A computer to store details of daily feed allowance and the amount of feed dispensed daily to each sow, with a data printout facility. A dispensing mechanisim to deposit the correct number of equal sized feed drops to the sow whilst in the feed station. A feed station to isolate the sow from the rest of the group while feeding. The eartag carries a unique ID number which identifies that sow. The ear tag transponder's number is picked up by the aerial in the feed station when the tag in the sow's ear enters the ID field in the feed trough.
All new systems involve transponders carried in eartags.
Ear tag loss is very low when tags are correctly placed inside the ear. Tagging well before mixing may reduce tag loss during bouts of aggression. Gate closing speed can be adjusted so that the gates can close slowly for training sows and gilts and more quickly for trained animals. A timer dictates the release of the sow from the feed station after she has received her last drop of feed. She can leave the station at any time by pushing the exit gate open.