ISO 11783-12:2022 ISOBUS Virtual Terminal Specification (PDF)

ISO 11783-12:2022 defines the Virtual Terminal as a software-based, standardized user interface that replaces proprietary hardware terminals, allowing a single display unit to interact seamlessly with multiple ISOBUS-compatible implements regardless of manufacturer. Central to the standard is the VT object model — a hierarchical structure of graphical elements (e.g., buttons, sliders, text fields, containers) managed via standardized Object Pool messages, where each object is assigned a unique identifier and attributes (position, size, type, visibility). Communication occurs over the ISOBUS network (ISO 11783-4/5/6 layers) using predefined Parameter Group Numbers (PGNs), including VT Status (PGN 65280), VT Select (PGN 65281), and Object Pool Download (PGN 65282–65295), enabling dynamic UI construction, real-time updates, and bidirectional control. The standard mandates strict state management (e.g., VT Initialization, Object Pool Synchronization, and Control Session states) and includes robust error handling, timeout mechanisms, and security considerations for unauthorized parameter changes. Its implementation enables advanced functionalities such as multi-implement task configuration, prescription map visualization, real-time diagnostics, and automated section control — all through a unified, vendor-agnostic interface essential for modern autonomous and smart farming platforms.