RFID is an identification technology that allows a tagged object to automatically identify itself. A reader, sometimes handheld, broadcasts a request, the tag responds and the reader relays the information to a database. The tags can be embedded in the object or the packaging. In many cases, a standard, off the shelf RFID tag can provide the solution. However, there are applications where a custom RFID tag design is necessary. The design and manufacture of these custom RFID tags, which are engineered to solve unique problems with RF performance, durability or special processes is the subject of this discussion.
Types of Problems RFID Tags Can Solve
RFID is a fundamental technology used to solve many types of tracking, identification and security problems. When used correctly, it allows real time monitoring and decision-making. For example, RFID tag design are applied to cargo containers and trailers. When the containers enter and leave the freight yard, their contents are automatically logged into or out of inventory, and the owners of the cargo can be automatically updated regarding progress. RFID tags user memory can, also, be used as local information repositories, and can store service information on aircraft parts, or chain of custody information for pharmaceuticals. RFID tags can, also, be used for security, to ensure tagged assets do not leave their assigned locations, or to ensure only properly authorized people enter secure facilities.
A November 2009 report from ABI Research suggests three areas where RFID will grow the most during the next five years.
Fashion apparel
Asset tracking and management – spare parts, tools, IT and medical assets, and rental-item management
And active RFID tags – real-time location systems
Choosing the right RFID Tag
Many RFID applications can be satisfied with a standard RFID tag. However, there are many use cases where a custom RFID tag design is needed. Applications where high or very specific RF performance is required will need a custom RFID tag. If the tag will see extraordinary environmental or processing conditions, such as pressure washing, autoclaving or steam cleaning, a custom tag may be required. It sometimes occurs that the tag must fit in an existing physical footprint on a product or container, and this will require a specially designed tag. In people tracking applications, whether using cards, wristbands or tags, the interaction of the tag and the human body must be managed, and a custom tag will be needed to get the RF performance needed in the application.
If you should need a custom RFID tag design, be sure to choose a partner with a proven track record, knowledge and experience in a wide variety of RFID applications and environments, and a solid network of partners. The RFID tag design firm should be able to use your specifications to design and configure a custom RFID tag for optimal data collection and security.
Testing the Custom RFID Tag Design in the Application
Because communication with the tag is the essential data link that makes RFID deployment work, it is vital to test the tag in your application. Conformance to specification is not always enough in custom RFID deployments. Structures, vehicles, fluids and people as well as readers and tags can affect the performance of the system. Many of these problems can be anticipated by a seasoned RFID tag designer, but it is always best to test in the ‘real world’ before rolling out a program.
Sue McCrossin is a freelance writer for RCD Technology, a leading manufacturer of custom RFID tag design and other RFID products. Visit the RCD Technology website to find out more information on RFID tag design.
RFID tags rely on radio frequency identification technology to make it possible for your specially labeled or tagged objects to be automatically identified. The system consists of an RFID tag and a reading device which relays the information on the tag back to the user, who can then track and trace their object. What is an RFID tag?
RFID tags are tiny microchips, almost invisible to the naked eye, attached to a printed or plated antenna that is embedded in a card or other object. These devices listen for a radio query. When they sense one, they transmit a response. Many RFID tags are passive, meaning that they use the power from the querying radio signal to transmit their responses. Active RFID tags have batteries, and can transmit a more powerful, longer range response. Each RFID tag has a unique identifier, usually a 64-bit to 128 bit number that can have thousands of trillions of possible values. Who uses RFID tags?
RFID tags are used in a wide range of applications in industry, government, defense and healthcare. They are used to track and monitor inventory, monitor and locate valuable assets, provide secure identity cards or fobs for premises access, to track disaster victims in an evacuations and for easy and secure contact less payment systems. The greatest advantage of RFID is that it greatly speeds the acquisition and processing of information, since line of site and close physical interaction between the tag and the reader is not necessary, as it is with bar codes and other identification technologies. The applications for RFID systems are continually expanding. How are RFID systems implemented.
