RFID vs BarCode

To understand RFID’s benefits this blog compares its capabilities to an existing industry standard, the Bar Code. Pundits for the technology claim that RFID will eventually replace the bar code. By understanding how RFID compares to bar codes you will gain an appreciation for its potential while learning more about how its works.

Note: Pre-requisite - I've assumed you've read my blog titled "Tell me about this stuff!"

So lets jump into the comparison ...


Physical Size
Tags range in size from a postage stamp to a book. The aspect ratio of a Tag’s length vs width is very flexible and not a significant factor for the Reader.
Bar codes are larger then the smallest tag and very sensitive to the aspect ratio for presentation to a scanner. The ratio of a bar codes length vs width is critical to its operation.
Lifespan
Tags have no moving parts and are embedded in protective material for an indestructible case and multi-year lifespan.
Bar Codes have unlimited shelf life but subject to degradation with handling.
Harsh Environments
Tags may be placed in extreme environments and perform to specification. Very robust to handling.
Sensitive to environment and generally degrade once used, stored or handled in a non-office environment.
Product Codes
Digital data is stored on the Tag and provides for a significant capability to encode:
1) Tag originator
2) User data as needed by the segment or application
3) Serial number as needed by the segment/application
Major vertical markets like Retail have standards which are excellent at coding product type and manufacturer. Additional information beyond these basic parameters is not feasible because the size of the Bar Code becomes to large.
Counterfeiting
Tags are produced with a unique identity code (UIC) or serial number form the manufacturer. This is embedded digitally on the microchip and may not be changed. Extremely robust to counterfeiting.
Bar Codes may easily be duplicated and attached to products. Easily counterfeited.
Dynamic Updates
Tags may be written to and offer on board memory to retain information. This feature may be used to store a product calibration history, preventive maintenance, etc. Updates may be made within the blink of an eye and automatically without human intervention.
Once a Bar Code is printed it remains frozen. The Code and the process of attaching the BC is not supportive of real time updates. It is a labor intensive process to update any information on a BC once printed.
traceable
The combination of UIC, user data, serial number and on-board memory makes it possible to track, recall, or document the life span of a single item. For example: With livestock this means the birthplace of the animal, its vaccine history, feed lots, slaughter house, processor, etc may all be tracked. This kind of information supports a complete pedigree for an item attached to the Tag. BC is limited to entire class of products. Unable to drill down to a unique item.
Not feasible to recall, track or document a single item.
Scanning
RFID - Offers a range from inches to hundreds of feet; does not require line of sight. This means individual Tags within a carton packed in a box stored on a pallet may be read. Do not have to open each box and present the individual item.
BC - Offers a range over inches; requires line of Sight to read the code. The Bar Code must be presented to the scanner in an orientation and distanced that is very limited. Individual reading requires each box on a pallet to be opened and the item pulled for presentation to the scanner.
Simultaneous Scanning
RFID - Standards have algorithms to support simultaneous reading of Tags at one time.
BC - Limited to one bar code at a time. Unable to support simultaneous reads.
Cost
High volume Tags are currently 25 cents each. Has potential to continue to drop per the experience curve. High volume bar codes are less then a penny. This is a clear advantage for BC unless you expand cost to be fully loaded. In this scenario the labor savings from items like physical counts, etc. give RFID greater feasibility.
Reusable
RFID - Yes
BC - No

What jumps out from this comparison is RFID’s capability to greatly amplify the benefits received from traditional bar coding. By eliminating the manual task of reading a bar code, RFID automates data entry. This permits new ways of processing items, events or transactions.

Summary
RFID technology is already replacing bar codes in niche applications with high value products. Companies like Gillette are moving forward with RFID and have garnered news because of their orders for RFID tags in excess of 100 million. Supporters have high hopes for this technology to be a universal replacement for the Bar Code. Just like photo-copiers that replaced carbon paper, RFID provides greater options and is rich with value add possibilities. Since it is based on digital electronics the cost will drop while the benefits improve. As a result, RFID is creating new processes, markets and opportunities.