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rfid tags

Metalcraft's durable RFID tags have revolutionized the way companies track and manage assets in a variety of industries. Combining the power of RFID technology with exceptional durability, Metalcraft Inc's RF identification tags offer a reliable and efficient solution for inventory management, supply chain optimization, and asset tracking. 

Designed to withstand harsh environments and rough handling, Metalcraft Inc's durable RFID asset tags provide organizations with unparalleled visibility and control over their valuable assets. With their robust construction and long-lasting performance, these tags have become an indispensable tool for enhancing operation efficiency and driving business success. 

Once we've worked with you to identify that RFID tracking is the right solution for your application, Metalcraft's wide breadth of product offerings can be customized to meet the task at hand. For any application, we offer the most durable, technology-agnostic solutions coupled with an unmatched selection of adhesives. We are the perfect RFID company for your needs.

Explore RFID Tags

Our line of durable on-metal RFID tags and labels are perfect for your metal surface application projects.  Designed to work on a variety of metal surfaces, our on-metal RFID tags work well for asset tagging, work-in-process and returnable container applications.

Our RFID tags for glass offer specialized inlays to be read through windshields and more, providing a read range of 18+ feet. We also offer a removable adhesive, perfect for those times you need a “temporary” tag - whether it’s for rental cars, rental equipment or controlling

For items like plastic bins, crates and more, our variety of RFID tags can conform and provide durability, security and be tamper-proof for anti-theft RFID applications. For example, our RFID pallet tags for plastic pallets stay put under extraordinary cond

Our Stick and Staple RFID products are ideal for applications involving hard-to-adhere surfaces (pallets, crates, barrels)with the tag’s construction protecting the inlay.

For wristbands, racebibs or credential tags, the added element of people wearing RFID solutions means color, performance but low-profile. Check out our customizable solutions for trackable, company branding.

For bales, key fobs or general hanging tags, we have RFID products that are durable, removable and reusable. Our tag’s polymer construction protects the text and RFID inlay from the elements, offering superior access control and tracking.

RFID can be used for so many different applications, like even measuring temperatures as they fluctuate or moisture levels. This can be critical for certain applications where steady levels need to be maintained. So how does this work?

The Ultimate RFID Guide

RFID technology automates and streamlines asset tracking by wirelessly transmitting data from small tags to readers, offering a more efficient and reliable solution than manual systems or barcodes.

Download Now

From The Asset Tracking Blog

74TH ANNIVERSARY BANNER

Metalcraft: 74 Years of ID Made Better

On the Metalcraft, Inc. 74th anniversary, we would like to take a look back at our accomplishments in the ID industry.

Read Blog

The Top Benefits of RFID Asset Tracking in Facilities Management

The Top Benefits of RFID Asset Tracking in Facilities Management

With the power of RFID your organization can easily locate assets, making it a powerful tool for facilities management.

Read Blog

Long Range Universal RFID Tag

Metalcraft Launches New Long Range Universal RFID Tag, Offering Nearly Double the Read Range

Our customers asked for a longer read range and we delivered. Learn more about the new Long Range Universal RFID Tag today!

Read Blog

The Ultimate RFID Guide

RFID technology automates and streamlines asset tracking by wirelessly transmitting data from small tags to readers, offering a more efficient and reliable solution than manual systems or barcodes.

Download Now
Ultimate RFID Guide

RFID Tags Videos

The Eco-Mini Universal RFID Product Line from Metalcraft, combined with the CS108 & CS710S readers from Convergence Systems Limited, represents a powerful solution for high-performance and long-range RFID applications. This combination delivers exceptional value and efficiency, particularly for industries requiring robust and reliable item-level inventory tracking.

Eco-Mini Universal RFID Product Line

The Universal Eco-Mini RFID tags are engineered to provide outstanding performance on metal surfaces, a common challenge in RFID technology. These tags offer a remarkable read range of up to 25 feet (7.62 meters) on metal, setting a new standard in the market for both performance and affordability. Key features include:

  1. Cost-Effective: The Eco-Mini tags are priced competitively and offer high performance. This makes them an attractive option for businesses looking to implement or upgrade their RFID systems without incurring prohibitive expenses.
  2. Compact Design: The tags are designed to be small and versatile, suitable for a wide range of applications where space is limited or where discrete tagging is required.
  3. Durability: Built to withstand various environmental conditions, the Eco-Mini tags ensure longevity and reliability in diverse operational settings.

