Chapter 1Safety, Warnings & Operator Responsibilities

Read carefully before installing or operating Ditch Assist DIG™.

1.1Purpose of this section

This section summarizes critical safety warnings, legal notices, and operator responsibilities that apply to the use of the Ditch Assist DIG™ grade-guidance system (“the Product”). It is not a complete operating guide. Failure to follow these instructions could result in serious injury, death, property damage, or regulatory violations. By installing, powering, or using the Product, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to all terms contained herein.

1.2Signal words & safety label definitions

1.3General safety warnings

Danger — machine control override

The Product provides visual and/or audible guidance only. It does not automatically prevent over-digging, collision, or underground utility strikes. The operator must maintain full control and situational awareness at all times.

Warning — lock-out / tag-out

Park on level ground, lower all implements, shut off engine, remove key, relieve hydraulic pressure, and apply an approved LOTO device before starting installation.

Danger — welding hazards

Disconnect machine battery, and remove or isolate all electronic modules, sensors, and harnesses within 1 m (3 ft) of the weld zone. Attach the ground clamp as close to the weld as practicable to prevent current paths through bearings, pins, or wiring. Provide a fire watch and a Class ABC extinguisher.

Notice — competent installer required

Bracket welding must be performed by a certified welder familiar with heavy-equipment structures. Improper welds can weaken the boom/stick and void the machine manufacturer’s warranty.

Warning — fall hazard

Use an approved work platform or fall-arrest system when working above 1.8 m (6 ft). Do not stand on the bucket, tracks, or makeshift ladders.

Caution — hidden lines

Inspect the structure and OEM drawings before drilling or welding to avoid puncturing hydraulic lines, wiring looms, or pressurised grease passages.

Warning — do not rely solely on GNSS

GNSS/RTK signals are subject to multipath, obstructions, atmospheric anomalies, jamming, and differential correction outages. Always verify critical grades with an independent method (e.g., laser or survey staff) before excavating near utilities, pipelines, foundations, or any location where tolerances are critical.

Warning — electrical & mechanical hazards

Installation requires routing cables, mounting sensors, and securing hardware on heavy machinery. Disconnect machine power and follow lock-out/tag-out procedures before beginning installation. Use suitable fall-prevention and protective equipment.

Caution — calibration & maintenance

Sensors must be installed and calibrated per the schedule in this manual (or immediately after sensor relocation, replacement, or machine service). Regular inspection to verify that sensors are not damaged or misplaced is required. Operating with a mis-calibrated system can cause grade errors exceeding published tolerances.

Notice — magnetic field

Keep ECU magnets at least 20 cm (8 in.) away from pacemakers, credit cards, and magnetic storage media.

Notice — firmware & software updates

Periodically check for updates at ditchassist.com/support.html or with your dealer. Installation of the latest firmware and app versions is required for regulatory compliance, performance, and cybersecurity. You may be required to return your control module to receive firmware and software updates.

1.4Operator responsibilities

1.5Environmental & radio-frequency notices

• EMC compliance. The Product contains intentional radiators that comply with FCC Part 15 Subpart B/C and ISED RSS-247/RSS-Gen. Operation is subject to (1) this device not causing harmful interference, and (2) this device accepting any interference received.
• Antenna separation. Maintain a minimum 20 cm (8 in.) separation between the GNSS antenna, the DIG™ ECU module, and all persons during normal operation.
• Operating conditions. ECU enclosures are weather-resistant but not submersible. Avoid exposure to corrosive chemicals, high-pressure washing, or temperatures outside −20 °C to +40 °C. Sensors are IP67-rated for protection against dust and can be submerged in water up to 1 metre (approximately 3.3 feet) for a maximum of 30 minutes.

