hardware

The Right Hardware for Seamless Tracking and Automation

From RFID to BLE and UWB, FactorySense delivers hardware that works flawlessly with our platform and your operations.
Consult Our Experts
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in-depth

Hardware Categories

With a wide range of hardware options and our best-in-class software, we deliver a purpose-built, unified and integrated platform for manufacturing, eliminating the inefficiencies of fragmented systems and components.
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Passive RFID Readers and Antennas

Passive RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) readers and antennas capture asset data in real-time, helping you track tools, materials, and goods throughout your operations. With customizable ranges and configurations, these read only devices are ideal for warehouses, manufacturing plants, and logistics hubs.
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BLE and UWB Anchors and Beacons

BLE and UWB anchors and beacons use high frequency radio waves to offer dynamic, real-time location tracking for mobile assets and personnel. These devices are perfect for high-value tools or ensuring safety in hazardous areas, providing unmatched flexibility and speed of deployment.
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Printers, Labels, Tags, and Consumables

FactorySense’s RFID-enabled printers and durable labels ensure compliance and efficiency. Designed to integrate into your existing labeling workflows, RFID technology can improve inventory accuracy significantly compared to traditional barcode systems in large-scale or complex operations.
Our Approach to RFID Hardware

We match the ideal RFID hardware to your needs, factoring in assets, facility, applications, workflow, and budget.

As a hardware-agnostic provider, we offer a full range of options to ensure the best fit within your complete solution. We flexibly source the ideal hardware and seamlessly integrate it with our software and platform to deliver a reliable, scalable hardware solution that works for your facility. With the cost of passive and active RFID tags decreasing significantly, this technology is more accessible than ever compared to barcodes in some applications.
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Comprehensive Range of RFID Hardware

Wide selection of RFID tags, antennas, readers, printers and accessories
Active and Passive RFID Tags
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Durability and Reliability

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Advanced Technology Integration

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Customizable Solutions

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Seamless Integration with FactorySense.io

how the tech works

Passive Versus Active RFID

Passive RFID tags are cost-effective, relying on readers for power, ideal for tracking high-volume, low-cost assets over short to mid-range distances. Active RFID tags have a power source for real-time, long-range tracking of high-value or mobile assets. We help you choose the best option based on your needs, environment, and budget, with most operations opting to use many RFID tag types.
PASSIVE
Uses tags and reads points
Powered by radio frequency
Lower cost tags, higher cost set-up
Active
Uses tags and reads points
Powered by internal batteries
Higher cost tags, lower cost set-up
PASSIVE Uses
Tracking in enclosed spaces, like warehouses
Suitable for harsh environments
Track high volume items
Active Uses
Tracking items stored outside or in large areas
Real-time tracking at long ranges
Ensuring high-value assets can be located

One heavy industrial manufacturer used a combined system of passive RFID technology and FactorySense BLE tags to track tools across large zones, maximizing efficiency and visibility with a single interface.

Passive RFID Readers and Antennas

On The Factory Floor: Readers, Antennas, & Printers

RFID tracking in warehouses relies on readers, antennas, and printers to ensure accurate data from the start. Readers capture tag data automatically for real time visibility, while antennas control where and how reliably that data is collected.

RFID printers play a critical role by producing properly encoded, durable tags at the point of labeling, preventing data errors before inventory ever enters the system. Together, these components form the physical foundation of reliable, scalable warehouse RFID tracking.
RFID reader and antennas mounted on wallsPictures of RFID hardware
Key factors to consider

Important considerations for types of passive RFID readers

Key factors to consider:
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Frequency band

Different frequencies (low, high, ultra-high) offer varying read ranges and are suited for different applications.

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Read range

How far away the reader can reliably read tags, which is crucial based on your application's needs.

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Antenna design

The antenna's shape and placement significantly impacts read range and tag detection.

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Environmental conditions

Whether the reader can operate in harsh environments like extreme temperatures, high humidity, or near metal objects.

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Tag capacity

How many tags the reader can read simultaneously without collisions.

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Data handling capabilities

The reader's ability to process and transmit tag data to your system.

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Power requirements

Whether the reader needs a dedicated power source or can be battery-operated.

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Integration capabilities

How easily the reader can be integrated with your existing systems and software and software and with our proprietary software.

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Cost

The initial purchase price and ongoing maintenance costs of the reader.