Applications

The Universal Eco-Mini RFID tags are particularly beneficial for item-level retail inventory tracking. It's important to keep track of inventory in real-time in stores. This helps ensure that stock levels are maintained. It also helps reduce shrinkage and keep customers happy. The Eco-Mini tags facilitate these processes by providing:

Accurate Inventory Management

One of the most significant advantages of using Eco-Mini RFID tags is the accuracy and efficiency they bring to inventory management. Traditional methods of inventory tracking, such as manual counts or barcode scanning, are often time-consuming and prone to errors. In contrast, the long-range readability of Eco-Mini RFID tags allows for:

  • Rapid Inventory Checks: Retail staff can quickly conduct inventory counts without the need to handle each item individually. This saves time and reduces labor costs.
  • High Accuracy: RFID reduces human error, ensuring that inventory records accurately reflect the actual stock levels. This helps prevent discrepancies that can lead to stockouts or overstock situations.

 

Loss Prevention

Shrinkage, caused by theft, loss, or damage, is a significant concern for retailers. The ability of Eco-Mini RFID tags to be read from a distance enhances loss prevention strategies by:

  • Enhanced Surveillance: Retailers can monitor tagged items more effectively, even from a distance. This deters potential theft and allows for quicker response to suspicious activity.
  • Asset Tracking: For high-value items, continuous tracking ensures that these products are accounted for at all times, reducing the likelihood of loss.

 

Enhanced Customer Experience

Customer satisfaction is a critical factor in retail success. Eco-Mini RFID tags contribute to an enhanced shopping experience in several ways:

  • Product Availability: Real-time inventory tracking ensures that products are always available on the shelves. Customers are less likely to encounter out-of-stock situations, which can lead to frustration and lost sales.
  • Efficient Restocking: Staff can be alerted when stock levels are low, enabling prompt restocking and ensuring that popular items are always in supply.
  • Quick and Easy Location of Items: RFID technology can assist in quickly locating items within the store, helping staff to guide customers efficiently and enhancing the overall shopping experience.

 

Operational Efficiency

The use of Eco-Mini RFID tags also streamlines various operational processes within the retail environment:

  • Automated Checkouts: RFID can facilitate faster and more efficient checkout processes. Items with RFID tags can be automatically scanned and added to the customer's bill, reducing wait times and improving the checkout experience.
  • Inventory Audits: Regular audits become simpler and more efficient, allowing retailers to perform them more frequently. This leads to better inventory accuracy and improved financial reporting.
  • Integration with Supply Chain: RFID data can be integrated with supply chain management systems, providing visibility into stock levels across multiple locations and aiding in efficient distribution and replenishment.

 

CS108 & CS710S Readers

The CS108 and CS710S readers from Convergence Systems Limited complement the Eco-Mini RFID tags perfectly, bringing advanced technology to the forefront of RFID reading capabilities.

CS108 Handheld Reader

The CS108 is known for its superior reading range and versatility. It is designed for use in various environments, providing reliable performance for both indoor and outdoor applications. Key features include:

  • Extended Read Range: Capable of reading tags from a considerable distance, the CS108 enhances the efficiency of inventory tracking and asset management.
  • Portability and Ease of Use: As a handheld device, it offers flexibility and convenience, allowing users to move freely within the tracking area.
  • Compatibility: The CS108 can be easily integrated with existing systems, making it a versatile choice for businesses looking to expand their RFID capabilities.

 

CS710S Fixed Reader

The CS710S fixed reader is ideal for installations where consistent and continuous monitoring is required. Its robust features include:

  • High Throughput: The CS710S can handle a large volume of tag reads, making it suitable for environments with high tag density.
  • Durability: Designed for industrial settings, the CS710S is built to withstand harsh conditions, ensuring reliable performance over time.
  • Scalability: The reader supports multiple antennas, allowing for scalability in coverage areas and enhancing its application in larger spaces.
  •  

Conclusion

The combination of Metalcraft's Eco-Mini Universal RFID Product Line and Convergence Systems Limited's CS108 & CS710S readers offers a formidable solution for businesses looking to improve their RFID systems. This partnership provides high performance, long-range reading capabilities, and cost-effective solutions, making it ideal for applications such as item-level retail inventory tracking. With the ability to deliver accurate, real-time data and streamline inventory management processes, this combination is set to transform how businesses handle their inventory and asset management needs.

