Difference Between Barcodes, QR Codes, And RFID

Almost everything that we see today is labeled or tagged. From pictures on Facebook to the things bought at a supermarket, everything is marked for identification. Mapping people or products stems from the need to track them from their point of origin. One of the prime instances of tracking can be found on barcodes. Those series of line that we are so used to seeing around us have helped manufacturers, retailers and business owners in general to easily store product data and then locate the trail their products took when moving from one end to the other.

As products move faster than ever to newer and multiple channels, the need to effectively track them has to pace too. QR codes and RFID tags have surfaced as the new means of storing, managing and tracking data faster and easily.

Barcodes, QR codes, and RFID are all means for carrying large amount of data in compact format. However, there is distinction to be made in terms of the purpose they are used for and the way they are used.

What Are Metal Rim Tags?

Metal Rim Tags are one of the widely used tags in businesses that need to keep a track of their inventory on a regular basis so that they know what they have in hand and what they need to do with it. The inventory here may mean, merchandise, machines and equipment etc.

Although Metal Rim Tags are crucial to businesses and offices who maintain their inventory effortlessly with these tags, the usage of metal rim tags goes beyond mere identification and classifying.

Before we talk about the various uses and applications of metal rim tags, let us take you through what metal rim tags exactly are and why they are preferred over conventional tags

What are Metal Rim Tags really?

Metal Rim Tags are ones where the cardstock is enclosed by a metal rim. While the cardstock offers a clean and smooth surface to write on, the key-ring shaped metal rim provides sturdiness to the tag by protecting the cardstock from tearing, bending, twisting etc.

Why are Metal Rim Tags Preferred Over Other Tags?

Because the metal rim protects the cardstock from any damage such as tearing, bending etc. the cardstock stays intact. Ordinary tags diminish in quality overtime with constant handling, tampering etc. whereas metal rim tags stay brand new for a long time.

Metal rim tags are not only durable but reusable too. One can write on them with a non-permanent marker and use them multiple times for multiple uses.

Nevertheless, durability of the metal rim tag is the chief reason behind businesses choosing metal rim tags over ordinary tags to mark their inventory.

Wide Application of Metal Rim Tags

At Office
Metal Rim Tags are an ideal way to mark and classify office supplies. Closets, drawers, keys, office stationery etc. can be tagged with professional looking metal rim tags.

In Industries
Metal Rim Tags are used in industries to mark and classify small equipments, small machinery and instruments. These tags work great for simply identifying objects or marking ones that need repairs. Since the tags are protected by a metal rim, they can endure the rough handling that might take place in the daily course in industries.

In Business
A Custom Metal Rim Tag with the company’s name and logo not only serves the basic purpose of inventory identification but also acts as a ‘brand carrier’ for the company. An aesthetically pleasing metal rim tag grabs attention more quickly than ordinary tags and makes an instant impression. A business where shipping of merchandise is involved can benefit a great deal from a custom metal rim tag. A custom metal rim tag will ensure that the shipment reaches the right customer on the right time (with appropriate information on the tag) and create brand retention among customers who would give more than just one glance to the appealing tag.

At Home
Metal Rim Tags are not just restricted to inventories and office supplies. These versatile tags adorn birthday greeting and holiday gifts displaying personalized messages and wishes. Martha Stewart, the housekeeping connoisseur has showcased multiple uses of metal rim tags. Right from organizing home supplies to making greeting cards, holiday stockings, trinkets etc. metal rim tags find their application in various arts and craft projects at home.

Computer Asset Tags – Good, Bad and Ugly!

Nearly 2,700 tax files were downloaded on a missing laptop in Canada.  A Canadian revenue worker took it home and let a friend download them on a laptop. A lot of confidential information got lost from the missing laptop. Are you willing to take the risk?

Statistics shows that as many as one in 10 laptops is stolen or lost from an organization over the lifetime of each computer and 89% of companies experience laptop loss. It takes average 9 days to get fully operational after laptop loss. Certainly, no one wants to suffer financial losses including time down and management time. An asset tag is the answer to these losses.

Whether you have a brand new computer or a laptop, it is vital to maintain and preserve your property. Some people are aware of the insurance policy to safeguard valuables but that is also of no use till your belongings are protected by security labels and asset tags. These adhesive asset labels are tagged to your laptop and computers with a sequential number which are not possible to be removed. But are these asset tags actually effective? Pros and cons of computer asset tags will clarify further.

