As RFID now has somewhat of a history, either through pilot programs or full implementations, there are a few lessons learned about handing tags that are worth passing along. Zebra Technologies, a Vernon Hills, Ill.-based provider of on-demand printing solutions, points out that RFID labels should be stored at temperatures between 60 and 203 degrees Fahrenheit. Exposure to electro-static discharge should be limited as it can affect tag performance. If the environment is low-humidity it might be a good idea to use anti-static mats or clothing to counter the static.
In addition to the environment, the placement of radio frequency equipment is a factor as well. If the encoder or printer is too close to radio frequency products that share the same bandwidth such as antennas, readers, wireless LANs or even other encoders, interference might result.
Additionally the presence of liquids around RFID equipment presents a problem as liquids (including water) can absorb radio frequency signals and limit the range of the tag readers. One unexpected source of liquid can be adhesives or label materials that absorb moisture from the environment and cause performance problems.
For other tips visit http://www.zebra.com/id/zebra/na/en/index/rfid.html
Interested in information related to this topic? Subscribe to our weekly RFID eNewsletter.