A smarter way to fence
How virtual fencing works
Vence technology trades the limitations of physical fencing for the agility of a virtual fence. Here’s how our precision range-management system works.
Place base station
Base stations are strategically placed on ranch property, allowing all the components of the system to communicate with one another. They’re solar powered, and, depending on the topography, can cover 5,000-10,000 acres.
Place collars
Each animal wears a CattleRider collar, which contains a global positioning system (GPS) transceiver that tracks its position and a radio frequency (RF) transceiver that communicates with Vence base stations.
Set grazing boundaries
Using our HerdManager system from a tablet or computer, your ranch team defines the boundaries of the virtual fence line. The lines can be endlessly redrawn to include or exclude specific areas, accommodate rotational grazing and protect environmentally sensitive land.
Keep cattle
within boundaries
If an animal approaches the virtual fence boundary, the collar emits sound cues, which the animals quickly adapt to and learn to avoid by moving away from the boundary. If the sound cues aren’t effective, the collar activates an animal-safe and humane electric pulse as an added stimulus to push the animal from the virtual fence boundary.
On the rare occasion that the animal continues outside the boundary, it can then pass back inside the boundary without receiving any sound or pulse stimuli. The GPS transceiver in the collar allows you to see its precise location, regardless of whether the animal is inside or outside the boundary.
Installation process
You’ll receive a welcome kit that includes instructions and access to our HerdManager system.
Our Rancher Success Team will get in touch to schedule an on-site system installation and training for your ranch.
We’ll oversee the installation and make sure you have the resources and training to properly collar and manage your cattle.
Our support continues well beyond installation. We’re here to provide ongoing support and ensure your success.
Training animals to use Vence
Training time will vary based on each ranch’s unique characteristics. Typically, training can be done in four days or less if the lead animals are adapting to the system while the rest of the herd is watching and learning. Your Vence team will ensure that animals are trained effectively.
CattleRider collar battery replacement
Battery replacement requirements are variable and different with each unique situation. The charge time depends on several factors, including how actively ranchers manage their animals and the size of the land being managed.
Ongoing support
Vence customers receive comprehensive support from Vence’s Rancher Success Team. This team’s focus is your successful integration and use of the Vence system. They provide unlimited support, education, and other services to ensure your success.
Works with grazing beef or dairy cattle
Virtual fencing has endless use cases and can be applied to many different needs in cattle management
Virtual fencing trial in the SA arid lands
Learn how and why the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) is partnering with a working cattle ranch, Wintinna Station, to conduct a virtual fencing trial and help define the future of virtual fencing in Australia.
Use on sheep, goats, or other animals
For now, we’re focused solely on cattle operations, though we’re running trials on other species and the product has shown to be effective on species other than cattle. If you’re interested in learning more or being notified when Vence becomes available for other species, get in touch using our contact form.
Still on the fence?
Read about a Montana rancher’s real-life experience with virtual fencing