GS1 Romania – UNIC LICENTIAT ALOCARE CODURI DE BARE EAN

RFID frequently asked questions

1. What is RFID?
2. What is EPCglobal?
3. What are the main differences between bar codes and EPCglobal tags?
4. What are the benefits of the EPCglobal Network?
5. What does subscription to the EPCglobal Network mean?
6. What are the RFID services are offered by GS1 UK?
7. Why should my company join EPCglobal now? There are more standards coming out all the time, so am I better off waiting?

9. I want to get a copy of an agreed/published EPCglobal standard?
10. Is EPC a replacement for bar codes and other elements of the GS1 System?

If you would like to add a question to this list please email it to epcglobal@gs1uk.org.

1. What is RFID?
RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification. It is a tracking and data carrying technology that involves tags that communicate using radio waves and devices called readers that pick up the signals from the tags. The readers are connected to a computer system which interprets and uses the data it receives.

2. What is EPCglobal?
EPCglobal is part of GS1 and was established in November 2003 to deliver open, global standards for RFID in the supply chain.
The standard is called the EPCglobal Network, which links RFID to the Internet to enable immediate, automatic identification and secure sharing of information on items in the supply chain. GS1 UK provides these standards in the UK.

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3. What are the main differences between bar codes and EPCglobal tags?

• You do not have to be able to see an EPCglobal tag to be able to read it. An EPCglobal tag must merely pass through the electromagnetic field emitted by the reader to be read
• EPCglobal tags can be read at a distance of around two to three meters
• Hundreds of EPCglobal tags can be read in a few seconds
• EPCglobal tags are less susceptible to damage than bar codes which are easily obscured or damaged

4. What are the benefits of the EPCglobal Network?

• New efficiencies in business processes through precise tracking and tracing of physical goods
• More detailed and accurate information about products will improve movement in real-time inventory management and replenishment practices, resulting in increased sales due to fewer items being out-of-stock. This will allow companies to accurately and responsively meet customer demand
• Dramatically reduce the number of goods that go missing or are stolen, by enabling businesses to understand exactly what’s in the storeroom or supply chain at any time
• Improved processes that can lead to reduced theft, counterfeiting and administrative errors
• Effective recall of faulty or dangerous products
• Reduced prices for the consumer passed on as a result of savings made in the supply chain

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5. What does subscription to the EPCglobal Network mean?

• Early access to the EPCglobal Network, network components, research and software specifications
• EPCglobal ONS (Object Naming Service) registration
• EPCglobal manager numbers, enabling you to assign unique identifiers (EPC’s) to pallets, cases and items
• End users may influence the requirement of a new standard. This standard then forms the foundation for the hardware and software manufacturers to build their products and ensure interoperability and therefore wider take up resulting in a lower priced product
• Solution providers involved in the Hardware and Software Action Groups will be the first to understand the requirements from the business community and specify the standard to meet their customers’ needs. They can also obtain invaluable information to assist in the formation of their product portfolio strategy Influence over the future direction of research by the Auto-ID labs
• Exchange of ideas and experiences with others who are developing EPCglobal applications
• You can take advantage of the EPCglobal eRoom, a website forum that allows you to collaborate with other participants in your group and keep abreast of developments
• You will be able to participate in the European Adoption Programme which brings together European EPCglobal subscribers to share ideas and experiences of their EPC implementation and discuss the latest developments of EPCglobal standards
• Certification and compliance programmes to assist in choosing suppliers and service providers Implementation and support services

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6. What are the RFID services are offered by GS1 UK?

GS1 Romania members have access to training and information services for all EPCglobal-related aspects of RFID deployment.

These services are:

• Helpdesk for advice and information – +40 21 3178031
• Articles published in the Association newsletter INFO which keeps you informed of the latest developments
• EPCglobal training – a training course which accelerates your understanding of RFID and EPCglobal and their importance to your business, and provides valuable assistance in establishing your RFID and EPCglobal implementation business case and plan

In addition, GS1 Romania offers members a variety of RFID related services through the EPCglobal subscription. If you would now like more information on subscribing to the EPCglobal Network please click here

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7. Why should my company join EPCglobal now? There are more standards coming out all the time, so am I better off waiting?
No. Early adopters of this technology can gain significant advantages by joining the effort now and contributing toward the standards-making process. Companies that begin to prepare today will be best positioned to capture the value of the EPCglobal Network and keep a step ahead of their competitors.

8.Will you be offering any education or training programmes?
Yes. EPCglobal will provide comprehensive implementation support for the EPCglobal Network through the national GS1 Member Organisations, including developing and maintaining global technology and application standards, education and training, and certification and compliance programs, all from a multi-industry, global perspective.

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9. I want to get a copy of an agreed/published EPCglobal standard?
For details of all EPCglobal specifications and ratified standards please the EPCglobal Inc website. To understand further the EPCglobal standards development process again please visit the EPCglobal Inc website

10. Is EPC a replacement for bar codes and other elements of the GS1 System?
EPC numbers can accommodate all GS1 keys, including bar code numbers, pallet labels, location numbers and returnable asset identifiers. The EPCglobal Network will complement existing systems and not replace them for the foreseeable future.

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