A remote data transfer system, particularly an identification system for identifying objects such as livestock, pets and containers. An interrogator generates a directional light beam which the operator can direct at a selected animal or package up to 30-14 200 meters away; and a tag transponder carried by the object is activated only on receipt of the light beam, and transmits a coded RF signal. The signal is received by the interrogator which displays the identity of the animal derived from the coded RF signal. In its "receive" mode, the tag transponder requires minimal power, thereby prolonging battery life. A short rise time light pulse (or a pulse sequence) is identified and used to switch power to the transponder. After transmission of the coded RF signal, the transponder returns to a low power draw stand-by state. The tag is also able to transmit real time information, with or without the tag identity data. Furthermore, the tag is able to accept data from a remote source and substantially simultaneously transmit data.