If you’re trying to determine which identification and asset tracking system to use, both bar coding and radio frequency identification (RFID) present great options. Bar coding scans a printed label with an optical laser or imaging technology to record and read the encoded information. RFID scans a tag using radio frequency and can be done even when line of sight is compromise. In other words, you don’t have to see the RFID tag to read it.

Bar coding presents a lower cost technology with well-established standards, although bar code symbologies do vary. Likewise, RFID standards differ from one RF communication protocol to the next.

Many companies today that already have bar coding are looking at the increased value of RFID. The two are complementary technologies and can work together. To decide if RFID will deliver the ROI in terms of increased productivity and profitability, take a look at your existing business process. Where are the challenges you seek to overcome? What is the ideal situation for your asset tracking system?

ADC Integrated works with Zebra, a global leader in RFID and bar code technology, so we can provide you with the most reliable system that meets your need. Start with a free needs assessment to help you better understand your options, benefits, and investment. Email us to schedule a no-obligation assessment.

Last month we discussed reasons to replace older Auto ID equipment. They included:

1) The devices are EOL/EOS (end of life/end of service).

2) When the features and capabilities of newer devices provide a greater return on investment.

There are other reasons to consider such as:

3) Tighter integration with your overall system. Today’s hand held devices incorporate bar code scanning, digital cameras, cell phone capability, GPS tracking and push-to-talk features.

It may be possible to consolidate several different devices into one – combining a walky talky, cell phone and scanning terminal into one device.

Call us to discuss the upgrade path of your older scanning equipment. 901-327-9946.

ADC Integrated Systems has been honored by Inc. Magazine by being chosen in their annual ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in America.

“We are pleased to be recognized by Inc. Magazine”, states Robert Cooper, President of ADC. “We have striven to give our customers the highest levels of support especially during these challenging economic times.”

ADC Integrated Systems is a leader in systems integration using barcode and RFID.

The adage, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” is also true for printers. By conducting the proper maintenance, you extend the life of your printer. We’ve seen printers—like those durable Zebra printers—still outputting crisp, clear images after a million copies!

Just like investing in the upkeep on your car, you need to keep to a schedule of regular cleanings to make sure your printer is running at peak performance and delivering the ROI you want.

Here are a few tips for taking care of your printer:
1. Use a cleaning cartridge or cleaning roller for periodic cleaning, as described in your user manual. This simple step can remove debris that could create problems and impact the print quality.
2. Cover your printer when not in use to protect it from dust, debris, spills, and other harmful threats to its existence.
3. Use quality media that won’t compromise the quality or performance. On card printers, for example, lesser quality cards can damage the printhead or emit dust that clogs up your printer.

Buying your printer was just part of the investment. Using the right supplies and having periodic checks will contribute to a long, healthy life. And be sure to contact us if you need maintenance, repair, or supplies.

Radio frequency identification (RFID) is an emerging technology. It has demonstrated immense value across a wide range of industries and applications. For asset management, security, shipping and receiving, inventory control, compliance tagging, and operational efficiencies, RFID presents a smart choice that delivers ROI.

But is it complicated to implement? No, but you would benefit from creating a deployment plan. Start with a needs assessment so that you can determine the functions your system must provide and the benefits you expect to reap from the investment. For example, reduction in shipping errors from deploying RFID could reduce expenses from $60 to $250 per 100 shipments.

Next, identify any challenges that need to be solved. Are you struggling with compliance mandates that require RFID shipment tagging? Do you need to improve security or logistics? Be specific about the solutions you are seeking.

Now pinpoint the information you need to collect and store with your RFID tags, such as lot codes, expiration dates, warranty information, configuration settings, and maintenance histories. This will help to determine your system set-up.

Your next step is to understand the standards and regulations you must comply with. Gen 2 is most common, but there are other EPC, ISO and industry standards, and each has specific requirements. Make sure your RFID system complies with the standards in your industry and application.

If this still sounds confusing to you, let us help. ADC Integrated Systems has partnered with global RFID technology leader Zebra® in order to provide you with customizable RFID and bar coding solutions. Contact us with your questions and challenges, and we’ll help you sort out the technology that best fits your needs.