1.6Warranty disclaimer & limitation of liability

• No other warranties. Except as expressly stated in the written Limited Warranty accompanying the Product, Northern Plains Drainage Systems Ltd. (“NPDS”) disclaims all other warranties, express or implied, including but not limited to warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and non-infringement.
• Limitation of damages. In no event shall NPDS or its suppliers be liable for any indirect, special, incidental, consequential, or punitive damages, including but not limited to loss of profits, downtime, loss of data, personal injury, property damage, or environmental claims, arising out of or related to the use or inability to use the Product, even if advised of the possibility of such damages.
• Maximum liability. NPDS’s total cumulative liability under any circumstance shall not exceed the amount paid by the purchaser for the Product giving rise to the claim.
• User indemnity. The purchaser/operator agrees to defend, indemnify, and hold NPDS, its officers, employees, and agents harmless from and against all claims, liabilities, damages, or expenses (including legal fees) arising from (a) the operator’s misuse or unauthorized modification of the Product, (b) failure to follow instructions or safety warnings, or (c) violation of any law or regulation in connection with the Product’s installation or use.

1.7Important regulatory & standards references

For additional guidance, operators must consult and comply with:

• ISO 20474-1 — Earth-moving machinery — Safety.
• CSA Z432 / ANSI B11 — Safeguarding of machinery.
• OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart P — Excavations.
• Local radio-equipment regulations (e.g., FCC, ISED, CE).
• The manufacturer’s instructions for the host machine (excavator, backhoe, etc.).

1.8Acceptance of terms

By installing, powering, or operating the Ditch Assist DIG™ system, you acknowledge that you have read and understood all safety information, warnings, limitations, and responsibilities set forth herein, and agree to operate the Product strictly in accordance with the operator manual, applicable laws, and recognized industry-standard safe-work practices. Failure to do so voids the warranty and may result in severe injury or death.

Chapter 2Limited Warranty — Ditch Assist DIG™

Effective from the date of purchase from an authorised reseller.

Product covered: the Ditch Assist DIG™ grade-guidance system, including the primary display/control module, angle sensors, GNSS antenna bracket(s) and associated mounting hardware, and factory-supplied software/firmware (collectively, the “Product”).
Warranty provider: Northern Plains Drainage Systems Ltd. (“NPDS”).
Beneficiary: the original end-user purchaser who acquired the Product new from NPDS or an NPDS-authorised dealer (“you”).

2.1Warranty coverage

NPDS warrants that the Product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for one (1) year from the date of purchase shown on your original sales invoice (“Warranty Period”). During the Warranty Period, NPDS will, at its sole option and expense, repair or replace any component that NPDS confirms is defective under normal, intended use.

2.2Exclusions

This Limited Warranty does not cover:

If a reported issue is determined to fall under an exclusion, the repair will be treated as off-warranty (see § 2.5).

2.3Obtaining warranty service

1. Contact NPDS or your authorised dealer within the Warranty Period and request a Return Material Authorisation (“RMA”).
2. Provide proof of purchase (dated invoice) and a description of the defect.
3. Ship the component(s) freight-prepaid and insured to the address provided with the RMA. NPDS is not responsible for loss or damage in transit.
4. NPDS will examine the returned item(s). If covered, NPDS will repair or replace and return via ground freight at NPDS’s expense. Repaired or replacement items are warranted for the longer of the remainder of the original Warranty Period or 90 days from return shipment. Items deemed non-defective will be returned at your cost.

2.4Limitations & disclaimers

• Exclusive remedy. Your sole and exclusive remedy under this Limited Warranty is repair or replacement of defective components as described above.
• No other warranties. Except for this express Limited Warranty, NPDS makes no other warranties, express or implied, including but not limited to implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and non-infringement.
• Limitation of liability. To the fullest extent permitted by law, NPDS shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, consequential, punitive, or special damages (including lost profits, downtime, or loss of data) arising from or relating to the Product, even if advised of the possibility. NPDS’s total liability shall not exceed the price paid for the specific Product giving rise to the claim.
• Consumer-law rights. Some jurisdictions do not allow limitations on implied warranties or incidental/consequential damages. In such jurisdictions, the above limitations apply only to the extent allowed by local law and do not affect statutory rights that cannot be waived.
• Governing law. This Limited Warranty is governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the Province of Manitoba, Canada, without regard to conflict-of-law principles.

