RFID

Whether for fixed Asset Tracking, Inventory Management, Tool Tracking or Supply Room Management, with a wide range of capabilities, RF (radio frequency) tags are one more option for fixed asset tracking and inventory control applications. This type of asset tracking technology is more readily available than ever, with the market for RF identification (RFID) tracking systems rapidly growing for applications such as theft control tags, production tracking tags, inventory control, and much more.

Given the right conditions, appropriate materials and radio frequency, unlike barcodes, RF active and passive tags can be read through almost 2 inches of packaging and distances of 15+ feet. Many tags are designed to be unaffected by moisture and moderate heat, making them highly effective in manufacturing and distribution environments. RF active and passive tags enable automatic identification of mobile or fixed assets with no physical contact. Depending on the type of RFID tag employed, the read range extends from a few inches to hundreds of feet. Even more, RFID active and passive tags can be powered internally, offering further flexibility. This type of identifier can be the ideal solution for maintaining large inventories, or in highly controlled production environments.

RFID active and passive tags can be tracked using a “portal” system. (The picture is of a portal designed by GigaTrak for a customer). As items with a tag pass through the portal, the tag’s unique ID number is read. Special RFID tracking system enabled handheld computers can also be used to read each tag.

Active RF Tags

Active RF tags are powered by an internal battery and are typically read/write devices. Active RF tags are more expensive and larger than passive RF tags. However, they are also more powerful and have a greater read range.

Passive RF Tags

Passive RF tags are powered by the field generated by the reader. Passive tags are typically much lighter than active tags, less expensive, offer a virtually unlimited operational lifetime. However they have shorter read ranges and require a higher-powered reader than active tags.

Key Benefits

• Non-contact reading
• Wide range capabilities
• Reusable
• Durable

Call GigaTrak about any RFID project you are looking at doing! We have done several projects throughout the last few years. A growing technology is waiting for you!