RFID

RFID technology is a valuable tool for auto identification that is utilized in several Retriever Software modules.  However, it is not a direct replacement for either linear or two dimensional bar codes.  Each technology has its strengths and weaknesses.

For a primer on the general principles of RFID technology, we recommend you visit Wikipedia…

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rfid

Evacuee Tracking

One advantage of RFID is the ability to read an RFID tag embedded in an Evacuee wristband (or ID Card) faster than a bar coded wristband can be read.  There is no scan beam to align with the bar code symbol.  There is no need to flatten out the bar code to get a good read.    This helps to speed up the process of loading Evacuees onto buses for evacuation. 

Retriever Software provides unique ‘combo’ RFID wristbands that contain both short-range and long-range embedded RFID tags.  The short-range tag can be read by personnel loading Evacuees onto buses.  The short-range nature of the tag insures that only one Evacuee wristband is read at a time.

The long-range tag can be used for less mission-critical tracking of Evacuee movements once they reach a shelter.  It should never be assumed that every Evacuee with a long-range wristband is successfully read when they pass a long-range RFID Reader.

Project MyKids

Retriever Software is working with schools to provide specialized student id cards with embedded RFID tags.  This gives schools the option of using bar code scanners, RFID readers of any combination of the two technologies.  The cards are designed to be used for everyday tasks such as field trips, library books and cafeteria purchases.  Retriever Software supports palm-sized RFID readers that can be used via Bluetooth with a standard consumer cell phone for field trip applications.

More importantly, these cards are designed to allow school children to be more efficiently and accurately tracked in the event of an emergency evacuation. 

Prison Access Control

The Retriever Offender management System utilizes employee id cards with embedded RFID tags, in combination with facial recognition to help secure prison exits.  As Deputies approach the prison exit, the long-range RFID tag in their id card is automatically read by stationary RFID readers.  Their record is the prison database is selected, based on the ID number in the tag.  If their face does not match the face recorded in the database, they are not allowed to exit without further scrutiny.  This eliminates the problem of inmates escapes with stolen or forged employee id cards.