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SF-RTK Precision: Why and When to Use It

Unlock elite accuracy with SF-RTK—understand when this satellite-based correction unlocks peak G5 Advanced performance for your John Deere fleet.

What is SF-RTK?

SF-RTK is an optional add-on within the G5 Advanced suite offering advanced satellite-based correction to your John Deere equipment. SF-RTK stands for “StarFire Real-Time Kinematic” and provides 2.5 cm pass-to-pass and long-term repeatable accuracy, directly from the sky—no base station or extra radio required.

Key Benefits

  • Superior Precision: Achieve industry-best accuracy for planting, tillage, nutrient application, and harvest, regardless of field size or season.

  • Sky-Based Convenience: No need for local RTK towers, repeaters, or annual network calibrations—correction comes via satellite, even in remote or challenging areas.

  • Long-Term Repeatability: Ensures that guidance lines and boundaries remain reliable year to year, supporting exact line returns for strip-till, controlled traffic, or repeatable operations.

  • Simpler Setup: Easily activated on compatible G5 Advanced displays with minimal hardware and no additional installation required.

When Should SF-RTK Be Used?

  • High-Value Crops: Where row alignment and seed placement are critical for yield and quality

  • Controlled Traffic Farming (CTF): Where long-term path consistency prevents soil compaction and optimizes input use

  • Variable Terrain: When working on hills, curves, or irregularly shaped fields where standard signals may lose repeatability

  • Boundary and Headland Creation: For creating or repeating advanced field boundaries, ensuring every pass is accurate for years to come

How to Enable SF-RTK

  1. Check Compatibility:
    Confirm your G5 Advanced display and SF-RTK hardware subscription are activated.

  2. Activate the Signal:
    Use the command center display menus to enable SF-RTK as your signal correction source.

  3. Record Boundaries or Guidance:
    For best results, use SF-RTK to record boundaries, headlands, and all initial field operations—ensuring every following year aligns perfectly.

  4. Monitor Accuracy:
    The display will indicate correction strength, so you can operate confidently, knowing you’re getting the highest precision possible.