There are many ‘system integrators’ who have packages that provide tags, RFID readers and the software that collects and manages the information gathered by the RFID network. The system integrator provides a ‘soup to nuts’ implementation service for the customer. These systems can be cost effective for standard track and trace applications. Other firms prefer a more customized approach, because their business process does not fit a system integrator cookbook, or because they believe they can build a competitive advantage by designing and building the system themselves. That is, the RFID system becomes part of their ‘secret sauce’. In this approach, elements of the system will be customized to the unique requirements of the implementer. In these cases it is highly advantageous for the firm to engage with RFID specialists, who can ensure that the ‘physical layer’ of the system works as it should, i.e. that the readers and RFID tags communicate reliably and consistently. This engineering is complex, and having experience in deployment is crucial for rapid, successful implementations.
Though your business and process may be unique, RFID technology may help your company. RFID can help you understand in real time where your inventory or assets are, where your employees are, and if those assets and people are secure. If you already monitor this information, RFID can greatly reduce the time spent collecting it, reducing cost and improving accuracy.
RFID asset tags can allow for worldwide tracking as your product travels around the globe, simplifying manufacturing and distribution problems. RFID consultants can create the correct tag for your own company and help improve your business.
Many RFID consulting services can identify and solve RFID problems, while optimizing options just for you. As each business practice and product is unique, so are each business needs. Find out what a RFID consultant can do for you.
Erica Ronchetti is a free lance writer working with RCD Technology’s RFID tags and solutions. RCD Technology’s mission is to solve RFID problems, while optimizing RFID products for customers. RCD Technology also focuses on designing and manufacturing unique RFID tags that effectively solve individual problems associated with each customer’s unique RFID application.
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Businesses or organizations have procedures to retrieve uncollected funds from debtors for products and services already delivered. When a company has an in house department or subsidiary, it is considered a first party agency for collections. They are fundamentally the same company as the creditor. A third party agency is neither part of the creditor or debtor (second party) in the original transaction. Their services are typically sought after first party collections are unsuccessful.
Third party agencies must adhere to the Fair Debt Collections Practices Act (FDCPA) which protects the consumer from harassment. Among many restrictions, the FDCPA limits hours for phone contact, and limits communication from the agency if the debtor has sent written notification of their wishes not to be contacted. The Act also prohibits agents’ incessant calling with the intent to annoy or harass, and also forbids misrepresentation or deceit. There are other guidelines mandated by the FDCPA, but they only apply to third party agencies. First party agencies can adhere to these rules, but they are not obligatory.
Both types of collection agencies use debt collection software to achieve their goals. Computer technology and debt collection systems are a necessity in the field for successful operations.The debt collection Software used by first or third party agencies often works in a Windows environment allowing for an efficient collections process, as well as the ability to view information to keep track of collections.
Debt collection software systems benefit agencies by merging account information electronically and then coordinating calls, call history and follow ups, and tracking communications such as letters to debtors. Predictive dialer options are also a software feature which increases agent’s ability to speak to the correct person. First and third party agencies are aided in their goal of collecting delinquent funds with the use of debt collection systems.
Grace Enderlein is a freelance writer and editor. “The Use of Debt Collection Systems for First and Third Party Agencies” notes their difference and their use of debt collection software. DAKCS is an accounts receivable management and debt collection software providing agency.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics 20% of small to medium size businesses suffer a major disaster every five years? Physical media and electronic data must be protected and easily retrieved in the case of a natural disaster, equipment failure, or many other unexpected events that can occur for the continuation of business.
Not having data backup and media storage can dramatically compromise the survival of a company if calamity strikes. In fact 43% of company’s that experience a disaster never reopen after a disaster and 29% close within the next xx years due to their failure to have a disaster recovery plan that includes the off-site storage of mission critical data. Information losses can happen because of natural disasters, theft, equipment failure, employee wrongdoing, file corruption and more. If information is lost, business cannot continue as usual without the data. Financial losses occur, and compliance with regulations may be broken. If legal action occurs, data cannot be recovered for subpoena including documents, email, electronic messages.
