What are RFID tags?

Radio frequency identification (RFID) tags are an advanced barcoding system used by facilities to track assets. Data moves from the RFID tag through a reader to a central computer using radio waves. Typically made of plastic, RFID tags contain microchips that help store and transmit the data.

After an RFID tag is attached to a piece of equipment, that asset can be easily tracked. Facilities can then have up-to-the-moment data on that asset including where it is currently located, which technician is using it, and what service has been performed on it.

Types of RFID Tags

The two primary types of RFID tags are active and passive.

Active RFID tags contain a battery, which means they can constantly send data and provide real-time information to a centralized computer system. This type of tag is expensive but can transmit data a long distance and are more durable.

Passive RFID tags, on the other hand, simply use electromagnetic energy from a reader to transmit data. They are much more affordable, costing around a dime each compared with active tags that can run upward of $25 each. Passive tags are also smaller, lighter, and long-lasting but have a limited transmission range.

Example of RFID tags in Maintenance

Many facilities must use a wide range of tools and equipment to perform regular maintenance on its equipment. If you have a team of technicians, it can be easy for these tools to get misplaced, which can cost a company time and money.

RFID tags can be attached to particular tools or service kits so they can be easily tracked. When one technician takes a testing kit to a service call, the RFID tag will communicate its location to a central data collection system. If a facility manager needs to assign another work order requiring the same testing kit, that manager can quickly see who is currently using it and where. The new work order can then be scheduled accordingly.

By integrating RFID tags to a CMMS, a facility can improve its asset management system to be more efficient one piece of equipment at a time.