2.5Off-warranty replacement program

Should the Product or any component fail or be damaged outside warranty coverage or after the Warranty Period, NPDS offers an Off-Warranty Replacement Program. Eligible components may be purchased at a reduced price compared with new list cost. Contact NPDS or your authorised dealer for current pricing and RMA instructions.

2.6Transfer & assignment

This Limited Warranty is non-transferable. Any sale or other transfer of the Product voids remaining warranty coverage unless NPDS, in writing, agrees otherwise.

Chapter 3GPS/GNSS & Display Device Requirements

Ditch Assist DIG™ is compatible with a wide range of GPS/GNSS receivers, and runs via a web user interface (web UI) in any compatible web browser on any device.

3.1GPS message settings

Your GPS/GNSS receiver must be configured to output the following NMEA messages via a serial RS-232 port:

• Baud rate: 38,400
• GGA and VTG messages at 5 Hz or 10 Hz
• All other messages should be turned off

5 Hz means five position updates per second and is usually sufficient for most DIG™ installations. Use 10 Hz when the receiver supports it and the machine has very fast-moving hydraulics or needs faster feedback.

3.2RTK requirements

For accurate grade and depth, your receiver must be outputting RTK position messages. Use of the system without RTK accuracy will result in digging errors that could be significant, particularly when compounded over long distances. For best results:

• Use a portable RTK base-station setup within line-of-sight of your working location.
• Pay extra attention if working under obstructions such as trees and buildings, as this may cause loss of RTK accuracy.
• If using a network RTK solution, verify with the service provider that it will meet your accuracy requirements.

3.3Android device requirements

The Ditch Assist DIG™ system is managed through the Ditch Assist Android app, which can be downloaded directly from our website. For calibration, users should access the integrated web user interface (web UI) using any device equipped with a standard web browser. For a seamless experience, we suggest using the same Android tablet for both initial calibration via the web UI and day-to-day operation through the app. Please contact NPDS or your dealer if you require guidance on selecting or sourcing a compatible display device.

3.4Web browser requirements

The Ditch Assist DIG™ calibration web UI is engineered for cross-platform accessibility, supporting industry-standard browsers such as Chrome and Safari. For users operating on Android tablets, using the Fully Kiosk Browser is recommended to achieve a dedicated, app-like interface (refer to § 7.7 for specific configuration steps).

Chapter 4Installation Overview & Mounting Components

4.1Installation overview

Safety — applies to this stepWelding maskCrush hazardOverhead loadWarning

Standard Ditch Assist DIG™ packages are supplied with weld-on mounting brackets, providing the most secure and robust installation for sensors and GNSS hardware. If welding is not practicable for your specific application, clamp-on mounting alternatives are available through your authorised dealer.

Notice — tack first, then verify

Always tack weld brackets first and move the excavator slowly through its full range of motion to verify zero contact or cable interference before performing final welds.

4.2Mounting components overview

Tube #1

Tube #1

2″ ID SCH80 with removal flange attached. Welds to the top of the stick and receives Tube #2.

Tube #2

Tube #2

1⅞″ OD SCH40 with GPS mount and grease-nipple fitting. Slides into Tube #1 and positions the GPS pivot point clear of the boom.

Counterbalance plate

Counterbalance plate

Keeps the GPS receiver level as the stick and bucket move through their range.

GPS receiver mount rod

GPS receiver mount rod (⅝″ thread)

Carries the GPS receiver above the counterbalance plate. Also includes fabric washers, metal washers, and spacers (not shown).

Tube #2 complete assembly

Tube #2 complete assembly

Tube #2 shown with the counterbalance plate attached and the GPS receiver mount rod fitted.

Sensor mounting plates

Stick & bucket sensor mounting plates with protective enclosure

Weld-on plates that locate the angle sensors and shield them on machines that work in dirt every day. Do not weld with sensors attached.

4.3Safety pictograms

The following symbols appear on labels and throughout installation. Familiarise yourself with them before starting work.

Warnings

General warning

Overhead load

Crushing hazard

Crushing of hands

Electricity

Arc flash

Hot surface

Magnetic field

Fall hazard

Mandatory actions

Mandatory action

Refer to instructions

No open flames

Required protective equipment

Fire extinguisher

First aid kit

Eye protection

Safety footwear

Protective gloves

High-visibility vest

Head protection

Welding mask

Protective clothing

Chapter 5Hardware Installation Steps

Park, lock out, and disconnect machine power before beginning. Tack weld and verify clearance before any final welds.

