RDS Technology, one of Britain’s best-known farm electronics makers, has been bought by US company Digi-Star.

Digi-Star makes electronic weighing systems that involve precision load cells, sensors, and digital displays. It also offers feed management software packages. RDS makes on-board weigh-scales, sprayer rate controls, yield monitors, drill controls and area measurement kit.

RDS began life in 1969. It originally started in farm buildings design but quickly shifted to farm electronics and the first grain-loss monitor for combines was developed two years later. It moved to a purpose-built factory near Minchinhampton, Gloucestershire in 2000.

“This combination of two leading companies in the precision measurement industry will now be able to offer fully integrated solutions for those progressive companies looking to bring the type of equipment interfaces that will optimise productivity.”
Richard Danby, RDS Technology’s managing director

Although direct sales to farmers are important, most of the demand for RDS equipment is from some 80 tractor and machinery companies, which fit the firm’s equipment on their machines.

Richard Danby, RDS Technology’s managing director, said: “This combination of two leading companies in the precision measurement industry will now be able to offer fully integrated solutions for those progressive companies looking to bring the type of equipment interfaces that will optimise productivity.”

RDS management and operations will continue to be based at Stroud, UK. In 2011, the firm had more than 80 employees and a turnover approaching £10m.

More on this topic

Keep up with the latest machinery news