Digital Angel has announced that its subsidiary Destron Fearing, will launch the Global Pocket Reader series on March 1, 2011. The Global Pocket Reader series offers two durable and versatile radio-frequency identification (RFID) readers that are ideal for companion animal veterinary practices, pet rescue shelters and low-volume manual scanning operations.

Both models have the value-added ability to scan Bio-Thermo technology enabled microchips, providing body temperature readings quickly and conveniently, and read all ISO-compliant microchips/tags technologies (11784/11785), including Avid encrypted transponders, DataMars, Trovan and HDX transponders.

A particular advantage of the series is that the antenna and reader are built into one hand-held unit to provide ease of use, as well as excellent read speed and range capabilities. The Pocket Reader reads at a range of up to 3" (7.7 cm) and the Pocket Reader EX reads at a range of up to 4" (10.2 cm).

In addition, each reader features a communication port for custom applications, with an external serial device attachment for data logging, and the ability to transmit information to a computer via cable connections. Both readers can also store up to 2,048 tag IDs when the memory function is enabled and can operate for up to eight hours or capture up to 10,000 scans when powered by four AA or AAA batteries.

"We are very excited to launch the Global Pocket Reader series which has the ability to read all global technologies," said Dan Ellsworth, Destron Fearing's Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing.

"The two new Pocket Reader models offer many exciting features, including: memory and Bio-Thermo feature activation; a battery status indicator; and standard software in English, Spanish and French. This is a real advancement in RFID readers."

The Pocket Reader and Pocket Reader EX also feature a liquid crystal display and rugged, dust-proof construction designed to perform reliably in harsh conditions, including temperatures ranging from 32 degrees to 122 degrees F (0 degrees to 50 degrees C). Both readers come with a one-year warranty.