Next Generation Cat^® Mini Excavator:
Advanced Monitor

While the standard LCD next gen monitor in Cat mini excavators provide superb functionality, the advanced monitor takes it to the next level. Its touch screen makes menu navigation as easy as using your smartphone. But, if you prefer the jog dial for menu navigation, it’s still there. The monitor’s menus, readings and shortcuts can be customized to match your personal preferences or jobsite needs. 

How the Advanced Monitor Enhances Precision

The advanced monitor has a distinct advantage to the LCD next gen monitor: the Site Reference System. This feature provides the pitch and roll of your Cat mini excavator. It’s exceptionally useful for digging flat-bottom trenches because it provides the information to help you compensate for uneven ground. You can also create a flat pad using an angle or straight blade or grade at a precise pitch for drainage—just by keeping an eye on the Site Reference System.

How the Advanced Monitor Increases Cat Mini Excavator Safety

Given the noise and distractions vying for an operator’s attention, one of the most dangerous areas on a jobsite is within a machine’s blind spot. While Cat mini excavators provide exceptional visibility for their class, they still have blind spots. For models 302.7 to 305 CR, these spots are behind the operator and in front of the boom and attachment. For Cat mini excavator models 306 to 310, the blind spots are behind the machine and to the one, two and three o’ clock positions because the boom is now offset to the right side of the mini excavator to provide greater visibility of your attachment.

So, how does the advanced monitor for Cat mini excavators increase jobsite safety? Its high-fidelity screen, coupled with a rearview camera, minimizes the risks of workers or other machines entering the covered blind spot and also provides a clear view to help the operator identify and avoid obstacles. This immediately reduces jobsite risk by providing a safer environment for the operator and those working nearby.

Of course, there’s no substitute for strong jobsite safety protocols and trained safety personnel. Here are a few things you should think about before beginning a job:

• Do you have a path site plan for vehicles moving around or entering the jobsite?
• Is there an understood limited-access zone around your Cat mini excavator and any other heavy equipment?
• Will there be any nighttime work?
• Will you need spotters?

While no jobsite is 100% risk-free, potential dangers can be minimized with proper planning and training.

Like all heavy equipment, your Cat mini excavator requires preventative and interval maintenance. Your Operation and Maintenance Manual (OMM) lists filter schedules, oil specs, fluid intervals and average temps. You should also visually inspect your mini excavator’s tracks, rods, seals, lines and boom for signs of damage daily. Look for scratches or hydraulic fluid on the rods and boom, ballooning of the hydraulic lines and leaking or corrosion of couplers and fittings.

What might appear to be a minor issue, like a cracked or loose track, can quickly become a jobsite hazard by changing how your Cat mini excavator behaves.

So, be sure you consult your OMM to determine the optimal settings for your machine and attachments and to review your machine’s recommended maintenance routine. If you have additional questions, your Cat dealer will be happy to assist.