Almost all the modern-day entrepreneurs find locating and managing assets difficult. The hours spent searching for critical devices can cause expensive delays, missed deadlines, and wasted labor.
Most companies have tried addressing this problem by using spreadsheets and serial numbers or by tracking through barcode scanners. But both the approaches take a substantial amount of time. So, is there any way to quickly enhance asset management? Inventory management with the help of the RFID software platform seems like the viable answer here.
RFID or radio frequency identification utilizes electromagnetic waves to transmit the data from a tag to a reader. It assures real-time tracking for all mobile and fixed assets – starting from IV pumps and wheelchairs in a hospital to pumping equipment in oil fields and computers in a multi-story building.
Different Types of RFID Tags
RFID tags can be categorized into two types – passive and active. The type you invest in will rely on what you wish to accomplish and the type of capacities you are looking out for.
What is Passive RFID?
Passive RFIDs are known for being smaller and less pricey. That being said, they do not assure reading of the products lying at a great distance.
How Does Passive RFID Work?
The experts offering RFID asset tracking warehouse said passive RFIDs have zero power. They are supported by the energy generated from the RFID antennas or readers. The signal sent is used for powering the tag and reflecting the energy.
Uses of Passive RFID
Owing to their cost-efficiency and flexibility, passive RFIDs can embed or attach themselves to a wide range of objects. The passive RFIDs with ultra-high frequency can track consumer goods and pharmaceuticals.
Define Active RFID
Active RFIDs are large and expensive, but they assure long reading ranges that, in certain cases, extend to 100m. They do, although they have a shorter lifespan.
How Active RFID Works?
Active RFIDs have an internal power source, such as a battery or a transmitter. They use ultra-high frequencies to pinpoint the items' location and movement through the supply chain.
What is the Use of Active RFID?
Active RFIDs support the sensors that gauge conditions such as light, temperature, humidity, and light. This makes them ideal for harsher environments. Active RFIDs track larger assets such as cargo containers and vehicles.
RFID and Asset Tracking
The professionals offering warehouse inventory solutions powered by RFID said that RFID could scan multiple assets simultaneously when built in the mobile phone or computer. It can accurately read products that are several feet away.
Regarding automating asset tracking, RFID has proven advantageous to all other software. Some of the benefits include:
· No need for line-of-sight.
· Stores critical information.
· It can be integrated with GPS and other sensors.
· Reduces inventory management times.
· Enhances productivity.
While the earlier versions of the RFID technology were limited to multiple settings, the tags manufactured currently can be installed in wet environments or on metal items. They can easily endure exposure to caustic chemicals, extreme temperatures, and other harsher contaminants.
It would help if you chose an RFID tag only after considering the ambiance you are working in, your data requirements, and the dimension of the items you are planning on tagging. Also, select an authentic provider who assures quality along with affordability.