Printronix SL5000r MP - Manual (Page 15)

How It Works
15
• EPC: This tool allows EPC data to be directly encoded into the
smart label’s RFID tag. Simply have your existing software
application write the desired EPC number to a Code 3 of 9
barcode. The printer will then write the EPC data to the RFID
tag without printing the bar code.
The existing toolset will meet the needs of many RFID early
adopters. If you have a requirement for a Software Migration Tool
not included in this kit, feel free to contact Printronix.
To select and use the tools, see “Software Migration Tools (SMT)”
on page 65.
Hardware/Infrastructure Considerations
Once your smart labels have been applied to their target container
or pallet you will need external readers to track them through your
supply chain. Such readers are typically networked devices that are
deployed at key points in the warehouse or distribution center to
track incoming and outgoing packages. The readers are managed
through a server for gathering and filtering all the RFID information.
Readers may have multiple couplers to maximize read range and
reliability.
The readers you purchase must be compatible with the smart
labels programmed by the printer. Specifically, they should be EPC
Class 0, Class 0+, Class 1, Class 1.19, Class Gen 2, and Class
Zuma compliant. Handheld readers with integrated couplers can be
purchased from AWID (www.awid.com).
The data that are gathered by the reader servers must be managed
for tracking and archiving purposes. Software applications that
perform these tasks are available from companies such as
Manhattan Associates
®
(www.manh.com).