Printronix SL5000r MP manual Hardware/Infrastructure Considerations, How It Works

How It Works

•EPC: This tool allows EPC data to be directly encoded into the smart label’s RFID tag. Simply have your existing software application write the desired EPC number to a Code 3 of 9 barcode. The printer will then write the EPC data to the RFID tag without printing the bar code.

The existing toolset will meet the needs of many RFID early adopters. If you have a requirement for a Software Migration Tool not included in this kit, feel free to contact Printronix.

To select and use the tools, see “Software Migration Tools (SMT)” on page 65.

Hardware/Infrastructure Considerations

Once your smart labels have been applied to their target container or pallet you will need external readers to track them through your supply chain. Such readers are typically networked devices that are deployed at key points in the warehouse or distribution center to track incoming and outgoing packages. The readers are managed through a server for gathering and filtering all the RFID information. Readers may have multiple couplers to maximize read range and reliability.

The readers you purchase must be compatible with the smart labels programmed by the printer. Specifically, they should be EPC Class 0, Class 0+, Class 1, Class 1.19, Class Gen 2, and Class Zuma compliant. Handheld readers with integrated couplers can be purchased from AWID (www.awid.com).

The data that are gathered by the reader servers must be managed for tracking and archiving purposes. Software applications that perform these tasks are available from companies such as Manhattan Associates® (www.manh.com).

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