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Knowledge Guide

RFID Electronic tags and Barcoding

Published 2022-05-19Raybaca IOT Technology

What RFID Tags Actually Do Differently

RFID tags carry a unique identifier that can be read without line of sight, unlike barcodes which require direct visual access. This allows reading at speed, in poor light, or through materials like plastic, wood, or animal tissue.

Why RFID Beats Barcodes in Animal Management

Barcodes need a scanner to see the label. RFID tags work even when buried under dirt, wet fur, or inside an animal's body. They do not need to be aligned with a reader, and they can be read in motion or in groups.

How RFID Handles Real-World Farm Conditions

RFID tags survive exposure to mud, water, and temperature extremes. The TPU material used in ear tags resists cracking and peeling. Tags are tested under high and low temperature conditions to ensure long-term reliability.

Memory and Security Built Into the Tag

Each RFID tag has a unique serial number stored in its memory. This number cannot be copied or altered. The data is secure and remains unchanged over time, which is essential for traceability and official records.

When to Choose RFID Over Barcodes

Use RFID when animals are handled in bulk, when visibility is poor, or when data must be captured without stopping the animal. Use barcodes only when the label is always visible and access is controlled.

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Questions on This Topic

Can RFID tags be read through metal or water

Yes, but with reduced range. Water absorbs UHF signals, and metal can block or reflect them. LF tags are less affected by water and body tissue, making them more reliable in wet or embedded conditions.

Are RFID tags reusable

Yes, if the tag is not damaged. The data can be rewritten or erased, allowing reuse in different animals or systems, provided the tag is compatible with the reader.

Can RFID tags be cloned or copied

No. Each tag has a unique, unchangeable identifier that cannot be duplicated. This ensures the integrity of animal records and prevents fraud.

Do RFID tags need a power source

No. Passive RFID tags do not have a battery. They are powered by the radio signal from the reader, which allows them to operate for years without maintenance.

How does RFID handle multiple tags at once

A reader can capture data from multiple tags in a single pass. This is useful for counting animals at a gate, in a pen, or during a loading event without individual handling.

Put This Into Practice on Your Own Operation

Send us the animal, the quantity and where the read has to happen, and we will recommend the tag and reader that match what you just read.