RFID Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
General Info
- What is RFID? Available since the early 1950s, RFID stands for radio frequency identification. It is a wireless technology that consists of three components:
- a transceiver with signal decoder
- a transponder (RF tag) electronically programmed with unique information
- an antenna that serves as the conduit between the transceiver and tag (sometimes this antenna is imbedded in the tag)
- What are the benefits to having the 3M One-Tag RFID System in a library? The 3M One-Tag RFID System will make the process to locate and identify library materials, ensure security, and make the check-out process more efficient for both library users and staff.
- Does the system have a silent running mode? Yes.
RFID Tags
- How do RFID tags work? The RFID tags that we will be using are slightly larger than a postage stamp, adhesive, and has a microchip with an antenna imbedded in it. These tags are virtually unlimited in operational lifetime. Each tag used will be programmed to store barcode information for the respective book that it is attached to.
- What if an RFID tag is broken before application? The tags are scanned at the factory for defects before shipping. If the tag is defective, a small hole will be pierced through it.
- Can RFID tags be damaged once fastened? Yes. Staff will be alerted by the system and can fix the problem.
- Can RFID tags be removed from library materials? These tags can be removed, but they are difficult to remove without doing some damage to the book.
- Are these tags library-specific? Will books signed out from one library still set off alarms in other libraries and retail stores using RFID? There are different frequencies assigned to various RFID tags. The frequency assigned to our tags is unique to 3M systems.
Conversion & Workstations
- What is the purpose of the 3M Conversion Station? How many will the Library receive? Attached to a portable cart, the 3M Conversion Station allows staff to convert book barcodes into RFID tags. This station has an RFID tag dispenser, allows for programming tag information, and includes a touch-sensitive screen, optical bar code scanner, and RFID reader. The Library will receive 2 of these stations.
- How do the 3M Staff Workstations operate? These new workstations will be able to process barcoded and RFID tagged items. Instead of signing out one book at a time, several books with RFID tags can be processed simultaneously by setting them on the smartpad attached to the station.
- Will there be new self-check systems? If so, how do these work? Yes, new 3M SelfCheck Systems will replace our current systems. They work in the same manner as the staff workstations, and will sport touch screen control.
- What languages are available for the self-check system? There is a variety of possible languages (appox. 40) to choose from. The languages are loaded to the individual units and up to 4 languages can be supported. One language can be set as the default, while users may opt to use one of the the other languages available.
- What is a Digital Assistant? How many of these units will we receive? The 3M Digital Assistant is a hand-held, automated shelf-reader is beneficial for re-shelving, sorting, searching, weeding, and locating missing books. We will receive two.
- What is the distance/range necessary for finding hidden books using the Digital Assistant? Approximately six inches. The system complies with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations.
Detection System
- Where will the automated detection systems be placed? At the respective exits for the Porter and Davis Libraries.
- What is the width of the security gates on the detection systems? 36 inches.
- What is the scanning distance for the security gates? 18 inches - it complies with FCC regulations.
- Will there be swing-gates in place if the alarm is triggered? No, our Library is leaning towards a free-flow model.
- What will happen to the Library Attendant positions? Staff typically scheduled at the Attendant's station will be redeployed to other jobs in the Library.
Timeline
- When will the RFID Tags and System be fully integrated at the Davis and Porter Libraries? The system at the Davis Library should be fully integrated by September 2006. The system for the Porter Library should be ready by September 2007. Please refer to the Implementation Schedule page for more info.
Health & Privacy Concerns
- Are there any health concerns associated with the RFID system? No. The radio frequencies emitted from the RFID tags to the system are extremely low.
- Will the RFID system impose on our patrons' privacy? No. The tags only contain the barcode information of the book being checked out. Once the RFID tag is deactivated during check-out, there is no way of tracking the book. Circulation Services will follow the same procedures as before for maintaining borrowing information in our patrons records.
Inventory and Security Implementation Group
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February 23, 2006
