🚀 Quick-Start Guide (~10 minutes)
Welcome! This page gives you the bare-minimum knowledge to understand AgOpenGPS. Before making big purchase decisions, dive into the in-depth sections linked throughout.
What is AgOpenGPS?
AgOpenGPS (AOG) is an open-source autosteer and implement-control system.
The software runs on a Windows tablet and, together with community-built
hardware (PCBs, sensors, motor drivers), guides farm machinery with
centimetre-level accuracy.
Why do farmers want autosteer?
- Reduce driver fatigue
- Save inputs through precise spraying, fertilising, and seeding
- Work accurately in dust, fog, or after dark
Why choose AgOpenGPS over commercial kits?
- Cost: ~1/5th of the cost of typical commercial systems with similar functionality
- Open source: free code, schematics, and PCB files—improve or customise at will
- Adaptable: fits almost any tractor with a bit of tinkering and community support
🛠️ Levels of AgOpenGPS
| Level | What it does |
|---|---|
| Light-bar guidance | Generates guidance lines—driver steers manually |
| Full autosteer | Tablet sends commands; motor or valve steers automatically |
| Autosteer + Section Control | Autosteer plus automatic boom/section on-off to avoid overlap |
| Autosteer + Rate Control | Autosteer plus variable-rate output based on speed or prescription map |
Which level should I start with?
Most users jump straight to full autosteer; you can add Section or Rate
Control later.
If you only need a light-bar, start simple—but know you can upgrade without
replacing core components.
Basic overview of the system
Before you dive into part lists, here’s what each main component does.
Components needed for light-bar guidance
- Location signal – Every AgOpenGPS setup needs a GNSS fix (often called
GPS).
A ZED-F9P receiver plus roof-mounted antenna streams position to the tablet so the software always knows where the tractor is—typically within a few centimetres. - Windows tablet or laptop – Rugged, sunlight-readable Windows 10/11 device (4 GB RAM min). Runs AgOpenGPS and lets you switch guidance on/off.
- AgOpenGPS software – The “brain” of the system: reads GNSS data, shows a live map/light-bar, logs coverage, and decides the next steering move.
Extra parts for full autosteer
- Wheel-angle sensor (WAS) – Reports the actual steering angle so AgOpenGPS can correct in real time.
- Steering actuator – Converts software commands into wheel movement. Options include a DC steering motor, retrofit motorised wheel, proportional hydraulic valve, or factory CAN valve.
- Roll / heading compensation (optional)
- Single-antenna builds: add an IMU (e.g. BNO085).
- Dual-antenna builds: two GNSS receivers provide heading and roll, so no IMU is needed.
- Control PCB – Acts as a central point that routes power and signals, connects sensors, and drives the motor or valve. First-time users would typically go for the latest ‘all-in-one’ board - currently v4.5
- RTK correction signal (optional but recommended) – AgOpenGPS’s built-in NTRIP client can fetch RTCM data from public, commercial, or DIY base stations to reach 1–2 cm accuracy.
With these elements installed, you can upgrade from simple light-bar guidance to fully automated, centimetre-accurate steering.
🙋 Need help?
- Telegram (fast chat): @AgOpenGPSInternational
- Forum (detailed): https://discourse.agopengps.com
- Videos: AOG Training Playlist
👀 Learn more
- Software Guide – installation and configuration of the AgOpenGPS software
- Hardware Guide – choosing the right parts, building and installing
Happy steering! 🚜💨