R&S Blog

Attention All StarFire iTC Owners

Do you own a StarFire iTC receiver? If so, you will want to know, we have received word from John Deere that effective Jan 1st, 2021 the Starfire iTC GPS receiver will no longer be able to receive the SF1 or SF2 corrections required for machines to Autotrac.  This change is happening because of a government satellite update, these new satellites broadcast the L5 signal.  The iTC was first offered 15 years ago and has been a great tool in precision ag to date. Unfortunately, the hardware in an iTC receiver will not allow it to receive the newer signal.  

The iTC receiver will continue receiving the WAAS (Free Signal provided by Government) signal past 2021.  Therefore, you will continue to be able to use the iTC for nonautotrac applications, such as mapping, documentation and section control in 2021 and beyond. Older tractors and combines without Autotrac might be a great place to install your iTC receiver. 

Knowing this now will help prepare you for the future, start thinking about updating.  As for the time being, you can continue using your iTC. When you are ready to upgrade call your R&S Equipment Consultant for options on the full line of new or used John Deere Precision guidance products.