The Asset Tracking Tool lets you use both Bar Codes and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technologies – at the same time if you want to!
Fixed Asset Tracking has traditionally been a labour-intensive and paper based process while RFID has been reserved for the billing of traffic along toll-ways and as a registration and identification process for domestic pets.
Where bar codes made significant in-roads into the cost of Fixed Asset Tracking by improving the accuracy of information and provided for electronic and real-time data flows functionality, RFID based asset tracking will show even greater returns in the speed of the tracking process and the amount of information that can be processed.
And when combined, these processes make for a powerful tracking and identification solution.
Bar Code Labels
Bar codes are a cost effective means of identifying items and can be used in many business and commercial environments.
Hints and Tips for your Asset Labels:
- For Asset Tracking purposes, a strong adhesive is recommended to ensure the Asset Label remains fixed to the item (and prying fingers have a hard time removing them too).
- Remember to keep the colour of your Asset Labels limited to white, yellow or red, as these colours will ensure enough contrast for the bar code to be easily read.
RFID Tags
RFID tags, comprised of a small chip and an antenna, can be attached to items in a variety of ways. Because RFID tags can be read through many solids, they can be hidden behind a painting, under the seat of a chair and even through the drawers of a locked desk. This makes RFID technology and ideal companion to Asset Tracking, particularly in terms of tracking valuable artworks, antiques and artefacts that would otherwise be defaced using a bar code.
The costs of using RFID tags are higher than that of bar codes, however the additional benefits will often justify the price.