What Is RFID?
Radio-frequency identification (RFID) refers to a technique that gathers digital data from RFID tags or smart labels (described below). Similar to bar-coding, data from a tag or label is recorded by a device and kept in a database. RFID, on the other hand, provides significant benefits over barcode asset tracking. The most notable distinction is that RFID tags may be read without a scanner, while barcodes need alignment.
How does RFID work?
RFID falls under the category of Automatic Identification and Data Capture technology (AIDC). With minimum human intervention, automated item identification and data collecting technologies enter data straight into computer systems. This is accomplished by the use of radio waves.
An RFID tag or smart label, an RFID reader, and an antenna are the three components of an RFID system. An integrated circuit and an antenna transmit data to the RFID reader (also called an interrogator). The reader then turns the radio waves into data. A communications link then transfers the data gathered from the tags to a host computer system, where it may be saved in a database and subsequently examined.
What Is RFID Based Inventory Tracking System?
RFID stock control
An RFID tag is a small microchip with a small antenna that contains digital data about an object. Tags are attached to products, packaging, pallets, containers, and even vans or delivery trucks.
An RFID reader interrogates the tag by sending and receiving radio signals. The reader’s data is compiled and processed by specific computer software. A factory or warehouse may utilize readers to display when things are moved.
RFID Based Inventory Tracking System has various benefits over traditional technologies like barcodes:
- Certain tags may be replaced, enabling information about things to be modified, such as when they are transferred from one portion of a factory to another
- For quality control, especially if you create or store perishable goods
The costs of RFID tagging have reduced and continue to decline. The advantages of better stock management and security appeal to retailers, wholesalers, and distributors that sell many things and manufacturers who create products in bulk for several consumers.
Advantages of RFID in Inventory Management
The main advantage of RFID Based Inventory Tracking System is its automation and inexpensive labor. A warehouse management system or another equivalent system that collects and stores data automatically removes many of the limits and concerns associated with utilizing labels or barcodes for tracking. RFID tags also provide the following advantages in inventory management:
- Labor expenses are lower: When scanned by an AIDC system, the tags generate and report data, reducing labor costs.
- No need for line-of-sight. Like barcodes, RFID tags function without line-of-sight. In other words, employees don’t have to flip boxes to align, apply, or repair barcodes.
- Boosts visibilityBetter supply chain visibility comes from processing and capturing more data.
- More InformationMore data helps monitor items and keep customers, retailers, and supply chain partners informed.
Scans More Objects, Faster Handheld barcode scanners can’t process and classify information as rapidly as RFID tags!
- Prevents damage: RFID tags that are less prone to damage during packing, shipping, and receiving are less likely to be destroyed. since they are made of plastic or hard shells.
- Reduces over-and under stocking. RFID tags may also increase security and prevent inventory concerns since everything is recorded.
Using RFID Based Inventory Tracking System for Military Inventory Monitoring Has Flaws
The adversary can monitor RFID tags, enabling terrorists and other unscrupulous actors to find troops or assets at distances considerably greater than manufacturers promise.
Researchers from the AP showed that an RFID tag within a weapon may be detected from far more than the few dozen feet reported by manufacturers and contractors who install RFID systems. Signal broadcasts are restricted by the US government during field testing. The opponent, however, has no such limitations, and the testing specialists think the tags may be traced from kilometers away.
One expert speculated that an RFID Based Inventory Tracking System tag on the International Space Station (ISS) exterior might be monitored with a powerful reader. The ISS is 250 kilometers away, and RFID tags can be monitored using a few simple types of equipment that fit within a backpack.
RFID Based Inventory Tracking System Technology replacing outdated software reason is given below
RFID is replacing the old times inventory software because these software have many flaws and thus they cannot meet the need of the supplier and RFID had come and wipe out these gaps. Some of the gaps are discussed below are
These old-school approaches cause numerous current issues, which worsen as the inventory grows and the ways listed above cease functioning.
Lack of correct data entry.
- High staff training costs: Training might take weeks or months, depending on your inventory. Invalidated methods of asset monitoring may lead to mistakes and revenue loss.
- No central customer database:Inventory managers may struggle to receive current inventory information due to the absence of a single database.
- Insecurity: we all know how insecure data printed on paper and spreadsheets is. To produce copies, just use a phone camera or a thumb drive.
- Slows down the operation: manually entering data takes significantly longer than updating the database automatically.
This strategy will cost you money due to errors, typos, duplication, and delayed processes.
Large inventory cannot be tracked or managed using paper or spreadsheets. Along with RFID Based Inventory Tracking System, barcode scanners are utilized for real-time asset tracking.
Conclusion
This is a complete inventory management system, and you can use this for your small retail stores. The main feature of this system is that it is RFID-based, so it helps you to track your inventories easily.