RFID label printing
RFID labels, also called smart labels, are a useful tool for tagging and tracking consumer products, monitoring inventories and handling other applications. Similar to the way bar codes collect and send data with a visual scan, RFID technology uses radio waves to collect and send information, but it doesn’t require a line of sight between a label and a scanning device. What makes RFID tags special is their ability to transmit information to a networked system. Instead of needing to individually scan each item using UPC codes and barcode scanners, you can use computer systems in coordination with RFIDs to locate your products, automatically log your inventory and get actionable logistics data.
For years, producers have used RFID labels to track products through every step of the shipping, delivery and purchasing process. Today, RFID labels are becoming a standard part of the retail chain and are also being used in security applications, baggage tracking, pharmaceuticals, retail medical devices and healthcare products.
RFID labeling differs from standard label printing. In addition to a print job, label printers are sent information to be stored on the RFID microchip of a label. RFID labels are self-adhesive labels providing a RFID chip and a RFID antenna (henceforth called ‘RFID tag’). Requests by a reader to a RFID tag in the magnetic field are accepted by the RFID tag's antenna, forwarded to the chip and finally answered, for example a serial number. Response received from the reader can be recorded and processed by software. It is similar to scanning a 2D code or a barcode but provides much more benefits.
Suitable label printers
SQUIX label printers integrating UHF RFID options enable highest industrial reliability in processes related to writing and printing RFID labels. cab optionally adds an UHF RFID read/write module and a RFID antenna to thermal printers of the proven SQUIX series. As a result, UHF RFID tags can be read on the fly and displayed on the printer's GUI, be verified and written with data. Depending on the application, data can be written to different memory sectors on a RFID tag. Written data are compared with the initial data by the printer. Printing is triggered only after check-up. Incorrect labels are identified as invalid. RFID antennas are provided for common RFID tags, highly sensitive signal requests and metal surfaces. A specifically developed calibration method assists with optimum read/write positions and performances. Characteristic lines defined by calibration can be printed, as can label profiles.
The mechanics of all SQUIX printers has been designed for continuous operation in rough work settings. Next to RFID technology, cab supports the latest communication interfaces such as OPC UA and WebDAV, enabling a printer integrate to complex logistics systems.
For more information and inquiries, do not hesitate to contact our experts.
