Recommendations and Best Practices

Point of Reference

Instructions provided generally assume you are standing behind the machine facing toward the cab. More specific orientation may be provided as necessary to complete procedures.

Preparing for Install

  • Ensure there are no issues with the machine hydraulic system (e.g., pump issues, faulty hydraulic motors, fine metal deposits in the hydraulic hoses, etc.).
  • Verify that the machine hydraulic system is using fresh oil and that the filters have been recently changed.
  • Ensure there are no issues with the steering system (e.g., worn bushings, faulty tie rod ends, improperly adjusted steering components, etc.)

Aerials and Signal Interference

Due to the relatively low broadcast power from satellites, all GNSSClosed Global Navigation Satellite System receivers and aerials tend to be susceptible to sources of signal noise and interference as compared to terrestrial signals (i.e. radio or cellular).

Note:  Poor GNSS signal reception may cause other systems which rely on GNSS solutions (e.g. auto-steer systems, rate control systems, etc.) to disengage or may cause undesired operation or results.

The following recommendations are intended to provide an optimal environment for GNSS systems and provide the best up-time results, even as sources of interference may spike throughout the day.

  • Mount GNSS antennas with a clear, unobstructed view of the sky.
    • A minimum clearance of 1 m [39 in] is recommended around the GNSS antenna to help avoid common issues with signal interference. Do not mount cellular, radio, or other GNSS antennas within this area.
    • Mount the GNSS antenna to the tallest point of the machine. Avoid mounting the antenna in a location where obstructions (e.g. bins/hoppers, cab roof lines, equipment frame or structural elements, etc.) may rise into the antenna view.

      Note:   The antenna view typically starts 5° to 10° above horizontal from the base of the antenna and extends over the skyward face of the receiver/antenna.

  • GNSS is a line-of-sight system. A clear path must exist between the satellite and the GNSS antenna.
    • Obstructions such as buildings, tree branches and limbs, as well as components of the vehicle such as a fiberglass or metal roof, and etc. may cause signal multi-path or completely block the GNSS receiver.
  • Electrical and magnetic fields can interfere with GNSS or L-Band signals.
    • Avoid mounting GNSS receivers or antennas near components such as radio or cellular antennas, electrical motors, generators, alternators, strobe lights, radio transmitters, radio or cellular antennas, etc.
    • Over-head power lines, microwave dishes, radar, other active antennas, etc. can interfere with GNSS signal.
  • Mount the Field Hub cellular and diversity antennas at least 1 m [39 in] apart. Avoid mounting other cellular, radio, or GNSS aerials within this area.

Harness Routing

The word “harness” is used to describe any electrical cables and leads, both bundled and unbundled. Use the following guidelines and recommendations when connecting and routing harnesses while installing or maintaining this Raven system:

  • Leave protective caps/covers over harness connectors until needed to avoid dirt and moisture from contaminating electrical circuits.
  • Secure the harness to the frame or solid structural members at least every 12 in [30 cm].
  • Follow existing harness runs already routed on the implement as much as possible. Proper harness routing should:
    • Secure harnessing and prevent the harness from hanging below the implement.
    • Provide sufficient clearance from moving components and operational zones around shafts; universal joints and suspension components; pulleys, gears, belts, and chains; moving linkages, cylinders, articulation joints, etc.
    • Protect harnessing from field debris and surrounding hazards (e.g. tree limbs, fence posts, crop stubble, dirt clumps or rocks that may fall or be thrown by the implement).
    • Protect harnessing from sharp bends, twisting, or flexing over short distances and normal implement operation.
    • Connectors and splices should not be located at bending points or in harness sections that move.
    • Ensure sufficient length for free movement of the implement during normal operation and prevent pulling, pinching, catching, or rubbing, especially in articulation and pivot points. Clamp harnessing securely to force controlled movement of the harness.
    • Avoid abrasive surfaces and sharp edges such as sheared or flame cut corners, fastener threads or cap screw heads, hose clamp ends, etc.
  • Do not connect, affix, or allow harnessing to come into contact with components with high vibration forces, hot surfaces, or components carrying hot fluids beyond the temperature rating of harness components.
    • Harnessing should be protected or shielded if routing requires the hose to be exposed to conditions beyond harnessing component specifications.
  • Avoid routing harnesses in areas where damage may occur due to build up of material (e.g. dirt, mud, snow, ice, etc.).
  • Avoid routing harnesses in areas where the operator or service personnel might step or use as a grab bar.

    Note:  Avoid applying direct spray or pressure washing of electrical components and connections. High pressure streams and sprays can penetrate seals, cause corrosion, or otherwise damage electrical components. When performing maintenance:

  • Inspect electrical components and connectors for corrosion, damaged pins or housings, etc. Repair or replace components or harnessing as necessary.
  • Ensure connectors are kept clean and dry. Apply dielectric grease to the sealing surfaces of all connections exposed to moisture, dirt, debris, and other contaminates. Repair or replace harnessing as necessary.
  • Clean electrical components with pressurized air, aerosol electrical cleaning agent, or low pressure rinse.
  • Remove visible surface water from electrical components and connections using pressurized air or an aerosol cleaning agent. Allow components to dry thoroughly before reconnecting cables.

Last Revised: Jul 2024