Ditch Assist DIG™: Standalone Excavator Grade Guidance
Experience simple, wireless, laser-free guidance for precise on-grade digging—no extra systems required.
Dig On Grade™ with Ditch Assist DIG™
Ditch Assist DIG™ provides standalone RTK GPS guidance for excavators and backhoes, offering a simple, laser-free solution for on-grade digging. Engineered by Northern Plains Drainage Systems, DIG™ delivers real-time bucket elevation guidance through an intuitive, web-based interface accessible on any device. Designed for simplicity and ease of use, DIG™ requires minimal setup—perfect for operators seeking straightforward, accurate excavation guidance without extra system complexity. Whether you’re executing a straight-line grade or progressing through multiple passes, Ditch Assist DIG™ ensures consistent, professional-grade results every time.
Ditch Assist DIG Features
✅ The Simplest GPS-Based Excavator Guidance System
By choosing Ditch Assist DIG™, you unlock a streamlined, standalone system designed specifically for excavator guidance—no need for the full Ditch Assist system. DIG™ comes equipped with a dedicated DIG controller, robust inclination sensors mounted in anti-vibration enclosures, and wireless connectivity that seamlessly links to any web-enabled device. The result? Real-time, accurate bucket guidance for excavators and backhoes at any digging position, delivered in an easy-to-use package.
✅ No Proprietary Display Required
Ditch Assist DIG™ features a super simple, web-based user interface that works on any device with a browser—no need for costly proprietary displays or specialized software. The guidance is straightforward and easy to follow, thanks to an uncluttered, intuitive design that lets you focus on precise on-grade excavation. Simply connect to the DIG controller’s Wi-Fi hotspot, enter the interface address, and get started. And if you prefer a dedicated device, we can supply a preconfigured tablet for added convenience.
✅ Wireless Connectivity – a Trademark of all Ditch Assist Products
Forget tangled wires and complex setups. Ditch Assist DIG creates its own dependable Wi-Fi hotspot (no internet needed) so your tablet connects wirelessly in the cab. This streamlined design means quick installations, effortless equipment swaps, and simple operation that cuts down on setup time and downtime. Experience wireless convenience that sets DIG apart from the competition.
✅ Accurate Real-Time Bucket Elevation Guidance on Any Machine
Experience precision with every pass—Ditch Assist DIG delivers accurate, real-time bucket elevation guidance regardless of the machine. DIG continuously tracks and tells you your bucket’s position, ensuring you maintain perfect grade control whether you’re operating a large excavator, a mini-hoe, or anythign in between. This reliable, automated guidance minimizes rework and keeps your project on schedule, making it an essential tool for achieving professional-grade results every time.
✅ Ultra Rugged High Accuracy Inclination Sensors
Ditch Assist DIG™ utilizes two rugged, high-precision inclination sensors housed in fully enclosed, anti-vibration aluminum units (IP67 rated) to deliver dependable bucket elevation guidance. One sensor is mounted near the top of the stick, while the other is installed on the bucket or, ideally, the dogbone for added protection. Through a straightforward calibration process using our DIG calibration procedure, the DIG module fuses these measurements to compute a modified GPS height that accurately represents the bucket teeth’s position. This precise data is then relayed to your screen, ensuring consistent, real-time guidance at any digging position on every project.
✅ Universal GPS Compatibility
Like all Ditch Assist products, DIG was engineered to integrate with RTK GPS systems from any manufacturer, allowing you the freedom to choose or keep your existing hardware. Our custom GPS pendulum mount accomodates most agriculture and survey/construction RTK receivers, including John Deere® StarFire® receivers. If you don’t already have RTK GPS or prefer not to invest in expensive RTK unlocks and hardware, we offer the affordable and highly reliable Emlid Reach RS3. This cost-effective alternative delivers precision accuracy at a fraction of the price of traditional RTK systems—making advanced RTK GPS grade control and guidance accessible to everyone.
Ditch Assist DIG™ includes every component needed for standalone excavator guidance—except the display and RTK receiver. The DIG kit comes with a dedicated DIG controller, harnesses, and a pair of rugged, high-precision inclination sensors, along with our proprietary GPS pendulum mounting system for accurate bucket elevation measurements. To complete your setup, simply pair the DIG kit with any device (such as an iPad, tablet, or laptop with a web browser) to serve as your display, and choose an RTK GPS solution like the cost-effective Emlid RS3—which also functions as a survey receiver. This comprehensive solution delivers precise, real-time excavator guidance without the complexity or expense of proprietary displays and high-end RTK hardware, making advanced grade control accessible and affordable for your machine.
Ditch Assist DIG Components
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Typical Ditch Assist DIG Setup
Setting up Ditch Assist X is straightforward compared to many complex systems on the market. Installation involves mounting the high-precision inclination sensors and GPS pendulum mount, then connecting the components to the Control Modules with minimal wiring. Calibration is quick and easy using our dedicated Windows calibration app, along with just a few basic tools like a measuring tape and a plumb bob.
