Contents
What is RFID technology?Need help related to this topic?
ul. Przemysłowa 10
40-020 Katowice
PL9542792700
RFID technology is a modern way of communicating between objects and people that uses the action of radio waves. The standard is present in many areas of life and economy, especially in manufacturing plants, the Internet of Things, smartphones and mobile devices, commercial enterprises, construction companies or just in warehouse logistics. In this article, we look at how RFID technology can improve work and take care of security in the warehouse.
To explain what RFID technology is and how it works, it's best to start by deciphering the acronym. The name RFID is derived from the term radio frequency identification, which can be translated as radio frequency identification. In other words, RFID is a technology that allows an object to be recognized using radio waves. The identification process involves reading the data stored in a microprocessor placed in a tag (known as a tag) using a special reader. Both components are equipped with antennas responsible for transmitting the radio signal. The identification process takes place at a distance in a controlled band of radio waves, which avoids interference in signal transmission.
RFID operation is remote, contactless and real-time. For identification, it is enough to bring the reader close to the transponder (tag, marker) placed on the object. The identification process can also be done in reverse - in this situation you need to approach the tag to the reader located on the object (e.g. on the wall of the room, device, vehicle). Transponders can look different - sometimes it will be a sticker or label, other times the tag housing will take the form of a small container or capsule. Tags issued to the hand (for example, to employees) usually take the form of a key fob or RFID card.
How close do you have to get to identify the tag? It depends on the frequency of the wave, with typical RFID systems providing a range of up to:
RFID technology can streamline warehouse operations, as tags can replace standard paper labels used to mark individual goods, entire pallets or containers. Thanks to the use of radio waves, the warehouseman does not need to move the scanner exactly along the barcode - he just needs to bring the terminal closer to the tag placed on the goods. The registration of outgoing and incoming goods is also facilitated by special RFID gates placed at the entrances to the warehouse or at separate rooms. RFID gates can also be used to control the movement of people around the facility, such as the entrances and exits of the building or the entry of employees into specific rooms. A warehouse can also be equipped with an RFID smart cabinet that monitors the retrieval and return of items stored inside (e.g. tools, measuring devices, terminals, documents).
Radio waves can also be used to enhance security in the warehouse. An excellent example of this is a forklift access system based on RFID technology. How does it work? Well, the vehicle is equipped with a special receiver that reads data from RFID cards issued to employees. To start the vehicle, the employee must bring his card close to the reader. Access to the vehicle will only be unlocked if the receiver accepts the card. If the reader does not recognize the card, then the employee will not be able to start the engine. What does such a solution provide?
The RFID forklift access system provides, first of all:
In warehouse logistics, maintaining the pace of work is essential, but haste often leads to mistakes, such as when issuing goods for transport. Meanwhile, RFID technology solves both of these problems. With a radio system, work time can be reduced, as there is no need to scan labels manually, and the recording of events (e.g. movement of workers, retrieval of work tools) is done automatically. At the same time, mistakes by employees due to fatigue or haste can be avoided. In turn, the radio access system for forklifts minimizes the risk of unauthorized driving, thus avoiding accidents and financial losses.