All businesses must plan for the unexpected, and many are not prepared in the case of a calamity to restore critical data. To protect against the unexpected it is imperative that a company, regardless of size, have a disaster recovery plan that provides for professional media storage and data backup to insure business continuity and to meet regulatory demands in the event of the unexpected. Further it is not sufficient to simply have data copied. Additionally, the data must be stored offsite in an environment that protects the media from theft and damage and there must be a plan that makes the necessary equipment available so the data and applications can be restored and the company can continue to operate.
Data needs to be protected by an expert disaster recovery plan with a company that can guarantee the recovery if the unexpected happens. All types of physical media including tapes, disks, reels, and CD-ROMS should be stored in state of the art facilities, such as a Firelock Vault that meets or exceeds all of the ANSI standards for the protection of company critical data.
There are many companies who recognize the importance of proper media storage and data backup and reduce risk in innovative and secure ways for their clients. They increase operational efficiency and enhance safety and security through their records management and retrieval systems, including storage for both physical media and electronic file vaults.
Grace Enderlein is a freelance writer and editor. “The Importance of Professional Media Storage and Data Backup in Boston, MA" notes that business records need to be stored properly in case of the unexpected, and must also be able to be retrieved. Retrievex.com is an industry leader in records management services.
Debt collection software should allow access to information for clients, and also have tools that make the process more efficient which ultimately leads to more collections. There are many companies provide account receivables management and collection agency software today.
Debt collection software should automate and streamline collections and the administration process, with the ultimate goal being to contact debtors and collect money. Accounts receivable management is a highly competitive field, and debt collection software needs to keep up with changes in the industry and the needs of clients. In the debt collection industry, there is much time and effort from agents spent on non-revenue producing tasks. debt collection software can help agents focus on collecting debts, while giving clients easy access to vital information.
Management tools offered in software that allows agents to focus on collections are imperative for simplifying the process. Debt collection software should offer a central control function so that information can be easily viewed and accessed in real time about clients, collections, and company information. Software is available that allows access to information by collection agents and clients to view portfolios. It can also allow remote payments, status report viewing, and collection statistics. This makes the process more efficient by allowing agents to maximize their time focusing on collections.
There are other tools in debt collection software that make the collections process even more resourceful. Reaching the correct person can be a time consuming step in the collections business. Having a system using a dialog that can quickly verify the right party can be used to save time making contacts. Additional features of these systems include the dialing of alternate phone numbers while collectors are working on other accounts, so that the next person to communicate with is ready. These features allow more calls to be addressed, and ultimately leads to more collections.
There are many experienced accounts receivable management companies today. They offer debt collection software. These companies listen to their clients and their needs and continually keep their products updated for the ever changing collections industry. Their debt collection software works in a user-friendly Windows environment with many integrated features for accounts receivable management needs.
Grace Enderlein is a freelance writer and editor. "How to Choose the Best Debt Collection Software for Your Debt Collection Agency" notes how using the right software can streamline the collections process. DAKCS Software Systems is an established debt collection software Company.
The job of a collection agency during the strain of a poor economy can be challenging. The amount of time and efforts on non-revenue producing tasks of the agency employees is of concern for agency owner/operators. Debt collection software/ accounts receivable software contain the tools to help agencies collect faster and smarter. In the complicated accounts receivable industry, no two agencies are alike so it is important to have debt collection software/accounts receivable software that will address all specific needs. To meet the objectives of every agency owner/operators, debt collection software/accounts receivable software packages need to be customized.
Providing the right tools to employees will help them to be successful in this highly competitive industry. Providing the right debt collection software/accounts receivable software will help save collection agencies in this economy. Note a few of the benefits to providing the best debt collection software/accounts receivable software package:
Benefits of Premier Debt Collection Software /Accounts Receivable Software
Next Generation Dialer and IVR - This addition to debt collection software /accounts receivable software maximizes the collectors time by guaranteeing “right party” connect every time. This new generation dialer allows agencies to focus on their primary objectives.
