Automatic Identification & Data Capture (AIDC)
Automatic Identification & Data Capture (AIDC) technologies, such as QR codes and barcodes, are used to identify objects, collect embedded data and enter it directly into computer systems. It automates many labour-intensive tasks, reducing operating costs, enabling quicker turnaround and eliminating errors. AIDC technologies find application in logistics, public events, healthcare, retail, etc.
Bar Code
A barcode is a graphical representation of encoded data that is machine-readable. The barcode scanner reads (scans & decodes) the data, speeding up business processes and eliminating human error.
QR Code
QR codes store a hyperlink to a webpage to perform some desired action. Common applications are: authentication, website or social media page access, registration or feedback, consumer engagement, analytics, tracking, ticketing, etc.
Radiofrequency identification (RFID)
RFID is a technology for storing data in smart labels or tags. By using radio frequency, the data can be fetched from a distance. Unlike barcode data, it does not require line-of-sight reading. RFID data can also be updated multiple times.
For reading the data, a scanner, mobile computer or hand-held terminal is required for on-field applications such as production floors, warehouses or retail stores. Holoflex has partnered with the leading OEMs to offer integrated AIDC systems at the site. We also offer customized solutions through our in-house team of experts.
Holoflex offers complete services for incorporating barcodes into your system, including print and apply machines, readers, software, training and troubleshooting. We also print complete self-adhesive labels with barcodes for application at your site.
AIDC products from Holoflex include
Barcode labels are widely used for product identification in retail, healthcare management in hospitals, package tracking in mail and courier services, as well as cinemas, theatres, fairgrounds and promotions, etc. Barcode labels can be delivered as pre-printed, ready-to-apply barcode labels, or blank labels, software and a printer to print barcode and text on blank labels at the site. As a leading label manufacturer, we can ensure the most effective procurement plan.
Being a trusted barcode label manufacturer, Holoflex offers barcode-based solutions to various industry verticals. It is, in fact, a one-stop solutions provider with a range that goes beyond barcodes to cover hologram labels, security seals, shrink sleeves, induction sealing wads, holographic films and scratch-and-win coupons. We also offer high-quality printed aluminium foil and PVC film. Our Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) solutions are designed.
We offer a wide array of customization options for our products, services and labels. Our stringent quality assurance processes ensure that every label meets the highest standards. The trust and satisfaction of our clients are the true markers of our success.
A barcode reader or scanner is an electronic device for reading printed barcodes. It consists of a light source, a lens and a light sensor translating optical impulses into electrical ones. Most barcode readers contain decoder circuitry for analyzing the barcode’s image data and sending it to the scanner’s output port.
The scanner resolution is measured by the size of the dot of light emitted by the reader. If this dot of light is wider than any bar or space in the barcode, it will overlap two elements (two spaces or two bars) and may produce the wrong output. Similarly, if the dot is too small, it can misinterpret any spot on the barcode, causing an error. The most commonly used dimension is 13 Thou (0.33 mm), although some scanners can read codes as small as 3 Thou (0.075 mm). Smaller bar codes must be printed at high resolution to be read accurately. Holoflex offers a bouquet of various Barcode Scanners, both 1D and 2D, through our association with OEMs like Datalogic, Honeywell, Motorola, etc., to fit into any labelling process.
A barcode printer is a computer peripheral for printing barcode labels or tags. They can also be printed directly on physical objects. Barcode printers are commonly used to label cartons before shipment or to label retail items with UPCs or EANs.
The most common Barcode Printer employs printing technology based on thermal transfer. Thermal Transfer Printers use heat to melt a waxy or resin substance on a ribbon that runs over the label or tag material. The heat transfers ink from the ribbon to the paper. Barcode printers are designed for different markets. Industrial barcode printers are used in large warehouses and manufacturing facilities. They have large paper capacities, operate faster and have a longer service life. For retail and office environments, desktop barcode printers are most common.
Holoflex offers a wide range of Barcode Printers from leading OEMs like Zebra, Datamax, etc.
3 Technologies
Three different classes of technology available to print barcodes are:
Inkjet (dot-on-demand or continuous) systems are capable of printing high-resolution images at press speed (up to 1000 fpm). These solutions can be deployed either on-press or off-line. Laser Marking can be employed to ablate a coating or to cause a colour change in certain materials. The advantage of laser is fine detail and high speed for character printing, with no consumables. However, not all substrates accept laser marks and certain colours (e.g. red) are not suitable for barcode reading.
Thermal transfer technology is used for lower-speed off-press applications. Thermal transfer and direct thermal printers are ideal for printing variable data on labels.
A smart card, chip card, or integrated circuit card (ICC) is any pocket-sized plastic card with embedded integrated circuits. Smart cards can provide identification, authentication, data storage and application processing. Smart cards provide strong security authentication for processes like single sign-on (SSO) or Access Control within large organizations. Smart Cards are mainly of three types:
Contact-based Cards
Contact smart cards have a contact area of approximately 1 square centimetre (0.16 sq in), comprising several gold-plated contact pads. These pads provide electrical connectivity when inserted into a reader, [9] which is used as a communications medium between the smart card and a host (e.g., a computer, a point of sale terminal) or a mobile telephone. The cards do not contain batteries -- power is supplied by the card reader.
