RFID vs Barcode
Both RIFD and barcode are identification systems that rely on totally different technologies to track items. By now most of us are aware of barcode as we are used to the items we purchase from shopping malls being scanned to make an invoice. But not many know about RIFD technology which is newer and technologically more advanced. This article intends to differentiate between the two systems of physical identification by showcasing the features as well as pros and cons of barcode and RIFD.
Barcode is the information stored in a piece of paper stuck on to the article, which is scanned with a barcode reader from up close. On the other hand RFID tag does not need to be traced with manual help. Barcodes are small lines (vertical) printed close to one another on labels that are hung with products. They can be read with an optical device, and today, practically every shop and market is using this system of identification that not only helps in making invoices but also in keeping inventory of items. The drawback with barcodes is that they need to be brought close to the reader to be read which is time consuming.
RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification. These are metallic tags (electronic chips) which when read with a RFID reader emit a code that allows the reader to identify them. Since these signals can pass through matter, RFID chips need not be placed in front of the product for the scanner to read them. This solves an irritating problem with barcodes when they get hidden inside a shirt or a jacket.
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Differences between RFID and Barcode • Barcodes need to be brought close to the scanner to be read while RFID tags can be read from a great distance • If there is a trolley full of items going out of a mall, an RFID scanner can read all the items in a few seconds which is not possible with a barcode system • RFID tags are expensive in comparison to barcodes which is inhibiting their mass usage. On the other hand, barcodes are cheap and extremely popular all over the world • No human capital is required with RFID system and it is completely automated. On the other hand full time employee is required to scan barcodes of items • Barcodes can only be read while RFID can not only be read but also rewritten and modified depending upon requirement • While barcodes can be easily damaged and are difficult to read when greasy or dirty, RFID are rugged and extremely durable • Barcodes can be counterfeited or reproduced whereas this is not possible in the case of RFID tags • While only one item can be read at a time with a barcode scanner, RFID reader can read up to 40 items per second • The range of RFID reader is 300 feet. On the other hand barcode scanner can barely read past 15 feet.
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