Secure 24 hour client access –Debt collection software/accounts receivable software allows agency owners/operators to direct access to their account portfolio. This secure internet connection provides them with safe, cost effective way to look at their bad debt portfolio without the daily involvement of agency staff, freeing up their time for their primary objectives.
Secure and immediate payment options – Pay Data Center features incorporated in the debt collection software/accounts receivable software allows every desktop to be turned into a cashier’s station with electronic check processing, credit card processing and instant credit scoring and assessments.
It takes proper management and the right tools to survive and be competitive in today’s accounts receivable industry. Providing the best tools in your debt collection software/accounts receivable software is the backbone to achieving peak performance.
DAKCS SOFTWARE Systems, Inc. announced today an alliance with Automated Collection Control, Inc. (YouveGotClaims). This new partnership will provide DAKCS clients with an additional option for the management of debt portfolios, agency collections and attorney collections.
According to Lex Patterson, DAKCS President. “We are excited to introduce this new interface for our customers. This year, we will be showcasing our new legal package, RESOLVE. The addition of YGC will ensure our product’s competitive edge within the legal community, providing seamless integration and easier accessibility to legal claim business opportunities”.
Warren S. Rosenfeld, President and CEO of Automated Collection Control commented: “This is a further step in the ongoing strategy of our company to partner with value-added companies that can continue to help us make our YouveGotClaims family of services easily accessible for all who want to use it. We look forward to working with DAKCS clients that may not yet be familiar with all of the benefits of using YouveGotClaims.”
About DAKCS Software Systems, Inc.
DAKCS Software Systems, Inc. is a proven leader in accounts receivable management solutions. Established in the early eighties by and for collection professionals, DAKCS has been providing clients with innovative and creative solutions for over twenty years. With a diversified client base, ranging from attorneys to first party collections companies, their primary focus has always been and continues to be addressing the needs of their existing clients: staying current with industry issues and concerns, listening carefully to client requests and making things happen, quickly and cost effectively. Located in the heart of the beautiful Wasatch Mountains, DAKCS headquarters are in Ogden, Utah with a satellite location in Buffalo, New York. To learn more about DAKCS and its robust product portfolio that includes Beyond.Net, VIC, @client services, Ascent, Resolve and more, contact the sales department at 1 800 873 2257 or via the website: www.dakcs.com.
DAKCS Software Systems announces its 2009 Spring Summit Client Conference in Las Vegas, April 22-24. The magnificent Monte Carlo Resort and Casino will serve as the backdrop for the most interesting and informative collections conference of the year. This year’s theme: You-On a Roll will feature up to the minute information on new system enhancements along with hands on training seminars to help clients learn more about the broad feature/functionality available in the core system.
In addition, a variety of speakers will be presenting innovative strategies for managing in difficult economic times. Special guest, David Kaminski, ACA attorney will be the key note speaker. David was instrumental in the recent win for ACA’s Legal Fund, and as a result, the FCC Autodialer Ruling stands. The ruling states that under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act, an individual provides express consent to be called at a wireless number via Autodialer or prerecorded message if she knowingly releases her wireless telephone number to the calling party.
About DAKCS Software Systems, Inc.
DAKCS Software Systems, Inc. is a proven leader in accounts receivable management solutions. Established in the early eighties by and for collection professionals, DAKCS has been providing clients with innovative and creative solutions for over twenty years. With a diversified client base, ranging from attorneys to first party collections companies, their primary focus has always been and continues to be addressing the needs of their existing clients ….staying current with industry issues and concerns, listening carefully to client requests and making things happen, quickly and cost effectively. Located in the heart of the beautiful Wasatch Mountains, DAKCS headquarters are in Ogden, Utah with a satellite location in Buffalo, New York. To learn more about DAKCS and its robust product portfolio that includes Beyond.Net, VIC, @client services, ASCENT, RESOLVE and more, contact the sales department at 1 800 873-2527 and visit the website, www.dakcs.com.
DAKCS Software Systems, a longtime leader in the accounts receivable management industry, hosted its annual summer conference, Expedition 2008, in Park City, Utah August 20-22. Over 100 customers joined the DAKCS team for an informative and thoughtful learning experience.