5.1Attach GPS mount (Tube #1)

Safety — applies to this stepWelding maskArc flashFire extinguisherNo open flamesFall hazardEye protectionGloves

Mark a location at the top of the stick of the excavator for the GPS mount to tack weld on Tube #1 (2″ ID SCH80).

Angle Tube #1 to allow the GPS-mount pivot point to be positioned above the boom-end pivot point, avoiding obstruction from the flange removal bolts when Tube #2 is inserted. Tack weld in place.

5.2Attach Tube #2

Safety — applies to this stepWelding maskArc flashFire extinguisherCrush hazardCrush — handsEye protectionGloves

Insert Tube #2 into Tube #1. The GPS-mount pivot point should be far enough outwards to clear the boom and any other obstacles.

Align the GPS-mount pivot point (F) with pins (H) and (B). If a small horizontal offset is unavoidable, you must input the offset distance during calibration. Tack weld Tube #2 to the GPS & counterbalance removal flange.

5.3Install GPS mount and counterbalance plate

Safety — applies to this stepCrush hazardCrush — handsGlovesWarning

Use the included hardware to attach the counterbalance plate to Tube #2 via the GPS pivot point. Tighten until the felt washers dampen movement, but avoid over-tightening — the GPS unit must be able to level itself during operation. Apply grease to the pivot surfaces via the grease nipple, and repeat regularly during operation.

Thread the ⅝″ GPS-mount rod through the counterbalance plate and adjust so the GPS receiver can be mounted without interference.

Caution — downward antennas

If the GPS receiver has a downward-facing radio antenna, the antenna should not touch the counterbalance plate, as this could cause signal issues.

5.4Verify GPS mount installation

Safety — applies to this stepCrush hazardOverhead loadFall hazardWarning

• Confirm that the GPS pivot point can be vertically aligned with the boom-end pivot point and bucket pivot point (ideal).
• While a small horizontal offset can be tolerated if GPS mounting hardware cannot be installed in the recommended manner, it may lead to slightly reduced system accuracy at more extreme angles.
• Slowly move the stick fully in both directions, while another person observes, to confirm there are no points of contact.
• Ensure the counterweight plate maintains GPS level during movement. Some swing is unavoidable, but it should help avoid extreme angles.

5.5Install stick and bucket sensor mounts and sensors

Safety — applies to this stepWelding maskArc flashFire extinguisherFall hazardCrush — handsEye protectionGloves

For optimal visibility and damage detection, it is recommended to install sensors on the left side of both the stick and bucket (when viewed from the cab). While installation on either side is possible, left-side placement generally provides the operator with a better view.

• Secure the mounting plates for the stick and bucket sensors using tack welds as illustrated.
• The stick sensor bracket requires a vertical orientation, ideally positioned at roughly 75% of the total stick height.
• Affix the bucket sensor plate horizontally to the dogbone linkage. Confirm this location remains clear of obstructions across the machine’s entire range of movement.

Secure each sensor to the corresponding mounting bracket using the factory-supplied hardware. When mounting the stick sensor, the main module harness must be plugged into the upper port; the keyed connectors facilitate a secure, correct fit. The CAN patch cable for the bucket sensor connects to the bottom port of the stick sensor.

Affix the bucket sensor with its integrated connector oriented toward the machine cab and the protected, capped end facing away. For right-side installations, the orientation may result in the sensor decal being inverted; this does not affect operation. Neatly bundle any remaining cable length and secure with heavy-duty ties to ensure there is no interference or potential for snagging during excavator movement.

Important — weld without sensors

Do not weld with sensors attached. Tack weld the brackets, fit and verify, then remove the sensors before any final welding.