https://www.idplate.com/eco-mini

#IDMadeBetter #Metalcraft #ConvergenceSystemsLimited #AssetTracking #Retail

 

More RFID Tags: From Inventory Management to Asset Tracking Videos See All

The Eco-Mini Universal RFID Product Line from Metalcraft, combined with the CS108 & CS710S readers from Convergence Systems Limited, represents a powerful solution for high-performance and long-range RFID applications. This combination delivers exceptional value and efficiency, particularly for industries requiring robust and reliable item-level inventory tracking.

Eco-Mini Universal RFID Product Line

The Universal Eco-Mini RFID tags are engineered to provide outstanding performance on metal surfaces, a common challenge in RFID technology. These tags offer a remarkable read range of up to 25 feet (7.62 meters) on metal, setting a new standard in the market for both performance and affordability. Key features include:

  1. Cost-Effective: The Eco-Mini tags are priced competitively and offer high performance. This makes them an attractive option for businesses looking to implement or upgrade their RFID systems without incurring prohibitive expenses.
  2. Compact Design: The tags are designed to be small and versatile, suitable for a wide range of applications where space is limited or where discrete tagging is required.
  3. Durability: Built to withstand various environmental conditions, the Eco-Mini tags ensure longevity and reliability in diverse operational settings.

Applications

The Universal Eco-Mini RFID tags are particularly beneficial for item-level retail inventory tracking. It's important to keep track of inventory in real-time in stores. This helps ensure that stock levels are maintained. It also helps reduce shrinkage and keep customers happy. The Eco-Mini tags facilitate these processes by providing:

Accurate Inventory Management

One of the most significant advantages of using Eco-Mini RFID tags is the accuracy and efficiency they bring to inventory management. Traditional methods of inventory tracking, such as manual counts or barcode scanning, are often time-consuming and prone to errors. In contrast, the long-range readability of Eco-Mini RFID tags allows for:

  • Rapid Inventory Checks: Retail staff can quickly conduct inventory counts without the need to handle each item individually. This saves time and reduces labor costs.
  • High Accuracy: RFID reduces human error, ensuring that inventory records accurately reflect the actual stock levels. This helps prevent discrepancies that can lead to stockouts or overstock situations.

 

Loss Prevention

Shrinkage, caused by theft, loss, or damage, is a significant concern for retailers. The ability of Eco-Mini RFID tags to be read from a distance enhances loss prevention strategies by:

  • Enhanced Surveillance: Retailers can monitor tagged items more effectively, even from a distance. This deters potential theft and allows for quicker response to suspicious activity.
  • Asset Tracking: For high-value items, continuous tracking ensures that these products are accounted for at all times, reducing the likelihood of loss.

 

Enhanced Customer Experience

Customer satisfaction is a critical factor in retail success. Eco-Mini RFID tags contribute to an enhanced shopping experience in several ways:

  • Product Availability: Real-time inventory tracking ensures that products are always available on the shelves. Customers are less likely to encounter out-of-stock situations, which can lead to frustration and lost sales.
  • Efficient Restocking: Staff can be alerted when stock levels are low, enabling prompt restocking and ensuring that popular items are always in supply.
  • Quick and Easy Location of Items: RFID technology can assist in quickly locating items within the store, helping staff to guide customers efficiently and enhancing the overall shopping experience.

 

Operational Efficiency

The use of Eco-Mini RFID tags also streamlines various operational processes within the retail environment:

  • Automated Checkouts: RFID can facilitate faster and more efficient checkout processes. Items with RFID tags can be automatically scanned and added to the customer's bill, reducing wait times and improving the checkout experience.
  • Inventory Audits: Regular audits become simpler and more efficient, allowing retailers to perform them more frequently. This leads to better inventory accuracy and improved financial reporting.
  • Integration with Supply Chain: RFID data can be integrated with supply chain management systems, providing visibility into stock levels across multiple locations and aiding in efficient distribution and replenishment.

 

CS108 & CS710S Readers

The CS108 and CS710S readers from Convergence Systems Limited complement the Eco-Mini RFID tags perfectly, bringing advanced technology to the forefront of RFID reading capabilities.

