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| A number of factors can influence decision making when determining if a radio frequency identification solution is the right solution for your needs. The following are some of the critical areas that must be examined prior to implementation of an RFID system. |
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| Top Five Considerations |
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#1 - Consider the Audience
Are you dealing with a system for use entirely within the same company, or do you expect others to be able to read the information? If the latter, what type of investment would be required for those outside of the organization, and is it reasonable to expect that compliance?
#2 - Identify the Uses for RFID Technology
Is your environment dirty or grimy where bar code labels may not always scan properly or is it relatively dirt-free? Are you storing many similar but distinct items in one place, such as books or DVDs, where a quick scan would speed up your inventory management? Are your products expensive or subject to counterfeit? Would it be helpful if additional information about the product were accessible at different points in the supply chain or is that not a necessity at this point?
#3 - Consider the Value of an RFID System
Bar code labels cost pennies, down to a fraction of a cent. Currently, RFID smart labels typically cost $0.50 to $1.00 (US). The return on investment (ROI) of an RFID system can be significant for certain applications, but bar coding is frequently the most efficient solution.
#4 - Identify the Performance Characteristics That You Need
What read range and at what speed do you need to read the tags? Do you need the ability to read multiple tags at the same time? What volume of data do you want to track? Do you need to read information not in the line of sight? Is a read-only license plate good enough or do you want read/write capabilities? To what item(s) do you want to attach the smart label?
#5 - Determine If You Need a Dual System
Zebra Technologies currently offers a full range of RFID printer/encoders, including the Multi-Protocol RFID R110Xi and R170Xi Printer Encoders, as well as EPC-compatible R4MPlus™, the large tabletop R-140™ or the compact R-2844Z™. All print human readable text, graphics, and bar codes and also encode and verify smart labels. These printers give you the ability to do either-or both-depending upon the media you use and the instructions that you give the unit.
In addition, Zebra offers a full line of RFID Ready printers, each of which allow you to invest in a high quality, long lasting bar code printer today that can be easily upgraded to incorporate the RFID printing/encoding functions, whenever you need it. Barcode today, RFID whenever!
All of these issues are important to consider when implementing an RFID system. Carefully think through the issues involved to determine the ideal solution for your needs. |
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