What is the difference between USDA 840 and Standard 982?

Using USDA EID tags (which start with 840) is the best option for producers, as they are considered an Official IDentification tag in the United States. Having an Official ID allows for interstate travel, along with disease traceability and data capturing & sharing. With USDA tags, a Premises ID is required which can be applied for through your state's animal health department. Learn more about how to obtain a Premises ID.

Standard 982 Tags are used for in-herd data use and cannot be used as Official ID. They still offer data capturing & sharing, but without traceability and Official ID capacity.

What is the difference between HDX and FDX tags?

HDX tags are High Performance tags that use Half Duplex technology while FDX tags are Standard tags that use Full Duplex technology. Both HDX and FDX follow the ISO standard and can be read by the same EID readers. Half Duplex (HDX) tags are better able to transmit through metal interference such as metal and steel objects. Full Duplex (FDX) is good when read range is not an issue. Both provide a tamperproof cap for security and retention.

What is the read range of the tags?

Typical read range on HDX tags ranges from 38cm - 46cm (15" - 18") while typical read range on FDX tags ranges from 35cm - 41cm (13" - 16"). However, FDX tags are more susceptible to interference from metal and steel objects such as headgates, panels, and squeeze chutes as well as fluorescent lights. Half Duplex (HDX) tags offer the best signal transmission read range.

Can Allflex EID tags be read with EID readers from other manufacturers?

Yes, Allflex EID Tags are ISO-compliant, low-frequency RFID tags and therefore can be read by any other ISO-compliant, low-frequency RFID/EID reader.