Smart labels contain electronic devices that have read/write memory used to
store and access information. The electronic device is a radio
(RFID) transponder or tag. The RFID technology, like bar codes, is used to automatically
capture data. It is different from a bar code in that it can hold much more
data, it can be reprogrammed, and its data is accessed by a reader but it does
not need optical contact with the reader to be read.
The standard construction of a smart label consists of a pressure sensitive
facestock, an inlay, which contains the radio frequency identification
transponder, and a liner. The inlay is laminated between the facestock
and the liner. The transponder contains an antenna and microchip.
The data from the smart label is accessed when the transponder passes by
the reader. Radio wave lengths are picked up from the antenna and the
data on the microchip is transferred to the reader and then passed on
to a computer or printer. As the product moves from one stage to the next
its movements can be monitored and data can be updated when necessary.
The smart label can identify, track in real-time and authenticate a product.
Some common applications where smart labels would be used are supply chain
management, production control, work-in-process, baggage identification and
tracking, express delivery services, reusable container tracking and security
systems (see Label-Types-Security Labels).
The industry acceptance of smart labels has been slow. The RFID technology
can improve performance and efficiency but is expensive to startup. As more
companies commit to the use of this new technology it will become more widely
accepted and many will benefit from its capabilities.
Back to Top