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Quality

All our readers proprietary and sources are meet the highest quality standards.

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Security

We offer US manufactured hardware.

Fixed and Mobile

Two types of readers: Fixed and Mobile

Fixed readers are designed to read RFID tags on items as they pass by or are placed within the reader's read range. They are ideal for tracking inventory, monitoring production lines, and managing assets.

Handheld or mobile RFID Readers are portable and can be taken to various locations. Each type of RFID reader excels in certain environments and with certain workflows. Often our solutions involve using both fixed and mobile readers to read multiple RFID tags and solve the most complex business requirements.
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Mobility

Fixed readers are stationary and permanently installed, while mobile readers are handheld and can be moved to different areas.
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Application

Fixed readers are ideal for monitoring items passing through a specific point like a warehouse entry or exit, while mobile readers are better for inventory checks where you need to scan items in various locations.
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Read range

Fixed readers often have a larger read range due to their dedicated antenna setup, while mobile readers may have a shorter range depending on the device.

Read Medical Equipment case study how Factory sense applied a solution with a  mix of Fixed and handheld readers and scanners

Fixed readers

Benefits of fixed readers

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Always-On, Real-Time Monitoring

Fixed readers stay powered on site and continuously collect data without manual scans, making them the “workhorses” of RFID tracking—ideal for warehouses and manufacturing environments.
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Automated Asset & Inventory Management

With 24/7 monitoring, fixed readers provide real-time visibility into inventory levels. No one has to remember to turn them on or scan shipments—they track movement automatically.
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Broad Read Range

Like desktops vs. mobile devices, fixed readers have more computing power and a higher read range than handhelds, covering larger areas for efficient tracking.
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Flexible Antenna Connectivity

Depending on the model, fixed readers support 1–16+ antennas, with options to expand coverage using multiplexers for even greater reach.
BLE and UWB Anchors and Beacons

BLE and UWB Anchors and Beacons

BLE and UWB anchors and beacons deliver dynamic, real-time location tracking for mobile assets and personnel. Ideal for high-value tools and safety in hazardous areas, these technologies offer flexibility and fast deployment. UWB provides precise tracking, while BLE is a cost-effective option for general asset monitoring.

Depending on your needs, we may recommend a combination of BLE and UWB anchors and beacons as part of your asset tracking solution.

See how we combined a combination of BLE tags and passive RFID with this industrial equipment manufacturer.
Ultra-Wideband (UWB)
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)
Accuracy
More precise, with centimeter-level accuracy
Less precise, up to sub-meter accuracy
Use cases
Precise location tracking, like in retail and healthcare
General tracking, like proximity sensing
Cost
Higher deployment costs
Lower deployment costs
Mobility
Lacks mobility of BLE
Better mobility and connectivity
Frequency band
3.1 GHz to 10.6 GHz
Typically operates in the 2.4 GHz band
strenghts

Each technology has its strengths, making it important to choose the right one based on your tracking needs and use case.

Whether you prioritize precision, cost, or battery life, BLE, UWB, and Active RFID offer different advantages.
TEchnology
range
accuracy
battery life
cost
use cases
Active RFID
~100m+
1-5m
Medium
$$
Industrial asset tracking, logistics
BLE Beacons
~1-30m
1-5m
High (months-years)
$
Indoor navigation, retail, asset tracking
UWB Beacons
~10-50m
10-30cm
Medium
$$$
Precision tracking
benefits

Benefits of mobile readers

Handheld RFID Reader
In a heavy industrial setting, technicians utilized FactorySense's handheld RFID readers with the Geiger Counter Function to swiftly locate misplaced tools, significantly reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency. These lightweight, fully mobile readers are a cost-effective way to seamlessly integrate RFID tracking into your already existing operation; this allows for money savings and easy use. Read more.
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Easy to Use

Many handheld readers streamline data collection by translating RFID tag codes without middleware.
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Versatile & Flexible

Ideal for various environments, from warehouses and retail stores to hospitals and field operations.
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Geiger Counter Function

A built-in “hot/cold” feature helps locate items, with faster beeping as you get closer.
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Portable & Lightweight

Battery-powered and easy to carry, handheld readers enable RFID tracking on the go.
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Seamless Integration

Easily connects with inventory management and other systems for real-time data and improved efficiency.
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Cost-Effective

Often more affordable than fixed readers, making them a budget-friendly option.
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Quick Deployment

No installation needed—handhelds work instantly without mounting or cabling.
FactorySense recommended readers
We work exclusively with HID

Frequently Asked Questions Answered

How much does RFID software cost?
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The cost of RFID software varies depending on scale and customization, but FactorySense offers flexible solutions tailored to different business sizes, including small businesses.

