What is RFID?Radio frequency identification systems (RFID) consist of tags (transponders) that contain identifying data and reading devices that convey data from the tags to computers.
Transponders used for animal identification typically use a low frequency (between 100 and 200 KHz). This frequency is used because of its extremely good non-metallic penetration rates. Stated simply, if a transponder will read at a certain distance from the antenna through air; it will also read at this distance when there is flesh, mud, manure, glass, water or any other non-metallic object in between.
RFID Challenges
A critical factor for tag readability and automation is read range. The read range of a system is dependent on the transponder; the size of the transponder, the position of the transponder; the size of the antenna and the presence of metal relative to the antenna.
A transponder is orientation specific. Placing the transponder absolutely perpendicular to the antenna will significantly reduce or nullify the read range. Tilting the transponder just a few degrees will increase the read range to the maximum.
The importance of read range and transponder orientation may not be adequately highlighted in many North American livestock ID field trials when a hand held reader is used. When collecting data with a PDA (personal digital assistant) or a handheld reader - the 'person' manipulates the device until the tag is read. In an automatic system transponder placement and reading the transponder is a critical issue.
Readers/antennas are influenced by "noise" - metal fencing, variable speed motors and numerous other considerations. A system that works at one cattle operation may not work at another. A tag that works with a hand held reader may not necessarily work with a stationery gate or chute mounted "automatic" reader.
For a system to simply read a transponder is only the first challenge of a fully functioning RFID system.
GrowSafe can work with you to make RFID a benefit rather than a cost to your operation. | 
