Gallagher Unveils Super Smart Animal Management Technology at National Fieldays

The release of the Gallagher SmartTSi system at Mystery Creek today signals another huge step forward for New Zealand-made EID (animal identification) and weighing technology.

SmartTSi combines three separate technologies – a weigh scale, computer and animal management software, to create one very intelligent, very sophisticated on-farm management tool.

The revolutionary product is the result of three years of research and development. Peter Nation, National Sales Manager for Gallagher Animal Management Systems, believes it will reshape the future of animal identification and on-farm animal management.

He says SmartTSi is designed to provide the farmer with the comprehensive livestock information necessary to make key farm management decisions.

While the electronic gathering and recording of liveweight data is nothing new, he says the features on the new SmartTSi set it apart from any other product. These features include a full-colour touch screen and an all-weather rugged design that makes on-farm collection and viewing of data easy and virtually unlimited.

“As far as we know, this is the first of its kind. There is nothing else on the market like it.”

Along with liveweight information, SmartTSi can be used to record any number of animal traits or activities, making it ideal for stud breeding and intensive livestock operations.

Its unique design incorporates a “flippable” screen so it can be mounted on a race for data collection or flipped for use in computer mode on a desk, with the cables and connectors conveniently located away from the user in both set ups.

Outdoor readable, this screen can be used to show an individual animal’s history and a full range of herd or flock statistics while the animals are still in the yards. The SmartTSi’s touch screen means no keyboard is required, and an optional speech function announces information for hands-free operation.

The system integrates with loadbars and EID drafters and is supplied with APS Office animal management software for detailed reporting and analysis. This software can also be run on a Windows PC.

An internal Lithium battery provides up to eight hours continuous use in the field and 512MB memory allows storage capacity for at least 100,000 animals.

Peter Nation says while SmartTSi is a very sophisticated system, its robust construction and the use of superior rubber over-moulding for extra protection and grip ensures it can handle the knocks and bumps that come with typical stock yard activity.

He says considerable research has gone into ensuring that the electronics and software are safely housed in a robust fit-for-purpose casing. “Even though the system features some extremely clever technology, it’s still very easy to use. We like to think of it as smart on the inside and simple on the outside.”

He says the SmartTSi adds a new dimension to the Gallagher animal performance product range and keeps the company at the forefront of EID and weighing technology with the added power of on-farm data recording and retrieval.

“It’s widely acknowledged that EID will become compulsory in New Zealand over the next few years, so we are committed to developing and manufacturing highly advanced products for the New Zealand farmer – products that will enable farmers to improve their monitoring and management, increasing profit from their EID tagged animals.”

Find out more about the SmartTSi.