How does RTLS work?

RTLS measures signals between a tagged asset and several known points and then triangulates these signals to determine location. Most RTLS use access points (also called interrogators or readers) as their fixed points.

The RFind Difference

The RFind solution uses tags for fixed points in locating. Rather than having all tags communicating directly with costly access points, RFind's inexpensive tags talk to each other, reducing the need for costly readers.

This is what we call Tag to Tag™ Communications Technology

Technology Comparison

Traditional RFID RTLS

RFID Real Time Locating Systems traditionally function by using three components:


  • RFID tags to identify assets
  • RFID Access Points to as reference points & to triangulate location
  • Database/Software Package

Reference Points = Access Points = $$$$$

RFind Tag to Tag™ RTLS

RFind's RTLS operates with the same components as traditional RTLS - with a key difference… Tag to Tag™ Communication. In the RFind System, the three components are:

  • RFID tags to identify assets or act as reference points
  • RFID Gateways used to relay location data -Database/Software Package

Reference Points = Tags = $

Infrastructure Equipment Requirements for 500,000 square feet

Advantages of Using Tags as Fixed Points

Tags are inexpensive and easier to use than access points. Used as fixed points, tags create an RTLS Solution that is:

  • Affordable - Using tags instead of access points is more cost effective, and reduces installation costs - providing a more rapid ROI
  • Portable - Tags are self-contained and can be picked up and moved at any time without re-cabling
  • Flexible - Tags are self-contained and can be picked up and moved at any time without re-cabling when conditions in the environment change
  • Scalable - Tags acting as fixed points can be added when the system needs to be expanded
  • Accurate - Tags acting as fixed points can be installed in custom configurations and location to suit the level of accuracy required
  Drivers Traditional RTLS RFind's Tag-to-Tag RTLS
Affordable
Cost of installing the RTLS backbone		 - Cost of fixed points/hardware
- Cabling required (power & network)
- Installation labour time/cost		 lots of money much less money
Portable
Easily moved to alternative locations		 - Re-Cabling
- Reconfiguration		 check checkcheckcheckcheckcheck
Flexible
Easily adapted to changing environments		 - Re-Cabling for access points
- Reconfiguration		 check checkcheckcheckcheckcheck
Scalable
Easily expanded as systems grow		 - Cost of fixed points
- Cabling required (power & network)		 checkcheckcheck checkcheckcheckcheckcheck
Accurate - Distance between assets & fixed points checkcheckcheck checkcheckcheckcheckcheck

 

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