Understanding the Nofence system basics

At the heart of the system is the Nofence collar, a rugged device equipped with a GPS antenna and solar panels for continuous recharging. The technology relies on a two-tier communication system:

1. GPS for containment: The collars track livestock using up to five different satellite constellations. The virtual fence itself functions via GPS, meaning the animals stay contained even if there is no cellular signal.

2. Cellular for communication: The collar uses the mobile network to send updates to your phone, such as "escape" alerts or welfare notifications

Overcoming poor connectivity. For farms in remote areas, Nofence utilizes patented HerdNet™ technology. This creates a local network where, if one collar receives a command from the app, it can pass that information to nearby collars. This chain reaction allows pasture updates to spread through the entire herd, even in areas with little to no cellular coverage.

Getting started: hardware and software

Starting with Nofence requires minimal infrastructure. There are no base stations to install or maintain, which reduces up-front costs and technical complexity.

• The hardware: A set of collars tailored for the specific livestock (Cattle, Sheep, or Goats).

• The app: The Nofence app is compatible with iOS and Android smartphones and tablets. It also runs on MacBooks (2023 models and later), allowing for management from a desk or the field.

Day-to-day livestock management

The true value of virtual fencing lies in its flexibility. Producers can "draw" new pastures on a digital map in seconds, allowing for managed grazing—a technique where animals are moved frequently to optimize soil health and grass growth.

• Remote monitoring: Real-time maps show the location of every animal.

• Anomaly detection: The system flags unusual behavior early, helping producers spot illness or injury before they become critical.

• Administrative ease: Grazing data can be exported directly from the app, simplifying the process of applying for government subsidies or grants that require proof of land use.

Training the herd

Livestock must be trained to understand and respect the virtual boundaries of their pasture. Luckily, we make this process easy and straightforward. Nofence includes a dedicated Training Pasture mode. In this mode, the collars provide more sensitive audio cues, making it easier for animals to associate the sound with the boundary. Most livestock learn the system within a couple of weeks, and remember it for a lifetime.