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Introduction
ISOBUS is a protocol standardizing communication between chassis, displays, farm management
software, and implements� Adhering to ISO 11783 standards, ISOBUS allows chassis and implements of
different colors to share information through a common display� The use of ISOBUS technology allows
the end user to minimize the number of necessary monitors in the cab of the chassis, while still enabling
full functionality of the implements� The data displays the same way on any monitor�
How the ISOBUS Works
The BUS is a distinct set of conductors designed to carry data and control signals within a system of
parallel connected equipment� Information from the equipment modules is transmitted through the BUS
to a Virtual Terminal (VT) in the cab� The Virtual Terminal (VT) uploads a User Interface (UI) which feeds
into any Display Monitor� From one Display Monitor, the user can read information and make control
changes to the implement(s)� Since everything is virtual, multiple implements can be controlled with one
monitor by switching back and forth between different VT’s�
Terminologies
• ISOBUS - An electronic communications network used on agricultural and forestry equipment that
adheres to the ISO 11783 standards�
• VT (Virtual Terminal) - The electronic interface that resides within the system, rather than on the
Display Monitor� By being virtual, the information will display consistently the same on any monitor
being used�
• UI (User Interface) - The displayed information and controls the user interacts with on the Display
Monitor to make any necessary changes to implement performance�
•
ECU (Electronic Control Unit) - New Leader module that controls specific functions of the implement
and is attached to the BUS�
• Task Controller - A crucial software component that resides within the Virtual Terminal and is required
to provide support for Data Logging, Variable rate application via prescription maps, and on/off
implement section control via AutoSwath�
• CANBUS - A CAN (Controller Area Network) BUS system is a vehicle bus standard that allows
microcontrollers and devices to communicate with each other within a vehicle without a host
computer�
• Display Monitor - The physical monitor used in the cab that communicates with the VT to run the
implement(s) and display data from the operations�
Controller Operations
