Hardware · prototype
An affordable eID reader, in the workshop.
Commercial stick readers cost several hundred pounds or more, which is a lot for a smallholder or a new farmer. We're prototyping a low-cost reader that reads the same HDX and FDX-B tags and pairs with Tractr over Bluetooth.
Where it's at
- In prototype development: it isn't for sale and has no release date yet.
- We're concentrating on extending read range before anything else.
- We expect a sealed, resin-encased reader rather than a self-assembly kit.
In the meantime, our focus is Tractr itself: the web app, LIS movement reporting, and the Tractr app for iPhone and iPad that's coming soon.
FAQ
Where is the eID reader up to?
It's in prototype development. Right now we're concentrating on read range, which is the hardest part to get right at a low price. We'll share more when we have a reader we're happy to put in a farmer's hand.
What tags will it read?
HDX and FDX-B 134.2 kHz ISO 11784/11785 tags, the standard for UK sheep, cattle and goat eID.
Will it be a self-assembly kit?
Probably not. We're now looking at a sealed, resin-encased reader rather than a kit you build and case yourself, so it stands up to mud, water and the back of a pickup.
Do I need the reader to use Tractr?
No. Tractr works today with tag numbers you type in or import from a spreadsheet or another system's export, on the web and (soon) on iPhone. The reader is for later, as a cheaper way to read tags straight into your records.
Start with Tractr today
Your animal, medicine and movement records in one place, with LIS reporting built in. Hear about the reader when there's news by getting in touch.