Asset Tracking and RFID Technology:

RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is the newest technology that is now being leveraged in theft detection and monitoring systems. Unlike EM (Electro-Mechanical) and RF (Radio Frequency) systems, RFID-based systems offer more than just security functionalities. These systems can also track materials more efficiently, making it easier and faster to charge and discharge items, take inventories, and handle materials.

Advantages of RFID systems

Rapid charging/discharging

RFID technology significantly reduces the time required to conduct circulation operations, with the most notable time savings owed to the faster reading of information from RFID tags in comparison to barcodes. Additionally, due to the ability to read multiple items at the same time, RFID further reduces the time required for circulation operations.

Simplified patron self-charging/discharging

With self-charging capabilities, library patrons benefit from an enhanced user experience as they no longer need to carefully place materials within a designated template. They can now charge multiple items simultaneously. Additionally, self-discharging further shifts work from staff to patrons, resulting in greater operational efficiency. Staff workload is further reduced with the implementation of readers in book-drops.

High reliability

RFID readers are renowned for their high reliability. With RFID tags, detection rates are almost at 100 percent, and there are considerably fewer false alarms compared to older technologies, provided that the RFID system is accurately calibrated. 

High-speed inventorying

RFID systems possess a distinct advantage in their ability to scan materials on shelves without the need to displace them. With a hand-held inventory reader, librarians can efficiently scan all unique identification information by passing the device rapidly along a shelf of books. Utilizing wireless technology, inventory can be updated in real-time, with the ability to identify any items that are out of proper order. 

Automated materials handling

RFID technology has additional applications in automated materials handling such as conveying and sorting systems. These innovative solutions can transport materials and categorize them into separate bins or carts, reducing the amount of staff time required to prepare items for re-shelving. 

Long tag life

Lastly, RFID tags have a longer lifespan in comparison to barcodes as they do not come into contact with any other surfaces. As a result, RFID vendors assert a minimum of 100,000 transactions before a tag requires replacement.

RFID System Components

• 1. RFID Tag for Book’s & CD’s
• 2. RFID Staff Workstation
• 3. RFID Theft Detection Gate
• 4. Self-Check Station
• 5. Smart Book Drop.
• 5. Shelf Manager

Uses of RFID Technology:

RFID Tag for Files, Book’s & CD’s

The RFID tag represents a pivotal component of any RFID system as it stores essential information regarding the specific item to which it is attached. These tags have the remarkable ability to rewrite data without requiring any contact or line of sight. The data stored within a tag offers a plethora of advantages such as identification of an item, proof of ownership, original storage location, loan status, and historical records.

RFID Staff Workstation or End Points

The Staff Station is an assisted service center that provides support for functions such as loan, return, tagging, sorting, and more. This station comes equipped with three vital modules: Arming/Disarming, Tagging, and Sorting. The Arming/Disarming module enables the Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) bit within the tag of each material to be easily set or reset, triggering or disabling the EAS gate alarm. Additionally, checking the EAS status of office materials is made effortless through this module.

RFID Theft Detection Gate

The RFID theft detection gate serves as anti-theft mechanism in warehouses, stores, or vaults. The RFID Management System employs RFID tags that are integrated into vital materials and confidential office files, ensuring no unauthorized access occurs. If an individual passes through the gate with an unregistered item, an alarm will activate, and the gate's lights will flash as an alert. 

Shelf Manager

The Shelf Management Solution streamlines the identification and localization of items on shelves for inventory managers, made possible through its integration of a portable scanner and a base station. The portable scanner is swept across the materials or spines of files, allowing inventory managers to gather their identities and conveniently conduct inventory checks.

Self-Check-Out Station

The Self-Check-out station is essentially a computer system equipped with a touch screen and an integrated RFID reader, and specialized software for handling, circulating, and managing personal identification, files, books, and various media. Once the patron is identified through an employee ID card, a barcode card, or personal identification number (PIN), the software prompts the individual to choose their next action of check-out and select the materials they wish to borrow.

Smart Drop Box

The Book Drops can be positioned both internal and external to various office premises, reception areas, and showrooms. This versatile option offers unparalleled flexibility and convenience, as materials can be dropped off at any time, even when the office is closed. Additionally, Book Drops can be used for tender bid submissions.

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