Bar code technology is still dominating the local market over radio frequency identification (RFID), because of the cost limitations associated with RFID.
This is according to Steven Makepeace, Cape Town technical director at Spec Systems, an auto ID solutions provider.
“RFID requires very specific applications in order for it be financially viable,” explains Makepeace, “and cost is one of the biggest factors. Retailers would need to boost their IT infrastructure, and many of them are not ready yet to create the systems needed to support the technology.”
Makepeace adds: “My concern with RFID is that there are certain environmental barriers the technology can't get past. For instance, a standard RFID card cannot be directly attached to metal or liquid. I believe that once the barriers come down, then RFID will gain more traction.”
Billions lost
However, bar coding does have its challenges. Lack of international compliance with bar code specifications is a global problem, and costs the retail sector billions of dollars in lost productivity. Makepeace says this is a major problem for South African retailers.
“Eighty percent of retail goods boxes in SA are not bar coded to international GS1 standards. The printing quality is not up to scratch and the bar code labels are being produced to the wrong standards,” notes Makepeace.
Improving healthcare
Spec Systems is bullish about the healthcare industry, and last year introduced the HC100 dedicated wristband bar code printer for the healthcare market.
According to Makepeace, Spec Systems is working on developing RFID smart wristbands for patient care. Each wristband would have information embedded into it detailing the patient's medical history, blood type, medication and billing details.
Makepeace says this high-frequency RFID technology can be extended to tracking applications for sporting events.
Last year, the company bolstered its market presence through merging with Barcape, a bar code equipment, solutions, and supplies provider.
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