CS108 Handheld Reader

The CS108 is known for its superior reading range and versatility. It is designed for use in various environments, providing reliable performance for both indoor and outdoor applications. Key features include:

  • Extended Read Range: Capable of reading tags from a considerable distance, the CS108 enhances the efficiency of inventory tracking and asset management.
  • Portability and Ease of Use: As a handheld device, it offers flexibility and convenience, allowing users to move freely within the tracking area.
  • Compatibility: The CS108 can be easily integrated with existing systems, making it a versatile choice for businesses looking to expand their RFID capabilities.

 

CS710S Fixed Reader

The CS710S fixed reader is ideal for installations where consistent and continuous monitoring is required. Its robust features include:

  • High Throughput: The CS710S can handle a large volume of tag reads, making it suitable for environments with high tag density.
  • Durability: Designed for industrial settings, the CS710S is built to withstand harsh conditions, ensuring reliable performance over time.
  • Scalability: The reader supports multiple antennas, allowing for scalability in coverage areas and enhancing its application in larger spaces.
  •  

Conclusion

The combination of Metalcraft's Eco-Mini Universal RFID Product Line and Convergence Systems Limited's CS108 & CS710S readers offers a formidable solution for businesses looking to improve their RFID systems. This partnership provides high performance, long-range reading capabilities, and cost-effective solutions, making it ideal for applications such as item-level retail inventory tracking. With the ability to deliver accurate, real-time data and streamline inventory management processes, this combination is set to transform how businesses handle their inventory and asset management needs.

https://www.idplate.com/eco-mini

#IDMadeBetter #Metalcraft #ConvergenceSystemsLimited #AssetTracking #Retail

 

Meet the Universal Eco-Mini and Universal Eco-Mini Plus from Metalcraft. These RFID tags are specifically crafted for tracking retail items on metal surfaces, addressing a critical need in various industries where metal interference typically hampers the performance of standard RFID technology. Here's a detailed look at how these innovative tags provide unparalleled tracking accuracy and reliability.

Advanced Engineering for Metal Surfaces

Metalcraft's Universal Eco-Mini and Eco-Mini Plus RFID tags are the result of cutting-edge engineering tailored to overcome the unique challenges posed by metal surfaces. Metal surfaces often cause significant interference with RFID signals, which can lead to inconsistent read ranges and data errors. However, these tags incorporate advanced design features and materials that mitigate these issues, ensuring stable and accurate performance.

Features and Benefits

The Universal Eco-Mini and Eco-Mini Plus RFID tags offer several key advantages:

  • Optimized for Metal Surfaces: The Universal Eco-Mini and Eco-Mini Plus RFID tags from Metalcraft are meticulously engineered to deliver exceptional performance on metal surfaces, addressing a common challenge in the RFID industry. Traditional RFID tags often struggle with metal interference, which can significantly impair their read range and reliability. In contrast, the Eco-Mini series is specially designed to overcome these obstacles, offering consistent and dependable functionality. They boast a 25 ft. read range on metal at a fraction of the cost of other on-metal RFID tags on the market.
  • Technical Specifications: They have an RF Protocol of EPC Global Class 1 Gen 2 and a frequency of FCC 902-928 MHz with multiple IC options available.
  • Environmental Specifications for Eco-Mini Universal RFID Tag: The minimum application temperature is -20° F (-28.9 °C) and the temperature range is between -40° F to +175° F (-40 to 79.4° C). For chemical resistance, it can withstand mild cleaning chemicals and brief exposure to solvents. The minimum bend radius is 3" or 76.2 mm (when wrapped horizontally around a curved surface).
  • Environmental Specifications for Eco-Mini Plus Universal RFID Tag: The minimum application temperature is 50° F (10° C). The temperature range is between -40° F to +175° F (-40 to 79.4° C). For chemical resistance, it can withstand mild cleaning chemicals and brief exposure to solvents. The minimum bend radius is 3" or 76.2 mm (when wrapped horizontally around a curved surface).
  • Compact Design: These tags boast a small form factor, making them ideal for tracking individual items without adding significant bulk.
  • Eco-Friendly: These tags are made with 40% less material than the previous versions, making them more environmentally and ecologically friendly. Plus, they work with many standard RFID printers. Recommended printers for this product include the Printronix T6000e, SATO CL4NX Plus and the Zebra ZT411r. Ribbon recommendations include the Wax/Resin DNP TRX-50, Wax/Resin IMP General Purpose, Full Resin DNP V300 and the Full Resin TR4070.
  • Durability: Built to withstand harsh conditions, these tags are durable and maintain performance even in rugged environments.
  • Easy Installation: To install your Eco-Mini tags, the process is quick and simple. First, clean the surface using Isopropyl alcohol, an alcohol pad or equivalent solvent to ensure that the surface is free from dirt, dust, oil and misc. debris that may affect adhesion. Make sure to handle the tag by the edges and peel the release liner from the back, ensuring not to touch the adhesive. Then, you'll place the tag in the desired location and firmly apply even pressure to the tag for 5 seconds. Do not disturb the newly mounted tag for at least 72 hours to ensure proper adhesive seating.

