A semi-active LF/BLE tag with 14× extended reading range for livestock RFID [preprint]

Abstract

Efficient tracking and management of livestock are crucial for enhancing productivity in the agricultural sector, yet existing low frequency (LF) RFID systems are hampered by their limited reading ranges. This paper presents a hybrid RFID tag that integrates LF and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) to extend the reading range while maintaining compatibility with ISO 11784/5 standards. The proposed semi-active tag utilizes a custom LF wake-up ASIC operating @134.2 kHz and BLE for data transmission, allowing for a reading range increase of up to 14× that of conventional passive LF tags. This work explores a thorough design validation including simulation and measurement results, and a custom BLE-based communication strategy that minimizes packet loss and energy consumption for a 99% reception success rate and a 7-year lifespan under typical use cases. This ear tag solution can be deployed together with any existing standard ISO 11784/5 handheld reader requiring only minor firmware modifications. Results demonstrate the feasibility of this approach in improving existing bulk-reading applications in the cattle industry and dairy farms.