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Implementation
of an RFID system is not a simple process. It
is a complex web of technology, equipment and software that has
to be fitted to each library's needs.
This is a
brief list of the most important pieces of the
RFID puzzle.
- Tags - Every
item must be tagged and the tag programmed with
the required unique information.
- Readers -
Each service unit needs to have sufficient
portable readers to carry out operations.
- Check in, check out
and sorting – The circulation area systems
need to be designed and built. The system allows for the implementation
of self-sorting machines and other time and worker health savers.
- Self-Serve
check out stations - One of the prime cost
reducers of the system. Implementation of this system requires several
decisions
around security protocols, fine and bill payment procedures, library
card types
and other policy decisions that will increase or limit the usefulness
of these
systems.
- Software –
Newer systems come with software that converts
the radio frequency data to digital and communicates it to the ILS
system. Older versions require third party software to communicate between the
two systems.
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