The world of precision farming is evolving rapidly, and AGCO is leading the way with their new technology umbrella: PTx – short for “Precision Technology Exponential.” But what does this mean for South African farmers? Emile Renke from AGCO explained at NAMPO what PTx is, how it works, and how it makes farming smarter, faster, and more profitable.

What is PTx?

PTx is more than just a new name – it’s a fully integrated technology offering that brings AGCO’s precision farming solutions under one roof. This includes PTx Trimble and PTx Precision Planting.

“PTx stands for precision farming (P) and advanced technology (T) that exponentially (x) increases the positive impact on your operation,” explains Emile. “We want our dealers to be a one-stop shop for all farmers’ precision needs – from smart displays and GPS systems to planting, spraying, and water management technology.”

Emile Renke from AGCO PTx explains how precision fertiliser application works using ISOBUS and the benefits it brings.

PTx Trimble: Technology for any tractor

One of the biggest advantages of PTx Trimble is that the products are “colour-blind” – they fit any tractor or implement, regardless of brand. Farmers don’t have to replace their entire fleets to benefit from advanced technology.

PTx Trimble offers a range of GFX displays adaptable to any farming operation:

  • GFX-350: Auto-steering and variable rate application of two products, with 24 sections control.
  • GFX-1060 (most popular from AGCO): Auto-steering, variable rate of four products, and up to 256 sections control.
  • GFX-1260 (flagship): Auto-steering, variable rate of up to six products, and 256 sections control.

Together with the displays, PTx also offers GPS options:

  • NAV-500: Accuracy of 30 cm.
  • NAV-900: Accuracy up to 2,5 cm – suitable for precision planting or spraying.

“What’s great about our system is that you can mix and match any display and GPS combination that fits your budget and needs,” says Emile.

Weedseeker 2: Spray only where it’s needed

One of the most exciting technologies under PTx Trimble is the Weedseeker 2, an advanced spot-spraying system. Each spray nozzle has a sensor that can detect green in the row. As soon as the sensor detects something green, it sprays. If there is nothing, it does not spray. “This ‘green-on-brown’ technology can save up to 90% on chemical costs,” Emile explains. The system is ISOBUS-compatible and fits any sprayer – again, brand doesn’t matter.

Weedseeker 2’s “green-on-brown” technology uses sensors on each spray nozzle to detect and spray only where needed – drastically cutting chemical costs.

 

PTx Precision Planting – Built for farmers, designed for planters

PTx Precision Planting is globally renowned for its outstanding seed placement and inter-row spacing. This customised solution is standard on most Massey Ferguson planters and can also be colour-blindly installed on any other planter. It includes:

  • A control display,
  • Electric motors for seed control, and
  • Section control per row enabled by individual motors
  • Optional add-ons like down force, good-ride, and smart-firmer can also be added at any stage.

“What’s unique is that the planter automatically adjusts speed and intensity around turns or contour lines to ensure optimal plant population,” says Emile.

PTx ISOBUS application control – Old meets new

With Müller ISOBUS solutions in the PTx Trimble portfolio, AGCO can make any implement – old or new – ISOBUS capable. This allows farmers to ensure precise application regardless of their tractor’s hydraulic capabilities. You choose: electric or hydraulic.

PTx Water Management – Where every drop counts

Trimble is a global leader in water management, and PTx offers two main solutions:

  • Land levelling: Level fields to prevent waterlogging or improve drainage.
  • Subsurface drainage: Lay drainage pipes to remove excess water quickly – especially important in high rainfall areas.

Decide for yourself – Your system, your pace

At the heart of PTx is adaptability and accessibility. Farmers can start small and expand their system as their operation grows. From precision planting and smart spraying to advanced water management – PTx offers real solutions without tying you to one tractor or brand.

“With PTx, you’re not limited to one system – you build your own solution, at your own pace, on your own farm.”

For more information, visit the PTx Trimble or PTx Precision Planting websites at www.ptxag.com, follow PTx on social media, or contact your nearest AGCO dealer for more details.