GPS Pendulum Mount
The mount mast is typically permanently installed (welded) on the machine, positioned at the top of the stick so that the pendulum pivot point is above the boom-stick pivot.
Inclination Sensors
Inclination sensors are mounted to the upper portion of the stick and typically on the dogbone—the preferred location due to its enhanced protection. Most users choose to permanently weld our sensor mounting brackets to their machine, allowing for easy removal and replacement of the sensors without the need to repeat calibration.
Control Module
The Ditch Assist DIG™ Control Module can be conveniently mounted outside near the cab using the provided magnet mounts. A single power cable connects to the machine’s battery, one cable interfaces with the GPS receiver, and a dedicated cable connects to the two sensors.
Calibration Steps
Calibrating Ditch Assist DIG™ is essential yet simple when you follow the built-in calibration process in our web-based user interface. There’s no need to download any additional software—just connect to the DIG controller’s Wi-Fi hotspot, open your web browser, and follow the step-by-step illustrated instructions.
The process guides you through positioning the machine in various states and taking key measurements between components, such as ensuring the bucket, stick, and boom linkages are properly aligned both vertically and horizontally. For this process, you’ll need a step ladder to access the GPS mounted at the top of the stick when it’s vertical, a metric tape measure, an accurate level, and a plumb bob.
Calibration typically takes less than 20 minutes, and all values are automatically stored in the DIG controller. This means you only need to recalibrate if you relocate the sensors or move the system to a different machine. For those who frequently switch machines, we recommend recording the measurements for quick re-entry.
The example above shows a cross-section of an existing terrain profile (black line) alongside a design for re-grading a ditch or trench (green dashed line) to ensure proper water drainage. To grade the ditch accurately using Ditch Assist DIG™, the operator first positions the bucket at a reference point—such as a culvert or the ground at the downstream end—and enters the target grade (e.g., 0.15%) along with an optional depth offset for a specific starting depth. Once grading begins, the operator stops at each grade break, resets the bucket at the already graded point, enters the next target grade (e.g., 0.05%), and continues the process. The end result is a ditch or trench that is consistently and correctly graded.
The Differences between Ditch Assist X and DIG
Understanding the Two Systems
Having two excavator grade guidance systems may seem confusing at first—but each is designed to serve different needs. Here’s how they compare:
Ditch Assist X
Ditch Assist X is engineered as an add-on to the original Ditch Assist system. It’s perfect for users who want to expand their system’s capabilities beyond surface drainage to include excavator and backhoe guidance.
Key benefits include:
- Advanced Survey & Design: Using the familiar Ditch Assist app, Ditch Assist X lets you import a survey of your proposed route and leverage Slope-IQ™ to create best-fit or fully customized designs—including curved routes, which traditional laser systems can’t handle.
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Integrated Functionality: It works seamlessly with your existing Ditch Assist Control Module. For excavator applications, you’ll need the Ditch Assist Guidance Only Kit plus the Ditch Assist X Kit. If you plan to use the system on both surface machines (scrapers, ditchers, blades) and excavators, the Full Automation Kit is recommended.
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Enhanced Features: Enjoy features like on-screen mapping, Auto Nudge for precise cut depths, and the ability to import design files that include survey heights and target elevations.
Ditch Assist DIG
Ditch Assist DIG was developed as a standalone, streamlined solution for excavator grade control. It’s ideal for users who only require a simple, reliable method to dig to grade—without the advanced features of Ditch Assist X.
Key benefits include:
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Simplicity: DIG is designed for straightforward, straight-line grade control. Simply enter your target grade, set your reference point, and start digging—the system automatically computes the grade based on a straight-line survey back to your start.
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Ease of Use: Featuring a one-screen, web-based interface accessible on any device via Wi-Fi, DIG is incredibly easy to operate.
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No Additional System Needed: DIG works independently, so you don’t need to invest in the full Ditch Assist system if your focus is solely on excavation.
Common Capabilities
Both systems are 2D solutions focused on guiding you to the correct ditch or trench bottom, not on managing side slopes or other landforming elements.
They both allow you to:
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Achieve a fixed depth or elevation for flat areas, such as a basement or pad.
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Check and maintain grade between two points in a straight line, with the option to implement grade breaks.
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Benefit from wireless connectivity and simplified installation procedures.
I’m a farmer with both a scraper and an excavator. I’d like to use both for field drainage work and some construction projects where I need to create level areas. What do you recommend?
I don’t own Ditch Assist, and don’t see that I’d need it for surface grading with a scraper. But I see a need to have the ability to survey a run and create a custom design to dig to. What do I need to buy?
I am looking for something to replace a laser when digging to grade. I mostly dig trenches and level areas. I just want something simple so I can focus on being as productive as possible. Do you have any suggestions?
