Goods and Raw Materials Monitoring Using RFID Chips

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is the next generation of identifiers designed (not only) for identifying goods, following on from the barcode system. Like barcodes, it enables contactless communication over short distances. Source: Wikipedia

The main difference compared to traditional barcodes is its much broader range of applications. An RFID chip can store more information than a barcode and can be read without direct line of sight between the reader and the code. For example, it can be used for automatic dispatch of goods from a factory—simply by driving fully loaded pallets past a reader during truck loading. The pallets are scanned automatically, all goods tagged with RFID chips are read in bulk, and the information system marks them as dispatched. The warehouse operator only needs to confirm the accuracy.

RFID chips come in various forms. They may be:

• a label with a printed description, similar to a barcode (and may also include a printed barcode for use with a standard barcode reader),

• a button (commonly used in laundries),

• a wristband for identifying people (used not only in medical facilities but also, for example, in sports performance tracking or attendance systems),

• or an ID card similar to a payment card.

OLC Systems routinely uses RFID technology—from the manufacturing and programming of the chips to reading them and processing the collected data.