Radio frequency identification (RFID) is an upcoming technology, and more and more laboratories begin to use it to maximize productivity and eliminate errors. RFID technology is mainly used to track samples and laboratory assets, such as consumables, laboratory appliances, medical equipment and equipment. Integrating any new RFID system into your lab requires a thorough understanding of the system and best practices when performing upgrades.
Here, we review the considerations that help to maximize the potential of RFID.
design RFID system
Build an efficient identification system from scratch; Therefore, it is necessary to determine the exact RFID specifications required by your laboratory to make full use of its technology.These may include:
RFID active tag and RFID passive tag
The active tag continuously sends out signals, while the passive system needs the scanner to send out signals and lead out signals from the tag or the tag.
RFID circular antenna and RFID linear antenna
The difference between the two antennas is their polarization, which will ultimately affect their characteristics. Compared with the linear antenna, the circular antenna reads from a wider angle and a shorter distance. They can also read labels in different directions. On the contrary, when the tag direction is controlled, the linear antenna provides better reading performance and accuracy.
Select RFID tag and tag carrier
RFID tags should be optimized for any specific laboratory requirements. Some manufacturers can generate
RFID inlay in almost any type of tag, which enables them to adapt to a variety of conditions, including low-temperature storage, high-temperature applications and chemical exposure.
Attach RFID tags to assets
Since almost all tags can be equipped with RFID inlays, the sample types that can use RFID have great flexibility. However, improper placement of the label may still affect the label and / or the readability of the label. Labels separated from containers are a particularly common problem, so it is important to use a qualified label manufacturer and test whether your label can withstand the necessary laboratory conditions (such as low temperature storage, chemical exposure, high temperature).
RFID tag debugging
Tag debugging involves programming tags with unique identification numbers. It is recommended to debug the tags before asset tagging, because once they are attached to the item, it is much easier to delegate the tags multiple times without knowing it. A better strategy is to pass the vendor or internal debugging label before use.
Field analysis
Size and structural details (i.e. metal walls and gypsum boards) may affect the reading ability of the label. RFID signals are unlikely to penetrate thick metals, so samples stored in liquid nitrogen dewars and refrigerated compartments may require special consideration.
Combining barcode and RFID
RFID inlay can be integrated into printable labels, allowing them to encode using electronic data and print readable text using RFID enabled printers. Such printed labels can support visual, barcode and electronic data. The integrated redundant tracking system can provide guarantee in case of RFID scanning failure, but effective management of the two in practice requires additional planning at the design stage.
Application testing and analysis
Once the RFID system is designed, it must be tested before wholesale integration. Remember that testing does not need to be a separate process. Working with your RFID supplier is an ideal way to help optimize the system, because the supplier can provide sample RFID tags and tags to test and apply knowledge. With the right people, you can create customized solutions from scratch that match the exact technical requirements of the laboratory workflow. This can be done in real time during system testing, because the supplier can view the results of each run and help adjust the system accordingly.
Required documents
Recording all RFID tags and tags is necessary for industrial biopharmaceutical laboratories because they require accurate record keeping, especially in inventory and sample management. This is also recommended for use in academic laboratories. When writing a document for your label, you must consider the following points:
Regulatory compliance issues
safety analysis
pick up information
Label type:
Data storage (in label, internal, cloud based)
Training and troubleshooting
Finally, once the RFID system is fully integrated, all personnel must be trained to use it. If a detailed SOP is provided for employees, which defines the exact roles and agreements of each member, the training can be a simple process. However, these SOPs may not be perfect at first.
Here, it is also beneficial to cooperate with RFID suppliers, because any long-term problems can also be solved by contacting suppliers.OPRFID Technologies' RFID Inlay:
http://www.oprfid.com/RFIDINLAY.html
