What type of chip is used for microchipping dogs? - briefly
The most commonly used type of chip for dog microchipping is the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip. These chips are passive, meaning they do not have a power source and only transmit information when scanned by an appropriate reader.
What type of chip is used for microchipping dogs? - in detail
The type of chip commonly used for microchipping dogs is known as a radio frequency identification (RFID) transponder, or simply an RFID chip. These chips are small, passive devices that do not require a power source within the chip itself. Instead, they rely on an external reader to activate them and transmit data. Here's a detailed breakdown of the technology:
The RFID chip used for pet microchipping is typically composed of a tiny glass capsule containing a silicon chip with a unique identification number. This number is encoded in the chip using a process called modulation, which allows it to be read by an RFID scanner. The chip itself measures about 2 millimeters in diameter and 12 millimeters in length, making it small enough to be implanted under the skin of a dog without causing significant discomfort or harm.
The RFID system used for pet microchipping operates at a frequency of 134.2 kHz, which is known as low-frequency (LF) RFID. This frequency was chosen specifically for its ability to penetrate tissue and read the chip through skin and fur. When an RFID scanner is passed over the area where the chip is implanted, it emits a low-power radio signal that activates the chip and allows it to transmit its unique identification number back to the scanner.
The international standard for pet microchipping is ISO 11784/11785, which specifies the frequency, data encoding, and other technical details of the RFID system used for identifying pets. This standard ensures that microchips from different manufacturers are compatible with each other and can be read by any compliant scanner, regardless of the brand or model.
In summary, the type of chip used for microchipping dogs is an RFID transponder operating at a low frequency of 134.2 kHz. These chips contain a unique identification number that can be read using an appropriate scanner, enabling pet owners to ensure their pets' safety and well-being in case they become lost or separated from their human companions.