It is possible to use your XRS2 stick reader to capture data and then upload it into Breedr via the Custom Import tool on the web. This help guide provides guidance on how to set up your XRS2 stick reader to capture data, download it and then import it into your Breedr account.
Setting up data fields on your XRS2 stick reader
Data fields allow you to capture certain bits of data about your animal, for example, its body condition score. You can also use your XRS2 to capture data at lambing to add lambs into your Breedr account.
Watch this video to see how to add Animal Breed
Follow these steps:
Turn your XRS2 on by holding the power button
Select Settings
Select Animal Data
Select the + icon
Enter the name and tap the top right button to move next
Select option for Stored in - tap the top middle button to select the blue pencil icon to change between Session and Lifetime options
Session = data will only be available from within the session
Lifetime = data will be stored within the XRS2 for life - use this option to store animal IDs, this is useful for selecting the Dam when creating a lamb
Select data input type - tap the top middle button to select the blue pencil icon to change between options
A number
A date
Text
Selected from a list
Select Repeat - tap the top middle button to select the blue pencil icon to change between options
On = whatever you selected for the previous record will show for the next
Off = the next record will be reset to blank
Save - tap the top right button to select the green tick
Recommended data fields
Name | Stored in | It will always be | Data input | Repeat |
Visual id* | Lifetime | A number |
| Off |
Sex* | Lifetime | Selected from a list |
| Off |
Is castrated* | Session | Selected from a list |
| Off |
Date of birth* | Lifetime | A date |
| Off |
Animal Breed* | Lifetime | Selected from a list |
| On |
Dam passport number*^ | Lifetime | An animal ID tag | Search for Dam VID | Off |
Group* | Session | Text |
| On |
Condition Score | Session | A number |
| Off |
^Dam passport number - dam records need to have already been saved onto the stick reader. When running the session you can search for the Dam's VID number and select her full ID number.
*Recommended fields for creating lambs
Please note the following:
You will need to scan the lamb's EID tag
Breedr requires Animal id/passport number, Electronic id, Sex and Date of birth in order to create the animal
You can use this excel template to create the Animal id/passport number from the Electronic id. Use this help guide on Adding sheep to your account for further support
How to set up a session template (Favourite)
Once you have set up your data fields you can create a session template (Favourite) that can be launched as a session.
Watch this video to see how to create a Favourite for recording body condition score
Follow these steps:
Turn your XRS2 on by holding the power button
Select Settings
Select Animal Data
Select data field
Choose what Screen order you want that data field to be in
Return to Settings
Select Favourites
Select the Star with the + icon - tap the top right button to select
Enter the Name and Description
Check that the Animal Data fields are correct
If they are not, return to complete Steps 2 - 5
Save - tap the top right button to select the green tick
How to launch a session
To capture your desired data fields, you can launch a session with the appropriate Favourite selected.
Watch this video to see how to launch a session for recording body condition score
Follow these steps:
Turn your XRS2 on by holding the power button
Select New Session
Enter the Session Name and Description
Select desired Favourite - tap the top middle button to select the blue pencil icon to change between saved Favourites
Launch the session - tap the top right button to select the green tick
How to Download session data
Once you have completed your session you can download the session using the Data Link app.
Watch this video to see how to download session data from your XRS2
Follow these steps:
Download the datalink app on your phone and connect to your stick reader.
Once connected press settings and click into the session you need.
Finally, click on the share icon in the top right corner.
Save this in either a google or one drive so you can access this from your computer/laptop.
How to import data into Breedr
You should now have an excel file saved on your computer. You can now log into the Breedr web app and import this file using the Custom Import tool.
Depending on what kind of data you are importing, use one of the following help guides for support on how to do this.
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Need some help? Use the chat window to your right on web or the help button on mobile, call our customer support team on +44 (0) 3300 436327 or email support support@breedr.co