RFID
(Radio Frequency Identification)

What is it?
RFID is a relatively new and evolving technology that is becoming the next frontier for automated data collection. It is expected to parallel the growth and success barcode has enjoyed over the past 30 years (does anyone remember when we did not have barcodes around?). Since it is always going to be somewhat more expensive than printing barcodes, don't expect that RFID tags will replace barcodes. They will be used to supplement existing barcode based supply chains, in applications where barcode will not work or in exciting new applications that can only be accomplished with RFID.

RFID isn't a single technology, but a family of technologies spanning many frequencies with different characteristics and many tag types from many vendors.

It is a very important technology that is being looked at for improving many aspects of our daily life. You will be benefit from RFID in some way in the future.

RFID systems consist of tags (or transponders) to
hold data and readers to read (and possibly write)
data from the tags. This is analogous to barcodes and
scanners. RFID tags are different in that the reader
does not have to have to be in view of the tags and the
tags can be written over to add or change data. Both
tags and readers have antennas used to communicate
via RF.

What is it used for now?
Some of the more familiar applications for RFID include:

• Automobile disable feature on keys
• Work in process automation - carrier for variation in requirements
• 'Speedpass' type payment system at gas pumps, restaurants, supermarkets, etc.
• Automated toll collection systems on toll road
• Access control systems - parking lots, buildings, etc.
• Anti-theft systems at retail stores (EAS)
• Animal tracking - feeding systems, etc.
• Asset tracking

Many of the recent announcements have been regarding the announcements by Wal-Mart and the Department of Defense announcing plans to use the technology for improving supply chain logistics and getting full visibility to their inventories. These two initiatives will spur rapid development, lower costs and, most importantly, the standardization of RFID data communications. This will do for RFID users what standards have done for barcode users, allow them to share the media with trading partners to attain greater return on investments and collaboration.

Additionally, RFID is being seen as a potential technology to help improve accuracy in health care applications and in food distribution.

What are the benefits?
Major users are reaping big benefits:

• Improved productivity from fully automated data collection - RFID will be a key technology in helping companies continue their dramatic productivity improvements
• Complete visibility of inventory thru the supply chain ('Never lose an order by being out of stock' is worth $1 billion to Wal-Mart)
• Smart products that can communicate - sweaters with the shelves they are on, dinner entrees with the microwave, etc.
• Precision identification and automatic recording - to trace the individual cow through processing or a specific serialized appliance for warranty, etc.
  
  

Why select AIS for your RFID initiatives?
Experienced in the technology - This is not an easy technology to
implement. You will need help if you want to get finished on time,
within budget and on target. We have been there already. Our first
RFID project was in 1992! We are creators of KartKeeper RFID
based Tracking Systems - check it out!

Experience in standards - A good understanding and conformance to
the appropriate industry standard is crucial to success. AIS has a
special expertise in this area. We are the creators of the SCANALYST
family of barcode conformance systems - check it out!

Solution provider - AIS has a long history as a System Integration Company. Our focus is on the client's objectives rather than technology or a specific vendor. We work with those companies that are the best of breed manufacturers but we are not limited to them. As a result, we can offer the precise blend of technology; hardware and software to best serve your application requirements.

- 'We get the job done'

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