Rfid

RFID Description

RFID or Radio Frequency identification is technology used for data collection. RFID uses radio frequency communication to collect data from RFID tags. Radio waves are used to automatically and uniquely identify objects. The technology works by having an electronic tag embedded with an integrated circuit, allowing the stores unique data about a product to be tagged. The reader transmits radio waves at a specific frequency to communicate with and retrieve data from the electronic tags within its proximity (inLogic, 2011). RFID helps organization become more effective by enabling real-time visibility of information regarding items in supply chain. By having more accurate and immediate information about the location of items the organization can be more responsive to customers and be more efficient in operations. RFID also helps to reduce theft, loss, and time waste in the organization. RFID and barcodes are similar in the way that they collect data automatically. However, RFID will not completely replace the barcode system because the main advantage of the barcode technology is its low cost.

Advantages and Disadvantages of RFID

There are advantages and disadvantages to the RFID technology. Some advantages to RFID are that it is 15-20 times faster than manual and barcode processes for inventorying IT assets. There are some companies that experience a 95% reduction in time using RFID. Some disadvantages of RFID are that it doesn’t like metal and liquids and these substances can interfere with some RFID frequencies. Barcode systems also have difficulties because the bar code is a line-of sight technology. The scanner has to “see” the barcode to read it. RFID does not require line of sight.

References

inLogic (2011). RFID Overview, Retrieved October 9, 2011 http://www.inlogic.com/rfid/rfid_overview.aspx

Atlas RFID Solutions (2010). What is RFID? Retrieved October 9, 2011 http://www.atlasrfidsolutions.com/Technology/WhatisRFID.aspx