The pros:

• Asset tags help in maintaining stock and entering data into database. They have barcode and sequential serial number system which is recorded easily. Computer asset tags can be monitored and data can be maintained for it.
• Expensive equipment like laptops and computers are prone to thefts but a small permanent asset tag can help you protect your valuables. Removing the asset tags leaves a nasty mark on the equipment and makes the item difficult to resell.
• Tracking of items with the help of barcode and asset tags becomes simple and fast. Identification of your expensive valuables like laptops and computers is easier and if they are stolen, the unique serial number helps the police to make out your property.
• Afraid that asset tags may ruin the look of your gadgets. But asset tags are small enough to hardly get unnoticed. Asset tags look professional and are perfect for computers and laptops. They are useful in terms of application on printers, scanners, furniture, air conditioner, telephones and many more.

The cons:

• While one has the option of customizing asset tags, but the manufacturer tags are still attached to the product. Asset tags are unique to assets from a particular vendor; it can create confusion if one starts buying equipment from another vendor or company.
• Once an asset tag is applied, it is extremely hard to remove it. Asset tags are made of tamper proof materials and they leave a malicious mark when they are removed.
• When applying asset tags, one such make sure that they are stick to a reachable place. Failing to do make it hard to scan the asset tags.
• Asset tags can make it hard to resell your property particularly in case you have used a customized asset tag. Possibly customers are unwilling to buy a product with a customized asset tag.

Asset tags and labels are an easy way of recording and identifying their valuable equipment. Asset tags are assigned to both movable and immovable property for identification, inventory management. The main benefit is long term cost reduction that tracks and monitors assets over time. Effective fixed asset identification by asset tags helps in maximizing the return on capital invested, increase competency of asset administration, reduces insurance premiums by classifying assets and improves the accuracy of tax reporting.

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Best Uses Of Asset Tags

The basic function of any asset tag, also referred to as asset label, property ID tag or simply ID tag, is to manage and track assets in a variety of set ups. Whether it is a commercial enterprise, public sector or personal requirement, asset tags are crucial to identify, track and locate business or private property when needed.

Asset Tags are used on a vast range of products- electronics, apparels, perishable products etc and are exposed to different environments. Indoor applications, outdoor applications, cold and warm temperatures require asset tags to possess characteristics that sustain these environments. A strong adhesive backing, tamper-proof properties and extreme temperature resistance are some of the characteristics that an asset tag possesses to function well in these different environments. Moreover, it is these characteristics of asset tags that aids in serving the basic function of identifying and tracking assets.

Although use of asset tags is broadly associated with identification and tracking of assets/property as stated above, there are some specific purposes, asset tags have been used for over the years. These are –

• Theft Prevention – Equipment and products labeled with asset tags minimize the chances of theft.
• Tracking – Asset tags are effective in tracking down an equipment or product. Companies can track products when they move in and out of the organization for reasons of repair, shipment, replacement etc. Labeling of products with asset tags accompanied with barcodes can help trace the products easily.
• Recovery – Lost or stolen objects labeled with asset tags can be identified and returned to its rightful owner. Recovering lost items like cell phones, laptops, iPod etc is much easier if they are marked with asset tags.
• Insurance Records – Companies that maintain a database of valuables through the use of asset tags and labels find it easier to file claims with insurance companies in case of unfortunate events.
• Loan Applications – Most of the banks require firms to provide a proof of business assets while applying for loans. Asset tags and labels help maintain a database of these assets which can be shown to banks.
• Reminders – Asset tags also work as reminders for upcoming repairs, expired lease, contracts, agreements etc. Perishable products marked with purchase dates or expiration dates are a classic example of asset tags working as visual reminders.

To make the best use of asset tags, it is important that keen attention is paid to their quality and properties. A chemical or a steel manufacturing industry for example, would benefit from an asset tag that is chemical resistant and can withstand higher temperatures. Additionally, an asset tag should be designed using durable materials such as anodized aluminum, laminated polyester, vinyl etc to provide durability and strength. Asset tags can also be customized using company name, logo, numbering etc to suit different requirements.

The Importance of Quality Asset Tags In An Organization

If you own or are a part of an organization that uses a variety of equipment and hardware, you need an effective asset management program for easy tracking and identification. Corporations, whether IT or non-IT, use asset tags and asset labels to effectively manage their assets, in case they move, break down, are stolen, or are frequently in transit. An asset tag or label is a unique identification for fixed assets. It may take the form of a unique number or barcode, and help organizations monitor the value, position, state and other information about the assets. Every asset tag and label distinguishes a specific entity from the rest of the company’s assets with a unique number, and additional text (company’s name, product name etc.) in some cases. Almost every company realizes the value of asset tags and labels to maintain an efficient asset management system, but whether they realize the importance of premium quality asset tags is another matter altogether.

Unlike ordinary labels and tags that are used in retail stores, asset tags need to be designed to withstand the varying conditions in which they are used. The following is a list of some of the best asset labels available on the market:

1. SecuriGuard™ Asset Labels- This uniquely designed label includes a destructible feature offering many security benefits. The label breaks as soon as anyone tries to tamper with it, so that assets tagged with SecuriGuard are afforded an extra measure of protection from vandals and thieves.

2. StealGuard™ Tamper- Evident Asset Labels- These tamper-evident labels, as the name suggests, reveal when the label has been meddled with. The label displays a ‘VOID’ pattern on the asset, when anyone tries to lift it to remove it completely.StealGuard™ Tamper-Evident Asset Labels can be customized by adding your company’s name and additional text to suit individual requirements. You can also add custom numbering, identical barcodes, and more to match company’s standards.

3. PermaGuard™ Asset Labels- These labels are ideal for industries that involve frequent use of chemicals in varying temperatures throughout the work environment. PermaGuard™ Asset Labels offer superior resistance to chemical attacks, abrasion, and weather. The graphics on the label are protected with a clear polyester covering. These labels have smooth rounded corners and resist flagging and wear. They are easy to clean and stick to all kind of surfaces, whether flat or curved. Available with a matte surface, PermaGuard labels cut down on glare, making it easy to read the label.

Before you pick an asset tag, make sure you understand both its features and the material used to make it. A superior quality asset tag uses diamond anodic surface, hardened aluminum, natural aluminum, removable liner and a high bond adhesive that is durable and sticks to surfaces securely and easily.

Custom Barcode Labels – How to Select The Right One

Barcode Labels are essential for any kind of business, whether they are large enterprises or small and medium-sized companies.  Whether you use it to track products that you sell or ship/deliver or assets that you own, Barcode Labels are a one-stop solution to your asset tracking and asset management needs.

Conventionally seen in a supermarket and retail chain stores, barcodes have had a giant leap and are now used widely right from retail all the way through government offices to document important and classified files.

Given the wide usage of barcodes everywhere, it is important that every organization, whether it uses barcodes for the purpose of tracking goods, assets or files etc, maintains a unique series of barcodes that is easily identifiable in nature. What good is a barcode label if you can’t tell one from the other?

Custom Barcode Labels not only solve the primary purpose of tracking and monitoring property, but are also easily identifiable. A Custom Barcode Label with your company’s name and logo will not only help you in tracking your inventory, it will lift your promotional efforts and give you an opportunity to stand out from your competitors. A Custom Barcode Label displays important information about your company and looks professional and attractive at the same time.

Custom Barcode Labels are available online in a wide range of sizes that stick to almost every surface and every type of material. Options of colors and materials used in labels are also an option given to users who wish to buy a custom barcode label for their enterprise. Materials used in Custom Barcode Labels include a gloss effect and a matte effect. Labels with a matte effect come are designed using a matte polyester top layer that seals the text and the barcode. It also cuts down glare and helps barcode read rates. Labels with a gloss effect use a protective layer of polyester with a glossy surface. Graphics are sealed underneath.

It is important that you pay attention to the quality of the label before you set out to buy one. A dull and paper thin label is easy to tear and is often correlated to the products to you sell. A poor quality barcode label may reflect that your product is substandard. It’s true.

A good quality Custom Barcode Label should be made with a strong and durable material with a long shelf life. It should be resistant to chemicals, weather and abrasion and unaffected from accidental or intentional tampering.

Myassettag.com offers a host of stock and custom barcode labels. You can personalize your barcode using the customization wizard. Add logo, company name, sequential or random numbering to your Custom Barcode Label to suit personal or business requirements. Made using durable materials such as anodized aluminum, laminated polyester, destructible plastic, barcode labels offered here are resistant to heat, abrasion, chemicals and tampering.

