RFID: Automatic Identification Technology

SERIALIZATION WINS OVER CLASSIFICATION

RFID is a non line of sight RF based communication technology for short-range automatic singular identification, tracking and tracing used to overcome the limitations of barcodes. RFID tags can encode up to 8K(80 times more than barcodes) of data on an integrated microchip. Tags have read and write functionality and can be read simultaneously. Tags exist in a variety of geometries and some can withstand below freezing temperatures. Gen 2 RFID protocols implementations are globally accepted. RFID does not require human intervention. The most common implementation is toll payment processing. RFID is also used as a key system for facilities access like protected area or garage access.

Our certified RFID architects provide RF site survey, site analysis, design selection, interrogators synchronization, tag data management, optimization of antenna footprints, hardware configuration, testing and troubleshooting. We work with you to map your requirements to the latest standards and regulations and optimize read/write distance, tag response time and storage capacity.

Do you already have an RFID system installed and think about upgrading? We are happy to work with your existing site diagrams(must contain complete description of checkpoints, interrogation zone characteristics and locations, cable drops, device mounting locations, …) to quickly find a better solution.

COMPREHENSIVE ASSET TRACKING AND VISIBILITY MANAGEMENT

RFID can be used to accurately track and monitor the movement of high value objects. In a library setting, RFID system is very helpful in locating and rearranging books.

Interrogators can track stored equipments and compare the result with the outbound or expected equipment report and prompt an alert when necessary. This provide ultimate efficiency.

BAGGAGE HANDLING MANAGEMENT

Millions of passenger bags are mishandled each year due to bad barcode reads or missing sortation messages or the limited accuracy read rates varying from 80% to 90% and related to the line-of-sight requirement of barcode readers. Also, recently, growing security concerns have increased the complexity and the cost of baggage handling. RFID systems not only cost four times less but also because they do not need line-of-sight, they can increase the capture rates up to 99% and enhance overall safety, quality control and passengers experience.

SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT

For supply chain and logistics operations, RFID improves item level visibility and provides near real-time in-transit visibility and “in the box” content level detail for supplies and materiel.

RFID makes process tracking possible. An item can be tracked throughout an entire process and thus allow quality improvement, analysis and calculation of manufacturing times and costs at various stages. The RFID reads automatically the EPC on the RFID tags. This process reduces the need for human intervention and, therefore, lowers the likelihood and severity of human-related errors.
RFID

ANTI-COUNTERFEITING IN THE PHARMACEUTICAL SUPPLY CHAIN

The safe drug supply chain legislation requires an electronic pedigree and unique identification at the smallest individual distribution unit to ensure integrity of the drug supply chain. UHF RFID provides that opportunity and also enhances the accuracy and efficiency of the inventory process. Tags are available for optimization at the item, case and pallet level. RFID enables serialization and can read individual contents in each case without breaching the case seal. RFID efficiencies are thus realized from the manufacturer to retailer at the item, case, and pallet level.

INVENTORY MANAGEMENT

Inventory management differs with object tracking in that items are allowed to leave the facility on a permanent or temporary basis.

Retail establishments can perform a better inventory management by implementing a secure self-checkout. Users can verify items on touch screens placed in checkout booths separated by enough distance so that they do not interfere with each other. As users leave the facility, items can be scanned again to verify that they have been properly checked out.

Range, Data Rates

• North America: 902-928 MHz UHF, 13.56 MHz HF, 125-134 KHz LF
• license-free 2.4 GHz microwave range may be used but not as common as the use of LF, HF and UHF. The higher the frequency, the greater the cost and power consumption
• Antennas impact the reading ranges. As short as 18 cm up to 30-40 feet. A range of several yards is not uncommon
• Obviously, RFID cannot be considered for the implementation of wireless LANs or WANs as range and throughput are too low.