Warehouse Automation

RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification which uses radio frequency waves to transfer data wirelessly and without contact. Functionally, barcodes are different from RFID scanners because the scanner needs a line of sight to the barcodes. RFID tags & scanners do not need a line of sight—they communicate with the RFID tags on items without needing to see them individually. An RFID tag ensures a manufacturer can track every single part it uses in its goods, providing visibility over every moving part in the supply chain. One of the fastest-growing technologies in today’s warehouse is radio frequency identification (RFID). Increases in RFID adoption as well as advances in related technology have made it a much more affordable and cost-effective option for warehouses looking to better automate their inventory management and workflows. What is an RFID Scanner? How does it work? What is the difference between RFID Scanners & Barcode Scanners? The key difference between RFID scanners and barcode technology is that RFID scanners do not require line of sight to read tags. This means that RFID scanners can read tags from a distance, even if they are hidden or obscured. Barcode scanners, on the other hand, require direct line of sight to read barcodes. Advantages of RFID Superior to barcodes RFID tags are foremost preferred over barcodes because the chips are not subject to failure in scans or human error and the tags do not require the reader to be in the same line of sight. Resource-intensive manual scanning processes are eliminated with RFID & the inventory is scan-able and traceable, even as these materials rest, out of view, beneath other items.  Enhances warehouse efficiency RFID helps in automating and streamlining scanning processes that used to be manual. All materials labeled with an RFID tag transmit wireless data communication to the warehouse software and central database. The RFID-tagged items automatically track and update arrival and departure events, with just about anything in between.  Reduced human errors RFID essentially eliminates the potential for human error because information transfers remotely and automatically, warehouse items are less prone to fall through the cracks. There are no missed scans attributable to human error or barcode reader malfunctions. Better inventory control and accuracy By being able to capture inventory data and locations automatically and accurately, RFID can know exactly what products or materials are in stock and how many are needed to maintain and replenish. Flexibility & durability RFID tags are generally placed as stickers, which can be applied or removed from any object either wood, plastic or metal and offer the freedom to be placed on any point since these tags do not necessarily have to come in direct contact with the scanner and can be easily detected from a distance. RFID tags are quite durable, encrypt able, non-vulnerable to harsh weather conditions or tampering.  Disadvantages of RFID Scanning single vs multiple items If a pallet contains multiple boxes of different shapes and sizes, capturing data needs to happen at all angles to ensure every item is scanned. To use RFID effectively in a warehouse or loading dock environment, RFID blocks are used to form barriers between the readers, so that the same items are not scanned multiple times.  Material limitations RFID tags and labels are very specific to the type of material and size of the assets. For example, metal will deactivate the RFID antenna and the tag will not transmit at all. Liquid products can also affect the reliability of the signal.  Cost Comparison A typical barcode label costs a few cents each, while an RFID tag can run from one dollar upwards of 30 dollars depending on the type of tag. RFID readers are also about ten times more expensive than barcode scanners. In addition to the cost of the tags and readers, RFID implementation is significantly more expensive and complex than a barcode. Types of RFID Low Frequency Operating under 134.2 KHz, the low frequency range requires the tag to be in close contact with an RFID reader in order to transmit data. High Frequency Operating around 13.56 MHz, HF RFID tags have a read range of approximately one to three feet at the most Ultra High Frequency Operating between 800-900 MHz and higher, UHF RFID is typically used in large warehouses and distribution centers that need to track and identify multiple items at once Applications of RFID Low Frequency High Frequency Ultra High Frequency