To better understand hog barn management, we turned to AP's expert, Tom Kain, Technical Sales Manager. With his extensive knowledge, Tom provides valuable insights into how advanced technologies such as AP Connect and AGRI-ALERT™ transform how hog producers manage their barns. Let's hear from Tom about the importance of streamlining operations with these innovative systems and how they can elevate your hog barn to new heights of efficiency and productivity and bring you peace of mind.
Why is integrated farm management technology important for hog operations?
Smart technology is crucial for hog operations because it enhances efficiency and productivity. It allows for real-time monitoring and control of barn conditions, ensuring optimal environments for hogs. This leads to better decision-making and immediate response to issues, improving animal comfort and well-being. Task automation and remote monitoring can reduce manual labor and unnecessary barn visits, while data-driven insights help optimize resource use, resulting in cost savings, higher profitability potential and peace of mind.
How does AP Connect help hog producers in real-time monitoring?
AP Connect is a versatile mobile application available on Apple® and Android™ devices, seamlessly integrating with new and older barn equipment through the Legacy Connect card. This system connects various aspects of a farm operation, providing real-time data and control capabilities. Key features include remote monitoring, alerts, data analysis and integration with other AP products. The app offers real-time monitoring of essential metrics such as auger run time, water consumption, temperature, humidity and static pressure, ensuring producers can stay informed about barn conditions from anywhere.
AP Connect enhances operational efficiency, enables early issue detection, and saves significant time and labor through its real-time data access and remote command capabilities. This empowers hog producers to monitor and manage their barns remotely, ensuring optimal conditions for their animals without the need for unnecessary on-site visits.
How do the features of AGRI-ALERT contribute to the effective management of hog operations?
AGRI-ALERT is a comprehensive alarm management system tailored to producers' needs, designed to track barn conditions and pig health. It enables producers to set metric thresholds and receive instant notifications for critical events such as temperature fluctuations and loss of connectivity. Key features include temperature monitoring, alarm notifications, data logging, and customizable alerts to maximize productivity and animal comfort.
Customizable alert settings and robust data logging empower producers to adapt the system to their operations and make better-informed decisions. Benefits include early issue detection, improved animal health, and overall operational improvement. AGRI-ALERT offers scalable solutions, accommodating operations of all sizes and ensuring flexibility for producers.
How do AGRI-ALERT and AP Connect complement each other in hog barn management?
AP has made advancements in digitizing remote farm management so producers can monitor and control their barns, receive alerts and address issues from the palm of their hands.
AGRI-ALERT focuses specifically on alarm management tailored to the needs of hog producers. It provides instant notifications for events such as temperature changes and equipment disruptions. It prioritizes the health and well-being of animals by enabling swift action to address issues and maintain optimal barn environments.
AP Connect offers a broader range of features aimed at enhancing overall farm productivity and efficiency. It includes real-time data access, remote command and control capabilities and advanced tracking features. AP Connect provides a comprehensive solution for remote monitoring and management, enabling producers to optimize operations, reduce costs and improve productivity across different aspects of their operation.
Both AGRI-ALERT and AP Connect share the common goal of leveraging technology to empower producers with actionable insights, enhance operational efficiency, ensure the welfare of their animals and allow them to be proactive instead of reactive when issues arise.
How can I integrate AP Connect and AGRI-ALERT into my operation?
- Contact your local AP dealer.
- Assess farm needs and goals.
- Select the appropriate system configurations.
- Install and set up the hardware and software.
- Configure sensors, alarms and notifications.
- Train farm staff on system usage.
- Monitor system performance and make adjustments as needed.
What is the pricing structure for AP Connect and AGRI-ALERT subscriptions?
The pricing structure includes tiered subscriptions for AP Connect, ranging from basic view-only access to premium command and control features. Additionally, AGRI-ALERT subscriptions are available at different levels, with options for gateway-based or legacy connect card-based alerts. This provides customers with the flexibility to choose the services that best suit their operations while optimizing costs.
Contact your local AP dealer to learn more about how AP Connect and AGRI-ALERT can optimize your hog operation and bring you peace of mind! Agri-Alert is a registered trademark of Automated Production Systems. Apple is a registered trademark of Apple Inc. Android is a trademark of Google LLC.
