Depth Autos Setup

TIP – For optimum performance when using Autos features, avoid connecting the Operator App device to the system via Wi-Fi. Ensure that you use a wired connection.

For Trimble Autos on Cat NGH series 07 machines or Cat NGH mini/micro machines, see Using Autos on other machine models.

NOTE – If you want to use Depth and Tilt Autos together, see Depth and Tilt Autos Setup.

Depth Autos performs best when grading a finish surface. After you finish bulk excavating and approach final grade, engage Autos. The system automatically controls movement of the boom and attachment, while you manually control movement of the stick.

NOTE – Use Autos with a bucket, do not use it with any other type of attachment.

NOTE – For machines with a two-piece boom, do not move the upper boom while in Autos mode.

TIP – For information on best practices, see Best Practices When Using Depth Autos.

Depth Autos status indicators

The Depth Autos status indicators at the bottom right–hand corner of the work screen show you what state Autos are currently in.

Status indicator Status

Manual

Depth Autos is armed, but not engaged.

Manual interlock

Depth Autos is armed but cannot be engaged.

Possible reasons: Hydraulic lockout engaged, valve module failure.

Depth Autos ready

Depth Autos is armed and engaged, but is not active because the attachment is outside the control range.

Depth Autos engaged

Depth Autos is armed, engaged and active with the attachment inside the control range.

In this state the system controls movement of the boom and attachment.

Depth Autos not ready

Depth Autos is armed and engaged but cannot be active so Autos is temporarily suspended.

Possible reason: GNSS precision is outside tolerance.

Arm and Engage Depth Autos

WARNING – Do not leave the cab when Depth Autos is engaged. When Depth Autos is engaged, the system will control movement of the boom and attachment. These movements could cause injury to anyone near the attachment, or damage to the machine. Always put the attachment on the ground and engage the hydraulic lockout before you leave the machine.
Do not use Depth Autos if the ground conditions are unstable. Only use Depth Autos to grade a finish surface. Disarm Depth Autos when you perform other applications, such as lifting.

To use Depth Autos:

  1. If you are in Depth and Slope mode, bench the machine before you use Depth Autos.

    If you are in Design mode, load a design before you use Depth Autos.

  2. Position the machine on solid, stable ground to prevent rocking.

  3. Make sure the machine’s hydraulic oil reaches its normal operating temperature (55°C/130°F ).

  4. Select High Power mode and turn the throttle up to maximum revs.

    NOTE – It is okay to use the auto idle function on your machine.

  5. Position the attachment within the control range.

    TIP – Use the lightbars, cut/fills and buzzer to guide the attachment.

  6. Access the Autos Setup screen via the Work Settings menu.

  7. Arm Autos: In the Autos Setup screen, toggle Arm Autos on and tap Apply.

    A 30 second timer displays.

  8. Confirm Autos: Press and hold the depth auto switch for more than one second, and then release it.

  9. Engage Autos: Press and hold the depth auto switch as the attachment cutting edge approaches the design elevation. Move the stick lever slowly to start the automatic movement of the boom and attachment. Once Depth Autos engage and the boom and attachment are in motion, you can increase the velocity of the stick.

    To temporarily disengage Depth Autos, let go of the depth auto switch. Be aware that while Autos is disengaged you can cut beneath the design. Sometimes you may purposefully want to dig below design, however if this is not the case make sure that you monitor your cut/fills and lightbars. Press the depth auto switch again to re‑engage Depth Autos.

Select and Apply a Preset

You can select and apply the active preset via the Autos Setup or Autos Optimization screen. You can access these screens via the Work Settings menu. There is always at least one preset stored which is the Default preset set by your technician in the Web Interface. This cannot be edited or deleted.

Select the active preset that you require and tap Apply.

You can create, edit or delete a preset via the Autos Optimization screen. For more information, see Depth Autos Optimization.

Troubleshooting

The table below lists some of the error messages that may appear when you use Autos. You may need to enlist the help of your technician to resolve the error states.

Error Message Possible cause(s)
Auto switch Fault Suspect that the depth auto switch cable is disconnected, the depth auto switch or valve module is faulty, or the interconnecting cables are faulty.
Hydraulic Lockout Fault Suspect that the pilot pressure switch attached to the valve manifold is disconnected from the valve cable, or the pilot pressure switch or connecting cables are faulty, or the valve module is faulty.
Proportional Valve Fault Suspect that the valve is not connected or the valve or valve cable are faulty.
Master Enable Valve Fault Suspect that the master enable valve is not connected or the master enable valve or valve cable are faulty.
Auto State Not Visible Suspect that other menus or apps are obscuring the Autos icon.