For professionals in the agricultural and livestock sector, the reliability of their equipment is non-negotiable. A key component of many modern livestock management systems is the portable RFID reader, designed for tracking animals, monitoring health data, and managing inventory. At the heart of devices like the Agrident AWR300 stick reader is a critical power source: the Agrident ARB300, part number 3018.

What is the Agrident ARB300?

The Agrident ARB300 (p/n 3018) is a high-capacity, rechargeable lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery pack designed and certified specifically as a "Livestock medical battery" for compatible Agrident devices. It is the official replacement battery for the Agrident ARB300 model and serves as the primary power source for the Agrident AWR300 RFID stick reader, a 65-centimeter long handheld device weighing approximately 750 grams with the battery installed.

Technical Specifications

The ARB300 is engineered to deliver consistent, long-lasting power for extended fieldwork. Its key specifications are as follows:

Model Number: ARB300 / p/n 3018.

Voltage: 7.2V / 7.4V (nominal).

Capacity: The official battery has a capacity of 2.6 Ah (2,600 mAh) or 18.88 Wh.

Technology: Lithium-Ion (Li-ion).

Dimensions (L x W x H): 137 x 22 x 26 mm.

Weight: approx. 115 g.

Note on Capacity: Most commercially available replacement batteries for the ARB300 are marketed with a higher capacity of 3,180 mAh, which, if accurate, would provide a longer runtime than the original 2,600 mAh unit.

Applications: Compatibility and Use

The ARB300 battery is the backbone of the Agrident AWR300 RFID stick reader. The AWR300 is designed for the harsh agricultural environment, offering excellent read performance for electronic ear tags and other low-frequency (LF) and high-frequency (HF) RFID applications. It features a large 2.4-inch color TFT display, multicolor LED indicators, a speaker, and a vibrating handle to ensure clear feedback even in noisy conditions.

The ARB300 is also compatible with other devices in the same family that use the same battery form factor, such as the ARB300 and AWR300-3018 models.

Importance of Safety Certifications

Given that this is a "livestock medical battery," safety and reliability are paramount. Genuine and high-quality replacement ARB300 batteries are manufactured to rigorous standards and carry crucial international certifications:

CE (Conformité Européenne): Mandatory for products sold in the European Economic Area, signifying compliance with health, safety, and environmental protection standards.

RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances): Limits the use of specific hazardous materials in the battery's construction, making it safer for people and the environment.

ISO 9001/9002: Indicates that the battery is produced under a quality management system, ensuring consistency and adherence to international manufacturing standards.

FCC (Federal Communications Commission): Certification for electromagnetic interference, ensuring the battery does not disrupt other electronic devices.

Advanced Features and Battery Performance

High-quality ARB300 batteries incorporate several advanced features to maximize their lifespan and ensure safe operation:

Integrated Protection Circuitry: Includes safeguards against over-voltage, under-voltage, short circuits, overheating (OTP), and over-current (OCP).

No Memory Effect: The Li-ion cells allow for partial recharging at any time without reducing the battery's overall capacity.

Long Cycle Life: A well-maintained ARB300 can provide between 300 to 500 full discharge/charge cycles before its performance begins to degrade.

Using and Maintaining Your ARB300 Battery

To get the longest life and best performance from your Agrident ARB300, follow these best practices:

Initial Charge: A new battery typically arrives in a partially discharged state. Charge it fully before its first use.

Charging: Charge the battery in a dry, cool location. Avoid exposing it to high temperatures, as heat is the most significant threat to Li-ion battery longevity.

Storage: If you do not plan to use the battery for an extended period, store it with about a 40-50% charge in a cool, dry place. The ideal storage temperature is between 15°C and 25°C (59°F and 77°F).

Avoid Full Discharge: Do not let the battery fully discharge on a regular basis. It is best to recharge it when the charge level drops below 20%.

Purchasing and Warranty

The Agrident ARB300 p/n 3018 battery is available from the manufacturer and through various third-party vendors. Replacement batteries are often sold with a standard 1-year warranty and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Prices are typically around the $69.99 mark for a single unit, though this can vary by retailer and region. When purchasing, ensure the product is CE and RoHS certified to guarantee its quality and safety.

AGRIDENT 3180mah 7.2V ARB300-3018 Battery