User's Manual

14
Read range performances
Figure 4 illustrates the reading zone of the reader, within which Flex Tags can be successfully
detected and read. Optimum read distance occurs depending on the orientation of the tag. Flex
Tags read best when positioned as shown below.
Figure 4 - Optimum Read Distance - Tag Orientation
Item
Legend
Comments
1
Reading zone
Area in which the ear tags and the implants can be read (above the tube)
2
Flex Tag
Best orientation of the Flex Tag regarding the reader antenna
3
Reader
-
4
Antenna
-
Tips for efficient Flex Tag reading
Tag reader efficiency is often linked with reading distance. The device's read distance
performance may be affected by the following factors:
▪ Tag orientation: See Figure 4.
▪ Animal movement: If the animal moves too quickly, the tag may not be located in the
read zone long enough for the SCR code information to be obtained.
▪ Tag type: cSense™ or eSense™ Flex Tag have different reading distances, and
environmental factors such as RF interferences may affect overall tag performances.
▪ Nearby metal objects: Metal objects located near a tag or reader may attenuate and
distort the magnetic fields generated in the RFID systems therefore, reducing the
reading distance. An example, an ear tag against a squeeze chute significantly reduces
the read distance.
▪ Electrical noise interference: The operating principle of RFID tags and readers is based
on electromagnetic signals. Other electromagnetic phenomena, such as radiated
electrical noise from other RFID tag readers, or computer screens may interfere with
RFID signal transmission and reception, therefore, reducing the read distance.
▪ Tag/reader interference: Several tags in the reception range of the reader, or other
readers that emit excitation energy close by may adversely affect reader performance or
even prevent the reader from operating.
▪ Discharged battery pack: As the battery pack discharges, the power available to activate
the field becomes weaker, which in turn reduces the read range field.