RFID printers are used to tag inventory or assets. They are especially used in the manufacturing or distribution supply chain. The RFID printers not only print on top of a label, but also inside the chip inside the label. In fact, RFID encoding printing involves writing a specific set of data into the memory bank of an RFID chip.

How does RFID encoding printing work?

An RFID printer works in the same way as a conventional printer, but has the ability to transfer data to a chip that is inside a label or a tag. An RFID-encoded printer uses radio waves to transmit data between a label or a tag and a reader. The printer is equipped with an RFID encoder that allows it to write data to the RFID tags during the printing process. This data contains unique identification numbers or other important information. There are three main different types of RFID technology available in a printer.

Low-frequency (LF)

The LF band covers frequencies from 30 kHz to 300 kHz. Low frequency RFID systems operate at 125 kHz or 134.2 kHz. This frequency allows for short reading distances and slow reading speeds. Low frequency RFID is typically used for access control and animal identification.

High-frequency (HF)

HF frequency ranges from 3 to 30 MHz. UF RFID systems typically operate at 13.56 MHz and read distances range from 10 cm to 1 m. High frequency RFID is used in access cards, payment systems and public transport cards.

Ultra-high frequency

UHF systems cover a frequency range from 300 MHz to 3 GHz. Most UHF systems operate at frequencies between 856 MHz and 960 MHz. UHF RFID readers can have a range of over 12 meters. Data transmission is very fast with UHF systems. However, they are susceptible to interference. These systems are used in store inventory, pharmaceuticals, etc.

Advantages of RFID encoding printing

Printing with RFID encoding has several key benefits for operations:

• Improved traceability through data embedding
• Better control over label specifications and design
• Reduced possibility of errors and delays in the supply chain
• Compatibility with a range of RFID printers.