Applications

The Universal Eco-Mini and Eco-Mini Plus RFID tags are ideal for a diverse array of applications, making them a versatile solution for many industries:

  • Retail Inventory Management: Streamline inventory processes with precise item-level tracking. The Eco-Mini tags allow for increased visibility of stock levels, reducing the likelihood of stockouts and overstock situations. This accuracy helps in managing inventory more efficiently, minimizing losses due to misplacement or theft, and ultimately improving overall stock management. Retailers can ensure that popular items are always available, enhancing customer satisfaction and sales performance.
  • Asset Tracking: Keep an accurate account of high-value items and equipment, ensuring better asset utilization and security.
  • Supply Chain Visibility: Enhance visibility throughout the supply chain, enabling real-time tracking and improving operational efficiency.

Expert Insights

Watch our exciting video featuring Colynn Black, our RFID Business Development Director, who provides in-depth insights into our latest product offerings, the Universal Eco-Mini and Eco-Mini Plus RFID tags. In this helpful session, Colynn answers common questions about our innovative tags. Topics include technical specs, practical uses, and the benefits of using these tags in your tracking systems.

Learn More

For more information on the Universal Eco-Mini and Universal Eco-Mini Plus, or to request samples, please contact us at:

Discover how Metalcraft's latest RFID technology can enhance your tracking and inventory systems. The Universal Eco-Mini and Universal Eco-Mini Plus are the products to look out for.

Metalcraft, a top company in identification products, has introduced the new Universal Eco-Mini RFID Tag. This new RFID tag works well for retail tracking on metal surfaces. It solves a problem in the industry where metal disrupts regular RFID technology.

Unmatched Performance

The Universal Eco-Mini RFID Tag sets a new standard in performance for an on-metal RFID tag. Its advanced design ensures reliable read rates and accuracy, even in challenging environments where metal surfaces typically cause interference. This tag’s robust construction and superior antenna technology allow for exceptional read range and data integrity, ensuring seamless inventory management and asset tracking.

Enhanced Sustainability

Sustainability is a core focus of the Universal Eco-Mini RFID Tag. Metalcraft has engineered this product using eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes, reducing its environmental footprint. The tag’s compact size also means less material usage, further contributing to its sustainability credentials. By choosing the Universal Eco-Mini, companies can enhance their tracking capabilities while also supporting their environmental goals.

Cost Savings

The Universal Eco-Mini RFID Tag saves money while being high performance and eco-friendly. Its durability reduces the need for frequent replacements, lowering overall maintenance costs. The efficiency gained from accurate and reliable tracking translates into better inventory management, reducing losses and optimizing stock levels. Moreover, the Universal Eco-Mini's competitive pricing makes advanced RFID technology accessible to a wider range of businesses.

"ID Made Better": A Commitment to Excellence

Metalcraft's tagline, "ID Made Better," shows their dedication to excellence in the identification products industry. The Universal Eco-Mini RFID Tag is changing the game for tracking retail items on metal surfaces.

Innovation at Its Core

Innovation is at the heart of "ID Made Better." The Universal Eco-Mini RFID Tag showcases Metalcraft's dedication to pushing the boundaries of technology. This RFID tag has a special design that works well on metal surfaces, even when other tags do not work.

Metalcraft has put a lot of money into research and development. They have created a cutting-edge solution. This solution meets the complex needs of modern inventory and asset management.

