

T-Systems enables wireless collection of product data
Automatic end-to-end tracking and analysis of product movements In time for Cebit 2003,
LoCaS tracks the movement of goods from the moment they are produced to the moment they are sold to consumers. The solution gives a detailed picture of how long goods spend where, including storage periods in warehouses, as well as transportation routes.
The RFID system consists of a read/write device and an electronic marker - known as a transponder tag. Via an antenna, the reader transmits electromagnetic signals to the transponder, generating a response carrying information about the product. This is then forwarded to the corresponding ERP system. In contrast to scanner-based methods, such as barcodes, the reader does not require optical contact (line of sight) with the transponder, allowing it to be fully integrated into the product.
The information on the transponder tag consists of an explicit, inalterable manufacturer and serial number. It also has an alphanumeric string that can be changed or deleted as often as needed. Companies use this string to gather detailed information about product movements, providing valuable insight into what are often highly complex relationships with suppliers, retailers and customers.
Automatic data capture during loading and unloading
RFID technology also simplifies tracking of goods in warehouses and at the point of sale. For example, LoCaS registers the entire cargo of a truck as it passes a defined monitoring point, such as the gate of a distribution center. This eliminates the need to unload the pallets. The system automatically adds the number of products to the current inventory level, or deducts them when issued for delivery. Companies use this data to accurately track product movements and to analyze them. The process does not "forget" pallets, because transponders are, unlike barcodes, always readable. Manufacturers can also attach transponder tags to individual components, allowing them to check the status of products on the assembly line.
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