5.6Install the Ditch Assist DIG™ ECU module

Safety — applies to this stepMagnetic fieldCrush — handsWarning

Affix the DIG™ ECU module in a protected location adjacent to the cab using the integrated magnetic mounts. Orient the connector port toward the ground to prevent moisture accumulation, and verify the module is shielded from physical impacts. Maintain an unobstructed line-of-sight between the module and the operator display to ensure stable Wi-Fi signal propagation.

With the module secured, thread the Wi-Fi antenna onto the ECU and tighten until firm. Conclude the module installation by plugging the main module harness into the primary interface port.

5.7Install and route all cables

Safety — applies to this stepElectricalArc flashCrush — handsGloves

System installation uses a simplified wiring configuration. Secure the primary power leads to the machine battery, then route the main CAN harness across the boom to the stick sensor. Use the provided CAN patch cable to bridge the stick and bucket sensors, and finish by connecting the GPS receiver cable to the designated port on the main harness.

Install the power cable from the battery to the Ditch Assist main module harness. Connect the power leads in a 12 V configuration (positive and negative on the grounded 12 V battery).

Caution — 24 V systems

The ECU and sensors are compatible with both 12 V and 24 V systems. However, the voltage supplied to these components is also routed to the GPS unit. If connecting to a 24 V circuit, confirm that your GPS can safely operate at 24 V to prevent damage.

Begin by installing the CAN harness. Connect it from the ECU, over the boom, and to the stick sensor, ensuring the stick sensor’s connection port is positioned at the top. Next, use the CAN patch cable to connect the bottom of the stick sensor to the bucket sensor. The bucket sensor should always connect on the side facing the cab, with its capped end facing away from the machine. Finally, connect the GPS cable to the main module harness.

When routing the cables, always ensure they are not pinched or stretched during operation. Running the cables as close as possible to the end of pivot pins will minimise the required slack and reduce the potential for damage. Route the GPS cable through the loop on the GPS mount, connecting it to the main harness, and secure any excess cable while leaving sufficient slack for full GPS-mount movement.

5.8Installation verification and welding

Safety — applies to this stepCrush hazardOverhead loadWelding maskArc flashFire extinguisherWarning

As the operator slowly moves the machine through all possible configurations, observe all cables, mounts, and sensors. Reroute cables or reposition sensor brackets as needed. Once the sensors, modules, and GPS are removed, the brackets can be securely welded.

Chapter 6Calibration

For precise grade guidance, accurate calibration is essential. Even minor measurement errors can lead to significant inaccuracies, so verify all measurements and alignments meticulously. The control module stores your calibrated configurations, so a machine can be recalled later without re-measuring.

6.1Connecting to Ditch Assist DIG™ Wi-Fi

When powered on, the DIG™ ECU module creates a Wi-Fi hotspot. Connect your device to the network (SSID) that includes “Ditch” and/or “DIG” in its name.

• The Wi-Fi password is 12345678

6.2Open the Ditch Assist DIG™ web interface

In your device’s web browser, enter the following address into the address bar (it is recommended to bookmark this address for easy access in future):

• 192.168.22.3:8080/ditchassist.htm

The DIG™ user interface will open in your browser.

6.3Verify GPS and sensor detection

Confirming GPS status

• GPS state should display “Data Received,” indicating the system is receiving GPS coordinates and elevation data.
• GPS fix should show “RTK fix,” confirming precise positioning.

If these details are not visible, check the GPS connection, verify GGA and VTG are enabled at 5 Hz or 10 Hz, and confirm the receiver is receiving RTK corrections. Then tap Refresh Connection to re-verify the status.

Confirming sensor status

• Sensor state should display “Sensors OK,” indicating the system is detecting both stick and bucket sensors.

If the message isn’t displaying, check that the sensors are connected and powered on. A pulsing red LED should be visible at the bottom of the stick sensor and to the left of the bucket sensor.

