What is the RFID Livestock Identification System?
The Smart Cattle livestock identification system is based on the international RFID ISO 11784/5 standard for animal tagging. It consists of RFID tags and RFID readers, which are available in handheld or fixed (gate-mounted) models.
How Does the RFID Livestock Identification System Work?
The RFID system identifies animals by sending electromagnetic waves from an antenna (fixed or handheld) to the tag, which then responds with its unique 15-digit serial number. During installation, each RFID tag is assigned to a specific animal.
Example:
If tag 139384045593211 is assigned to Cow #7129, whenever the RFID reader detects this serial number, the system automatically recognizes that Cow #7129 has passed through the gate (or been scanned).
What is the Difference Between Fixed and Handheld RFID Readers?
- Fixed (Gate) Readers:
Installed at strategic locations (alleys, gates, milking parlors), they automatically scan RFID tags as animals pass through.- Ensures accurate tracking of animal movement.
- Useful for milking, weighing, or controlled access points.
- Handheld Readers:
Portable scanners that allow on-the-spot tag reading anywhere on the farm.- Paired with a dedicated mobile app for real-time data access.
- Ideal for manual checks, health inspections, or inventory management.
What is the Difference Between RFID Tags and Smart Cattle Tags?
| Feature | RFID Tags | Smart Cattle Tags |
|---|---|---|
| Power | Passive (no battery) | Active (battery-powered) |
| Function | Only identification (e.g., milking, weighing) | + Activity monitoring (rumination, feeding, estrus, health alerts) |
| Data Transmission | Requires reader scan | Automatically sends data |
What is the Applications of RFID in Smart Cattle?
- Milking Systems:
- RFID identifies cows at milking stations, linking milk yield data to each animal.
- Body Condition Scoring:
- Ensures correct animal identification during evaluations.
- Gating & Pen Management:
- Antennas at pen entrances track entry/exit times, preventing:
- Unauthorized movement between pens.
- Loss of animals.
- Antennas at pen entrances track entry/exit times, preventing: