When we first started D-Tech almost ten year’s ago RFID was a very new technology and we were one of the first to introduce RFID based products and systems into libraries. RFID is no longer just about self service, it’s now scoped way beyond that and its destiny is changing. Which is why we have invested time and finances into extend and develop our own RFID products so that our customers can deliver new and exciting services within shorter deadlines and cost effectively . Our objective it to deliver innovative RFID solutions but innovation that does not come at a price. The pressure is on us to help our customers operate within a tough economic climate and uncertainty.
As an independent company we are best placed to offer excellent value products, supported by top level customer service and the freedom to innovate and be creative.
We see RFID as a way for you to deliver services smarter, faster and in the way consumers want to receive them. No queues or long waiting times, no access problems or customer service issues but longer opening hours, enhanced customer services and improved stock availability.
For you improved security, flexibility in stock management and inventory control, improved data collection and trend analysis. We were also one of the first in the UK to introduce 24 hr vending for libraries.
RFID frees up staff from behind the counter and allows them to interact with library visitors, develop new services and benefit from faster, smarter RFID transactions.
With so much information and commentary about standards we think it is all starting to get rather confusing for anyone that either isn’t either a programmer or a supplier. So here is an honest explanation in simple terms, without the jargon, of the basics that will affect you. We’ve been using the open Danish standard ISO 28560-3 since 2006 so it goes without saying that we are one hundred percent supportive of an open standard within the industry.
In simple terms – what is a data model?
The words UK national profile and data model are used to describe the way in which suppliers load information onto the RFID labels.
If you think of the RFID label as a waffle, it has many small squares. On the UK standard data model ISO 28560-2, each supplier would load the barcode into the same square and each part of information is allocated a square. This also makes sure we are writing information in the same language.
With a non standard data model each supplier would load information to whichever square they choose or think best. The problem with this is that the waffle is concealed in a box so you cannot see which square is being used, for which part of information. To make things even more difficult, if ‘the waffle’ has been sealed with a plastic wrapping, no other supplier can read these labels. This is called encryption.
So what does this mean?
The new standard will allow all new installations to be open so that the labels can be read by more than one supplier. It will also mean that more information can be stored for better communication in the future.
This means that you now have the opportunity to choose from a range of supplier products and services as they will be compatible and open.
What if our labels are already encrypted?
So many UK libraries have already implemented RFID with millions of books already programmed with encrypted data models. This raises quite a few questions: what happens to them, how do they changeover? How long will it take? How much will it cost?
General questions?
It’s not law so why should I change? Will the standard change in the future? Does this affect my security EAS/AFI? Will it still work? If I use another supplier will it all be supported?
To understand more and for honest information about data models, from a company that has been walking and talking open standards since 2006, give us a call on the number on the side bar here. We will be fair and square with you!
