Applying RFID in Agro-Industry

CSG AgroSys was an exhibitor at the recent seminar 'Applying RFID in Agriculture and Industry' held in Chiang Mai. There is a lot of hype surrounding RFID, but it is best kept simple. RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification) means putting a tag on something that you want to track. Similar to putting a number or a barcode on something you want to track. With barcodes you need a person to locate the barcode, and scan it by pointing a barcode reader at it.  With RFID however, this scanning happens automatically as things move through your production / logistics chain.  This means better accuracy, less need for people manually doing things, less mistakes.  CSG AgroSys can be used with either barcodes or RFID tags.  The big decision is actually WHAT units to track and where to track it. RFID is not always a clear benefit for each and every client, so a first step is always to discuss the production process and see where and how automatic scanning/tracking of goods can be a benefit. RFID tags still cost more than just printing a barcode on a label.  Therefore currently in the Agriculture and Food Industry tags are re-used.  A barcode costs very little so it can leave the production chain still attached to the item.  RFID tags however are more often attached to containers that stay within the production or internal logistical chain. For example a tag can be attached to a skid/pallet or another container. For some uses however barcodes are preferable, and barcodes are cheaper than RFID tags. The main benefit is actually in the software itself, which is now better aware of where any item is currently located. The software can then alert your staff when the wrong items are moved/shipped, and any movement is tracked automatically. For more information on RFID contact CSG, or for further background reading see for example Article and links on RFID

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