There is an assumption that once you start using RFID, you don’t need barcodes anymore. That is sometimes true, but almost always the truth is that you need both. And since most RFID tags are embedded in a label, having both technologies present and using the one that makes the most sense is the better approach.
Also, replicating the data that is in the barcode into the RFID tag is the common practice as well. Having a part number and unique serial number in both places allows you to really use RFID for counting inventory and also allows a user or operator to simply scan the barcode data when that method is more appropriate.
People don’t think about the challenges that RFID can sometimes cause. When you are trying to get the data from a single item that is surrounded by many other like items. A barcode can be the better approach since it is a cingulated point and shoot method of collecting data. One trigger pull, one cross hair on the barcode, one beep, and you know exactly which item you read. RFID on the other hand is going to read every tag in its read range, and you won’t necessarily know which one you read.
On the other hand, you have to see a barcode in order to read it. Use cases where you are trying to collect large amounts of data from items that are in a given area is where RFID really shines. Also, the ability to interrogate the contents of a container without laying hands on every item inside is a great RFID use case.
Want to learn more, and maybe get a demo on how this could work? www.emptechgroup.com is the best place to reach us.