GBMS provides increased automated data collection (ADC) functionality by fully supporting radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, which uses small devices that emit radio waves containing information about product size, price, quantity, etc.
RFID enables companies to automatically track inventory from the component level, through the manufacturing process, and throughout the supply chain. At any time, personnel can answer questions, such as "What's in the item?" or "Where has it been, and where is it going?"

How it works...

A company would, for example, embed an RFID tag in a component item. During the manufacturing process, users could read and write to the item tag in order to view or exchange Work-In-Process information. At the shipping dock, the personnel would use that same tag to release the manufacturer's item from inventory. When the item moves to the manufacturing center, users could then write the shipping information to the item tag. As it continues through the supply chain process (e.g., to another manufacturing site for add-on components; to the user as a complete item), users are able to automatically read the tracking information, including source, process, and final destination details.

Benefits...

RFID functionality offers a wide range of benefits, including:

• Real-time item tracking

• Improved supply chain visibility

• Reduced human errors

• Read/write capability and tracking of multiple codes

• Lowered costs

Because GBMS supports RFID, companies can instantly track a product as it's built, leaves the manufacturer, and is routed to a distribution center. Personnel do not need to rip open a case to inspect the contents as the RFID reader has already identified the item, providing increased efficiency and less labor time.