What technology is used to identify, categorize, and locate assets?

Radio frequency identification (RFID) is a technology that uses electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track tags attached to objects. Each RFID tag contains a microchip that holds data unique to the asset, which can be read by RFID readers without the need for direct line-of-sight. This capability allows for continuous asset tracking and management, enabling organizations to categorize and locate their assets quickly and efficiently.

RFID systems are particularly valuable in environments where real-time inventory tracking is essential, such as warehouses, supply chain management, and retail. The ability to scan multiple tags simultaneously and at a distance enhances operational efficiency and reduces human error, making RFID a preferred choice for asset management compared to other technologies.

In contrast, while barcode scanning allows for asset identification and tracking, it requires a direct line-of-sight and typically scans one item at a time, which can be less efficient in high-volume environments. Optical character recognition (OCR) is primarily used for converting different types of documents into editable and searchable data rather than for real-time tracking of physical assets. Bluetooth tracking can identify and locate assets but usually operates over shorter distances and may not be as efficient for large-scale asset management as RFID.