Equestrian Saddle and Tack Registry and Tracking System
29 April, 2005
category: RFID
TackTrac, an affordable new equestrian security product, allows users to permanently mark their equipment with a small radio frequency identification (RFID) tag. The device can be inserted into various tack equipment and provides an identification number that can be registered in an online database. TackTrac enables users to easily identify and track equipment if lost or stolen.
TackTrac, an affordable new equestrian security product that features a saddle and tack registry and tracking system, was introduced at Equine Affaire in Columbus, Ohio on April 7 by TackTrac Inc. TackTrac allows users to tag a saddle or tack with a microchip so it can be identified and recovered if lost or stolen. TackTrac is the only company in the United States to offer a national tracking and recovery database for the equine tack equipment industry.
TackTrac is a self-installed product that includes both a state-of-the-art radio frequency identification (RFID) microchip kit and a Global Online Registry and Recovery Database to add a new layer of theft deterrence and assist in the recovery of lost or stolen tack items. Installation and registration is easy; when properly inserted into a saddle, tack or tack box, the microchip can provide the key information necessary to instantly identify the item and enable it to be returned if lost or stolen.
RFID tags are small microchips that work by sending out a small, encoded radio signal when in the proximity of RFID reader equipment. The RFID readers supply a small amount of electromagnetic power, which allows the tag to transmit a faint radio signal. The tag’s signal contains the unique identification number encoded onto the chip during the manufacturing process. The reader device can then display this number to the user.
TackTrac uses an AVID Eurochip® which is compatible with AVID® and Destron® multiple reader microchip scanners. Thousands of existing microchip multiple scanners throughout the United States can be used to scan the saddle, tack or tack box to positively identify the owner. This microchip contains a unique identification code, requires no power source and lasts for decades. TackTrac uses 125K frequency microchips and scanners, which are the most compatible with the pet, equine and livestock microchip tracking industry.
The microchip is difficult to remove once installed. An attempt to remove the microchip would be obvious and would potentially indicate that the item was stolen. This may act as a deterrent to theft or signal that an item should not be purchased, as it may be stolen.
After a microchip is installed in a saddle or tack item, the owner can register the microchip ID in the online registry database (available at www.tacktrac.com). Also in the database is an area to include a detailed description of the item and an optional uploaded image.
The initial tagging kit is available online for $39.95. TackTrac offers reseller/installer programs to qualified tack shops, saddle fitters, farriers and stables. For more information, visit www.tacktrac.com.