To provide an accurate answer, it’s important to distinguish between two different applications of RFID technology: the use of RFID tags as an additional layer of security for high-value items, and the use of RFID as a payment or checkout method similar to a product barcode.
Additional tagging of high-value items
High-value items are often more susceptible to theft, particularly when they are small in size. These products can be fitted with an RFID tag, either hidden inside the packaging or attached externally as a non-removable tag. When such items are sold at the till, the tags need to be deactivated — typically by passing them over a deactivation device that scans and disables the tag, or by physically rendering the tag inoperative. An RFID detection gate is usually positioned beyond the checkout area, and any tag that has not been deactivated will trigger an alarm. There are no modifications or enhancements required within RetailVista, as the entire handling process is managed externally. This type of tag is available from suppliers such as Checkpoint at https://checkpointsystems.com.
RFID as a checkout method
We also occasionally receive questions about using RFID technology as a payment or checkout method, replacing the traditional barcode. Some retailers imagine that scanning an entire shopping trolley through a detection gate would automatically register all items inside. However, this approach is largely unrealistic. It would require every single item in the store to be fitted with an RFID tag. Any item without a tag would go unrecognised — and therefore unpaid for. Tagging all products in-store is an extremely labour-intensive and costly process, not to mention the additional unit cost of each tag itself. Moreover, reading multiple RFID tags simultaneously is not a reliable process: when many tags are scanned at once, technical interference can occur, resulting in some tags being missed altogether.
RFID as authentication
RFID tags can also be used for authentication when logging in to RetailVista POS. This is usually done using a card or a key fob with an embedded RFID tag. By scanning the card at the RetailVista POS login screen, users do not need to enter a username or password. This provides a very quick and efficient way for staff to sign in at the till.