Radio-frequency identification (RFID) is a form of wireless technology that uses electromagnetic or electrostatic coupling to identify and track objects. RFID technology has become widely adopted by consumers and industries for a variety of purposes. An RFID system is made up of an RFID tag or label paired with a scanning antenna and transceiver. Often, the antenna and transceiver are combined as an RFID reader. The reader activates the label with radio waves and the label responds by sending its encoded data.
Advantages of RFID Labels and Tags
Easy to Scan
Unlike barcodes, RFID labels and tags do not need full visibility or a direct line of sight to be read. RFID chips emit their signals even when obscured or packed in containers, allowing readers to pick up their signals from a wide omnidirectional radius. Additionally, RFID labels can be read from as far as a few feet away. This enables great flexibility in the placement of RFID labels and tags, allowing users to choose locations that minimize the risk of abrasion and removal.
Batch Processing
Since RFID labels are so convenient to scan, they can be read and processed in batches. Instead of having to scan each item individually, items with RFID labels can be scanned simultaneously with virtually no time lag in between registering items. This increases efficiency, particularly in industries that handle a large amount of inventory. Items can be separated into batches and checked in and out of a status or facility as a group simply by passing the boxes across an RFID reader.
Embed More Information
RFID labels and tags can hold much more information than ordinary barcodes including user access logs and detailed information about the items they are affixed to. And while a barcode is read-only once it is printed, an RFID label has read/write capabilities that allow its data to be modified remotely via an RFID scanner. In addition, thermal RFID labels are usually compatible with thermal-transfer printers, allowing them to be accompanied by text and barcodes if required.
Enhanced Security
Barcodes can be duplicated with as little as a photocopy machine. Meanwhile, RFID labels offer data encryption and physical shielding which keeps your data more secure. Each chip has its unique identification number that cannot be replicated. You can print information for general reading such as product names while using the RFID label to ensure that any sensitive data remains encryption and confidential.
Flexible and Long-Lasting
Quality passive RFID labels feature an ultra-high frequency (UHF) inlay. As the inlay does not require a battery to work, it can be produced in extremely small and thin dimensions. RFID labels are also flexible and can be affixed to curved and uneven surfaces. While barcodes are easy to damage and tamper with, industrial RFID labels are designed to be durable. They can withstand harsh environments, extreme temperatures, and heavy use.
Accurate Results for Lower Costs
Because RFID labels can be scanned in such a wide radius, the chances of missing out on an item due to human error are very slim. RFID data for hundreds of items can be updated quickly, allowing for a near-real-time overview of asset status. Since items with RFID labels can be processed in batches, the entire system has much lower labor and operating costs. The durability of the labels reduces potential replacement costs as well.
Specialized RFID Labels
Autoclave RFID labels
Autoclave RFID labels are designed for use on surfaces and containers that undergo autoclave sterilization. An autoclave is a piece of equipment that uses high-pressure steam to sterilize objects used for medical or scientific purposes. Autoclave RFID labels are designed to withstand the extremely high temperatures of the autoclave and are perfect for identifying and tracking labware, surgical tools, and medical devices.
Cryogenic RFID Labels
Cryogenic RFID Labels feature flexible UHF inlays and strong adhesives that enable them to stay firmly attached to objects even when they are frozen. These labels can withstand the conditions of ultra-low temperature freezers and be immersed in -196°C (-321°F) liquid or vapor phase liquid nitrogen without losing their clarity of adhesion. Furthermore, they can be scanned without a direct line of sight thus eliminating the need for unnecessary freeze/thaw cycles and maintaining the integrity of samples.
Chemical-Resistant RFID Labels
RFID labels can be designed to resist damage from harsh chemicals and solvents. Medical and scientific items often need labels that can withstand exposure to and immersion in a variety of substances such as alcohols, xylene, formalin, and methyl ethyl ketone (MEK). From diagnostic vials to paraffin wax blocks, chemical-resistant RFID labels allow for accurate data tracking without users having to worry about faded or smeared labels.
Custom RFID Labels
RFID labels are powerful tools with numerous applications across multiple industries. The best label manufacturers can provide tailor-made RFID solutions. Clients can customize the dimensions, material, UHF inlay, and configuration of their RFID label. Labels can be printed with organization logos and serialized barcodes as well as be encoded with specific alphanumerical values to produce unique solutions for identification, management, and tracking needs.