A new controller for Stocks Ag granule and seed applicators provides a third option for operating the company’s Turbo Jet, Rotor Meter, Fan Jet Plus, Maxi Meter and Micro Meter applicators.

It has more functionality than the simple VS-2, including variable rate control, but not the full prescription map spreading that the more sophisticated i-Con with its colour touchscreen display can handle.

See also: Granular applicator options for tackling grassweeds

The Jackal has a backlit LCD screen with large characters and a keypad to navigate the screen and enter values.

A key feature, says Stocks, is its ability to process a radar or gearbox speed signal from the tractor’s seven-pin ISO socket, which means it can handle forward speed-related rate control.

Alternatively, it can be supplied with a satellite signal receiver for this function.

Either way, programmable hot keys enable the operator to switch between two pre-set application rates, and to make on-the-move rate adjustments.

Adding a cut-out switch on the host implement can turn the applicator on and off automatically at headlands and the like.

Calibrating a Stocks applicator with the Jackal is said to be simpler than with the VS-2, which is operated using a toggle-switch and dial, and provides manual rate control adjustment and certain pre-set options.

A button push prompts the metering unit to dispense a given amount of product, which must then be weighed and the value entered so that the controller can make fine adjustments to metering roller speed.

Ensuring precise application rates in this way means the Jackal can handle ultra-low rates of less than 1kg/ha for Avadex granules or when sowing hybrid brassicas such as oilseed rape.