Inventory counts that used to take 6-8 people 6-8 hours to accomplish now take two people 2.5 hours to accomplish - with better accuracy.
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is a technology that uses radio waves to identify and track tags attached to objects. An RFID system consists of two main components: tags and readers. Tags are small devices that contain a chip and an antenna. When a reader is in range of a tag, it sends out a radio wave that activates the tag. The tag then sends back a signal containing its unique identification number. Unlike a bar code, the tag does not necessarily need to be within line of sight of the reader, and may be embedded in the tracked object. It can also be read only or read-write enabling information to be either permanently stored in the tag or it can be read-write where information can be continually updated and over-written on the tag.
RFID in the Fashion Business
Aug 12, 2009
When IDTechEx first published the popular report Apparel RFID 2009-2019, it was able to profile 60 brand owners and retailers involved as well as detailing many uses throughout the apparel supply chain, including the widespread use of RFID in laundry.
RFID - surge in orders
Jul 17, 2009
As forecasted by IDTechEx, there has been a surge in orders for RFID in 2009.
Toshiba TEC is certified for Gen 2 UHF RFID modules
Jun 29, 2009
Toshiba TEC has announced that its UHF Gen 2 RFID modules and Auto ID printer range is now EPCglobal certified in Europe, North America, Australia, Japan and China.
Checkpoint Systems Announces Merchandise Visibility Implementation for Charles Vgele
Jun 25, 2009
International apparel retailer improves merchandise availability and increases revenue and margins with first standards-based, item-level RFID enablement of entire retail supply chain.
UHF RFID passive transponder technology makes another leap
Jun 23, 2009
Trolley Scan has announced the development of a new passive transponder that is claimed to have approximately 100% improvement in range over previous versions.
OAT Foundation Suite, integrated with SAP solutions
Jun 01, 2009
Checkpoint Systems RFID solution brings real-time asset tracking and merchandise visibility solutions to SAP customers
RFID - truth and fiction
May 18, 2009
With the price of RFID tags coming down, more and more companies are investigating the benefits this technology can bring. However, with growing interest also comes scepticism and scaremongering.
Argos improves productivity at distribution centres
May 13, 2009
Argos is deploying the Retalix Yard Management software system at its distribution centres across the UK.
PeopleVox launches handheld RFID readers 'that raise benchmark for read rate and accuracy'
Feb 03, 2009
PeopleVox has announced its new range of RFID-enabled handheld wireless readers dedicated to the fashion retail industry.
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
Radio frequency identification (RFID) is relatively a new AIDC technology which was first developed in 1980’s.
An RFID system consists of two main components: tags and readers.
- Tags are small devices that contain a microchip and an antenna. They are attached to the objects that need to be tracked.
- Readers are devices that emit radio waves and receive signals back from the tags. They are used to read the data stored on the tags.
When a reader sends out a radio wave, it activates the tag. The tag then sends back a signal that contains its unique identification number. The reader can then use this information to track the tag or object. The technology acts as a base in automated data collection, identification and analysis systems worldwide. Radio-frequency identification (RFID) is the wireless non-contact use of radio-frequency electromagnetic fields to transfer data.
Unlike a bar code, the tag does not necessarily need to be within line of sight of the reader, and may be embedded in the tracked object. It can also be read only or read-write enabling information to be either permanently stored in the tag or it can be read-write where information can be continually updated and over-written on the tag.
Benefits of RFID in Retail
Inventory Shrinkage (Shrink) Reduction
• Ability to track items in real-time between manufacturer and point of sale.
• Real-time notification of any breaches in security for non-payment.
• Reduces shrinkage of stock caused by theft.
Monitor unattended inventory• Automatic item identification on mixed pallets
• "Smart Shelf" systems – designed to provide real time tracking and lovating of tagged items on shelves
• Shipping and Receiving applications
Shelf stocking
• Real-time notification of out-of -stock items
• Improvement of product replenishment
• Improved product forecasting from product stock tracking
Check-out Process
• Reduce labour/time cost of employees
• Reduce time in queue
RFID Smart Labels - extremely flat configured transponder under a conventional print-coded label, which includes chip,antenna and bonding wires as a so-called inlay. The labels—made of paper, fabric or plastic.
Types of RFID Tag
UHF (Ultra High Frequency) Tags, Labels and Cards operate at a frequency of 915 MHz. These types of tags are considered “Passive” –with no on-board power source. Commonly specified by retailers within the supply chain, these tags must comply with the international recognized standard set by EPCglobal.
HF (High Frequency) Tags, Labels and Cards operate at a frequency of 13.56 MHz. These types of tags are also “Passive” with no onboard power source. RFID applications that use HF RFID tags are typically the applications that require read distances of less than three feet. HF tags work better on objects made of metal (RFID Metal Tag) and can work around goods with high water content.
LF (Low Frequency) Tags, Labels and Cards are low-frequency tags (125khz) use less power and are better able to penetrate non-metallic substances. These types of tags are also “Passive” –with no on-board power source. They are ideal for scanning objects with high-water content, such as fruit, but their read range is limited to less than a foot.
RFID applications: RFID can be used in a variety of supply chain applications, including:
- Inventory tracking: RFID tags can be used to track the movement of products throughout the supply chain, from the factory to the retail store. This can help to improve inventory accuracy and reduce stockouts.
- Asset tracking: RFID tags can be used to track high-value assets, such as pallets, containers, and vehicles. This can help to prevent theft and loss, and improve the efficiency of asset management.
- Process optimization: RFID can be used to optimize supply chain processes, such as picking and packing, loading and unloading, and shipping. This can help to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
- Fraud prevention: RFID can be used to prevent counterfeiting and fraud. For example, RFID tags can be used to track the movement of pharmaceuticals to ensure that they are not diverted or counterfeited.
RFID has a number of advantages over traditional barcoding technology, including:
- Increased accuracy: RFID tags can be read from a greater distance than bar codes, which can improve inventory accuracy.
- Real-time tracking: RFID tags can be read in real time, which can help to improve visibility into the supply chain.
- Enhanced security: RFID tags can be encrypted, which can help to prevent unauthorized access.
However, RFID also has some disadvantages, including:
- Cost: RFID tags and readers can be more expensive than bar code scanners.
- Complexity: RFID systems can be more complex to implement than bar code systems.
- Privacy concerns: Some people have privacy concerns about the use of RFID tags.
Overall, RFID is a powerful technology that can be used to improve the efficiency and visibility of supply chains. However, it is important to weigh the costs and benefits of RFID before implementing a system.
