Part 3; RFID Readers and Data Verification, yeah, you’ll need that!

How can you know for sure the RFID tags you are receiving have the correct information encoded into the chips? Are the serial numbers being duplicated, what does that even mean? Encoded info on the chip is critical to everything we are addressing here; your pre-programmed RFID tags will arrive in the delivery format you selected, usually rolls or sheets. Multiples of these per purchase order and you will be sorting them by your item number (if you make more than one SKU for your customer) and you will be trying to use them up in a serialized order, if possible. The key here will be to assure you are not duplicating the serialization applied to each item in subsequent purchases from your RFID supplier. Much of this is controlled by your RFID tag partner but verification is important to QA/QC and avoiding returned product or fines down the road. 

The verification of encoded data will require an RFID scanner or reader, usually handheld models, but can also be overhead, in conveyor, on forklifts, on production line etc. You just have to choose the best option for your facility. 

Scanners / readers will come with a variety of features and accessories that can add up to a healthy investment, know what you are buying and who to get it from for the best service, not just cost.