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It was 1974 when the first barcode was scanned in a small supermarket in Ohio. What was an absolute sensation back then is now an integral part of our world.
For almost 50 years, barcodes have helped to clearly identify products, control the flow of goods and automate processes. It is estimated that over 5 billion barcodes are in use worldwide every day. But like any technology, the good old barcode is getting on in years.
More and more companies are turning to smart developments - above all RFID (Radio Frequency Identification). With waves instead of bars, data capture is not only more flexible, but also faster and more efficient.
And the trend is clear: the global RFID market is growing steadily and is expected to reach a volume of over 40 billion US dollars by 2030.
Technical differences: lines vs. waves
What is the difference between a barcode and an RFID transponder?
Here is a brief overview:
| Barcode | RFID |
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So while the barcode works perfectly for simple, linear processes, RFID shows its strengths wherever more dynamics and speed are required.
Where RFID clearly beats the barcode
Especially in demanding environments, it quickly becomes clear why RFID is increasingly becoming the better choice:
Dirty, dusty or oily environments:
- In workshops, foundries or outdoor areas, barcodes often become so dirty that they are no longer legible.
- RFID, on the other hand, works contactlessly and reliably - even if the labels are no longer clearly visible.
High-volume logistics:
- Scanning barcodes individually on each parcel? Extremely time-consuming.
- With RFID, pallets, containers or entire warehouse sections can be scanned in seconds.
Speed counts:
- In high-speed warehouses or sorting systems, where every second counts, RFID provides the necessary speed - without the need to “aim and hit” as with barcodes.
Other typical applications for RFID
- Container management in production
- Asset tracking in industry
- Laundries and textile services
- Intralogistics and supply chain management
- Tool management and equipment monitoring
Where RFID reaches its limits
Despite all the advantages: RFID is not a panacea. There are areas in which barcodes remain the better or even the only practicable solution:
Metallic environments:
Strong reflections or shielding by metal can interfere with RFID signals. Reliability is often limited, especially when several metallic parts are detected in bulk.
Water-rich applications:
Water absorbs radio waves. If, for example, wet objects are stored close together (e.g. bottles, food), RFID signals can penetrate with difficulty or not at all.
Complex reading scenarios:
RFID works best in controlled processes. Chaotic processes or poorly placed reading points can lead to incomplete readings.
Important: A good RFID solution always requires a careful antenna and layout concept so that reading reliability is really guaranteed.
Why barcodes are losing ground
It is not just the technology that is causing barcode solutions to increasingly fall behind.
A key factor is the shortage of skilled workers:
- Fewer and fewer employees available in warehouses, production and logistics
- Manual scans cost valuable time - time that is often simply no longer available
- Only automated, fast processes ensure competitive workflows today
RFID provides real relief here:
Automatic capture of entire load carriers, contactless bookings and live transparency turn slow manual scans into modern, highly efficient data capture processes.
Conclusion
Barcodes remain a loyal companion for many simple applications - but the future belongs to waves.
If you want to speed up your processes, reduce the workload of your employees and at the same time ensure greater transparency, you can hardly avoid RFID.
Those who analyze their processes carefully and find the right technology together with experienced partners are well advised.
