Automatic identification and data capture, commonly known as AIDC, refers to technology that facilitates the identification and collection of data with minimal or no human involvement. A broad range of technologies tend to be grouped under the AIDC umbrella, and as a result, they permeate a variety of industries. An AIDC technology solution can be commonly found in the manufacturing, distribution, retail, medicine, government, or transportation sectors and can be tasked with improving inventory and asset management, delivery, and security processes. AIDC technologies greatly improve supply chain visibility because they can identify, record, and communicate information quickly and accurately.
This article will focus mostly on RFID and barcodes, but will also highlight a few of the other popular AIDC technology solutions so you can make sure you make the right decision for your business.
Barcodes
In essence, a barcode is an image or representation of information that is associated with the items they are attached to. Much like there are a variety of AIDC technology solutions, there are a great number of barcode types that businesses use. However, these types are typically grouped into two categories: linear (one-dimensional) symbologies and matrix (two-dimensional or 2D) symbologies.
Linear barcodes are arranged patterns of vertical bars and spaces that represent numeric or alphanumeric data. One-dimensional barcodes are almost always black and white in color and are what most people think about when they hear the word “barcode.” 2D barcodes are more complex and feature geometric patterns like rectangles, hexagons, or dots instead of vertical lines and are able to store much more information than their linear counterparts.
Barcode scanners – of which there are many types – are used to read/transmit the information contained on the barcodes. Scanners can perform tasks much faster than humans, and they are also incredibly more accurate. Businesses use barcodes for AIDC purposes because they are inexpensive, simple to use, and universally accepted in almost every industry.
RFID
Radio frequency identification (RFID) is the use of electromagnetic fields to transfer data and automatically identify specific objects. This technology, which requires an antenna, transceiver, and transponder, works similarly to barcodes, except RFID does not require line-of-sight or contact in order to transmit information. RFID tags are typically labeled as either “active” or “passive.” Active RFID tags have built-in power sources, limiting the lifespan, but extending the read distances. Passive tags don’t have power sources and are only energized when an RFID reader is in proximity.
Using RFID as an AIDC technology solution is likely to be more expensive than barcodes, but does have its own advantages. Some RFID tags can be read from long distances, multiple tags can be scanned at once, they carry large amounts of data, and they tend to be reusable. Regardless of the application, RFID technology can provide accurate, real-time tracking ability for assets and inventory.
Some other AIDC technology solutions include:
- Biometrics: Biometrics involves technology that identifies human characteristics like irises and faces for the purpose of identification and security. This AIDC technology solution can be beneficial to businesses that restrict access to certain areas, devices, or programs.
- Voice recognition: Voice recognition allows workers to relay information or instructions through a wireless headset, meaning hands and eyes can continue to focus on the task at hand. Voice recognition is beneficial because it is much safer than utilizing handheld devices, makes multi-tasking easier, and improving efficiency.
While there are a variety of AIDC technology solutions out there to choose from, consulting the information above is the first step toward finding the best fit for your business. Some organizations might even use a combination of AIDC technologies. The goal is to figure out which technology would most improve efficiency and productivity for your operation.