6.4Calibration procedure

Safety — applies to this stepCrush hazardFall hazardOverhead loadWarning

To complete the calibration procedure, you will need:

• Metric measuring tape
• Visual or digital level (long enough to cover the distance between dogbone linkages)
• Weighted plumb bob (long enough to reach the length of the stick to the bucket)
• Ladder
• Two people

1. From the Home screen, tap the Calibration icon. Open the Link Lengths screen if not already selected.

   

   

2. Take all measurements from the centre of each link. Measure twice for best results, and convert measurements to mm (1 cm = 10 mm). Tap the text labels for each measurement to see a more detailed image of the required measurement.
   • Sensor location (bucket sensor — typically Dog-Bone)
   • Sensor side (as viewed from the cab)
   • B–F distance (F is the pivot point on the GPS pendulum mount)
   • B–E distance (measure E at the bucket edge or edge of teeth, if present)
   • A–B distance  •  B–C distance  •  C–D distance  •  A–D distance

   

3. After entering all measurements, tap SAVE, then NEXT to proceed.

   

4. For precise elevation calculations, input the offset distance and direction if the GPS mount is not vertically aligned with points H and B. If it is aligned, keep the ‘Aligned’ setting and proceed. If an offset exists, specify whether it is towards or away from the cab, then enter the horizontal offset distance between B and F when the stick is vertical. Tap NEXT when finished.

   

5. Complete angle calibration steps 1–2. Ensure the stick and dogbone are perfectly vertical/horizontal for their respective calibrations to accurately account for the angles of mounted sensors.

   i. Stick vertical alignment

   Align the stick so that points H and B are vertically aligned. If GPS is offset, use a plumb bob attached to point H (stick boom pivot point). If no offset is present, attach the plumb bob to point F (GPS pivot point), ensuring point F is also aligned. Once all points are vertically aligned, tap YES next to the ‘Is Stick vertical?’ prompt.

   ii. Dogbone horizontal alignment

   Use a level to align the dogbone horizontally. If the dogbone is curved or uneven, level the centre of the two linkages. Once the dogbone is horizontal, tap YES next to the ‘Is DogBone Horizontal?’ prompt. Tap SAVE then NEXT to move on.

   

   

6. Complete angle calibration steps 3–4.

   iii. Bucket vertical alignment

   With the stick remaining vertical (as in step i.), align the bucket so points B and E are vertically aligned. Tap YES when prompted, ‘Is Bucket vertical?’

   iv. A–B vertical alignment

   Align the stick so that points A and B are vertically aligned. Once aligned, tap YES to the prompt, ‘Is A-B line vertical?’ Tap SAVE, then tap the HOME icon.

   

   

7. Test system accuracy.
   • Place an object, such as a wooden block, in front of the machine. Position the bucket edge or teeth on top of the block.
   • On the Home screen, tap the Angle icon and confirm that the slope value is set to 0.
   • Return to the Home screen and tap Set to Ground. Verify that the visual lightbar indicates you are within the centre deadband.
   • Move the machine to various angles and positions, placing the bucket edge back on the test block at each new position. The guidance bar should consistently show that you are on target.

   Minor fluctuations are expected due to RTK performance, and a slightly greater offset may be observed at more extreme angles. A well-calibrated system will show values within 1–2 inches across all positions. If you observe higher values, or if values increase significantly with changes in bucket position or angle, this typically indicates an issue with a calibration value or angle. In such cases, repeat the calibration process, paying close attention to measurements and re-running the angle calibrations.

   

   

   

Chapter 7Operating Ditch Assist DIG™ via the Web Interface

The Ditch Assist Android app is the primary method for controlling the system; however, the DIG™ control module also features an integrated web user interface (web UI) suitable for simple grading tasks. This web-based option allows level or single-grade guidance and is accessible from any device with a web browser, including Apple iPads.

7.1Establish Wi-Fi connection and launch the web UI

• Initiate the DIG™ system power sequence.
• Link your tablet to the Wi-Fi hotspot generated by the DIG™ ECU and enter the network password: 12345678.
• Open the browser on your device and navigate to 192.168.22.3:8080/ditchassist.htm (or use a saved bookmark). The system dashboard will load.

7.2Verify GPS and sensor status

Confirm GPS state reads “Data Received” (receiving coordinates/elevation) and GPS fix reads “RTK fix” (precise positioning). If not visible, check the GPS connection, settings, and RTK corrections, then tap Refresh Connection. Confirm sensor state reads “Sensors OK” (stick and bucket sensors detected). If not displaying, check that the sensors are connected and powered (a pulsing red LED on the stick and bucket sensors).