High Quality

Quality is a hallmark of Metalcraft products. Crafters make the Universal Eco-Mini RFID Tag with precision, using high-quality materials that ensure durability and longevity. This attention to detail guarantees that each tag performs optimally under various conditions, providing consistent and accurate data essential for effective tracking and management. Metalcraft ensures all its products are reliable and excellent by following strict quality control measures.

Rigorous Testing for Optimal Performance

Each Universal Eco-Mini RFID Tag undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it meets the highest standards of performance. These tests simulate real-world conditions, including exposure to extreme temperatures, humidity, and mechanical stress.

Metalcraft tests tags rigorously to ensure they can handle tough conditions in retail stores, warehouses, or outdoor areas. This guarantees their durability and reliability in various environments. This quality assurance process ensures that customers can trust their RFID tags to work well for a long time. This lowers the risk of losing data or making tracking mistakes.

Superior Materials for Enhanced Durability

The Universal Eco-Mini RFID Tag is durable because Metalcraft uses high-quality materials. The tags contain robust, environmentally friendly components that withstand wear and tear, even in harsh environments.

This strong construction makes the tags last longer and keeps them working well. Metalcraft saves money by using high-quality materials that last longer and require fewer replacements, reducing overall costs.

Precision Manufacturing for Consistent Quality

Metalcraft employs advanced manufacturing techniques to produce the Universal Eco-Mini RFID Tag. Precision engineering ensures that we produce each tag to exact specifications, with tight tolerances that guarantee consistent quality. This precision manufacturing process minimizes low quality and defects, resulting in a product that consistently meets or exceeds customer expectations.

Metalcraft has modern production facilities. These facilities use the latest technology. The goal is to maintain high standards and achieve efficient production rates.

Commitment to Continuous Improvement

Metalcraft’s dedication to quality does not stop at production. The company is committed to continuous improvement, regularly reviewing and refining its processes to enhance product performance and customer satisfaction. We ask customers for feedback to make better products and improve how we design and make them. Metalcraft stays ahead in the identification products industry by consistently delivering products that meet customers' changing needs.

Excellence in Customer Support

Quality extends beyond the product itself to encompass the entire customer experience. Metalcraft prides itself on providing exceptional customer support, from initial consultation through to post-purchase assistance. The company has a support team that is ready to help customers with any questions or issues.

They want to make sure that customers get the most out of their Universal Eco-Mini RFID Tags. The support team is helpful and available to assist at any time.

Their goal is to ensure that customers have a positive experience with the product. This commitment to excellence in customer service reinforces Metalcraft’s reputation as a trusted partner in the identification products industry.

In summary, Metalcraft's focus on quality ensures that the Universal Eco-Mini RFID Tag exceeds customer expectations. It offers a dependable, long-lasting, and effective solution for tracking retail items on metal surfaces.

Customer Satisfaction

Customer satisfaction is central to the "ID Made Better" promise. Metalcraft understands that each business has unique needs and challenges.

The Universal Eco-Mini RFID Tag is versatile. You can use it in various applications. These applications include retail, logistics, and asset management.

Metalcraft offers products that are high-performing, sustainable, and cost-effective. Designers created these products to help customers achieve their business goals while offering maximum value and support.

MORE performance. MORE sustainability. MORE savings. Now that's ID Made Better.

Inlay Innovation

For more than 72 years, Metalcraft has provided customers worldwide with durable, high-quality barcode labels and RFID tags.

But did you know that we also manufacture custom RFID inlays? Watch this video to learn more about our latest business venture, Inlay Innovation and how an inlay is created.

This process includes the design, development and manufacturing of custom RFID inlays.

With Inlay Innovation, we offer a 360° approach to RFID construction. We design everything but the chip in-house, ensuring that every component of your RFID tag fits together perfectly. Because they're chip agnostic, our custom designs can fit any chip that you need.

We understand how everything fits together, from the big picture to the fine details. That is how we can create custom inlays tailored to your application, offering enhanced tag performance and efficiency. We can find that "one in a million" custom design, often in less time than other companies would take to find you a good stock design.

The services and capabilities of Inlay Innovation include the following:

  • Shear testing the bond strength of the conductive adhesive of the chip and antenna
  • Temperature exposure tests
  • Inlay design services
  • Contract converting services
  • Prototyping

 

So, what exactly is an RFID inlay? An RFID inlay consists of three separate components.

