A transponder carrier for embedded incorporation into a rubber article
includes a bonding layer; a base layer affixed to the bonding layer, the
base layer having a support surface for supporting a transponder device;
and a reinforcement cap affixed to the base layer supporting surface at
least partially covering the transponder device. The cap may be composed
of textile cord reinforced rubber, the cap textile cords arranged in a
substantially square woven configuration. A ratio of the cap to
transponder device areas is within a range of 2:1 to 8:1 and the
transponder device may further be coated with an adhesive to bond the
transponder device to the cap and to the base layer. An antenna in a
dipole antenna configuration is coupled to the transponder device in one
construction.