Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Rodent Tag Scanner
Dual-frequency RFID scanner system for individual rodent identification using subcutaneous microchips or ear tags, with sub-100ms reading times and portable operation.
Louise Corscadden, PhD
Director of Science · ConductScience
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The Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Rodent Tag Scanner provides reliable individual animal identification for laboratory rodent research through dual-frequency RFID technology. The system operates at 134.2 kHz and 125 kHz frequencies, supporting both EMID and FDX-B (ISO11784/85) tag formats for flexible identification protocols. The scanner reads 2×12mm glass microchip implants at distances exceeding 5cm and 30mm ear tags at distances exceeding 15cm, with response times under 100ms.
The handheld scanner features a 0.91-inch OLED display for immediate tag identification feedback and operates on rechargeable 3.7V lithium battery power across temperatures from -10°C to 50°C. The complete system includes one reader, microchip injector, and 10 implantable RFID tags for immediate research implementation. Integration compatibility with automated home cage systems, behavioral mazes, and video tracking software including EthoVision and ANY-Maze enables comprehensive longitudinal studies.
How It Works
The RFID scanner operates through electromagnetic induction using low-frequency radio waves at 134.2 kHz and 125 kHz. When the scanner's antenna approaches an RFID tag, the electromagnetic field energizes the passive tag's integrated circuit, causing it to transmit its unique identification code back to the reader. The dual-frequency capability ensures compatibility with both EMID and ISO11784/85 FDX-B tag standards commonly used in animal research.
Glass microchip tags (2×12mm) are implanted subcutaneously using the included injector, typically in the dorsal neck region, where they remain permanently embedded in the subcutaneous tissue. Ear tags (30mm) are attached through ear piercing for external identification. The scanner's optimized antenna design provides reading ranges exceeding 5cm for microchips and 15cm for ear tags, with digital signal processing enabling identification within 100ms of tag detection.
The 0.91-inch OLED display provides immediate visual feedback of the scanned tag number, while the portable design allows handheld operation throughout animal facilities. The system's temperature tolerance (-10°C to 50°C operating) ensures reliable performance across standard laboratory environmental conditions.
Features & Benefits
tag_types
- glass microchip (subcutaneous) or ear tag
response_time
- quick
compatibility
- can be used alone or with automated home cage system, cage systems, and mazes
software_integration
- Noldus EthoVision, ANY-Maze
Automation Level
- semi-automated
Material
- glass
Species
- Gerbil
- Hamster
- Mouse
- Rat
- Guinea pig
Research Domain
- Addiction Research
- Aging Research
- Anxiety and Depression
- Behavioral Pharmacology
- Learning and Memory
- Metabolic Research
- Motor Function
- Neurodegeneration
- Pain Research
- Social Behavior
- Toxicology
Weight
- 6.06 kg
Dimensions
- L: 65.0 mm
- W: 36.0 mm
- H: 27.0 mm
| Feature | This Product | Typical Alternative | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading Range | Microchips >5cm, ear tags >15cm | Entry-level scanners often provide shorter ranges requiring closer proximity | Extended range reduces handling stress and enables identification through cage materials and bedding |
| Response Time | Sub-100ms identification | Basic scanners may require longer tag exposure times | Rapid identification minimizes animal restraint time and enables high-throughput processing |
| Frequency Support | Dual-frequency (134.2 kHz and 125 kHz) | Single-frequency scanners limit tag compatibility | Supports multiple tag standards for institutional flexibility and existing infrastructure compatibility |
| Display Technology | 0.91-inch high brightness OLED | Basic LCD or LED displays with limited visibility | Clear identification readout in various lighting conditions throughout animal facilities |
| Operating Temperature Range | -10°C to 50°C operational | Standard scanners often have narrower temperature tolerances | Reliable performance in cold rooms and varying environmental conditions |
| Tag Options | Both 2×12mm microchips and 30mm ear tags | Many systems support only one identification method | Accommodates different research protocols and institutional preferences for animal identification |
This RFID scanner provides dual-frequency compatibility, extended reading ranges, and rapid response times in a portable design suitable for diverse laboratory animal research applications. The system supports both subcutaneous microchips and external ear tags with clear OLED display feedback.
Practical Tips
Test scanner functionality with a known tag before beginning animal identification sessions to ensure proper operation.
Why: Prevents delays during animal handling when scanner malfunctions could extend restraint time and increase stress.
Maintain consistent scanning angle and distance from animals to optimize tag detection reliability.
Why: RF field strength varies with orientation and distance, affecting detection consistency across animals.
Clean scanner housing with appropriate disinfectants between animal areas to prevent cross-contamination.
Why: Portable scanners can transfer pathogens between housing areas if not properly disinfected during facility use.
Store scanner within specified temperature range (-30°C to 70°C) when not in use for extended periods.
Why: Temperature extremes beyond storage specifications can damage electronic components and battery performance.
Record tag numbers immediately upon scanning to prevent transcription errors from delayed manual entry.
Why: Memory errors increase with time delay between scanning and data recording, compromising animal tracking accuracy.
If tags cannot be detected, check for interference from metal cage components or other electronic devices in the immediate area.
Why: Metal objects and electromagnetic interference can block or distort RF signals, preventing successful tag reading.
Use proper restraint techniques during microchip implantation to prevent needle stick injuries and ensure accurate tag placement.
Why: Inadequate restraint increases injury risk to personnel and may result in improper tag placement affecting future identification.
Setup Guide
What’s in the Box
- RFID tag scanner with OLED display
- Microchip injector
- 10 implantable RFID tags (2×12mm)
- Battery charging cable
- User manual and operation guide
Warranty
ConductScience provides a standard 1-year manufacturer warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship, with technical support for setup, operation, and troubleshooting assistance.
Compliance
What is the biocompatibility of the glass microchip tags for long-term implantation?
The 2×12mm glass microchips are designed for permanent subcutaneous implantation. Consult product datasheet for specific biocompatibility testing data and tissue reaction studies.
Can the scanner read tags through standard laboratory cage materials?
Yes, the extended reading ranges (>5cm for microchips, >15cm for ear tags) typically allow identification through plastic cage walls and bedding materials, though metal caging may interfere with RF transmission.
How does battery life affect daily research operations?
The rechargeable 3.7V lithium battery provides extended operation, though specific runtime depends on usage frequency. Consult product datasheet for detailed battery specifications and charging requirements.
What data export capabilities are available for integration with laboratory information systems?
The scanner displays tag numbers on the OLED screen for manual recording. Consult product datasheet for any available data logging or export capabilities for automated database integration.
Are there any contraindications for microchip implantation in specific research protocols?
Consider potential interference with imaging studies (MRI, microCT) and electromagnetic field research. The glass construction minimizes artifacts compared to metal components, but protocol-specific evaluation is recommended.
How does the dual-frequency capability affect tag selection for different species?
Both 134.2 kHz and 125 kHz frequencies support the same tag formats, providing flexibility for institutional standardization and compatibility with existing RFID infrastructure across species.
What is the expected lifespan of implanted microchip tags?
Passive RFID tags have no internal power source and theoretical lifespans exceeding the typical research animal lifespan. Consult manufacturer specifications for durability testing data and failure rates.
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