Contactless Cards
Contactless smart cards communicate with their readers through RF induction technology (at data rates of 106–848 kbit/s). These cards require only proximity to an antenna to communicate. Like smart cards, contactless cards lack an internal power source. Instead, they use an inductor to capture some of the incident radio-frequency interrogation signal and use it to power the card’s electronics.
Hybrid Cards
Dual-interface cards implement contactless and contact interfaces on a single card with some shared storage and processing. Holoflex offers Smart Cards on a turnkey basis with customized printing on the cards. We also provide and commission Card Printers at client locations.
A mobile data terminal (MDT) or mobile digital computer (MDC) is a computerized device used in public transit vehicles, taxicabs, courier vehicles, service trucks, commercial trucking fleets, military logistics, fishing fleets, warehouse inventory control and emergency vehicles, such as police cars, to communicate with a central dispatch office. In industry, it is widely used in tracking materials, assets, or fleet, irrespective of their physical location.
Popularly known as Mobile Computers, the key benefits are:
- •Better tacking & visibility of material, process
- •Better inventory management
- •Better accessibility of information
- •Improved efficiency & accuracy
- •Reduced human interference
- •Optimum resource utilisation
- •Real time operation
Holoflex offers solutions based on Mobile Computers from OEMs like Honeywell and Datalogic. The most common use is in Track-Trace models for enterprise-level operations or government bodies like the Excise Department.
Holoflex offers a variety of thermal ribbons which is compatible with major OEM thermal printers. Types of ribbons offered are as following:
- •Wax – Regular and Premium
- •Wax / Resin – Regular and Premium Resin
- •Resin
- •Colour – in wax, resin grades: Red, Green, Blue, White, etc.
- •Near Edge – for flexible packaging applications
- •Wash Care – for textile applications Security Ribbon
- •UV Ribbon – print visible only under UV light
- •Colour Changing Ribbon – changes colour under specific lighting conditions
Track & Trace Technology is used in distribution and logistics for determining current and past locations (and other information) of a unique item or property. One approach is to report the position of vehicles and containers carrying the item. Another, typically used by shippers such as DHL, FedEx, UPS, etc., is to report the location of an individual item with its time and status.
The main components of Track & Trace Technology Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID) –RFID is a code-carrying technology that enables non-line of sight-reading by using radio frequency. Deployment of RFID was earlier inhibited by cost limitations but the usage is now increasing. Barcode – This is the most common and cost-effective method. Barcodes store variable data which can be used to trace and monitor data ranging from as time-to-market to product quality.
Consumers can access web sites to trace the origins of their purchased products or to find the status of shipments. Consumers can type a code found on an item into a search box at the tracing website and view related and available information. This can also be done via a smartphone taking a picture of a 2D barcode (QR Code) and thereby opening up a website that verifies the product (i.e. product authentication).
Holoflex is equipped to integrate multiple AIDC solutions into a single product to ensure real-time accountability, traceability and security. Our team of AIDC specialists can help you integrate our solutions into your existing technology setup to extend functionality. We have experience with both branded ERP solution like SAP, Oracle, Dynamics as well as home-grown system.
Uniquely, Holoflex can integrate AIDC solutions with product labels, holographic security, multi-colour printing, 2D Barcode/ QR Code etc. to offer a complete package. We can also develop corresponding custom software for your specific needs.
Some integrated solutions offered by us are:
- •Medicare Management
- •Retail PoS Management
- •Warehouse Management
- •Visitor Management
- •Event Management
AIDC in Medicare Management
AIDC Systems are essential in medical establishments as speed and accuracy are crucial. Requirements include point-of-care scanning to match product data to patient data; verification of patient identity e.g. wristband; recording implant serial numbers in patient records and central registries; tracking and tracing of individual instruments through decontamination; stock control and supplies management; tracking assets throughout a network of facilities and enabling the introduction of robotic dispensing systems. Overall these systems reduce medication errors and increasing efficiency and transparency.
Related Products:
Wristbands
Labels
Barcode Scanner
Barcode Printer
Mobile Terminal/Handheld
Integrated Solution
AIDC in Retail Management
All large retail stores have one thing in common: the need for AIDC Technology. The most vital is at the point-of-sale (POS) checkout, which features Bar code scanning, Bill Printing, Electronic Cash Drawer, RFID Tags etc. The balance between quickly and accurately collecting item level transaction data while ensuring a faster checkout experience can only be met by AIDC-enabled processes. The saving in manpower, inventory losses and time is incalculable.