Significance of Asset Tags and Asset Labels in Asset Tracking

Your company’s value is measured not only in the profit you make but also in the value of assets you possess. Keeping obsolete and inoperative assets mean putting thousands and millions of dollars down the drain. Moreover, buying new assets when the old ones are still working can also hurt your balance sheet.

Assets are your physical capital and need to be tracked and monitored. While asset tracking is necessary to determine company’s financial stability, it is also necessary to prevent theft and keep in check movement of assets within and outside the organization.

Asset Labels and Asset Tags are means to an efficient asset tracking.  Assets are frequently purchased, sold, scrapped, removed and updated and can be easily traced using an asset management system that uses asset tags and asset labels.

Benefits of Asset Tags and Labels

• Asset Tags and labels help in retrieving equipment or other asset that has been lost or stolen. These work as a proof of evidence and can be used in prosecution.
• Asset Tags and labels also deter pilfering.
• Asset Tags and labels aid in keeping a visual record of all your leasing contracts.
• Insurance companies generally require asset tags and labels for validation and record keeping.
• Asset tags and labels are useful to the police department to find stolen goods.
• Asset tags and labels are crucial for year-end equipment inventories.

Significance Of Colored Price Tags

What do you do after you spot a piece of merchandise in a store and rush towards it? You look at its price tag.

Even though Jessi J advises listeners to ‘forget about the price tag’, one cannot really forget about them and overlook their importance. Price tag is the next thing shoppers look at after briefly scanning the merchandise (well, most of them!).

Although it is the price on the price tag that matters, sometimes the tag itself brings the shopper’s attention to the product. Many retailers pay detailed attention to the type of price tags they want to use for the product. Often retailers choose Colored Price Tags over ordinary price tags to draw interest in the merchandise.

History of Tyvek Tags

Tyvek Tags, used extensively today for merchandise, documents and a number of other objects, had an accidental beginning. A DuPont researcher Jim White first discovered Tyvek in the year 1955 when he saw polythene fluff coming out of a pipe in a DuPont lab.

The development process of the newly discovered material began immediately. A pilot facility was set up for trial purposes to use the material for making book covers, tags, labels and even garments.

A year later, DuPont applied for a patent for strong yarn linear polythene. This material was then trademarked under the name Tyvek® in the year 1965 and was first brought to the market for commercial use in April 1967.

It quickly became a popular and widely used material due to its lightweight composition, chemical resistance, opacity, tear resistance, water resistance, class A flammability rating and Neutral pH level.

Tyvek Uses and Applications

What started as an unplanned discovery went on to become one of the most commonly seen and used materials around. Tyvek sheets are used as ‘house wraps’ during the construction of buildings to prevent structures from weather abuse. The synthetic material is also used by the US Postal Services for its Priority Mail. Tyvek is also found in smocks that protect clothing from oil and fuel spills, paints, and lightweight hazardous materials. The uses of Tyvek are widespread and can be noticed everywhere around us.

The Modern Tyvek Tags

Tyvek Tags are abundantly used today. Just visit a jewelry or garment store and you can see sale price tags made of Tyvek. Retail stores prefer Tyvek Tags over conventional paper tags due to their tear-proof and waterproof properties.

These durable Tyvek Tags are also used for organizing documents and marking priority mail. Chemical Resistant Tyvek Tags can be also found in industrial setups largely because they can withstand the harshest of environmental conditions. These tags may be attached to machinery, electrical equipments, fire extinguishers etc. and display information about their uses or repairs. The usage of Tyvek Tags extends to the food industry as well where they are used to package and protect food items.

The discovery of Tyvek was something of a fluke but its popularity and wide usage is anything but an accident. Tyvek Tags, made out of strong and durable Tyvek, are mass produced and used extensively today. Available in different shapes and sizes, Tyvek Tags are an inevitable part of any business that wants to keep track of its inventory, hold information about its equipment and machinery, display sale price of merchandise or shipping information of its goods.

One Part Tags vs. Multi Part Tags

Different business owners have different inventory management needs. While some have a small amount of inventory to record, others have to keep track of a comparatively large amount of stock that needs timely maintenance, frequent repairs, and inspection etc. In either case, inventory tags are crucial to effectively manage the inventory.

But the kind of inventory tags to be used depends on the movement of the inventory within and outside an organization and the number of people keeping a record of it. This is where One-Part Inventory Tags and Multi-Part Inventory Tags come in.