How can RFID be used in time tracking?
RFID technology for seamless and accurate employee time tracking
What is RFID?
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is a wireless, non-contact use of radio waves to transfer data and identify objects, items or people. Although RFID is a relatively old technology, the demand for RFID equipment is increasing rapidly and is already being used in many industries to perform tasks such as inventory tracking, supply chain management, asset tracking, and time tracking.
How does RFID work?
There are two main components to RFID technology: a tag and a reader.
RFID tags contain an embedded chip that stores data, such as a serial number or unique identifier. The tags then use radio waves to send data to nearby readers.
RFID readers on the other hand are able to read and process data transmitted by the tags. When a reader receives data from a tag, it stores the data in a database and is analyzed to perform a programmed function.
How is RFID used in time tracking?
In RFID time and attendance systems, tags are assigned or linked to an employee based on its serial number or unique identifier. When an employee holds their linked tag within close proximity of the reader, the chip in the tag transmits the serial number or unique identifier to the reader.
The reader then analyzes this data and performs a programmed function, for example, clocking employees in for work. The reader also confirms that it received a valid signal from the tag by using audio or visual cues such as beeps or a display of the employee’s name or ID number on a screen.
What are the benefits of RFID time tracking systems?
- Accuracy
Manual timekeeping processes involve some level of risk for human error. With RFID, no human intervention is necessary to read and process time data.
RFID time tracking also improves accuracy in terms of employee verification. Each employee is detected and identified by the reader, then matched up with the correct information in the database using its unique identifier.
- Time-saving
With RFID time tracking systems, employees simply walk past a reader and leave. The reader then identifies the employee and automatically stores time entries onto the system – all within seconds.
- Cost-saving
By automating time tracking processes with RFID, labour-intensive processes such as payroll calculations can be eliminated, which translates to a significant decrease in the cost of payroll processing. Time data is electronically sent to Jibble’s system where employees’ total worked hours and overtime hours are automatically calculated.
- Ease of use
RFID tags are small and light, which makes them easy to carry around. It’s passive technology that doesn’t require batteries also makes it ideal for long-term use and in environments where power outlets aren’t available.
