Labels for Safety, Visual and Facility ID Desktop Printers
Enhancing laboratory efficiency with RFID technology
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology is used in a variety of applications, such as inventory management, asset tracking, and access control. It’s a convenient and efficient way to track and identify objects, and is becoming increasingly popular in a variety of industries, like lab settings, where accuracy is crucial.
![Scientist in a lab coat extracting a vial from a tube rotator and scanning it with an RFID reader, surrounded by laboratory equipment.](/-/media/brady-americas-images/smartsite-images/resource-center/article-images/rfid-laboratory-guide/lab-centrifuge.jpg)
Benefits of RFID readers in laboratories
RFID technology has revolutionized lab operations by enhancing efficiency, improving accuracy, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. A big part of this solution comes from RFID readers, like the HH83 and HH85 Handheld RFID Readers, which help minimize errors with superior read ranges and provide reliable, accurate data with flexible software support.
![Scientist using a Brady RFID scanner to scan a petri dish in a laboratory setting.](/-/media/brady-americas-images/smartsite-images/resource-center/article-images/rfid-laboratory-guide/petri-dish-scanning.jpg)
Redefining handheld RFID readers
Here are a few ways labs have gained significant advantages by leveraging RFID technology:
- Improved inventory management: RFID readers can be used to track inventory items such as pipettes, reagents, and consumables to help labs maintain accurate inventory levels, reduce waste, and improve efficiency.
- Enhanced sample tracking: RFID readers can also improve sample traceability, which reduces errors and ensures compliance with regulatory requirements. They also make it easier to quickly locate specific samples.
- Increased durability: RFID tags are specifically designed to withstand extreme temperatures, making them ideal for cryogenic environments. Brady also has labels constructed from robust materials that can adhere to frozen test tubes and endure the harsh conditions of cryogenic storage.
![Scientist scanning multiple test tubes placed on a storage rack using an RFID scanner in a laboratory environment, meticulously recording the data.](/-/media/brady-americas-images/smartsite-images/resource-center/article-images/rfid-laboratory-guide/scanning-vials.jpg)
Choosing the right solution for your lab
While RFID technology offers numerous benefits in laboratories, implementing handheld RFID readers may present certain challenges and considerations:
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Durability
Due to their portability, handheld RFID readers may be more susceptible to damage. Look for ruggedized models, like the HH83 and HH85 that are IP65-rated and designed to withstand 5' drops for industrial-grade durability.
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Training
Lab staff may be resistant or require training to use a new technology. Brady has easy-to-use scanners with intuitive features and solutions that cover many data-tracking needs.
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Workflow integration
Handheld RFID readers must be seamlessly integrated into existing workflows to ensure day-to-day tasks don’t get held up.
Labs need to have a robust data management system in place to store, manage, and analyze all the data collected. With a little understanding and the right tools, you can easily implement RFID asset tracking into your current system.
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