ASSET TAGS

Identifying the Asset

There are only two types of tag that will communicate with computers;

• Barcode Labels
• Metallised, hard plastic, or vinyl tags, carrying a logo, barcode, sequential number, customised message (Property of…) or Help Desk number.
• Labels can have punched dots through which a compound can be painted to etch an underlying surface with a post code or phone number.
• Certain hard plastic tags meet industry standards for attack resistance, and there are types of tamper resistant vinyl labels which cannot be removed in one piece.
• Surface markings are appropriate for marking internal assets, buildings, and people where threats, environment, and abrasion are minimal.

• Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
• The marking device is the radio frequency transponder, otherwise known as the microchip
• It carries a unique unalterable code number, retrieved by a small handheld scanner.
• Unlike a bar code, it does not deteriorate with time, can improve security, and can be ‘read’ through most materials, which is important in rough handling or high threat environments.
• It can be supplied in various formats such as a nail for pallets and trees, discs for underground use, and self adhesive badges for IT equipment, power tools, and vehicles.

Selection will be based on budget, experience of recent loss or the threat of it, write off periods, and how important the ‘asset visit’ is for audit, inspections, testing etc.

Metal and basic vinyl labels are among the cheapest, but the saving is only significant in large numbers, and some clients report that after a while fingernails do a good job of peeling back the corners!

A dual tagging approach to more vulnerable assets gives the increased benefits of covert chip and overt barcode, with the added benefit of using the chip warning label for branding/help desk purposes.

We bring many different tag types on client visits so they can be examined and tested in person rather than just seen in brochures or web sites. All labels are designed and submitted for approval prior to production, which takes between two and four weeks depending on tag type.