RFID

Barcode scanners have become an essential tool for a wide range of businesses, from retail to logistics. These devices can quickly capture data and streamline inventory management processes, leading to increased productivity and improved accuracy.

Barcode scanners can read printed and electronic codes and are available in various types, including laser and Bluetooth scanners. In this article, we will explore the benefits of using barcode scanner RFID devices for inventory management and tracking. We will discuss how they work, the advantages they offer, and important factors to consider when selecting the right device for your business.

By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of how barcode scanner RFID devices can help improve efficiency, accuracy, and productivity. RFID technology offers numerous benefits to businesses of all sizes, including process automation, asset management, and quality improvement. It is also at the core of the Internet of Things (IoT).

RFID, which stands for “radio-frequency identification,” is a technology that enables digital data to be encoded in smart labels known as RFID tags. These tags are then captured by a reader using radio waves, and the information is stored in a central database for the business, similar to barcoding. 

However, RFID offers several advantages over similar systems, such as barcoding. For instance, RFID tag data can be read even outside the line of sight, whereas barcodes need to be aligned with an optical scanner.

If you’re planning to integrate RFID into your business processes, it’s important to use reliable tools such as rugged devices to ensure efficient and reliable performance.

An RFID tag is composed of two basic elements: an antenna and a circuit. When the circuit comes in contact with radio waves, it generates an electrical field that powers it up. Therefore, RFID tags do not require their own power source, which helps businesses save on costs. When a reader is passed over the tag, information is transmitted and stored in a computer.

Smart Labels and RFID Tags

Some businesses may not fully understand the distinctions between smart labels and RFID tags. RFID tags, as previously mentioned, have an integrated circuit, an antenna, and a protective covering that shields the tag from various environmental factors. The type of material used for the protective layer depends on the application. For instance, an employee ID that has an RFID tag typically features a durable plastic material with the tag embedded between the layers. RFID tags come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be either active or passive. Passive tags are more common and less expensive to produce because they do not have their own power source, while active tags come with an onboard power supply and can transmit data at all times.

In contrast, smart labels can be used in both RFID and barcode technology. These labels typically contain an RFID tag inlay and may also feature a barcode and/or other printed information. Smart labels are user-friendly and can be printed using a standard desktop label printer. However, printing RFID tags may require more advanced equipment.

Although RFID technology was first used during World War II, it remains a popular tool for businesses today. RFID applications span many different areas, from tracking inventory to managing the supply chain, and RFID tags can be specialised depending on the industry or company. 

What sets RFID applications apart from other systems is their ability to quickly identify individual items where traditional systems may not work. Some examples of RFID applications include

•         Retail Inventory Tracking
•         Laundry & Textile Tracking
•         Supply Chain Management
•         IT Asset Tracking
•         File Tracking
•         Race Timing
•         Returnable Transit Item (RTI) Tracking
•         Pipe and Spool Tracking
•         Animal Tracking
•         Marketing Campaigns
•         Vehicle Tracking
•         Inventory Tracking
•         Access Control
•         Tolling
•         Pharmaceutical Tracking
•         Tool Tracking
•         DVD Kiosks
•         Real-Time Location Systems
•         Event & Attendee Tracking
•         Hospital Infant Tracking
•         Library Materials Tracking
•         Logistics Tracking (Materials Management)

Improve Asset Tracking and Inventory Management

Inventory management can be a challenge for many businesses, as items may be lost or orders may become disorganised. Utilising RFID technology can help businesses keep track of their assets and inventory. 

RFID makes it simple to monitor individual items and their progress, as well as track the quantity of items in stock. Additionally, RFID can aid in conducting stock checks and audits, as well as controlling loss of inventory due to theft or other causes.

Upgrading the accuracy and availability of data

Implementing a dependable RFID system can help your business to avoid errors in data transcription. When handling vast amounts of data, it’s easy to make mistakes such as duplicating information, missing items, or losing data. RFID technology minimises such errors by providing accurate and reliable data collection.

RFID for Your Business Saves Time and Money

RFID offers a valuable solution for saving costs in your business operations. By implementing an RFID system, you can track the movement of goods more efficiently and accurately, which can be uploaded to a central computer or software. 

This eliminates the need for outdated spreadsheets and streamlines the inventory management process. In addition, using rugged devices with RFID readers can also reduce expenses and ensure the progress of tasks.

Improve Production Control

RFID technology enables businesses to easily identify individual items or components, resulting in streamlined manufacturing processes and ensuring that products or items are delivered on time.

Increased revenues

By implementing an RFID system, organisations can enhance their overall efficiency and productivity, making them more competitive and increasing customer satisfaction. This can lead to numerous opportunities for higher sales and improved margins.

Better in-depth management information

By using RFID, data can be captured and processed in real-time at various stages, providing valuable information for both operational and development purposes. This enhances management information and helps businesses make informed decisions to improve processes and operations.

Better quality and traceability

Quality and traceability are frequent concerns in any business process. Implementing an RFID system guarantees that products have gone through all the necessary checks and procedures.

When choosing a barcode reader RFID device for your business, there are various factors to consider. These include the types of barcodes you need to read, the range of the device, the data you want to capture, and the support and equipment needed to install and monitor the device.

It is also important to factor in cost considerations and return on investment. Although some devices may be pricier, they may provide a better return on investment over time by improving productivity and reducing labour costs.

To ensure effective implementation and use of barcode scanner RFID devices, best practices include checking that they are compatible with your current equipment and software, training employees on their effective use, and regularly monitoring and maintaining the devices for optimal performance.

Moreover, it is vital to consider your business’s specific needs and the industries you operate in. For instance, retail businesses may require compact and user-friendly barcode scanner RFID devices, while logistics companies may need devices with longer ranges and advanced tracking capabilities.

By carefully assessing these factors and selecting the appropriate barcode scanner RFID device, you can enhance inventory management and tracking, increase speed and accuracy of data capture, streamline business processes, and boost productivity to meet the demands of your industry.

Conker is a company that specialises in providing rugged mobile devices with barcode scanners for use in various industries. Our devices are designed to withstand harsh environments and provide reliable performance in challenging conditions.

One of the key features of Conker’s rugged devices is their durability. They are built to withstand drops, shocks, vibration, extreme temperatures, and other hazards that can occur in industrial and outdoor settings. This makes them ideal for use in industries such as construction, logistics, warehousing, and manufacturing.

Conker’s devices also come equipped with high-performance barcode scanners, which can read a variety of barcode types, including 1D, 2D, and QR codes. This allows businesses to easily capture and manage data related to their inventory, assets, and products.

In addition to their ruggedness and barcode scanning capabilities, Conker’s devices also offer other features such as long battery life, fast processing speeds, and connectivity options such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular networks. This allows businesses to stay connected and productive even when working in remote locations.

Conker also provides customised solutions for businesses, including device configuration and management services. This ensures that businesses get the most out of their devices and can tailor them to their specific needs and workflows.

Overall, Conker’s rugged devices with barcode scanners provide a reliable and efficient solution for businesses looking to improve their inventory management and data capture processes in challenging environments.

Trying to find a rugged device with a barcode scanner for your business? Get in touch today.