Hello ECOLOG, I recently asked the ECOLOG community if they had experience with inexpensive Chinese PIT tags. One researcher responded that he had positive experiences working with a Chinese company, Hong Teng technologies. I looked into their tags and readers and found them to be less expensive but not as ridiculously inexpensive (particularly their readers) as D-Think technologies which sells from www.rfidshop.net. As a test, I ordered one $179 reader and 10 12mm tags. Several people contacted me expressing interest in whatever I found out.
First, the package was delivered in 6 days. The reader came with 2 rechargeable lithium ion batteries and a charger, which was a pleasant surprise. The reader was exactly what I wanted, no frills but $179 instead of $1000. All tags worked and we're coded differently. I can't speak to longevity, but neither the tags nor reader seem to have any problems. The reader is obviously cheaply made, but it is less than 1/5 the price of most handheld readers. Most importantly, rfidshop.net is not a scam, delivers promptly, and can use PayPal. I can send a picture of what I received minus the bubble wrap off list if you're interested. Hopefully this information is helpful, Taal -- Taal Levi Assistant Professor Oregon State University ph: 831-332-7873 http://people.oregonstate.edu/~levit/
