It's all in the joystick at McConnel‏

McConnel is putting its hedge and verge cutting machinery operators in the driving seat when it comes to power arm control.

The innovative UK manufacturer has rolled out its latest control system with the universal introduction of the new V4 PRO controls for 2008.

The new controls, which McConnel claims are the most advanced on the market, bring a telling two-fold benefit to agricultural and contractor operators. Firstly, they offer far greater operational flexibility within the cab in terms of their physical positioning.

Secondly, the software advances give users extended operational options along with more responsive control of the Power Arm.

The new controls come with separate joystick and control box superseding the previous V3 armrest control which was essentially one unit. The improved design fits more ergonomically with the tractor seat armrest. It also enables the control box to be removed from the armrest and situated anywhere in the cab, for example, the window or elsewhere using the bracket supplied.

"It's another case of responding to the needs of the operator. By separating the joystick from the control box and LCD screen, we've introduced greater flexibility and comfort for the operator and through the software upgrades more responsive control in the operation of the machinery," explains McConnel's Marketing Manager Wayne Brown.

"Effectively this sets the new standard of power arm control technology within the industry and is now available across our product ranges," he adds.

V4 Pro control system features

• Flexible LCD screen location.

• Greater head angle and slew control via new thumbwheels.

• Improved fine control across all services.

• Larger joystick with extended movement giving a more forgiving control

• Lift float / EDS and angle float toggle on/off operation from the joystick.

• EDS settings soft / med / hard toggle from joystick.

• Two diverter valves are operational from the 'A' button allowing the plumbing of hydraulic roller and head orbiter etc. enabling seven proportional services.

• Remote mounted screen enabling improved screen operation / visibility.

• True joystick test screen showing actual CAN counts, button testing and operation counting.

• Compatibility with earlier V3 via V3.5 software.

• Reduced keypad and control box usage through joystick advances.