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Whether you’ve heard about RFID wallets, tracking, or any number of possible applications for this emerging technology, it’s likely you’ve listened to some bold claims and fabrications about it. With any new developments in the field, people will believe whatever they see the most — even if it’s a common misconception about the nature of RFID’s technology.
For someone looking for tracking and IT solutions, the ability to sift through fact and fiction regarding possible monitoring systems can influence what technology you invest in. As one of the world’s top RFID asset management companies, Asset Vue remains uniquely positioned to help you separate the two and make the most informed investment possible.
Myth #1 — It’s a “Talking” Barcode
For IT asset management systems, you want the ability to track assets in real-time, know when they were distributed, who had them last, and a host of additional information. Previous barcode-based systems were limited in how much data they could relay whenever it got scanned. RFID tracking may not “talk” to readers when they get checked, but it can cover much more information.
A typical RFID-based asset management system features tags that can hold up to 2KB of data. This information covers everything from when the device first got distributed, who took it out last, its current location, and more. So while it may not “talk” to scanners, it has a wealth of information stored to help keep an accurate inventory easier than ever.
Myth #2 — Preparing Inventories Has to Be a Painstakingly Long Process
When you have multiple assets in the field, taking an accurate inventory and keeping track of everything used to present an intense time commitment. You had to take detailed notes on who last took a particular device out and time code it. If there were any inconsistencies in the bookkeeping, taking an accurate inventory would take away precious time for your other duties.
RFID-enabled inventory systems track devices based on when they enter, their location in storage, and when they get checked out next. Here, RFID technology saves time and increases efficiency compared with existing systems. With Asset Vue, our system allows you to take an accurate inventory of all your assets in real-time and significantly reduce time spent sifting through reports and time logs.
Myth #3 — Perfectly Accurate Information Every Time
Some people may believe that as soon as you implement RFID tags and readers, your inventories are 100% accurate every time. However, the human element will always influence just how accurate the count is. You can have a professional asset management solution company come in and provide you with the proper installation and implementation; however, if your team isn’t trained properly, the information may not be as accurate as you would like.
The Asset Vue team works with our clients to implement our RFID systems and teach your personnel how to properly use them to maintain your supply chain and keep track of your IT assets as accurately as possible.
Myth #4 — It’s Only Useful for Large Organizations
While large corporations with a substantial library of assets in the field can benefit greatly from a dedicated RFID IT tracking system, they are far from the only ones. Organizations of all sizes can benefit from this technology. No matter how many devices you have distributed, having the ability to have an accurate count of everything can help. You can keep track of where your devices are, who had them last, recover them before you chalk it up as a loss, and make significant investments into replacing the lost tech.
Myth #5 — Making the Transition to RFID Tracking Is too Challenging
With any emerging technology, one of the biggest hurdles to widespread adoption revolves around acclimating to a new system and the associated growing pains. While installing a brand new system presents unique challenges for many teams, partnering with Asset Vue can help ease the transition. Our team handles installing and implementing your new system. From there, we walk you through how to use your new technology and unlock the true benefits of your investment.
We have helped countless clients get acclimated with our products and services, ensuring they can take full advantage of the technology. Contact us today to learn more about Asset Vue’s RFID technology and our real-time asset tracking solutions!
Here’s a list of additional misconceptions about RFID:
| Myth | Explanation |
| RFID is the same as barcode technology. |
RFID and barcodes serve different purposes. While both are used for tracking and identifying items, RFID offers real-time data capture and can be read without a direct line of sight.
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| RFID is too expensive for small businesses. |
RFID technology has become more affordable in recent years, making it accessible to small businesses. Costs depend on the scale and complexity of the RFID system.
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| RFID can be easily hacked, compromising security. |
While RFID systems can be vulnerable if not properly secured, modern RFID technology employs encryption and security protocols to protect data.
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| RFID technology is limited to tracking inventory. |
RFID can be used in various applications beyond inventory management, such as access control, asset tracking, healthcare, and more.
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| RFID tags can be read from unlimited distances. |
The read range of RFID tags depends on the type of RFID (passive, active, or semi-passive), frequency, and environmental factors. Longer distances require active RFID tags.
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| RFID negatively impacts privacy. |
RFID technology doesn’t inherently compromise privacy. Privacy concerns arise from how RFID is used and the data collected. Proper policies and security measures can address these concerns.
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| RFID is only useful in large-scale operations. |
RFID can benefit small businesses as well by improving accuracy, reducing errors, and enhancing efficiency in tracking assets and inventory.
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| RFID technology is challenging to implement and use. |
While RFID technology may have complexities, modern systems are designed to be user-friendly with intuitive software and hardware solutions.
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| RFID is only suitable for tracking stationary items. |
RFID can track both stationary and mobile items. Active RFID tags are designed for tracking moving assets.
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| RFID can replace human labor entirely. |
RFID complements human labor but doesn’t eliminate the need for it. Humans are still essential for decision-making, oversight, and tasks that require judgment and analysis.
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