- The multinational pharmaceutical company
Bayer, in association with Datamast SA - a Swiss electronics company -
are marketing a tracking device for domestic animals. The Tracer Animal
Coder is a two part system incorporating a passive, 12mm microchip which
is injected under the skin of the pet and activated when "swiped"
by a hand-held scanner. The resultant short-wave radio signal provides
a unique number which can then be cross-referenced with a confidential
"PetLog" database of owners. This information, currently controlled
by both the Kennel Club and the RSPCA, is reported to be secure in accordance
with the Data Protection Act, and only accessible through the use of a
valid pin number.
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- A representative from Bayer,s Agrochemical
division commented that once interest has been gauged for the system,s
use in the domestic market, they hope to extend its application to include
livestock animals as well.
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- Comparisons between these devices and
the insidious implants of UFO conspiracy theories are obvious, and it is
interesting to note that the promotional information from the production
company suggests that the microchips are suitable for "cats, dogs...
horses, birds, reptiles and small mammals". If Homo sapiens is measured
against the elephant or blue whale, then perhaps its time to start worrying.
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- It appears that this time may already
upon us. The Big Idea exhibition in Ardeer, Ayrshire, will supply a smart
badge to all delegates when it opens in spring 2000. The infrared and radio
sensors incorporated within the badges will enable the event,s organisers
to pin-point any member of the crowd to within half a meter. The badges
also hold personal details and can be used to direct visitors away from
crowded displays or to interest them in something more tailored towards
their designated age group. Bayer UK Magazine, Nov; New Scientist, 28 Nov
1998.
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