RFID: Radio Frequency Identification
Barcode: Bar-and-Space, Symbol, or Matrix Tag
Barcodes and radio frequency identification (RFID) technologies are two types of data collection and reading technologies mainly for asset tracking and inventory management. Despite the fact that they’re both widely implemented in businesses for asset and inventory management, their capabilities and methods of operation differ greatly in certain aspects. Depending on how you want to utilize the RFID or barcode technology, both offer benefits. However, based on the features outlined below, RFID definitely offers more advantages than barcodes, particularly in terms of durability, lifespan, security, and efficiency. RFID technology works by attaching a tag to a product that identifies and tracks it via radio waves.
RFID Vs Barcodes: Information Technology Application
There are many RFID tags developed for use in different industries. Some of the most common ones are used in retail and customer service. The most well-known is a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag that contains an electronic chip to encode product and customer information. These tags can be read from a distance without the need for contact with the tagged object.
RFID tags are small, lightweight devices usually about the size of a grain of rice. They contain a radio transmitter and an antenna for sending and receiving signals. The tag can also contain other features such as memory, computer processing capabilities, or control systems. RFID tags are either active or passive transponders used to store information such as customer information or cost savings on each product in the store.
Barcodes are still the most common type of automated identification, but as performance has improved and costs have decreased, radio frequency identification (RFID) tags have slowly moved into more and more applications. As the number of RFID products available grows, so does the opportunity for businesses to increase efficiency and cut expenses.
If cost is a factor for you, then barcodes will be the best choice than RFID. But still, RFID tags are now cheaper than before so that even small businesses can afford them.
The “human factor” is removed from data collecting operations with RFID. You have to rely on an operator remembering to scan each item using barcode solutions. If they overlook a label, inventory data accuracy will suffer.
Every time an RFID reader is used, it scans every tag. That sort of dependable sensing is crucial in a linked device. RFID improves data management processes. While barcode tracking can offer a large quantity of data, RFID can greatly augment this. Higher-capacity tags may store not just asset identification, but also service histories, repair data, and other data.
Line of sight isn’t required for RFID. When comparing RFID to barcode technology, this is a significant advantage. To scan a barcode label, you must be able to see it. Not only does the tag not have to be visible with portable RFID items, but it also does not have to be removed from the box.
RFID allows you to read and write data. Data stored in barcodes is static and read-only. Database connectivity is required for updates. RFID tags may be updated several times, allowing asset monitoring and maintenance applications to gain additional levels of capability.
Advantages of RFID over Barcodes
- Speed: Without any doubt, we can say that the performance level and speed of RFID is far better than barcodes. In barcode scanning single item is scanned at a time, but at the same time, multiple RFID tags can be scanned in a second. For example, RFID scanners like Denso Wave SP1 handheld scanners can scan up to 700 tags in a second.
- Durability: Barcodes are made up of vinyl or paper which has more chances of tearing or damaged when exposed to dirt and some weather conditions. RFID tags have more durability than Barcodes.
- Read or write: Many RFID tags have the capability to Read /Write. Barcodes can use only for Reading. RFID tags can store unique information about an object, such as immunization records or first-in-first-out rotations for material assets, such as laundry tags. Whereas barcode scanners require manual downloads to a central database, this data may be updated remotely using a mobile RFID scanner.
Both have their own merits and demerits in asset tracking. It’s up to you and the type of your business to choose the best one. No matter which you choose but always remember that asset tracking is how much important for the growth of a business.
