Technology in the field of agricultural nutrient management has made rapid advances due in part to the availability of global positioning system (GPS) services. The ability to map field characteristics coupled with mobile technology has enabled the automation of farmer producer’s equipment. This combination is commonly referred to as variable rate technology (VRT) or “Precision Farming”. This has impacted the research performed by the Nutrient Management Group (http://www.extension.umn.edu/nutrient-management/about/) at the University of MN and, as is often the case, technology precedes research. Current research is focused on issues related to field variability such as seeding rates, varietal selection, nutrient management and others. The technology has also resulted in new tools to perform this research. Real Time Kinetics (RTK) and auto steer (a GPS-based system that automatically steers tractors and other farm equipment) abilities allow sub-inch placement of nutrients and seed. Liquid and dry fertilizer delivery options enable us to apply predetermined fertilizer rates to specific areas of the field. These resources are used for both traditional and VRT type research.
The use of VRT in the field has increased our dependence on computing technology. Rate controllers often function on PC interfaces and data created from field activities is available and prolific. Creation of prescription management maps requires portability and their implementation requires the operation of touch screen controllers. The adoption of this technology along with the rapid advancement of portable devices has highlighted the potential use of the iPad as a useful tool for our group.
We operate as a group of 5 within the larger Nutrient Management Team, with responsibilities for approximately 25 unique studies including 50 experimental sites over 30 locations across the state of Minnesota. The Nutrient Management group has grown throughout this period of advancement and has found communicating the needs of the research projects to be problematic at times. In past years we would use three ring binders to hold all plot plans, maps, protocols, and contact information, one book for each member. Changes to this information were difficult to update to a group and assure that all individuals had current copies. The prolific use of email made the current system obsolete; as changes were requested, hard copies would need to be updated for all.
For several months we have been utilizing the iPad to communicate information regarding our projects. Our group has purchased two new iPads and three iPad 2, noticing no functional difference between the models. All were purchased with the cellular data option, primarily to obtain the GPS ability. Rugged cases (Griffin Survivor and OtterBox) were purchased and have performed well in protecting the iPads. To keep costs down we have explored options to use the iPad without cellular connectivity and thus avoid having a cellular contract and paying monthly fees. Compared to previously available devices the iPad is far more flexible. Traditionally, field ready handhelds have been limited to ruggedized windows mobile computers, and early tablet devices; these were very expensive and typically ran proprietary software.
Following is a highlight of some specific needs and applications used to assist in our communication:
- Data delivery to the iPad is achieved primarily through the use of the DropBox application. The app is available for iOS, Mac and PC and automatically syncs all devices logged into the same account. Use of the files on the iPad requires that the file be marked as a favorite if it is to be used when not connected. The resident viewer performs very well in displaying content from common file types, the files open quickly and the pinch zoom features work well in navigating a spreadsheet. As a group we have been using the shared drive at the University for several years so this was not a new concept. The app displays file structure in a PC type format so information is easily categorized in folders.
- Spreadsheet functions have been performed in both the Numbers and Quickoffice HD PRO. Both operate similarly and have limited spreadsheet functionality sufficient for simple formulas and data manipulation. Files made in Numbers can be emailed as several formats, files in Quickoffice can be saved directly back to DropBox. Spreadsheets with simple formulas have eased some of the field calculations; though mathematically uncomplicated the spreadsheets allow simple data entry into cells to yield pre-programmed results. Currently these spreadsheets are used for equipment calibration. Some field data have been collected using the iPad, but not enough to comment on the ease of use. It is our general experience that data collected on electronic devices is less apt to have errors so we will continue to explore this option.
- Evernote is an application primarily used to share text but does allow the sharing of photos as well. We use it to communicate information for preparation for field activities, from simple lists to items needing specific preparation. We have also used it to photo journal some important paperwork while in the field to protect against loss. The app is also available for iOS, Mac and PC so lists can be generated from any location and viewed by all devices logged on to the same account. In the past we would have a weekly list and make copies for everyone. This app keeps the list current at all times and allows the communication to occur to the group and not just one individual.
- GPS for simple navigation, rough Lat/Lon coordinates and satellite views have been performed using the app MotionX. This app allows the user to download street and/or satellite view maps, which are available off-line. It also easily displays current location and presents it in format to share. While adept at using more accurate GPS devices there are often times when the information does not require a great amount of precision. Importing .gpx files is simple so all our study locations can easily be added to the map. It is nice not to have to rely on hand drawn maps to navigate to remote locations.
- PDF file storage is currently performed using iBooks. The app operates simply with Safari browser to save .pdf files viewed in the browser. Soil fertility extension bulletins, herbicide information, diagnostic tools, and equipment manuals are readily available in PDF format on-line and can be saved on the iPad for off-line viewing. The files are easily shared using the app.
- Many other apps are regularly used as a result of the “instant on” operation of the iPad. Using the calculator, viewing weather or email are all very quick, simple and efficient compared to even a laptop. The ability to view one thousand emails, complete with attachments, off-line is very useful. The photos are usually of sufficient quality for our purposes, mainly to journal information. I expect there are numerous other apps we will find in the future to use for specific needs.
The primary use for the iPad in our group has been to communicate specific information necessary to carry out tasks in the field, and to a lesser extent to collect information. The apps chosen have been successful in replacing the trusty three ring binder approach and have done so without loss of information or integrity. To assist in the adoption process the decision was made to allow all users to personalize the iPad, I believe the extracurricular use has increased its effectiveness in the workplace. We have not had any durability issues nor have we found any significant disadvantage.
One noteworthy point is the potential security issues associated with the use of a third party service to transfer and house information. We have not used DropBox to house or transfer any research data, personal information, account numbers or any other sensitive material.
We will continue to explore options for use of the iPad and have enjoyed the opportunity to increase our efficiency in the field. There is currently an effort to create some apps similar to the crop calculators, http://www.extension.umn.edu/nutrient-management/crop-calculators/ , and I believe our familiarity with the iPad will assist in building a high quality and relevant app for the consumer.