7.3Target gradient & direction

To set the target gradient, tap the Grade icon and input the desired slope value in percent. For a level area, enter “0”.

• 1% grade signifies a 1-foot fall or rise per 100 feet of run.
• 0.1% grade signifies a 1-foot fall or rise per 1,000 feet of run.

Next, choose your digging direction: UPHILL (starting at the outlet) or DOWNHILL (starting at the upstream end).

This screen also offers an optional feature to calculate the grade between two points. Position your bucket on the ground or a reference point, tap Start Point, then move your machine to a second location, touch the bucket to the ground or a reference point, and tap End Point. The system will then display the gradient between these two points.

7.4Set reference point and begin working

Safety — applies to this stepCrush hazardOverhead loadWarning

• Return to the Home screen.
• Position the bucket edge on the ground or at a designated reference point at the starting location.
• Tap Set To Ground to establish this as the current reference point for all subsequent grade calculations. Confirm the displayed information is accurate, then tap YES on the pop-up box.
• If necessary, add a depth offset by tapping the Target Depth box and inputting the desired starting depth. Your current bucket height should reflect this same distance above the target depth.
• Begin working away from the start reference location. As you work, your target elevation updates based on distance, and the on-screen guidance shows when you have achieved the target grade at any location.
• Repeat § 7.3 and § 7.4 each time you begin a new job.

7.5Changing grade or reference point

Changing grade mid-run

First ensure you have a valid reference point, such as a previously dug area that has been finished to grade.

• Tap the Grade icon.
• Under slope settings, tap Reset to clear the current grade and reference point.
• Enter the new target grade and update the digging direction if necessary.
• Return to the Home screen and place the bucket edge on the valid reference point.
• Tap SET TO GROUND and continue working. All subsequent work will calculate the new grade from this new reference point.

Changing reference point

If you are changing direction significantly (e.g., a ditch or trench turns more than a few degrees), you must reset your reference point to maintain an accurate gradient.

• Confirm you have a valid reference point for the new distance calculation to begin from (i.e., a previously dug area finished to grade).
• Place the bucket edge on the valid reference point.
• Tap SET TO GROUND and continue working. All subsequent work will calculate the new grade from this new reference point.

7.6Audible guidance option

You can optionally enable audible guidance when you are on-grade by toggling the speak icon.

7.7Using Fully Kiosk Browser on Android for an app-like experience

Users with Android tablets are encouraged to install and use the Fully Kiosk Browser from the Play Store to run the DIG™ web UI like a native app from the Home screen.

1. Install Fully Kiosk Browser from the Play Store.
2. Reconnect your tablet to the Ditch Assist DIG™ ECU’s Wi-Fi.
3. On initial launch, set the Start URL to http://192.168.22.3:8080/ditchassist.htm, then select “START USING FULLY.” Subsequent changes to the Start URL can be made by swiping left and navigating to Settings > Web Content Settings.
4. Add the DIG™ user interface to your home screen:
   • Open the DIG™ user interface in Fully Kiosk Browser.
   • Swipe from the left and select “Add to Home Screen.”
   • Acknowledge the shortcut name (edit if desired) and tap “OK,” then on the next window tap “Add.”
   • Exit the browser by swiping from the left and choosing “Exit Fully.”
5. Navigate to your device’s Home screen. If the icon is not on the main home screen, swipe right until you locate it, then long-press and drag it to your main home screen.

An app icon will now appear on your home screen. Tapping it launches the DIG™ interface in a full-screen, app-like experience.

SupportSupport & Contact

For installation help, calibration questions, RMAs, firmware/app updates, or off-warranty replacement, contact Northern Plains Drainage Systems Ltd. or your authorised dealer.

Northern Plains Drainage Systems Ltd  •  Box 9, Elm Creek, Manitoba, R0G 0N0, Canada
+1-877-354-2899  •  support@ditchassist.com  •  ditchassist.com
Ditch Assist DIG™ Installation & Operation Manual  •  Firmware 1.7  •  Revision 2026-06