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RFID Tags

The success of your RFID system depends on the tags that you deploy. Choosing the right tag for your use case is essential to the success of an RFID solution.

Selecting the Right RFID Tags

RFID labels and tags are the foundation of every RFID solution. They receive RF signals from antennas and readers and relay specified information about a tagged item to your back-end system. RFID tags can either be active or passive. Active tags have their own battery power source, which allows them to broadcast a signal to a reader. Conversely, passive tags have no power source and only get read when they are within the range of an RF signal from a reader. Due to their affordability and versatility, passive tags are deployed in most RFID applications. On the other hand, active tags are often used for high-value asset tracking and real-time location solutions.

Comparing Passive & Active RFID Tags

Passive

Passive tags have no power source. The signal from an RF reader is bounced off of the passive tag and sent back to the reader. Readers and passive tags can communicate within 20 feet. Passive RFID works well for inventory checkpoints, compliance monitoring, and WIP applications.

Active

Since they are battery-powered, active RFID tags can broadcast their own signal to readers. Therefore, these tags are readable for longer ranges, making them best for tracking more expensive assets that require more frequent location updates.

RFID Tag Form Factors

RFID Pros at RMS Omega perform testing to ensure that your tag works as expected to achieve your goals. Different form factors affect the performance of the tag in each application:

  • Inlays – An inlay consists of the RFID chip and tag antennae on a piece of film with an optional adhesive.zebra rfid tag with inlay
  • Labels – RFID labels are designed for peel-and-stick applications and are versatile enough to tackle most applications.
  • Hard Tag – Encased hard tags protect RFID inlays in challenging environments or outdoor applications.
  • Wristband – RFID-encoded wristbands are useful in healthcare for the seamless and instantaneous collection of patient information.
  • Card – RFID technology embedded in plastic cards can be used for access control and other applications.

Factors That Impact RFID Tag Performance

Certain factors will impact what RFID tags you should use. A few factors that affect RFID read performance include:

  • Inlay size – A larger RFID inlay gives you longer read ranges.
  • Frequency – Tags and readers operate at different frequencies that react differently to read range and environmental factors.
  • Material surface – The surface of the tagged item and the environment it passes through affect the tag’s accuracy and durability.
  • Environmental factors – High metal, carbon, and fluid concentrations can impact tag performance.

rfid-supplies-photographyRFID Tag Frequencies

There are three common different frequencies at which RFID tags operate. Each frequency band has its advantages and limitations, influencing factors such as read range, interference, and the types of materials the RFID signals can penetrate. The effectiveness of each frequency will depend on your tracking requirements and operating environment.

  • Low Frequency (LF) – LF RFID is commonly used for short and mid-range applications, such as access control, and close proximity asset and inventory location. This frequency level is affected less by interference from metal or water.
  • High Frequency (HF) – HF RFID is used for short-range communication and fast data transfer speed for access control, NFC, and short-range asset tracking or patient ID.
  • Ultra-High Frequency (UHF) – UHF is used in longer-range applications in logistics and supply chain management. These tags are well-suited for inventory scanning at dock doors and on warehouse racking.

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Getting Started with RFID

Getting started with RFID requires more than buying a reader and slapping a tag on what you want to track. Our solutions are strategically designed for your warehouse’s requirements, meaning we take the time to evaluate which combination of RFID tags, readersantennasprinters, and software will work best for your application.

We have 25+ years of delivering exceptional results and ROI with RFID by offering practical, expert-designed solutions and leveraging our premier partnerships with industry-leading hardware, software, and label suppliers.

Advanced Location Tracking RFID Partner Zebra Technologies RMS Omega

4 Factors To Consider

When Testing & Selecting RFID Tags

RFID technology delivers incredible value and efficiency to business operations. However, there can be challenges to navigate when designing an RFID system. That is why our solutions are strategically designed for your facility’s requirements, meaning we take the time to evaluate which combination of RFID tags, readers, antennas, printers, and software will work best for your application and deliver your desired business results.

We have helped companies navigate common RFID mistakes that may affect system accuracy and performance. That’s why we recommend working with a certified RFID expert who is knowledgeable of potential integration challenges and how to overcome them.

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What Goes Into An RFID System

Our RFID solutions use the right mix of tags, readers, software, and services to tackle your specific challenges.

  • Tags & Supplies

    Tags, labels, and inlays are the fundamental building block of any RFID solution. Between passive or active, a range of frequencies, label specsand environmental conditions there is a lot to evaluate when finding the right label.

  • Handheld Readers

    Gun-style, rugged handheld readers and good for read-intensive tasks in the warehouse and other industrial environments where a large quantity of tag data needs to be collected in a timeefficient manner.

  • Antennas

    Antennas provide the vital link between the fixed reader and tag, serving as the conduit that moves data back and forth. 

  • RFID Portals in Warehouse
    Fixed Readers & Portals

    With fixed RFID readers and checkpoints, you can quickly and accurately track large volumes of RFID-tagged cases, pallets, and items. They are ideal for use in high-density tag environments, high throughput applications, and on RF-challenging materials.

  • Printers & Encoders

    RFID printers give you the ability to identify, track, manage, and optimize, assets and inventory. Encoding (or printing) on RFID tags is the first step to having a successful RFID system.

  • RFID Software

    RMS Omega has partnerships with a variety of software vendors, allowing us to find the right inventory control or check-in/ check-out software for your application. RFID software provides a central database for monitoring inventory levels, location, and movement.

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How Can We Help?

Contact an RFID Pro

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

Request more information about RFID or RTLS technology, inquire about costs, or schedule a free consultation to discuss your needs.

Simply call (888) 857-8402, email info@rmsomega.com, or fill out our form! We’re here to help.

Have a Question? Ask the Solutions Team at RMS!