  1. Antenna
  2. Chip
  3. Substrate

 

The RFID antenna serves as the "ears" of the tag, allowing it to track and "catch" RF signals being emitted from an RFID reader.

The RFID chip is the part of the inlay that makes decisions while also providing the memory needed to store data.

A substrate is the part of an RFID tag that holds the components together. It's usually made from a flexible material such as thin plastic, but more rigid materials can be used as well. The chip is bonded to the antenna on the substrate in order to make the completed inlay.

Why Inlay Innovation Could Be Right for You

Partner with us to save time, money: For some RFID applications, constructing a custom inlay is a cost-effective way to optimize your RFID tags and achieve the desired outcome of your RFID application. Custom inlays save time and capital by combining the engineering phase of tag construction with the design phase. By partnering with the RFID experts at Inlay Innovation, you can expect to go from tag design to final production in 12 months.

Differentiate from the competition: Custom inlays allow customers to better differentiate their products by offering a truly unique product and creating a more sustainable supply chain.

360° RFID solution provider: Beyond custom designs, we are committed to being your full-service RFID partner. Our identification experts will help you every step of the way, from the initial design of your tag through the manufacturing process.

Designed and manufactured in the USA: We offer US-based designs and manufacturing with a sustainable supply chain that will not disrupt you or your customers. From prototypes to production runs, Metalcraft can confidently meet customers' RFID identification challenges.

High Tech with a Personal Touch

Inlay Innovation offers world-class inlay manufacturing and testing capabilities, as well as the technical expertise that rivals those of any larger organization in the RFID industry. But we offer something those larger companies don't - service with a personal touch. We genuinely listen to our customers and are invested in their successes - which shows in our excitement as we continually communicate through every project and make it easy to do business with us. 

Our inlay design consultants work with you, reviewing specifications and defining objectives to develop custom inlay designs for specific applications. We delight in giving customers the flexibility, ease of use and technical solutions they need to meet ID demands not only today but into the future. This level of service and support is there for you always, genuinely defining ID Made Better®.

If you have an opportunity for custom RFID inlays, contact us at 800-437-5283. You can also visit us at www.idplate.com.

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FAQ

What are RFID Tags?

Radio Frequency Identification, or RFID, refers to a technology where information is transmitted wirelessly over radio waves. RFID tags and RFID asset tracing tags have 3 main components:

• IC (integrated chip) which executes commands and stores data
• Antenna which absorbs RF waves and helps broadcast the signal
• Substrate (polyester, paper, etc.) which is the material that the chip and antenna are attached

How do RFID Tags work?

RFID tags work by sending and receiving information through an antenna and an attached microchip or integrated circuit. An RFID reader, a device that can generate and read the information on radio waves, is used to communicate and interact with the RFID asset tracking tag and is part of an RFID inventory tagging system. These RFID readers can both read and write to the memory on the RFID tag's microchip. This means different pieces of data (unique identifying numbers, serial numbers, etc.) can be read and written onto the tags, which can be attached to any item or product for easy tagging and tracking. Download our handbook for more.

What are the types of RFID asset tags?

There are two primary categories of RFID asset tags: tags with batteries and tags without batteries. Tags with batteries are called battery assist or active RFID tags. Battery enabled RF tags incorporate a battery as a power supply or to supplement the power provided by the RFID reader.

Passive RFID asset tags do not use a battery and instead works by using electromagnetic energy transmitted from the RFID reader. When a passive label is read/scanned by an RFID reader it is energized (interrogated) by the radio waves coming from the reading device. The energy received from the radio waves are received via antennas attached to the passive tag's chip which powers the chip and responds to the reader all in a matter of milliseconds.

What is the difference between an RFID "tag" and an RFID "inlay?"

An RFID tag is a small electronic device that contains a unique identifier and is used for tracking and identification purposes. The construction of an RFID tag typically consists of three layers. The first layer, known as the substrate, is the material on which information can be printed. This layer provides a surface for the RFID inlay to be attached to.

The second layer is the actual RFID inlay, which contains the electronic components that allow the tag to communicate with RFID readers. This inlay is usually made up of a microchip and an antenna, which work together to transmit and receive data.

The last layer of the RFID asset tracking tag is the attachment adhesive, which is used to securely attach the tag to an object or surface. This adhesive layer is crucial for ensuring that the tag remains in place and can withstand various environmental conditions.

