Following a rise in the theft of its display and GPS systems, John Deere has released a new security system to help deter thieves. CPM reports.

John Deere is now offering a new PIN code locking system to help deter thieves targeting valuable GreenStar in-cab displays and StarFire satellite receivers – designed to make it impossible to use the components if they are stolen.

Because of their popular ‘plug and play’ design, John Deere displays and GPS receivers have become more susceptible to theft compared to some other systems on the market – and until now, they could only be locked and protected mechanically.

To increase the level of protection, John Deere has therefore introduced a built-in PIN code lock, similar to that used on smartphones, for both components.

Locked and protected

The PIN code can be entered via the John Deere display. If the user forgets the code, they can continue working for a limited period, up to 72 hours.

After this a Master Unlock Code is required, which can be generated in the StellarSupport online portal. The customer’s MyJohnDeere login grants access to any John Deere component previously registered in their StellarSupport account.

The locking system is now available for John Deere 4240 and 4640 Universal Displays and the StarFire 6000 receiver. It is bundled with the recent 19-1 software update, which permits the upgrade of these specific displays and receivers.

Security across the spectrum

This latest security feature complements the range of precautions already introduced by John Deere this decade to deter thieves.

The company’s agricultural tractors sold in the UK and Ireland – including the 6M, 6R, 7R, 8R and 9R Series models – are fitted as standard with the Cesar Datatag security system, as well as an immobiliser in which the key has a transponder unique to each individual tractor.

This means that while any other John Deere tractor key will still fit the door and ignition, the tractor won’t start without the proper key.

John Deere was the first company to introduce the unique key system as standard on a full range of tractors in the UK and Ireland, in 2011.

Other security-related items are also available from dealers, including lockable fuel tank caps and separate door lock keys, as well as immobiliser systems from the John Deere-owned Vapormatic all-makes parts business.

Telematics benefits

In addition, all 7R, 8R and 9R Series tractors have JDLink telematics fitted as standard, which allows farmers to geofence machines, so that SMS or email messages are sent if they move outside a predefined area.

JDLink also allows a ‘curfew’ to be set, to warn the owner if the machine was turned on during a pre-defined period (say, between 10pm and 6am).

The system is available as a factory-fitted option on 6R Series models, or it can be field-fitted on any other vehicle with a 12V power supply.