Author Archives: Ken Schoening

  1. Active vs. Passive RFID Systems

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    Active vs. Passive RFID Systems

    RFID - Radio-frequency identification - the tags contain electronically-stored information. Vector illustration concept

    Radio frequency identification (RFID) is a wireless communication technology that utilizes radio frequency (RF) tags and a radio frequency reader to identify and track objects. It is used in many industries for various purposes, supply chain management, manufacturing, warehousing, access control, and industrial equipment automated identification.

    There are two types of RFID systems

    • Passive RFID systems and
    • Active RFID systems

    While both are RFID systems, they have distinct advantages and disadvantages that make them suitable for different applications. Below, we provide an overview of each of these RFID technologies to help you determine which one best suits your needs.

    What Are Passive RFID Systems?

    Passive RFID systems require three distinct components: A passive RFID label or tag, an antenna, and an RFID reader. RFID tags (labels) use an internal circuit to store information such as a pallet “license Plate” or other identification. The RFID reader sends out a signal through an antenna. When the signal is received by a passive RFID tag, it energizes the internal circuit of the passive tag and the internal circuit sends back a signal with the information stored in it. These tags are considered consumable/disposable and are very inexpensive. They are used by many companies today including retail, manufacturing and warehousing. The data can then be transferred to the user’s computer system, where it can be stored, analyzed, and/or reconciled.

    Typical applications for these RFID systems include supply chain management, access control, file tracking, race timing, smart labeling, and more.

    What Are Active RFID Systems?

    Active RFID systems also utilize a minimum of 3 components: a reader, antenna and an RFID tag or label. A distinct difference from passive tags is the active tags are battery-powered tags that continuously broadcast their signal to the RFID antenna/reader. They are commonly used to track the real-time location of tagged assets in a more open area where antennas can be mounted for triangulation. Typical applications include construction sites, open manufacturing areas, public works facilities, and other areas that need security.

    Different types of RFID tags

    What Is the Difference Between Active and Passive RFID Systems?

    As mentioned above, active and passive RFID systems have some similarities. For example, they both rely on radio frequencies to transmit information between the tags and the readers. Additionally, they are both used to protect people and assets. However, they also have many differences. Some of the main ways they differ include:

    • Power source: Active RFID tags have an internal power source, while passive RFID tags are powered by a signal from the RFID reader.
    • Signal availability: Active RFID tags are always on transmitting signals, while passive RFID tags are energized when a reader is within a certain range of a tag.
    • Cost: Active RFID tags are relatively expensive ($25 to $50), while passive RFID tags are relatively inexpensive ($0.10 to $0.50).
    • Longevity: Active RFID tags have a lifespan of 3 to 5 years, while passive RFID tags have an indefinite lifespan (depending on the environmental conditions).
    • Size: Active RFID tags are large and bulky, while passive RFID tags are comparably small and compact.
    • Embeddability: Active RFID tags cannot be easily embedded, while passive RFID tags can be easily embedded.
    • Read Distance: Active tags continue to emit signals and it is hard to control the distance the signals travel. Passive tags do Not emit anything until a reader is in range to energize the tags eliminating some of the confusion over signals.

    Learn More About RFID From the Experts at A-1 Packaging Solutions

    Both active and passive RFID systems are a fantastic method of managing inventory or tracking assets. However, the longer service life, lower cost, and smaller size of passive RFID systems make them a more effective and efficient option for certain industries and applications.

    To learn more about passive RFID systems, contact the experts at A-1 Packaging Solutions. Equipped with extensive experience working with RFID systems, we have the knowledge to answer or address any questions or concerns you may have.

  2. What Are the Benefits of LivePoint® RFID Tracking?

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    What Are the Benefits of LivePoint® RFID Tracking?

    Composite image of man using tablet pc

    Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is a highly versatile technology used throughout many business applications, such as controlling manufacturing processes, managing assets, tracking goods through distribution channels, and maintenance and inspection of equipment.

    RFID systems allow businesses to quickly improve process efficiency and reduce costs by automating processes and enhancing utilization of quality and assets. As a foundation for an effective asset management system, LivePoint® RFID offers a host of advantages for businesses of all sizes.

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    Eliminating Human Error

    Manual labor has an associated risk for human error. With LivePoint® RFID, the data is automatically read without human intervention. RFID not only reduces labor costs by eliminating manual logging and product replenishment, but it also leads to increased accuracy.

    Reduced Capital Costs

    One of the major business expenses is often caused by not keeping a close watch on your stock or assets. By implementing LivePoint® RFID technology, your business can maintain control over expensive assets such as computer technology, test equipment, transport packaging, field vehicles, and more. This helps reduce capital costs by providing a way to track these assets and avoid costly replacements.

    Real-Time Data Tracking

    RFID offers reliable tracking even in the toughest environments. It provides real-time data collections about your inventory or product location, whether you are tracking batches, individual products, or large asset inventory. LivePoint® RFID is a reliable solution over traditional barcode labels and traditional RFID tracking with its ability to withstand sudden temperature changes, high humidity levels, sunlight or chemical exposure, and rough handling.

    Offers Insights for Better Decision Making

    When planning and making operational management decisions, it is important to stay informed with the latest data and information. The real-time data provided by LivePoint® RFID systems allows for quick analysis that often leads to better decisions to improve your profits.

    Worker driver at warehouse using a forklift loader

    Improve Employee Productivity

    LivePoint® RFID technology eliminates the need for employees to be in the line of sight of an item or asset to locate it. This eliminates time-consuming and labor-intensive tasks such as searching for misplaced tools or equipment, scanning individual barcodes, and counting inventory amounts. By doing so, LivePoint® RFID enhances a facility’s productivity by allowing employees to increase task speed and project turnover, which leads to reduced labor and carrying costs.

    RFID eliminates manual procedures, promotes a more organized facility, and offers increased asset and inventory visibility. This reduces the risk of oversight and human error, each of which greatly impacts productivity.

    A-1 Packaging Solutions for RFID Asset Tracking

    The right tracking system is essential to help increase profits, reduce costs, eliminate human error, and promote productivity. LivePoint® RFID uses advanced tracking technology to provide real-time data about inventory and asset locations to prevent costly replacements while increasing the overall efficiency of your facility. At A-1 Packaging Solutions, we offer the most advanced RFID technology available to address the common challenges businesses face. Our LivePoint® RFID technology helps with asset and inventory tracking for enhanced visibility and increased profitability.

    For more information about our RFID systems, or to get started on your asset tracking solution, contact us today.

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