Bottom Line
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Choose Ditch Assist X if you need advanced functionality—such as the ability to grade curved routes, import complex design files, and integrate with your existing Ditch Assist system for multiple applications (surface drainage, land leveling, and excavation).
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Choose Ditch Assist DIG if you prefer a simple, standalone solution solely for excavator on-grade guidance. It’s ideal if you need an effective laser replacement without the extra bells and whistles.
Still not sure which system fits your needs? Contact us, and we’ll help you decide whether the full capabilities of Ditch Assist X or the streamlined simplicity of Ditch Assist DIG will provide the best value for your projects.
Detailed Comparisons: Ditch Assist X and DIG
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Ditch Assist X: Integrated Excavation and Surface Drainage Control
Ditch Assist X is the versatile choice for contractors, farmers, and land managers who need comprehensive GPS grade control capabilities for excavation and surface drainage projects. As an extension of the original Ditch Assist platform (required for operation), Ditch Assist X seamlessly integrates with your existing machinery, simplifying operations across multiple tasks.
Key Features of Ditch Assist X:
- Versatility: One system handles both precision excavation and surface drainage.
- Broad GPS Compatibility: Works with virtually any RTK GPS receiver outputting standard NMEA via RS232.
- Android-Based App: Familiar, intuitive operation via the proven Ditch Assist Android App on a dedicated tablet.
- Advanced Survey & Design Capabilities:
- Straight or curved route surveying.
- Best-fit design generation based on surveyed data.
- Import custom 3D line designs.
- Export survey data and job coverage reports.
- GPS Power Supply: Provides power directly to most RTK GPS receivers.
- Elevation Calibration: GPS elevations can be calibrated against benchmarks and survey points.
- Sensor Robustness: IP69K-rated sensors, fully potted within a rugged aluminum shell, ideal for extreme environmental conditions.
Ideal For:
- Existing or prospective Ditch Assist users who want to expand capabilities efficiently.
- Users needing both excavation and advanced drainage design features.
- Operators requiring compatibility with diverse RTK GPS brands and systems.
- Projects requiring detailed surveys, custom designs, and flexible data handling.
- Applications demanding rugged, highly robust sensors.
Ditch Assist DIG: Standalone Grade Control for Excavation
Ditch Assist DIG offers a simplified, standalone solution exclusively for excavators and backhoes of any size. With streamlined functionality and straightforward operation, DIG delivers precise bucket guidance for excavation tasks without unnecessary complexity.
Key Features of Ditch Assist DIG:
- Simplicity & Accuracy: Provides accurate, real-time grade guidance specifically for straightforward excavation tasks.
- Universal RTK GPS Compatibility: Connects via cable to virtually any RTK GPS receiver outputting NMEA via RS232.
- Wireless Operation: Wireless connection between DIG ECU and operator’s device; no cab wiring required.
- Web-Based User Interface: Operate DIG effortlessly through any web browser on Windows, iOS, or Android devices.
- Core Excavation Functionality:
- Dig-to-grade capability from a defined starting depth.
- Easily set and adjust grade breaks during excavation.
- Simple straight-line surveying between two points.
- GPS Power Supply: Powers RTK GPS receivers directly through DIG cabling.
- Sensor Robustness: IP67-rated sensors, anti-vibration/shock-mounted within fully enclosed ruggedized aluminum housing suitable for most excavation tasks.
Important Considerations:
- Limited surveying capabilities: Does not support curved route surveying or advanced design import/export.
- No elevation calibration: Elevations are relative to the chosen start point only.
Ideal For:
- Contractors and operators focused solely on excavation.
- Users who prefer a straightforward, standalone system with quick and easy setup.
- Projects where advanced drainage design functionality is not required.
| Ditch Assist X | Ditch Assist DIG | |
|---|---|---|
| System Type | Integrated (requires Ditch Assist) | Standalone (no other system required) |
| GPS Compatibility | Any NMEA RTK GPS (serial) | Any NMEA RTK GPS (serial) |
| User Interface Type | Android tablet app | Web App (runs via web browser on any device) |
| Wireless from Machine to Cab | Yes | Yes |
| Straight Line Grades & Grade Breaks | Yes | Yes |
| Curved Route & Best-Fit Designs | Yes | No |
| Simple Straight-Line Surveying | Yes | Yes |
| Mapping Capabilities | Yes | No |
| Survey Data Export & Import 3D Designs | Yes | No |
| GPS Elevation Calibration | Yes (benchmarks/surveys) | No (relative to start depth) |
| Supplies GPS Power | Yes (supported receivers) | Yes (supported receivers) |
| Sensor Protection Rating | IP69K (fully potted) – high-pressure wash resistant | IP67 (anti-vibration mount) – dust-proof & water resistant up to 1m |
| Rugged Aluminum Sensor Housing | Yes | Yes |