FAQ List

1. About Automatic Identification & RFID Technology

Automatic identification is used to help machines identify objects with minimal human intervention. It is coupled with automatic data capture (AIDC) to get reports and manage systems automatically. That is, to identify items, capture information about them and get the data into a computer without having employees type it in. The aim of AIDC systems is to increase efficiency, reduce data entry errors, and free up staff to perform more value-added functions such as providing customer service. AIDC technology includes bar codes, smart cards, voice recognition, biometric technologies (retinal scans), optical character recognition and radio frequency identification (RFID). Radio frequency identification is a technology that uses radio waves to automatically identify people or objects. The method of identification is to store a serial number that identifies a person or object, and related information, on a microchip that is attached to an antenna. The chip and the antenna together form RFID transponder or RFID radiotag. The chip is interrogated by RFID reader via the antenna and requested to transmit back the identification information to reader. The reader converts the radio waves reflected back from the RFID radiotag into digital information that can then be passed on to computer. Writing to a radiotag is just the reverse of this process.


2. Is RFID better than using bar codes?

RFID is definitely better than bar codes in various areas. Although the two are different technologies they have many common applications. The big difference between the two is that bar code is line-of-sight technology while RFID signal is omnidirectional. That is, a scanner has to "see" the bar code to read it, which means an operator has to orient the bar code towards a scanner for it to be read. Radio frequency identification, on the other hand, doesn't require line of sight. RFID radiotags can be read as long as they are within reading / writing range of a reader. Bar codes have other shortcomings as well. If a label is ripped, soiled or falls off, there is no way to scan the item. And standard bar codes identify only the manufacturer and product, not the unique item.


3. Will RFID replace bar codes?

It is very likely in the near future, although bar codes are comparatively inexpensive for certain tasks. RFID and bar codes might coexist for some years.


4. Is RFID a new technique?

RFID has been around for many years now and can solve many of the problems associated with bar codes. Radio waves travel through most non-metallic materials, so they can be 'embedded' invisibly in packaging or encased in protective plastic for weatherproofing and greater durability. Radiotags / transponders have microchips that can store a unique serial number for every product manufactured around the world as per standards.


5. What are the standards followed by RFID technology?

There are world level standards for low-frequency and high-frequency RFID systems, but most companies use UHF in the supply chain because it offers longer read range (up to 60 feet under good conditions!). With cost effective RFID hardware, companies can put multiple readers to cover all sections, warehouses and stores. RFID radiotags are also fairly economical for identifying hundreds of items in a small timeframe.


6. What are some of the most common applications for RFID?

The arena of RFID Applications is practically limitless. RFID technology can deliver benefits in many areas, from tracking work in process to speeding up throughput in a warehouse and to track goods in the supply chain. The aim is to reduce administrative errors, reduce labor costs associated with scanning bar codes, eliminate internal thefts, reduce errors in shipping goods and increase overall inventory levels.


7. How can my company benefit from RFID system?

8. How can I implement RFID system and which one to implement?

9. How can I replace my existing bar code system with the more efficient RFID technology?

10. How can Aster MicroElectronics help me with RFID technology?

The existing bar code systems with UPC/EAN product codes can be easily, and inexpensively, replaced with RFID systems. In this case, the existing infrastructure of software remains in place and only the hardware is replaced, such as the bar code label with the Electronic RFID radiotag and the reader with ACM125-BM
Aster MicroElectronics is totally dedicated towards providing RFID solutions as per the needs and upcoming requirements. We are working on RFID firmware products for various domains and have developed small form factor 125KHz RFID reader+writer. This product in conjunction with proper software can be implemented for differing fields. We develop full fledged software applications as per your requirements, deploy the RFID technology and provide user level training in the usage of installed RFID systems.

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