A few years ago, the University of Florida contracted Dynasys to develop an RFID-based solution to track its animal census.
This system utilised UHF EPC Generation 2 tags that are applied directly onto each metal cage's card holder, while the associated RFID tag ID is inducted into the database.
At a 'reader induction station', an Intermec RFID reader encodes the tag and assigns a destination location.
The cage is then filed and verified to its assigned location using an Intermec IP4 hand-held RFID scanner.
Subsequently, at periodic cycle counts, a 'mobile RFID cart reader' is rolled through the aisles, where it reads the tags and provides a complete inventory cycle count.
The census is reconciled in real time through a wireless connection with the main database server.
Any missing or misplaced cages are noted and corrective action is taken.
It is at the point when a cage is removed from inventory and its tag is placed at the 'checkout' station that a portable printer from Extech Data Systems is utilised and the necessary documentation is created.
Dynasys chief executive Bob Scher, said: 'The Extech 3750THS Series printer provides a formal documentation of each "checkout" transaction.
'The printed transaction report includes all the necessary information for complete accountability.
'It includes a record of the specific animal or animals being checked out, as well as the protocol guidelines for this particular project,' he added.
Extech's S3750THS is a 3in (80mm) portable receipt printer that is available with multiple wireless communications options.
It uses thermal print contrast control to produce high-speed, high-resolution printouts.
It is powered by a 2.2A lithium battery for more printouts per charge, and is built to withstand the rigours of mobile computing applications.
The printer supports all Windows font sets and has print utilities for most mobile operating systems.
It measures 4.75in wide by 6in long by 2.25in high.
'The printer's Bluetooth capability allows for wireless connectivity and remote placement away from the associated workstation,' said Scher.
'This is a product that adapts to its environment with no need to ever worry about wires strewn throughout the room.' Prior to utilising the Dynasys RFID system, University of Florida Animal Care facility employees used mobile bar code readers to scan cage numbers.
Human error, such as cages misplaced or skipped, led to inaccuracies and incomplete invoicing.
With the implementation of the Dynasys Animal Care Warehouse Management System (DACWMS), the inaccuracies have all but disappeared.
According to Scher, the accuracy rate at the facility has jumped from 60 per cent to 99 per cent.
Functions of the DACWMS include tracking veterinary healthcare, breeding activities, purchasing, financial accounting and tracking transgenic genotyping.
