RFID asset tracking is a technology that helps you track and account for your physical assets. To use it effectively, you need to attach the RFID tag to all your physical assets. They will then send signals that will help you to know their location, maintenance schedule and status.
The need to mark objects is now present in a large number of areas. In stores, you have to protect goods from theft and keep records when selling. In the trade complexes, information from customer maps is processed using hand and desk machines. In commercial buildings, there are widely used SCADA’s that can pick up the signal from the employee’s chip. In the article, we will talk about what an RFID tag reader (terminal) is, what functions it performs, and what kinds there are.
Why is Asset Tracking So Important?
The main goal of any business is to maximize the return on each investment. To do this, you need to optimize the functionality of all your assets.
Asset tracking helps simplify asset management logistics. Its computerized systems allow remote control of both mobile and fixed assets.
Other benefits of an effective asset tracking system include the following:
- This reduces administrative costs. The asset tracking system eliminates the need for manual processes, leaving more time and resources for other income-generating activities.
- This leads to better customer service. A functional system will facilitate the fast delivery of services to your customers. All asset defects will be detected and remediated before they interfere with service delivery.
- Reduces losses. When your business has an effective asset tracking system, you will be confident of accountability. This prevents employees from misusing your assets, thereby optimizing performance.
- It increases organization and efficiency. There is nothing more pleasant than perfect logistics in your business. When you have an effective asset tracking system, you will know the exact location of your asset. This guarantee ensures that you can use them when you need them.
The net effect of asset tracking is increased profitability. Your ability to account for your assets will be the main driver of your success.
The Components of the RFID Asset Tracking System
RFID uses electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track objects rather than scanning the barcode manually. This technology consists of three main elements: RFID tags, RFID readers, and RFID antennas. Let’s take a quick look at these RFID pieces and see how they facilitate asset tracking systems.
RFID Tags – Readers are Used to Process Them
In supermarkets, there is an IR scanner that processes a barcode, which acts as a label. However, it is just a picture. It must be visible to the machine so that it can read. RFID tag is a chip that transmits information even through the walls of the box or clothing material. Look at the three types of this element, and then we will understand how the RFID reader works:
- Active – they are made with batteries and environmental sensors. Send data even through metal. Distance reaches 100 m;
- Passive – more commonly found in regular shops. This chip has no power source. The reader transmits a signal, and with it and energy that feeds the mark. The range is 8-15 meters. Usually, a stationary computer on the cashier or the security console easily tracks the movement of each position;
- Semi-active – passive models with battery to increase power and stability.
Elements are implemented as cards, keyrings, self-adhesive stickers, labels, etc. Information on them can be overwritten a conditional infinite number of times. The data is stored on an ID card.
RFID readers
RFID reader is a device for processing radio frequency tags. Technically, it is a transmitter and receiver that sends a signal to the chip and receives information from it.
Look at the principle of operation and its features:
- Power source – battery or network;
- Microprocessor – it creates the radio wave of the necessary parameters, sending it to the mark;
- Antenna – not necessarily to support the device body to the chip. Sometimes it is enough to mount the antenna in the required place;
- Tag – it is marked goods, maps and so on.;
- Software – it is installed on your computer or in the reader, displaying data.
Working ranges of RFID readers
Like radios, these devices operate with different frequencies, from 125 kHz to 868 MHz. They directly affect the range. There are 3 types:
- LF is a low-frequency variant with a range of 125 and 134 kHz. It is the cheapest in the family and, therefore, the most common. The coverage area is limited to 10 cm – you need to carry the chip almost close;
- HF implies working in the high-frequency ranges. It is 13.56 MHz. Distance increases to 1 m. Applies option in payment systems, in buses and other transport, card-accepting, as well as in SDS;
- UHF assumes operation at ultra-high frequencies, 865-868 MHz. The range of exposure reaches 15 m. This technology is used in warehouses and logistics companies.
Can a single device support multiple bands? Yes. Manufacturers of modern models install 2-3 modules, making their product universal.
Execution Format
- Stationary: models intended for installation on the table, floor and so on. Made in the form of boxes, vertical platforms and even gates. The European Union has a wide range of products. They are always powered by electricity through wires. An Ethernet cable connection should also be provided for data transmission, or the possibility of deploying a wireless network should be clarified. Up to 16 antennas are attached to one position;
- Portable: These are terminals common in shopping malls and warehouses. They work from batteries. It may seem that they are only capable of operating in the LF range, but this is not the case. Here, we have a full-fledged space scanner, covering large areas and transmitting information via wireless communication. In the same warehouses, the handheld device allows both to flood certain items and to receive data at once on all objects located within the range. Modern models work up to 8 hours without charging.
Advantages of RFID Technologies over Traditional Barcode Systems
Traditional barcode systems can be tedious. Requires an employee to send a barcode to the reader to get data. This is complicated when the barcode is closed or deleted! In this case, the barcode reader does not capture information. Thus, the staff member would have to enter the serial number manually, which is tedious and prone to errors.
On the contrary, RFID tags are very effective and easy to apply. The RFID reader decodes the information in the tag without being in a direct line of sight, guaranteeing accuracy and convenience.
Here are some other benefits you will get when using RFID reading compared to the traditional barcode system:
- Read multiple tags at once. RFID technology does not require the reader and the reader to be visible. Thus, one employee can track all your assets in minutes!
- Easily integrated with GPS software and technology. With RFID, you can access all information about your assets on your mobile phone. It can get the exact location of your object in seconds
- Data Warehouse. RFID tracking technology allows you to store important information about your assets. This allows you to create accurate management schedules, increasing productivity in your organization.
- It sends alerts in real-time. Using an RFID tracking system guarantees the security of your assets. It sends alerts in real-time if assets move outside of the permitted zones.
- Reduce inventory time. With this technology, inventory management is easy! This takes several hours rather than days when using other traditional tracking systems.
Closing the Loop: How RFID Revolutionizes Asset Tracking
In the fast-changing world of asset management, RFID technology is seen as a game-changer. It changes a previously difficult and mistake-prone job into a simple and accurate procedure. Utilizing RFID technology enables companies to simplify processes, cut expenses, and improve the overall effectiveness of their asset tracking systems. RFID eliminates the restrictions of regular barcode systems, allowing for live monitoring, precise data capture, and easy integration with GPS and other modern technologies.
As businesses look for ways to increase their ROI, RFID asset tracking becomes a crucial tool. It not only protects your possessions but also drives your company towards higher earnings and achievement. Adopting RFID technology is more than just keeping up with current trends – it means taking the initiative in a future where all assets are tracked, all processes are improved, and all opportunities are confidently pursued.
