

the Parameter will be set to N-Recommendation. Leave it
like it is and click Next.
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11.3.3.
Page 87
Define your CSV-Import Parameters to tell Sensor Office in

which columns to find latitude, longitude and N-rates.
Click Next.
lines, select Raster Map.
On the Preview Raster map page you can define the Cell
size of your raster map. This will of course highly influence
cannot handle the raster file anymore. In Sensor office you
with a bigger Cell size.
If needed, you can modify the raster map if you select Edit
Raster Map. Keep in mind that the upload of this page can
last a couple of minutes if you are working with a dense
grid, e.g. 6m.
Select Export
On the Export Application Map-page select N-Sensor

(*.rst). This format will contain N-rates in contrast to all the
other formats, which contain product rates.


field (as described in the Sensor Office Online-Help).
If the field boundary is defined, click OK.
Click Next.
Back on the Export Application Map page select Download again

hard disk.
Insert a PCMCIA-data card to your specific drive.

model.


data table, enter the Amount [kg/ha]-value, which must be
exactly the same as you added to your offset data before
(see example in section 11.3.1), and link your Raster-file to
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your task.
11.3.4.
11.3.5.
Under Sensor Data card select Initialise Data card
the tractor.
Insert the data card to the N-Sensor Terminal
Do the Agronomic Calibration as usual
Select Setup
Go down the menu until you find the option Appl. Map
If not set to Nitrogen, press Appl. Map once to set it to Nitrogen
Select Tasks
Select Grid On
Select Balk On (absolutely necessary if RST-file is used as

Offset map)
Select Start Task

spreader-controller

If field boundaries were defined in Sensor Office before the
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Appendix
Calculating the Signal Delay
Scanned
area
Scanned
area
Sensors
Sensor housing
Terminal
SpreaderController
Spreader
Irradiance
Sensor
Scanned
area
Sensors
Signal Delay
caused by
Distance (A)
Scanned
area
355-e-035
The Signal Delay can be calculated as follows:

Signal Delay = (A / B) C 0.5
A
Distance between sensor housing and the centre of fertiliser

application [m].
Tractor speed [m/s].
Time constant of the spreader (see manufacturers note) [s].
0.5
Delay time caused by data analysis and data transfer [s].
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N-Sensor
Page 90
If the tractor speed and distance A (between sensor housing

and the centre of fertiliser application) is known, the Signal Delay can be taken from the following table. In this example the
time constant for the spreader C is 1 second, which is valid
for most of the spreaders. The Delay Time for the data processing on the N-Sensor is 0.5 seconds.
Distance Sensor
housing to centre of
fertilizer application
8km/h
10 k m / h
12 k m / h
14 k m / h
16 k m / h
18 k m / h
20 k m / h
2.22 m/s
2.78 m/s
3.33 m/s
3.89 m/s
4.44 m/s
5.00 m/s
5.56 m/s
10 m
12 m
14 m
16 m
18 m
20 m
22 m
24 m
26 m
10
28 m
11
30 m
12
Attention
In the calculations of this table a time constant for the
spreader C of 1 second is included, which is valid for most of
the spreaders. In some cases, especially for sprayers the time
constant for the spreader C can be different to that value.
A possible deviation from this value has to be taken into account before this table is used.
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N-Sensor

Version 3.20 LBS

Edition: 22 Dezember 2004

Conversions and modifications ............................................................................................ 9

Requirements to the personnel ............................................................................................ 9

Explanation of safety notes ................................................................................................ 10

Safety notes to be observed............................................................................................... 11

Alarm and warning notices in the menu to be observed ..................................................... 13

TECHNICAL DATA .................................................................................................17

Safety notes in the operation manual ............................................................................................................... 10

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION .................................................................................19

System requirements ......................................................................................................... 19

Light limit values ................................................................................................................ 21

Spreader control ................................................................................................................ 22

Data logging and data transfer ........................................................................................... 23

Installation on the tractor .................................................................................................... 25

Software Activation ............................................................................................................ 27

Included in the scope of supply ......................................................................................................................... 17

Edition: 22 Dezember 2004

Work (1) screen ................................................................................................................. 34

Work (2) screen ................................................................................................................. 36

System Setup (1) screen.................................................................................................... 37

System Setup (2) screen.................................................................................................... 40

System data screen ........................................................................................................... 44

Map screen ........................................................................................................................ 48

Alarms and warnings.......................................................................................................... 50

Operation modes ............................................................................................................ 55

STANDARD PROCEDURE .....................................................................................57

Working procedure on the field .......................................................................................... 58

Work start .......................................................................................................................... 59

Fertiliser application ........................................................................................................... 66

Work finish ......................................................................................................................... 66

Downloading the task files.................................................................................................. 66

PROCESSING OF TASK DATA WITH CARDWRITER ..........................................68

Input of agronomic parameters ......................................................................................................................... 61

Installation of CardWriter ................................................................................................ 68

Working with CardWriter................................................................................................. 68

Downloading task files .................................................................................................... 72

Further processing of task data using Sensor Office....................................................... 72

Preparation of the data card with field information .......................................................... 74

Working with raster files (backed-up maps) .................................................................... 76

Offset maps .................................................................................................................... 78

WORKING WITH RASTER MAPS (SHORT OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS) ........80

How to work with raster maps produced with NPK-Online .............................................. 83

Data conversion with Sensor Office.................................................................................................................. 80

Edition: 22 Dezember 2004

How to use raster maps as offset maps.......................................................................... 86

Preparation of offset maps in your own GIS..................................................................................................... 86

Edition: 22 Dezember 2004

Edition: 22 Dezember 2004

hereby declares that their N-Sensor systems correspond to the

Edition: 22 Dezember 2004

The N-Sensor system is certified according to ISO 14982-2 for

Edition: 22 Dezember 2004

if is not applied as to the intended use,

if it is used by untrained staff

if it is not maintained regularly according to the maintenance

if it is improperly modified or reconstructed

if the safety notes are not observed.

Relevant safety regulations

Generally known rules for work safety.

Edition: 22 Dezember 2004

Conversions and modifications

2.4. Requirements to the personnel