Overview
ISO 24631-3:2025 - "Radiofrequency identification of animals - Part 3: Evaluation of performance of RFID transponders conforming with ISO 11784 and ISO 11785" specifies standardized test procedures to evaluate the performance of animal identification RFID transponders. It defines how to measure technical parameters that characterize both energy transfer (activation) and data transfer (modulation) between a transceiver and transponder. The standard supports objective comparison of injectable transponders, ear tags, boluses, leg tags and attachments used for livestock and companion animals.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and conformance: Procedures for RA-recognized test centres to report results to the Registration Authority (RA). Testing applies to transponders with a product code issued by the RA (see ISO 24631-1).
- Measurement focus:
- Minimal activating magnetic field strength - the lowest magnetic field (134.2 kHz activation frequency) required to fully activate a transponder.
- Transponder modulation amplitude - signal strength sent back by the transponder (modulation depth for FDX‑B; average voltage depth for HDX).
- Bit length stability (FDX‑B) - variation (standard deviation) of one-bit duration.
- Frequency stability (HDX) - stability of the two frequencies representing low/high bits (FSK).
- Test apparatus and setups: Use of Helmholtz configurations (Helmholtz transmitting antenna HTA, Helmholtz sensing coils HSC, sensing coils SC), matching networks (MN), compensation networks (CN) and specific orientation/field-null procedures.
- Test procedures: Detailed test conditions and methods for FDX‑B and HDX measurements, including modulation amplitude, minimal activation field tests and stability tests.
- Annex B (informative): Guidance on interpreting measured parameters and linking them to in-field requirements and performance expectations.
Applications and who uses this standard
ISO 24631-3:2025 is intended for:
- RFID transponder manufacturers - design validation and product performance documentation.
- Certification and test laboratories - RA-recognized test centres performing standardized evaluations and issuing test reports.
- Registration authorities and regulators - assessing conformance of transponders with ISO 11784/11785.
- Veterinarians, animal health services and livestock managers - understanding tag performance, read range and reliability in real-world conditions.
- Suppliers of animal identification systems - ensuring interoperability and field suitability for livestock and companion animals.
Practical benefits include reliable comparisons between products, improved field-read reliability, and clearer specification of requirements for animal ID projects.
Related standards
Keywords: ISO 24631-3:2025, RFID transponders, animal identification, ISO 11784, ISO 11785, activation field, modulation amplitude, FDX‑B, HDX, Helmholtz coils, transponder testing.