How Next-Gen RFID and 2D Scanning Can Be Made Simple and Affordable
For those in the manufacturing, transportation, and construction industries, industrial scanning devices are tools that are essential to boosting productivity and efficiency – and if you work in one of these industries, chances are that you already have the technology to scan one-dimensional (1D) barcodes. While 1D barcodes are still widely popular and used across many industries, they come with their fair share of limitations, which is why it is easy to understand why more and more businesses are switching to newer scanning technologies. Given the limitations of 1D barcodes, and with advancements made by our partners, Zebra Technologies, 2D, and RFID scanning technologies are now becoming simpler and more affordable for businesses who are looking to upgrade their scanning capabilities.
How are 2D and RFID different from 1D scanning?
Not only can 1D barcodes only hold a few dozen characters and get physically larger in size if more data needs to be added, but the characters in a barcode must relate to an item in a pricing database – meaning the device is practically useless if not connected to a database.
2D barcodes compared to 1D barcodes can be much smaller while still holding more data, and use patterns of squares, dots, and other shapes to encode that data. They can also contain images, website addresses, and many other types of data, which means they are able to be used regardless of whether you are connected to a database or not, leading to an increase in efficiency and productivity in your workplace.
RFID technology, on the other hand, uses electromagnetic fields to identify and track tags or labels that contain electronically stored information. So, unlike a barcode, an RFID tag can be read without being in the scanner’s line of “sight,” which can eliminate the need for scanning tasks to be done manually. This allows your workers to focus their attention on more important tasks while minimizing the risk of human error and eventually resulting in significant improvements in inventory tracking.
How Can 2D Barcode and RFID Scanners Fit Our Budget?
While 2D and RFID scanning technologies provide significant advantages to the businesses that invest in them, the devices paired with these technologies used to be much more costly than traditional 1D scanning devices. With Zebra Technologies’ affordable RFD8500 RFID/1D/2D Sled handheld device, you can attach or pair it with other devices via Bluetooth to enable scanning of a range of codes from traditional 1D and 2D barcodes, and RFID tags and labels. This means that compatible Zebra devices, including tablets or smartphones, can easily be used with RFID and 1D/2D barcode scanning technology. The RFD8500 also features Zebra’s unique superior battery cycle that ensures full-shift power, even with intensive usage.
Whether you’re in manufacturing, transportation, or construction industries, and no matter what your business requirements may be, you can be sure Zebra Technologies has a solution for you.
To learn more about RFID and 2D scanning, and what Zebra devices offered through Nova Communications will transform your operations, contact us today.
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