Microchips (also see our catalog page)

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RFID transponders, commonly called microchips, offer an effective way to identify laboratory animals. A microchip is inserted into the animal subcutaneously, often when the animal is quite young, and from that point the animal can be identified with an transponder reader capable of scanning and processing the transponder’s ID information.

Microchips are especially suitable in high humidity environments and feature a matchless, preprogrammed value that can be interpreted by readers with various read ranges and applications.

When microchips are used in conjunction with animal management software, laboratory animals can be uniquely identified and accurately monitored over time. The initial extra investment has the potential to improve the integrity of breeding and experimental data, and enhances the seamless data capture and transfer process.

We are re-sellers of the Trovan® patented transponders and related equipment. (see our catalog page)

Microchips Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How big is the microchip?

A: The glass encapsulated microchip used in the research community is about the size of a grain of rice (see our catalog page for exact specifications).

Q: How does the reader work?

A: The reader energizes the microchip, and the microchip then returns a unique code signal which is interpreted and processed by the reader. The ID number can then be copied manually off the reader, or transmitted by infrared or cable to a nearby computer terminal for use in Facility, PHARM and other software applications.

Q: Why should I use microchips to identify my mice?

A: You probably have a substantial amount of money invested in your laboratory animals. Each RFID microchip features a unique code, so there is no guessing “who is who”. Ear tags get ripped out, ear punches change with animal's age, toe clippings are unpopular and tattoos fade over time. Microchips improve the integrity of the breeding and experimental data and can reduce costly errors and loss related to mistaken identity.

Q: Can this extra expense be justified?

A: RFID transponders may seem like a large up-front expense, but the one-time investment has the potential to save money and ensure the validity of your research results.