Topcon expands precision farming tools with Value Line Steering solution
Japanese company Topcon has recently announced the global launch of its Value Line Steering solution, a retrofit autosteer package, that includes a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver, an electric steering wheel controller, a touchscreen console, and Horizon Lite software.
Value Line Steering is currently compatible with front-wheel-steer tractors and will soon support rear-wheel-steered machines such as harvesters and windrowers. Farmers can also choose from a range of correction services – local, satellite-based, or RTK – such as Topcon’s Topnet Live, depending on their specific precision requirements.
Topcon Positioning Group – headquartered in the U.S. – emphasises the system’s intuitive, user-friendly design, allowing farmers to easily optimise its capabilities. The package features an on-steer keypad that provides quick access to frequently used functions, along with integrated Horizon OS software for streamlined operation.
Easy to install and uninstall
Installation is straightforward: users simply replace the existing steering wheel with the Topcon XW-1 electric steering wheel, and mount the touchscreen console in the cab using a RAM mount. The GNSS receiver offers flexible installation options, including swap plates and 3M tape for secure placement.
The system is compatible with both pre-installed and factory-fitted vehicle components, although it will override the existing steering system—meaning factory steering controls will not be used. Designed for portability, the Value Line Steering solution is easy to install and uninstall, making it simple to transfer between vehicles. Additional cable kits and XW-1 steering wheel modules are available to facilitate even easier swapping.
A GNSS connection is included as standard. For users with RTK and SkyBridge, the system offers enhanced reliability: the RTK correction is automatically backed by a Precise Point Positioning (PPP) satellite service, ensuring seamless signal switching and maximum accuracy even during connection drops.
Steering patterns
Value Line supports a wide variety of steering patterns, including straight, curved, or mixed paths, as well as pivot, steer-to-boundary, and GuideLock – which prevents overlap by generating guidance lines based on the last pass. Headland turns are also included, enabling automatic turning at the end of rows. The system supports GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BEIDOU, and QZSS satellite networks, with additional PPP support for RTK subscribers.
Touchscreen terminals are available in a 10-inch (25.4 cm) version for the EMEA market, and both 10-inch and 7-inch (17.78 cm) versions for other regions. The display is waterproof and rated for durability. Value Line also supports ISOXML data and is fully ISOBUS compatible. Autosteer can be activated using a button on the tractor armrest or joystick when optional accessories are added.
Support for Virtual Section Control – used to manage sprayers, seed drills, and similar implements – is currently undergoing validation, with plans to make it available as a standard feature soon. The autosteer can engage at speeds as low as 0.1 km/h, with maximum operating speeds depending on the precision required.
The main components of the system include the console, GNSS receiver, electric steering wheel, and cable kit, with an optional modem for RTK functionality. Prices start at €6,000 (approximately US $7,000).
