Difference between RFID and Barcode
Last Updated :
14 Dec, 2022
1. Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) : It is an acronym for “radio-frequency identification” and refers to science whereby digital data encoded in RFID tags or smart labels are captured with aid of a reader by radio waves. In RFID data from a tag or label are captured via a gadget that stores data in a database. RFID, however, has quite a few benefits over systems that use barcode asset monitoring software. The most incredible is that RFID tag statistics can be examined outside line-of-sight.
An RFID tag incorporates a sensor connected to an antenna that allows transmission of data to reader. Each sensor carries a unique identifier and an RFID reader that can concurrently scan a lot of tags.
2. Barcode : Barcode is a type of code which is machine-readable i.e. a machine-code/machine language in structure of numbers and a pattern of parallel lines of various widths, printed on a commodity and used specifically for stock control. Barcoding makes use of a scanner with a beam of light to “read” black and white traces of a barcode.
The scanner consists of a sensor that creates a signal from the mirrored or reflected light, and a decoder then interprets sign into textual content and sends it to a PC or database. Barcode scanners require line of sight and ought to “see” every barcode one at a time in order to seize data.
Difference between RFID and Barcode :
| Sr.No. |
RFID |
Barcode |
| 1. |
In RFID Radio Frequency (RF) technology is used. |
In Barcode Optical (laser) technology is used. |
| 2. |
It no longer requires Line of sight. |
It requires Line of sight because scanner must have an unobstructed view and must be oriented properly. |
| 3. |
It has greater data storage as in contrast to barcodes. |
It has much less data storage up to solely 24 characters. |
| 4. |
Memory storage is possible in RFID with assist of tags. |
Memory storage is not possible in barcodes. |
| 5. |
It is more resistant or durable than a barcode. |
It is much less resistant than RFID. |
| 6. |
Several RFID tags can be examined simultaneously i.e. multiple read is allowed in RFID. |
Only a single barcode can be scanned at a time i.e one card can be read at a time. |
| 7. |
Read/write abilities using RFID tags. |
Barcode has totally reading capabilities and can’t write anything. |
| 8. |
It processes faster than Barcode. |
It is slower than RFID. |
| 9 |
Required power source |
Power Source not Required |
| 10 |
Data can be updated in real time |
Data is read only cannot be changed. |
| 11 |
Can scan from the item for its meter depending. |
Required closure proximity for scanning. |
| 12 |
Read time is less than 100 ms per tag. |
Read time is half a sec or more. |
| 13 |
RFID can be used in Harsher environment. |
While in Barcode soiled labels are difficult to read. |
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