RFID data collectors - handhelds for inventory and field work
An RFID data collector (handheld) is the fastest way to automate inventory and identification in the field. In B2B solutions, it's the range, reading speed, ergonomics and integration with the system that counts - so the choice of device should be driven by the process, not by catalog specifications alone.
What are RFID collectors used for?
RFID handhelds are used where a worker needs to move between locations or operate a process without a fixed gateway infrastructure. This makes RFID work in the warehouse, in production, in stores and in field service.
- Inventory of inventory and assets (asset tracking).
- Picking and verification of shipments (picking/packing).
- Receipt and release of goods, batch compliance control.
- Inventory in retail (sales room, back office).
- Read tags in harsh conditions (gloves, dust, moisture).
Parameters that realistically matter
In practice, effectiveness is determined by matching antenna, power and ergonomics to operating conditions. Software issues are also important: application, data formats and synchronization with the system.
- Frequency and standard (UHF EPC Gen2 / HF/NFC).
- Antennas and polarization - impact on reading stability.
- Reading speed and working with multiple tags (anti-collision).
- Resistance (IP), battery, glove operation, trigger/gun grip.
- Integration: data export, API, EPC format/serialization.
Tags that work best with the handheld
Tag is not "universal." For metal you need an on-metal design, for textiles you need laundry solutions, and with liquids you need the right selection and positioning. The handheld is just a tool: the key is the reader + tag + process duo.
- UHF labels - quick inventory of packages and cartons.
- On-metal tags - stable reading on metallic resources.
- Laundry tags - identification of textiles and workwear.
- HF/NFC - short distances and simple identification scenarios.
Implementation: how to get started without risk
The best practice is a short pilot: choose 1-2 tag models, test reading on target objects and only then decide on the scale. This avoids a situation where the parameters "on paper" do not match the real process.
- Identify the objects and locations of the tags (metal, liquid, textile).
- Define KPIs: inventory time, % read, number of errors.
- Perform the test in a real environment and reader settings.
- Match the serialization and data format (EPC/UID) to the system.
FAQ
Most common questions about this RFID application — if you need help choosing tags or running pilot tests, write to us.
Do you have a similar project?
Describe the material (metal/liquid/textiles), working conditions and the expected read range. We’ll select RFID UHF or HF/NFC tags, propose the process and prepare a B2B quote.