Combine header losses might occasionally equal or even exceed those of the threshing system according to Geringhoff, the German maker of a new retrofit monitoring system.

Yield EyeQ uses a camera – or two on the biggest headers – to take high-resolution images of the stubble.

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These are analysed by an on-board computer to determine how many whole heads and single grains are being lost due to incorrect header settings.

The results are displayed either as a percentage of total yield or as a kg/ha figure, so operators can subsequently assess the result of any reel speed or position changes.

This may prove particularly valuable when using headers with cross-auger conveyors in rapeseed, and in other small-seeded crops and legumes.

A single camera system costs about £10,500. Buyers could claw that outlay back in three years through reduced grain losses, Geringhoff claims.