RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification. It works with a card and a reader that communicate via short-range radio waves. For attendance control, it is the most practical technology in industrial environments: works with gloves, dirty hands, in the cold, without a smartphone.

How it works

An RFID chip embedded in a card has a unique code - like a digital ID number. A reader emits a magnetic field. When the chip comes close, it is energised and transmits its code in less than a millisecond. The reader receives the code and records the clock-in or clock-out with the exact time.

RFID vs NFC vs biometrics

• RFID: works at distances of 5-10 cm, low cost, robust, ideal for industrial environments. Works with gloves.
• NFC: similar to RFID but shorter range (2-4 cm), used in smartphones. Less suited to industrial environments.
• Biometrics (fingerprint/face): no card needed, but struggles with dirty/oily hands or gloves. More expensive and GDPR implications.

Why RFID is ideal in factories and warehouses

• Registers in under 1 second - no delay at the entrance.
• Works with gloves on - essential in production environments.
• Resistant to dust, humidity and temperature extremes.
• Low cost: one-time purchase of reader plus cheap cards.
• No smartphone required.

Picco uses RFID technology. Find out more at damastor.com/picco.