Motorola introduces the RD5000 Mobile RFID Reader

Motorola offers the RD5000 mobile RFID reader to maximize the value of RFID in your enterprise. Representing the next phase in the evolution of RFID technology, the RD5000 offers a rugged design, integrated antenna, flexible internal and external power sources, wireless networking and unique motion-smart features to open up a new world of possibilities for RFID read points — from material handling vehicles such as forklifts and pallet jacks to mobile carts, rolling ladders and more. Regardless of industry, you can count on the RD5000 to deliver a new level of granular real-time information that can, in turn, deliver a new level of productivity and efficiency throughout your operations.

A new class of RFID reader…and a new level of inventory and asset visibility

Until today, RFID visibility has been limited to choke points throughout the enterprise — such as the portals at your dock doors. Since inventory and assets are not visible as they move through your warehouse, the information you have is only as up-to-date as the last time the material moved through a portal.

The advent of small mobile RFID readers breaks through today’s barriers, enabling the installation of RFID readers in completely new areas — including on material handling equipment, on delivery trucks and in challenging stationary locations. Mobile RFID readers enable cable-free operation which allows you to have pervasive use of RFID throughout your enterprise. No longer restricted to choke points, you can now implement RFID wherever it is needed and will best serve the enterprise. Read points are dramatically increased, and a
new level of granular information is now available. Your inventory and asset visibility is expanded — and so is the ability to further automate and error proof your business processes and your supply chain, as well as improve worker productivity.

By expanding the functionality of your existing RFID system, the mobile RFID reader also expands the value — including the return on investment (ROI). And since the same device can be used in various applications throughout the enterprise, the devices also deliver an outstanding total cost of ownership (TCO). For example, the same RFID reader can be placed in a mobile cart to check inventory, and then quickly installed on a skate wheel conveyor to automatically verify and reconcile incoming shipments at the receiving dock, as well as enter
the shipment instantly and automatically into your inventory system. In this application brief, we will take a look at the criteria you should use when assessing this new product category, as well as the value of the mobile RFID readers in the warehouse, yard and retail environments.

Manufacturing/Warehouse/Distribution Center — eliminating blind spots to boost productivity and reduce costly errors

Relying on RFID read points located only at major portals undercuts the ability to actively manage inventory in fast-paced manufacturing, warehouse and distribution centers. Lack of real-time visibility into moving product on the manufacturing and warehouse floor reduces productivity and can increase costly errors in receiving and putaway. Businesses are forced to carry higher inventory levels to protect against out-of-stocks, pay higher labor costs due to inefficiencies in processes, and risk having reduced levels of customer satisfaction due to missed ship dates or errors in order fulfillment.

By deploying the RD5000 on material handling equipment and other warehouse vehicles, inventory becomes visible as it moves across the floor. Management and vehicle operators know exactly what goes where and why, in real time. New applications and efficient procedures become possible. The possibility of costly errors is significantly reduced, workers are more productive and customers more satisfied.