Related Products:
Labels
Barcode Scanner
Barcode Printer
Mobile Terminal/Handheld
Integrated Solution
AIDC in Warehouse Management
Warehouses need to unload, stock, package, label and deliver the right product to the right customer at the right time at competitive cost. This is only possible with accurate and in-time data and information. AIDC Technology like Barcode Scanners, Mobile Computers, RFID, Labelling Solutions etc. demonstrably improves warehouse efficiency to gain a competitive edge.
Related Products:
Labels
Barcode Scanner
Barcode Printer
Mobile Terminal/Handheld
Integrated Solution
AIDC in Visitor Management
With rising threat perception due to terrorism, industrial espionage or theft, Visitor Management System (VMS) to keep a tab on their daily visitors is common to most large organisations. VMS ensures that a visitor is recorded at the entry point and is granted only specific access within the organization premises to meet the intended person. Daily records of visitors and vehicles are stored which can be instantly retrieved for any future reference. AIDC technology like barcode scanning, card printing, RFID tags can play a key role in failsafe visitor management.
Related Products:
Smart Card & ID Card Printing Solution
Barcode Scanner
Barcode Printer
Mobile Terminal/Handheld
Integrated Solution
AIDC in Event Management
Event management often requires handling large crowds. The point-of-entry at the event, access to various sub-events and daily/multiple entries may need to be monitored and swiftly acted upon. AIDC enabled event passes or wristband are the most convenient solutions. AIDC technology like barcode printing, barcode scanning, mobile computers and wristband scan help organizers plan and manage an event with confidence.
Related Products:
Wristbands
Barcode Scanner
Barcode Printer
Mobile Terminal/Handheld
Integrated Solution
FAQs
A barcode is an optical machine-readable representation of data that can be quickly and accurately captured by scanning. Different barcode symbologies are designed for various applications. Some symbologies encode only numbers, while others can handle numbers, letters and a limited set of punctuation characters. Encoding of the full 128-character ASCII set and even the extended 256-character ASCII set is also possible. The choice of symbology depends on the specific needs of businesses. The data is stored in vertical black & white bars.
Barcodes may be one-dimensional (1D) or two-dimensional (2D). 1D barcodes are first-generation and can be read with any barcode scanner. However, 1D barcodes need more horizontal space to print than 2D barcodes, which also store more data in smaller areas. QR codes or Quick Response Barcodes are a special form (symbology) of 2D barcodes.
To sell your GST products in the formal sector, you have to get registration with GS1 India for a GTIN barcode (EAN or UPC). For others, any available symbology like Code 128, Code39, I2o5 or Datamatrix, Maxicode, PDF417 may be used. These barcodes can be generated either by using some barcode generating applications software or using the software that comes with the barcode printer.
GS1 is a global standard that creates a common foundation for business by uniquely identifying and automatically sharing vital information about products, locations, assets and more. GS1 is an international not-for-profit association that provides the global framework and local implementation services in 114 countries.
GS1 standards are used in two of the most popular AIDC technologies, i.e., Barcode and RFID. They help trading partners to easily collaborate and share information across the supply chain.
To obtain a GS1 barcode, you need to register with GS1 and get your unique numerical identification. This is a GS1 company prefix that is part of the EAN and UPC barcode for their products. The identification key for an item is also known as GTIN. It is visible under the barcode and starts with 890 for products manufactured in India.
No license fee is required for commonly used barcodes, except GS1 barcode. For GS1 barcodes, registration is required, so there is a cost involved.
1D scanners can only scan 1D barcode while 2D scanners can read 1D, 2D and QR codes. Most QR apps available are capable of scanning both 1D & 2D barcodes. However, the performance depends on the camera quality.
The size of the barcode depends on the data and also the quality of the scanner deployed. A high-end industrial scanner with better intelligence (decoding software) can scan very small barcodes.
The choice of barcode scanner depends on the application e.g. 1D or 2D, reading distance, operation process (wired, wireless or mobile), environment, etc.
Whether the bar codes need to be printed at our facility or yours depends on your business needs, feasibility and cost of implementation. Please contact us to determine your best option.
We can supply barcode print & apply machines. Label applicators can be deployed to affix printed barcodes.
Holoflex is a leading manufacturer of labels & holograms. We produce blank & pre-printed barcode labels - media for barcode printers. We also provide the Thermal Transfer Ribbon of all kinds to our customers.
A free version of printing software is provided by most of the barcode printer manufacturers. However, these have functional limitations. A pro or paid version offers more functionality, like database integration.
There are so many makes and models of barcode printers available in the market. To select the right model, we need to understand the application and identify the size and type of labels to be printed, the print resolution and the quantity to print in a week or month. The printing environment, e.g. remote or desktop printing, stand-alone or shared, is also important.
We have the expertise to incorporate security elements in barcode labels in the form of integrated holograms, printed security features and also interactive features for brands facing counterfeiting challenges.
As a part of Holoflex printer installation process, we provide operational training on barcode printer, scanner & labels designing software. Training of software also includes designing of labels, printer settings, etc. Training of barcode printer includes media loading, setting up printers, some basic maintenance & troubleshooting. During the installation of the printer, we help our customers with initial label designs.