News — Technical Guide
RFID Identification: The Complete Guide
How does electronic animal identification work?
What standards, what technologies, and what practical applications are there in the field? Let's take a look.
RFID, or radio-frequency identification, is now the industry standard for tracking livestock. Behind this technical term lies a system that is simple in principle: an electronic tag transmits an identification number to a reader—without physical contact—using an electromagnetic field.
Unlike the high-frequency technology used in other applications, animal identification relies on low-frequency technology—a technology that is largely unaffected by moisture and nearby conductive materials, two common challenges in livestock farming.
An international standard since 1996
RFID technology for animal identification was standardized in 1996 by the International Organization for Standardization through the ISO 11784 and ISO 11785 standards. All ARDES electronic tags comply with these standards and are approved by ICAR (International Committee for Animal Recording)—ensuring a reliable and internationally recognized electronic identification system.
Three steps, one goal: to make the most of the data
Electronic identification is based on a three-step process, from the animal to the end user.
Reading the identification number
When the reader passes near the tag, the tag transmits the animal’s identification number in accordance with the protocol defined by ISO 11785. The reading distance varies depending on the type of reader (fixed or portable) and the quality of the electronic tag.
Number Transmission
Once scanned by the reader, the number is transmitted—via cable or wirelessly via Bluetooth—to a computer or a controller.
Data Utilization
The number is then used by the farmer or veterinarian through various on-site technical solutions to increase the farm’s productivity and profitability.
Please note: This technology cannot detect an animal from a great distance, such as in the middle of a field. The limited range of the magnetic field requires that readings be taken individually using appropriate containment systems, such as a sorting chute.
How does an electronic loop work?
An electronic tag is said to be “passive”: it contains neither a battery nor its own power source, which ensures it has an unlimited lifespan. The reader activates it by supplying the necessary power when the tag comes within range. The tag is therefore both the source of information and the foundation of the entire identification system.
It consists of two components: a transponder (an electronic chip paired with a silicon microcircuit containing the identification number, connected to a circular antenna made of coiled copper wire) and a polyurethane plastic casing that protects the entire unit from impacts and the conditions of the farm environment.
HDX or FDX: What's the difference?
ARDES electronic loops are available in two technologies, both of which comply with ISO 11784 and ISO 11785 standards: Half-Duplex (HDX) and Full-Duplex (FDX). The transponder design and read performance differ between the two.
FDX (Full-Duplex)
Synchronous exchange. Standard performance comparable to HDX, with a lower upfront cost—an effective solution for most common use cases.
HDX (Half-Duplex)
Asynchronous communication. A more powerful transmission signal, providing a longer read range—high performance for heavy-duty use in livestock farming.
How RFID Is Making a Real Difference on the Ground
Once the identification number has been captured and transmitted, it can be utilized in a wide range of field applications that boost productivity and simplify the farmer’s daily routine.
Herd Management
Quick and easy tracking of individual and herd performance to increase profitability in the medium term.
Food Distribution
Automated rationing tailored to each animal, automated monitoring of feed intake, and automated individual health monitoring.
Milking Assistance
Animal tracking and monitoring in the milking parlor, with automatic alerts in the event of an abnormal drop in productivity.
Automatic weighing
No more handwritten records: fast and accurate weighing, without the need to restrain the animal.
Automated Sorting
Automatic opening and closing of doors based on selected criteria (weight, breed, age, sex).
Automated Counting
Fast and accurate data collection, automatic data transfer, and minimal risk of error.
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