RFID

Radio Frequency IDentification

What is RFID?

RFID is a flexible technology that is convenient, easy to use, and well-suited for automatic operation. It combines advantages not available with other identification technologies:

• RFID does not require contact or line-of-sight to operate.
• RFID can function under a variety of conditions.
• RFID provides a high level of data integrity because error rates are low and labels are less subject to damage.
• RFID provides a high level of security because the technology is difficult to counterfeit.
• RFID is similar in concept to bar coding. Bar code systems use a reader and coded labels that are attached to an item; where RFID uses a reader and special RFID labels that are attached to an item.

Bar code technology uses optical signals to transfer information from the label to the reader. In contrast, RFID uses radio frequency signals to transfer information from the RFID tag to the reader.

RFID technology is ideal for environments where:

• Security restrictions are vital.
• The value or replacement cost of folders is high.
• The volume of transactions is high and automating check-in and check-out can reduce labor costs.
• Files move through many steps or between many people outside the file room.

Powerful Tags

A small 2" x 2" label uniquely identifies each file.  These tags are so thin and flexible that they can be placed inside the folder or under a color coded label.

Smaller tags exist, but the size of the tag is a determinant of the distance from which a tag will read.  This aluminum-based tag achieves a read-range of 30 inches, allowing walk-through gateways to be a full five feet in width.

Rapid Scanning at the Counter

The desktop RFID scanner allows folders to be checked in or out very quickly by passing them over the top of the scanner.  Many folders stacked together can be read all at once.  The same process applies to reading folders into a box.

The desktop scanner has a finished, flat surface to permit flush mounting at a service counter.

Mass Inventory Made Easy

The portable RFID wand allows hundreds of folders to be scanned per minute.  The RFID tags are read as the wand passes within a foot of the folder.

Complete file room inventories can now be done in minutes.  Easier desktop audits make increased control possible.

Secured Access Gateway

An RFID Gateway can be placed in the doorway.  This is the same technology that you see in use in grocery stores, but with a few additional capabilities.

• Folders are uniquely identified by their RFID tag.
• Staff are uniquely identified by their RFID tag.
• Folders going through the doorway are automatically checked out to the person carrying them.
• An alarm sounds when folders are carried out by someone without a personal RFID tag.
• An alarm sounds when a restricted folder is carried out by someone who does not have security access to that folder.
• A finished, full plastic exterior on the newest models (not pictured) makes the gateway more attractive and less intrusive.

Palm-based Scanning

An RFID attachment on the Symbol Palm Pilot allows portable reading of RFID tags.  Ideal for desk audits, folder archiving, and other activities.