RFID Costs for SMEs: Is the Investment Worth It?
986Explore the true cost of RFID systems for small businesses. Learn how SMEs can calculate ROI, reduce operational expenses, and choose budget-friendly solutions like Cykeo.
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With the rapid development of IoT technology, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) has become crucial tool for businesses to enhance management efficiency. As the data carrier of the entire system, the installation of RFID tags directly affects the identification accuracy and overall system performance. Understanding the correct methods and key points of RFID tag installation is fundamental to ensuring stable system operation and maximizing its value. In this article, we will provide detailed analysis from the perspectives of installation preparation, methods, and precautions.
The effectiveness of RFID tag installation determines whether the tags can be accurately and reliably read by RFID readers. Improper installation methods—such as poor adhesion to surfaces, incorrect placement angles, or interference from metal—can lead to reduced read rates and data retrieval failures. These issues can negatively impact business processes such as warehouse management, logistics tracking, and asset inventory. Therefore, mastering scientific and standardized installation techniques is essential to unlocking the full potential of RFID technology.
Define the Application Scenario:
Determine the appropriate tag type based on actual use cases. For example, in warehouse and logistics settings, tags with anti-metal and waterproof features are necessary; in retail product management, lightweight and cost-effective tags are more suitable.
Choose the Right Tag:
Take into account parameters such as operating frequency (LF, HF, or UHF), read range, and memory capacity to ensure compatibility with the existing RFID system.
Prepare Installation Tools:
Common tools include cleaning cloths, alcohol, double-sided tape, zip ties, and screwdrivers (for fixing tag holders, if needed).
Clean the Installation Surface:
Use alcohol and a clean cloth to wipe down the surface where the tag will be applied, removing dust, oil, and moisture to ensure firm adhesion of the tag.

Installation Methods for Different Materials and Scenarios
Installation on Non-Metal Surfaces
For materials such as cardboard, plastic, and wood, adhesive installation is commonly used. Apply double-sided tape to the back of the RFID tag, peel off the protective film, and stick the tag flat onto the surface. Press firmly for a few seconds to ensure strong adhesion. To remove the tag, a hair dryer can be used to heat the adhesive and reduce its stickiness before gently peeling it off.
Installation on Metal Surfaces
Metal interferes with RFID signals, so anti-metal tags are required. During installation, align the adhesive backing or screw holes of the anti-metal tag with the mounting position and either stick it in place or secure it with screws. Alternatively, zip ties can be used to fasten the tag to the edge of the metal object, avoiding direct contact with large metal surfaces.
Installation on Liquid Containers
For barrels, bottled beverages, and other liquid containers, waterproof tags should be used. Ensure the container surface is dry before applying the tag. Use strong waterproof adhesive or secure the tag with clips, straps, or other fasteners to prevent detachment caused by moisture or movement.
Tag Wearing on People and Animals
When RFID tags are worn by people—such as in ID badges or wristbands—ensure that the tag is securely positioned and does not hinder movement. For animals, such as when applying ear tags, use specialized tools and follow standardized procedures to prevent injury.

Avoid Tag Overlap:
When installing multiple RFID tags, maintain adequate spacing (typically recommended ≥5 cm) between them to prevent signal interference and ensure reliable performance.
Control Installation Angle:
The tag’s surface should be as parallel as possible to the reader antenna’s plane to achieve optimal read accuracy and consistency.
Protect the Tag Chip:
Avoid bending or compressing the tag during installation to prevent damage to the internal chip, which could compromise data storage and transmission.
Test and Verify:
After installation, use an RFID reader to conduct multiple read tests to ensure stable identification and accurate data transmission.
In addition to mastering the installation techniques, selecting a reputable RFID tag supplier and professional installation team is equally critical. Prioritize suppliers that offer one-stop services including installation guidance, technical training, and after-sales support. Consider the supplier’s industry experience and customer case studies to ensure they can deliver tailored solutions for your specific application scenarios.

CYKEO Passive RFID Tags are made for wet and high-humidity environments where standard labels do not last. This rfid passive tag is often used around liquids, chemicals and temperature changes, providing stable reading distance and long data life for industrial tracking.

CYKEO CK-BQ1504 Metal RFID Tags is a compact anti-metal UHF RFID solution built for direct mounting on metal surfaces. With stable 8-meter read range, Ucode-8 chip, and long data retention, this rfid metal tag fits tools, containers, automotive parts, and industrial asset tracking.

CYKEO CK-BQ7020 On-Metal RFID Tags are designed for reliable tracking on steel and metal surfaces. Built with an FR4 epoxy body and industrial-grade chips, these On-Metal RFID Tags deliver stable performance, long data life, and chemical resistance, making them a dependable RFID anti-metal tag for harsh environments.

The CYKEO CK-BQ6025 Anti-Metal RFID Tag is built for metal surfaces where standard tags fail. Designed for long-range performance, harsh environments, and stable data retention, this Anti-Metal RFID Tag is ideal for industrial assets, containers, and equipment tracking using on metal RFID tags.
Explore the true cost of RFID systems for small businesses. Learn how SMEs can calculate ROI, reduce operational expenses, and choose budget-friendly solutions like Cykeo.
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