Animal RFID: Why ISO Standards and ICAR Certification Really Matter
When purchasing RFID equipment, two products may appear identical even though they do not necessarily meet the same technical requirements.
In the field of animal identification, compatibility between the transponder, the reader, and the systems used is essential.
This is precisely the purpose of international standards.
ISO 11784 and ISO 11785: What Are These Standards For?
Without getting into overly technical details, the ISO 11784 and ISO 11785 standards establish a common framework for the electronic identification of animals.
In particular, they standardize the structure of the identifier and the principles governing communication between the transponder and the reader.
The goal is simple: to prevent an RFID solution from operating solely within a proprietary environment that cannot be scaled.
What is the role of ICAR?
ICAR—the International Committee for Animal Recording—serves as a leading authority on testing procedures for animal identification systems.
The organization is the registration authority designated by ISO for standards 11784 and 11785.
In particular, it coordinates the tests used to verify that transponders comply with international standards.
Certification and Compliance: It's More Than Just a Logo
The tests may examine various aspects:
● operating frequency;
● data structure;
● electronic communication;
● mechanical strength;
● aging;
● exposure to cold or heat;
● moisture resistance;
● readability.
ICAR certification procedures thus include electronic tests but may also incorporate environmental and mechanical evaluations.
For a professional buyer, this provides a much more objective basis for comparison than a simple product sheet.
Why does this also protect the customer’s investment?
A distributor can keep an RFID product line for several years.
Livestock producers can gradually upgrade their readers.
An organization can deploy multiple generations of equipment.
Compatibility is therefore strategic.
A recognized standard helps reduce the risk of relying on a proprietary technology and facilitates the integration of devices into broader environments.
The Right Questions to Ask Before Buying
Before listing an RFID device, a distributor or organization should check
:
1. the standards supported by the device;
2. available certification or registration;
3. the technology used, specifically FDX or HDX;
4. compatible readers;
5. applicable regulations in the region;
6. the performance requirements for field use.
In particular, ICAR maintains registries of RFID devices and readers that comply with international standards.
The ARDES RFID Solution
ARDES develops electronic tags, RFID readers, and implantable microchips for various applications.
The electronic identification solutions presented by ARDES are based in particular on the ISO 11784/11785 standards and the ICAR procedures applicable to the relevant products.
This expertise enables us to assist distributors and professionals in choosing a solution that is consistent with their market.
RFID technology must do more than just work today.
It must be able to integrate sustainably into your environment.
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