Case IH Optum receives AFS Connect

Case IH’s Optum CVT tractors, with horsepower ranging from 271hp to 300hp, are the latest in the brand’s range to receive the AFS Connect technology, after it was introduced in the Magnum in 2019 and the Steiger in 2020.

Case IH Australia said the AFS Connect Optum can be ordered from this month onwards with delivery expected to be in early 2022.

AFS Connect, which first surfaced in 2019, is Case IH’s groundbreaking precision ag tech offering that truly connects the machine to the farmer and to other machines in the fleet. Through AFS Connect, farmers have greater control and sight of their machines and are able to remotely monitor their fleet and manage data from wherever they are in the world.

Case IH has taken the opportunity to give the Optum a facelift, by completely redesigning the cab to bring the AFS Connect Optum in line with its larger siblings.

The number of models (two), power offerings and the CVT transmission remain, but most other design features are completely new, Case IH said.

The new cab now offers more space, lower noise levels, improved vision and upgraded premium interior materials, Case IH said.

There is also a new Multicontroller armrest, a Multi-Function lever and configurable controls to allow the tractor and its implement to be adapted to the operator and the task.

A new ISOBUS-compatible AFS Pro 1200 touchscreen monitor has a high-resolution screen that not only allows the operator to monitor all primary tractor functions, but can also show front and rear camera feeds and is the key control gateway to operating and optimising the engine, the continuously-variable transmission and the tractor’s hydraulics and PTO.

All future Optum models will come standard with Case IH’s AFS Connect telematics package – a first for Case IH’s tractor series. The technology allows instant two-way data transfer between the tractor and the AFS Connect online management portal which gives tractor owners and farm managers real-time information on their fleets and work data so they can make decisions with greater speed and accuracy.

AFS Connect also allows Case IH dealers to remotely monitor the tractor’s AFS Pro 1200 terminal screen, if the tractor owner so wishes, allowing the dealer to service or troubleshoot issues remotely hence reducing downtime.

The four-pillar design of the cab with full-length doors gives operators great visibility around the cab while the upper curved edge to the windscreen helps maximise natural light into the cab. Night work is made easier by a comprehensive 360-degree LED lighting package. 

Some external components of the tractor has also been restyled - such as lowered rear fenders – to aid visibility.

A premium leather seat with active suspension features full cooling and heating capabilities, and has an upper swivelling backrest for easy and comfortable turning in the seat to monitor implements behind and when reversing.

A new drive pedal provides enhanced precision and control for slow-speed inching, field work with headland turns, and high-speed travel on the road.

Other improvements and new features include increased storage, large coolbox and multiple USB sockets.

Visit caseih.com.au for more information.