Radio Frequency Identification or RFID technology is gaining popularity in many industries today. And if you’re thinking of adapting the same system, it’s wise to learn more about it first. Whatever business you have, it’s a great strategy to stay ahead of the competition as you leverage advanced technology.  

The RFID solutions boast numerous benefits, which allow you to track shipments, smoothen daily operations, and reduce human errors in your inventory. It also ensures your business assets are safe and protected from theft and burglary. However, since there has been an increasing number of RFID system providers recently, it pays to know what factors to prioritize when choosing the best one.  

Here are the factors that you need to consider when adopting the RFID technology:   

• Your Needs 

RFID technology comes with many types of systems that were developed to meet the needs of different industries. The tags come with various materials suitable for the product you’ll need to use them for. It’s imperative to know what these RFID tags are and to match the right one for your business needs.  

Since many different types of RFID tags are available, it can be challenging to determine which is most efficient. RFID tags come in button tags, inlay tags, paper tags, EPC tags, meta tags, disc tags, pocket tags, key tags, and so on. Depending on your products and assets, choose the RFID tag category which is most suitable for your use.   

As for its frequency, they come in three ranges which are low, high, and ultra-high. The ultra-high frequency is best for bulkier assets and things like vehicles, equipment, and tools. On the other hand, you can use the high-frequency ones on your warehouse’s utensils and other solid products. Overall, the company deciding which tag to use is critical.   

• Your Work Environment  

One important consideration when utilizing RFID technology is your work environment. Whether you own a warehouse, a retail store, or food business, the right RFID must be efficient and safe for your operations. You can connect RFID tags to your computer systems. It makes it easier for your company to track down where the tag passes and its current location. As a result, you can communicate quickly and with the highest level of reliability.   

The computer system can be wired into your ethernet or through wireless devices. But you will also need to consider modernizing your workplace, as there might be elements that can act as barriers to their readability. For instance, space, water, and metal can absorb radio waves and may be difficult to spot. Therefore, before implementing RFID solutions into your location, have an RFID engineer inspect your area and determine what needs to be done. That way, the technology can work well in your business operations.  

• The RFID’s Reading Range  

An RFID’s reading range is essential if you want to ensure its efficacy. However, your RFID tag’s read range can be affected by various factors. You must determine your read range requirements before you develop a successful system. The standard range is between a few inches and several feet. A far-range UHF RFID tag can be read from a distance of 12 meters with a passive tag, and 100 meters or more with an active tag. Depending on your warehouse and workplace, consider your RFID readability requirements accordingly.  

• Space For RFID Tag Placement  

The size and shape of tags vary widely, as mentioned above. Depending on your assets and products, a suitable RFID tag should be used on them. It will be easier to determine the right tag size and shape for your application if you know the possible placement options and size limitations.  

When determining the placement, it also follows to consider the substrate of your products or assets. You want to ensure the tag won’t spoil or damage the item’s surface. Metal assets will likely require an on-metal tag to achieve your reading range.    

Additionally, you have to consider how you will attach the tag. While it’s common to use adhesive tapes on one side, some companies use a cable, plastic tie, or other kinds of attachment. The key is ensuring the RFID tag is secure and won’t get loose when assets are transferred or relocated.   

• Audit RFID Tag Performance First

Fortunately, recent years have seen a great deal of advancement in RFID tags. Businesses are now more confident with these reading solutions that help their automation and work processes. The tags are becoming more versatile as it offers different sizes and materials. However, before investing in a particular RFID system, it’s crucial to audit the tag performance.  

Have the RFID tags checked and tested first. After all, implementing the RFID system process requires testing and evaluation. It’s important to test several RFID tags before making a final decision since many factors can affect your RFID tags’ read range.   

Key Takeaway

As a business owner, you must follow a set of rules or tips to implement RFID technology successfully in your business. Hopefully, the factors indicated above are considered first by your company before you choose the suitable RFID tag for your assets and products. RFID technology can perform its best when you match it with your work environment and business needs. Once you’ve considered and evaluated everything, you can go on and implement the RFID technology in your business.