RFID technology

RFID tags or traditional barcodes? We are happy to advise.

Solutions with RFID technology

RFID technology opens up applications that are not possible with barcode solutions, which require the barcode to be visible. RFID tags can be read even if they are physically hidden, allowing for unique tracking and data storage.

You can get complete RFID solutions from consulting, total equipment delivery, software, installation and subsequent 24×7 service. We are able to deliver at all levels and with complete integration to existing ERP, WMS and Shop floor systems.

We have experience with various passive RFID technologies, including LF, HF and UHF technology.

If you're not sure what to choose, we always recommend that you call us to discuss your situation so we can guide you.

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Martin Wulff

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UNO FORM keeps track on every single kitchen panel

UNO FORM has optimized their production with RFID. Each element is tracked and time stamps are recorded during the production process.

Tecsys has developed the RFID solution and uses the Tecsys Label Print Server to print labels when visible identification is required.

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RFID technology for Danfoss Power Electronics

Danfoss introduces groundbreaking new technology and world-class logistics. RFID is an essential element of a new warehouse, providing 100% traceability. The RFID project was delivered in just three months.

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Introduction to RFID technology

RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is a radio technology that allows objects to be identified using radio waves and is used, among other things, to track products through each stage of the supply chain.

RFID tags can be large hardware devices the size of a book, used for example on a shipping container, or they can be used as paper-thin small tags inserted on the back of a label, to label a box or a pallet, called Smart labels.

There are active and passive tags, and there are different standards and frequencies, so there are many types of tags to choose from. The choice of type depends entirely on the specific task.

It is difficult to describe potential applications for RFID tags without comparing them to barcodes.

RFID tags compared to barcodes

Benefits:

  • RFID tags do not require to be visible in the scanning process. The RFID tag can be read through other materials (although some materials cause problems). In theory, this means that you can read a pallet of mixed products with individual RFID tags and read them all with an RFID scanner without having to move or open a single box.
  • RFID tags can contain more data than a barcode. New tags are coming out all the time, with more memory.
  • The RFID tag data can be changed or added on an ongoing basis. It is possible to write to some types of tags, but many customers choose to use the tag as a kind of number plate, so it is only encoded once with the relevant number/data.
  • RFID tags are more robust in harsh environments where barcodes cause problems. RFID tags can be sealed in a plastic enclosure, which eliminates many of the problems that destroy barcode labels (chemicals, heat, physical wear, dirt, grease, etc.)
  • A large number of RFID tags can be read simultaneously. Although it doesn't look like it, tags are actually read one at a time, but very quickly. Up to 1000 tags per second can be read.
  • RFID tags can be read remotely. The reading distance depends on many factors, especially the choice of RFID technology and the material on which the tag is to be mounted. Reading distance is from a few cm up to 10 meters with passive tags.

Disadvantages:

  • Cost. The tag price is between 0.40 DKK and 30 DKK per tag (depending on type and number), but it is still more expensive than 0.05 DKK per tag with barcode. Even at 40 cents per tag, RFID can be a significantly higher cost than barcode labels depending on usage.
  • RFID radio signals have problems with some materials. Metal and liquids can cause problems when RFID tags need to be read from a long distance. The placement of the tag is a science in itself and depends on the product. For example, Smart labels on a box must be placed in the right place, and boxes must be stacked in a certain way to ensure consistent loading of all boxes on a pallet.
  • Misreads. The RFID reader reads all tags within its range, but this also means that you risk reading tags other than the intended ones. However, with different antenna types, directional antennas and power adjustment, the problem can be limited.

RFID dictionary

  • Active tags are RFID tags that contain a battery and therefore have a longer reading distance. Used e.g. in brobiz.
  • Passive tags get the energy from the RFID reader, which induces energy in the tag's antenna when the tag is near the antenna.
  • Read only tags are programmed once and cannot be changed.
  • Read/Write tag data can be modified.
  • Smart labels are labels with integrated RFID tags and antenna. The idea is still to print labels, probably with both text and barcodes, but now also with an RFID tag embedded in the label.
  • RFID Reader, also known as interrogator, is a device that can read/write to RFID tags
  • EPCglobal is an organisation of GS1 that maintains international standards for the use of RFID.
  • EPC (electronic product code) is a unique product identifier encoded in an RFID tag.
  • UHF EPC GEN2 is an international standard which ensures that tags can be read all over the world. Gen2 tags are less sensitive to metal and liquids compared to previous tags.
  • Slap-and-ship means that a supplier meets customers' requirements for RFID tagging, but does not use the technology internally.