System requirementsRUMNUT Computer Package

The RUMNUT package contains a set of modules which are outlined below. All modules share Development logmany similar features such as mix formulation, ration ingredient selection, ration alteration, ration display and printing which all facilitate learning to use RUMNUT.

The DAIRY cow module calculates the nutritional requirements for lactating and dry cows. Requirements are calculated according to the animals weight, milk yield, condition score, rate of weight loss or gain, stage of lactation and/or pregnancy, the feeding system used, milk composition and predicted calf weight. Rations are assessed and compared to the animals requirements for energy, fibre, protein, fat, starch, sugar and minerals with optional user defined requirements for the subsidiary ration analyses.

The BEEF module can be used to formulate diets for fattening animals and young stock being reared for breeding. The animals requirements are determined according to body weight, rate of growth, sex and breed. The program calculates the rate of growth achievable for a given ration. Rations are assessed in terms of dry matter intake, energy, fibre, protein, minerals and fat. Financial performance is calculated in terms of margin over all feeds, concentrates and purchased feeds.

The SUCKLER module calculates the nutritional requirements of pregnant and milking suckler cows. Weight change can be expressed in kilograms per day or condition score change and milk yields in litres produced or calf growth rates. Rations are assessed and compared to the animals requirements in terms of energy, fibre, protein, fat and minerals.

The SHEEP module calculates the requirements of pregnant and lactating ewes according to body weight, rate of weight change, breed and age of ewe, litter size and stage of pregnancy or lactation. Milk yield is calculated by the program.

The FEEDMAN utilities allow you to edit the feed file. Feeds can be added and removed from the database and moved and copied within the database. Sufficient analyses are stored to allow rations to be formulated to the different protein systems and all entries can be altered as required. Feed costs can be updated as required and used to compare the relative values of feeds. The contents of the data base can be printed in several formats.