RFID tags are small wireless devices that transmit data wirelessly to an RFID reader through an integrated circuit (also called an RFID chip or microchip). This information can then be stored and analysed later for further use in databases or for future analysis.
Resiliency and scalability are top priorities for asset managers and owners. To meet this objective, innovative technologies must be adopted along with revisions of current operating models.
Smart Asset Management
RFID allows companies to shift from reactive maintenance processes to proactive ones and optimize performance. Collecting asset data continuously enables organizations to identify potential failures before they occur and thus significantly reduce costs and downtime.
Metal: RFID tags often experience reduced performance near metal, so if your application requires using tags near metal surfaces, you should choose ones designed for that environment or that offer specific mounting methods (see our white paper, Tips for Bonding RFID Tags, for guidance). Your choice of an RFID tag will also depend on IC memory capacity, read range and operating frequency considerations.
RFID technology can be found everywhere, from stores like Wal-Mart and Best Buy that utilise it to track merchandise for inventory control and marketing purposes to passengers on highways and subways who utilise chip-embedded passes with RFID chips to pay fares; both provide greater storage capabilities than bar codes as they enable two-way communication between readers and passes.
RFID tags are microchips embedded into plastic, silicon or metal that contain data stored therein. When activated by an RFID reader, these chips communicate using radio frequencies broadcast in specific portions of the electromagnetic spectrum to avoid interference with other electronics. An RFID reader collects these frequencies, interprets their meaning and transmits the data onto a computer program for use.
RFID, like barcodes, does not rely on line-of-sight reading and can read from all sides of a product. With its ability to track items from point-of-sale through shipping processes and back, RFID makes an excellent solution for inventory management, asset tracking and supply chain optimisation.
An average passive RFID tag typically costs seven to 20 cents U.S., depending on its storage type (read-write, read-only, or WORM), making it much cheaper than traditional barcodes, magnetic strips, or barcode scanners. RFID tags can also be sewn into clothing, adhered directly onto merchandise or enclosed in hard, durable material that resists water, chemicals and extreme temperatures for use in industrial settings or harsh environments.
Reduced Costs
RFID systems when deployed effectively can automate processes like warehouse stock-taking and inventory management, eliminating the need for manual spreadsheet data collection. This helps businesses of all sizes reduce operating expenses by streamlining workflows and eliminating human error - an advantage over manual methods of data collection.
RFID tags communicate wirelessly using an electromagnetic spectrum that can be adjusted to avoid interference with other electronic devices like radios and mobile phones, as well as among RFID tags themselves. Passive tags rely on electromagnetic energy emitted by readers for transmission of their data transmission; passive versions tend to be more cost-effective than their active counterparts.
Selecting an ideal integrated circuit (IC) for your RFID tag can make an enormous difference to its performance and meet specific application needs. Finding an IC with enough memory capacity, read range, operating frequency, and security features can increase performance as well as give you maximum return from your solution. By tailoring it specifically to meet those requirements, you can ensure you're making the best use of it!
Improved Security
Utilising RFID tags with AI-enabled EBR solutions increases loss prevention efforts. These analytics platforms can analyse large volumes of retail RFID data to discover meaningful connections between products and sales, which helps reduce shrinkage while improving profitability.
Passive RFID tags do not generate power internally and depend on RF energy from an RFID reader to operate. They can read at LF, HF and UHF frequencies and are commonly used in inventory management applications.
RFID tags not only enhance security, but they can also create supply-chain efficiencies. For instance, source tagging (tagging clothing at its point of origin) may help prevent product diversion in stores.
RFIDs can also help facilitate returns by instantly verifying product authenticity and purchase history, helping reduce fraudulent returns while speeding refund processing. They can even be used to track refurbished merchandise back into inventory or direct it towards disposal/ refurbishment channels.