RFID Journal Staff asked 12 years ago If so, what types of tags would be required for this application? And if the bags were stacked one above the other, what would be the best reader for inventory control?
—Name withheld
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The answer is yes, you can stitch or affix RFID tags to jute bags. As for which tags to use, I would step back and examine a number of factors—such as the application involved, the read distance required, the data that needs to be collected, the materials in the jute bags and so forth—that could determine which tag would best meet your needs.
If you need to read tags from a distance of 2 feet to 3 feet, passive high-frequency (HF) tags might work best. If, however, you want to be able to read tags from 1,000 feet away, you would need to utilize active tags. My guess is that ultrahigh-frequency (UHF) tags with a read range of 20 feet to 30 feet would work fine, provided the material within the bags was not composed of metal or high in water content.
There are a number of companies that manufacture UHF RFID transponders that could be sewn onto a jute bag, including Pittsfield ID and TexTrace. Fujitsu Frontech and Confidex produce hard tags that can be affixed to the bags and withstand repeated washings, if that is a requirement.
As for the correct reader to use, that would depend on the particular application, as well as on the read distance required. If the material in the bags is relatively RF-friendly, it should not be difficult to read the bags using a handheld or fixed interrogator. If you would like to discuss the application in greater depth, please feel free to call my office. I will respect your confidentiality and provide the best advice I can offer.
—Mark Roberti, Founder and Editor, RFID Journal
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