Radio Frequency Identification
is a form of contact-less Automatic Identification and
Data Capture (AIDC) technology.
R.F.I.D. is often mistaken as a single technology, however it
is actually a general classification for some very different
technologies that have one main attribute in common - transmission
of data by radio waves.
R.F.I.D. was originally developed for specialized asset tracking
and access control applications (known as "closed" systems)
and now in conjunction with the development of international
standards, is being implemented in Supply Chain Logistics applications
(known as "open" systems) to replace &/or co-exist with barcodes.
Like barcodes, R.F.I.D. is best suited to applications where
tag "reading" conditions are very predictable & repeatable,
however unlike barcodes, R.F.I.D. is ideal for automated tag
reading.
R.F.I.D. is also better than barcodes for non "line of sight"
tag reading, however as metals & liquids have both positive
& negative effects on radio waves, specialist advice & design
is a crucial factor in ensuring a successful system is implemented.
Due to power limitations, portable tag readers cannot read tags
from long distances compared to fixed readers, however most
R.F.I.D. systems are designed to be fully automated & therefore
are predominantly "hands-free".
R.F.I.D. Tags can
be used with or instead of barcodes.
While the most common method of attaching tags is using self-adhesive
materials this is not always suitable or possible-it must be
reasonably quick, easy and permanent!
Other methods include:
Plastic or wire
cable ties
2 part epoxy
adhesive
Silicon or similar
waterproof products
Key tags
Rivet or screws
There are a huge range of Tags available, all with quite different
characteristics.
Un-powered (passive)
or battery powered (active)
Short Range
Long Range
Read Only
Read & Write
Desk top or
wall mounted
Free standing
Hand-held
Portable Terminals
Chute adaptable
Custom made
Barcode
& R.F. Identification, Data Collection & Mobile Computing, Labeling
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> BARCODE SCANNERS: Hand-held, Computer connected, Portable,
Fixed Mount Retail and Industrial > R.F.I.D. : Readers, Tags, short
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