Major equipment manufacturers keep upping their games when it comes to new tech on their highest-value tools. Bigger, more capable monitors; advanced linkage to the internet cloud; improved implement control. These are all the currency of today's high-horsepower tractor market; and for 2017, Massey Ferguson plans to play hard.

The new Massey Ferguson 8700 Series tractors will enter the market for 2017 with new tech onboard, including a new 9-inch Datatronic 5 Control Center Display. This compact computer in a cab carries 4 gigabytes of memory and 1 gigabyte of RAM, which is computer-speak for plenty of onboard power. There's a video input for one camera, four controller area network (CAN) inputs and one USB input. The new control center is even Bluetooth-capable for use with other devices.

During the National Farm Machinery Show, Eric Zimmerman, marketing manager for high-horsepower tractors at Agco, noted that the new control center "is a touch-screen system that allows you to manage the autoguide system, variable-rate control and section control on machines. It also offers wireless data transfer that allows you to pull your AgCommand data off the tractor."

He explained that the display is a touch-screen with an updated user interface and a simplified menu. The system uses easy-to-recognize icons to provide a consistent experience across all menu functions used to control the tractor, implement and onboard technology.

The control also uses Agco's common electronic architecture to ensure that tractors and onboard technology are compatible with a wide range of implements across multiple brands.

And customers can choose the receiver they want to work with — either a Novatel Smart 6-L or a Trimble AG-382 to best match their existing base station and coverage needs.

More info on the 8700 Series
The Massey Ferguson 8700 Series includes five models ranging from 240 to 340 engine hp. Engine power comes from an Agco Power 8.4-liter, six-cylinder engine that uses twin turbochargers with eWastegate technology as part of its clean-burning design.

Engine power is mated to the drivetrain through a Dyna VT continuously variable transmission with Power Management and a top speed of 31 mph. Field speed ranges from 0.02 to 17 mph forward and 0.02 to 10 mph in reverse. On the road the range is 0.02 to 31 mph forward and 0.02 to 24 mph in reverse.

The machines feature closed-center, load-sensing hydraulics with a 54-gallon-per-hour flow rate and 2,900 psi max pressure.

Other enhancements include LED work lights, added direct rear linkage controls, an in-cab toolbox, a cup holder in the console, reduced-noise front wiper, rear-window wash, lighting for entry steps and a lockable diesel exhaust fluid tank.

For more information, visit agcocorp.com.