Overall, the construction of an RFID tag is designed to be durable, reliable, and efficient in order to accurately track and identify items in a variety of applications.

The RFID inlay is a crucial component of the RFID tag, serving as the brain and communication hub of the entire system. It is made up of three main parts: the integrated circuit (IC), antenna, and substrate.

The integrated circuit is where the data is stored and processed, allowing the tag to communicate with RFID readers. The antenna is responsible for transmitting and receiving radio frequency signals, enabling the tag to be detected and read from a distance. The substrate provides support and protection for the IC and antenna, ensuring the inlay remains durable and functional in various environments.

Together, these components work seamlessly to enable the RFID asset tracking tag to track and identify items in a wide range of applications, from inventory management to access control.

What is a passive vs active RFID tag?

Passive and active RFID (radio frequency identification) management tags are two types of RFID technology used for tracking and identifying objects. There are several differences between the two types of tags. Active RFID asset management tags have their own battery which allows them to transmit signals without relying on an external energy source.

Conversely, passive RFID asset management tags do not have their own power source. They rely on the energy emitted by the RFID reader to transmit their data. Active RFID tags have a much longer read range than their passive counterpart and typically cost more than passive tags. In addition, active tags are typically larger than passive tags due to the inclusion of their battery. Lastly, active tags have a shorter lifespan due to its battery than passive tags. The choice between passive and active RFID tags should depend on the specific requirements of the application. For more information or to get a quote please contact us at 800-437-5283 or [email protected].

What does RFID stand for?

RFID stands for radio frequency identification. The RFID definition is a technology that uses electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track tags attached to objects. These tags contain electronically stored information and can be passive (powered by the reader's electromagnetic field), active (powered by a battery), or semi-passive (battery-assisted). RFID technology is commonly used in various applications such as inventory management, access control, and asset tracking.

What is an RFID chip?

An RFID chip, also known as an RFID tag, is a small electronic device used in Radio-Frequency Identification systems. It consists of three main components:

Microchip: This stores information about the item to which it is attached. It may also contain processing power to handle certain tasks.
Antenna: This allows the radio frequency ID chips to receive and send radio signals to the RFID reader.
Substrate: This is the material that holds the microchip and antenna together.

RFID chips can be passive, active, or semi-passive:

Passive RFID chips: Do not have their own power source and are powered by the electromagnetic energy transmitted from an RFID reader.
Active RFID chips: Have their own power source, such as a battery, and can transmit signals autonomously.
Semi-passive RFID chips: Have their own power source but rely on the RFID reader to generate a response signal.
These chips are used in various applications for tracking and identifying objects, including supply chain management, access control, and asset tracking.

How long does an RFID tag last?

The lifespan of an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag varies depending on the type of tag and its usage conditions. Passive RFID tags, which do not have a battery and are powered by the electromagnetic field of the reader, can last for 10-20 years or more, as they have no internal power source that can deplete. Active RFID tags, which contain a battery, typically last between 3-5 years, depending on the battery's capacity and the frequency of use. Environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and physical wear can also impact the lifespan of RFID tags. Overall, RFID tags are designed to be durable and long-lasting, with passive tags generally offering the longest lifespan.

What is an RFID tag used for?

An RFID tag is used for the identification and tracking of objects, animals, or people via radio frequency signals. Each tag contains a microchip that stores data and an antenna to transmit this information to an RFID reader. RFID tags are commonly employed in various applications, including inventory management, asset tracking, supply chain logistics, access control, and automated toll collection. Their ability to be read from a distance and without line-of-sight makes them a versatile and efficient tool for improving accuracy, security, and operational efficiency in diverse industries.

What are examples of an RFID tag?

Examples of RFID tags include passive RFID tags, active RFID tags, and semi-passive RFID tags. Passive RFID tags, often used in inventory management and retail, rely on the RFID reader for power and have a short read range. Active RFID tags, which contain their own power source, are used for long-range tracking in applications such as vehicle tracking and asset management in large facilities. Semi-passive RFID tags, combining features of both, are used in environments where environmental monitoring is crucial, such as temperature-sensitive supply chains. These various types of RFID tags demonstrate their adaptability for tracking and managing a wide range of items and conditions.