Today, in the context of access security, keyless entry door lock solutions will dominate not only offices but also retail spaces and operations in the future because of the touchless benefits and optimization feature it provides. Radio identification (RFID) is one of the main technologies of this solution and a method of remote identification. This advanced technology offers a number of advantages, more than a barcode system. Instead of using an optical scanner to read the bars, RFID relies on radio waves to read data from small chips.
How does RFID work?
- A RFID reader transmits a radio signal
- When a tag with a chip is in range, it then receives the signal
- Feedback allows the reader to identify the label in this way and obtain the data it contains
The data collected from the tags can then be transmitted by cable or wirelessly (including Bluetooth) to computer systems, where they can be processed and stored. Each tag has its own unique code, which allows readers to track and communicate with multiple tags at the same time.
What does an RFID reader look like?
Readers come in various forms:
- Portable scanners
- Access control door scanners
RFID tags are small chips that can be incorporated into items such as smart cards, key chains, and sticky labels.
There are two versions of RFID tags:
- The passive tag, which is powered by radio waves sent by the reader
- The active tag, which has its own battery and can be used over a longer distance
RFID: 4 advantages for employee access and operations in retail
Here are some of the main benefits that RFID technology brings to the retail industry.
1. Supply chain management
RFID allows retailers to know exactly where goods are in individual pallets and containers. The result: increased control over the supply chain process. Retailers can also use scanners installed in their warehouse to read labels on shipped items and delivery vehicles. This allows for faster and more efficient processes in a warehouse.
2. Stock management
Thanks to RFID, retailers have real-time inventory information at their fingertips! In addition, they can automatically scan items in the warehouse and record those that go through the checkout.
This allows retailers:
- To have better inventory control and therefore offer better customer experience
- To reduce labor costs as employees no longer need to physically check items
3. Caddies management
Retail stores that offer shopping carts can use RFID technology to track shopping carts entering and exiting the store.
This is for:
- Knowing where the carts have been left and then easily retrieve them if they have been left outside the store
- Alerting if too few carts are available for customers so an employee can know when to go and find new ones in the parking lot
4. Access control
RFID keyless door entry systems make it possible to ensure that only employees are accessing certain parts of a store, such as a storage room. RFID entry devices such as smart cards, keyrings, and wristbands can be used as electronic keys. Retail store managers are able to control who can enter but also restrict and allow certain access to specific employees depending on their role. In an emergency, the data collected by RFID access control systems also allow emergency personnel to quickly locate the personnel present in the building.
Do you own a retail store? Ask us all your questions about RFID technology and systems for retail store use in terms of access control and logistics, and we will get back to you in the comments as soon as possible.