18 Commonly Asked RFID Questions [& Answers] – Part Three
Posted by Suzanne Smiley on Jul 23, 2019
Introduction
The world of RFID is, complex. Luckily, some of the most frequently asked questions are about general RFID knowledge. I polled the office to ask the atlasRFIDstore staff what question they hear the most about RFID, checkout the videos below to see their answers!
Continued from "18 Commonly Asked RFID Questions [and Answers] - Part Two"
#13. Do you Need Software to Deploy your RFID System?
The short answer is yes, but Matt clarifies that the depth of software needed depends on the infrastructure of the system as well as the equipment. If you currently have an existing software component like a WMS, ERP, or other type of management system, it might be beneficial to at least have a piece of middleware that directs your RFID reads directly into your existing system.
Links to Learn More – 6 Things Middleware Can Do For You; Deploying Guide; Software, Firmware, Middleware What’s the Difference
#14. How Many RFID Tags Should I use During Testing?
Lauren describes the key sample pack size for testing RFID tags. Various tag types and sizes are essential in order to gauge the amount of read range that can be achieved. Typically, testing between 5 and 10 RFID tags is recommended, but it could take more depending on the complexity of the application.
Links to Learn More - The Importance of Testing RFID Solutions; Deployment Guide
#15. What is the Smallest UHF RFID Tag that you Carry?
Frank shows us the smallest UHF RFID tag we sell, the Xerafy Dot XXS. The Dot XXS and its slightly larger brother the Dot XS, are perfect for tracking small instruments in the healthcare industry.
Links to Learn More – 3 Things to Know About UHF RFID Tags; 7 Things You Can Track in Hospitals Using RFID
#16. Can the Encoding Scheme for my RFID tags be Different?
Taylor describes the two most common ways to encode RFID tags – either incrementing by one with leading zeros or choosing a specific encoding scheme using the numbers 0 – 9 and the letters A – F, which are commonly known as hexadecimal characters.
Links to Learn More – Encoding RFID Tags; A Guide to UHF RFID Tags
#17. Why isn't my RFID Reader Reading Tags?
Kishan walks us through troubleshooting with RFID readers and identifies the first questions to ask yourself when you aren’t receiving tag reads. Items like tag size, antenna orientation, and cable connections are usually the best places to start.
Links to Learn More – 6 Factors that Affect RFID Read Range; Atlas Support Page
#18. Will your Tags Work with my System?
Zach, our resident Race Timing Specialist, brings to light a common question from Race Timers, how can they be sure before purchasing, that our tags will work for their system. The background on this issue is that some Race Timing systems have custom settings on their tags and readers to ensure that users cannot go to other sources for cheaper tags. These systems, called proprietary systems, are popular within this application. Deciphering whether a tag will work is done by sending us sample tags to test to ensure compatibility before purchase. Once tested, we can determine if the system is proprietary and let you know the best course of action.
Links to Learn More – Race Timing Best Practices, Race Timing eBook: Choosing the Right RFID Tags
Conclusion
Want to see more Questions & Answers? Check out Part One and Part Two to learn all about RFID.
If you would like to learn more about all things RFID, check out our website, our YouTube channel, comment below, or contact us.
To read more about RFID basics, check out the links below!