Can the FactorySense.io  platform work with my existing RFID readers?
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Yes! We support a wide range of RFID readers from HID, Zebra, Impinj, and other leading manufacturers. FactorySense works with your existing RFID readers and supports a variety of RFID tags and labels, ensuring easy installation without the need for hardware overhauls.

Do you offer support and training?
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Yes. We provide on-site training, documentation, and ongoing support services. Comprehensive support and training are available to ensure your team maximizes the benefits of the RFID software.

Can FactorySense RFID software scale across multiple locations?
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Yes. The FactorySense RFID software platform is built for multi-site management, allowing you to monitor, control, and report on assets across any number of facilities.

What is the difference between active and passive RFID?
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Active RFID uses battery-powered tags that transmit signals continuously and have long (300+ft / 100+m) read ranges, while passive RFID tags are battery-free and rely on energy transmitted by RFID readers. Read ranges and read areas where passive tags "come alive" can be adjusted from a few inches to 50+ft. Active tags including BLE and UWB typically cost $30+, while passive RFID tags start at a few pennies for printable tags, or a few dollars for pre-encoded hard asset tracking tags.

How does RFID software improve warehouse inventory accuracy?
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RFID software automates inventory counts and updates in real time as items move through the facility, significantly reducing human error and increasing inventory visibility and accuracy. Unlike barcodes, RFID works without line-of-sight, meaning that RFID can read into many boxes and containers to vastly speed up scanning and cycle counting operations. Additionally, RFID tags are serialized so that cycle counts can track and verify serial numbers in addition to item quantities.

How do Bluetooth BLE beacons complement RFID tracking?
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Bluetooth BLE beacons extend location tracking to mobile and remote environments, offering a complementary solution to fixed RFID readers, especially in open spaces or where RFID infrastructure is limited. FactorySense supports both active and passive RFID technologies and complements RFID tracking with Bluetooth BLE software for enhanced real-time location tracking.

How long does it take to deploy the FactorySense RFID software platform?
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All deployments are managed by a dedicated account manager, and take advantage of FactorySense's deep experience working with manufacturers of all sizes. Deployments are typically broken into three phases: pre-deployment, which can take from a week to a month; deployment, which typically takes from one to four weeks; and post-deployment training and support.

Can FactorySense software integrate with my ERP or WMS?
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Absolutely. FactorySense has been successfully integrated with dozens of ERP systems, including SAP, Oracle, CostPoint, AssetSmart, and many others. We also offer a comprehensive set of RESTful APIs for easy integration into BI systems such as Tableau and PowerBI. Read more here: Compatible Platforms.

What types of RFID tags does FactorySense support?
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Our platform supports passive RFID (UHF), Bluetooth LE (BLE), Ultra Wideband (UWB), and NFC tags. Our platform fully supports GS1 EPCglobal RFID standards for global interoperability and compliance.

Is FactorySense RFID software customizable?
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Absolutely. FactorySense RFID software is customizable to align with specific business processes and industry requirements. We offer flexible configuration options, including custom asset categories, event triggers, user permissions, and reporting views.

What industries use FactorySense RFID software?
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While we have won awards for our installations at leading defense and aerospace customers, FactorySense has been deployed at major industrial, biomedical, oil & gas, retail manufacturers, power generation, and supply chain logistics organizations.

Can RFID software track tools and equipment in manufacturing environments?
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Yes. Using a variety of size and shape of active or passive RFID tags, FactorySense RFID software is ideal for tracking tools, machinery, and parts throughout manufacturing operations, helping prevent loss, reduce downtime, and ensure compliance.

What are the benefits of integrating RFID software with ERP systems?
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Integrating RFID software with ERP systems provides real-time asset and inventory updates, improves supply chain visibility, and reduces manual entry errors, ultimately streamlining operations and decision-making. Read more here: Compatible Platforms.

See how a global heavy equipment manufacturer used FactorySense’s rugged RFID tags to withstand harsh shop floor conditions—improving asset visibility, reducing loss, and streamlining calibration.

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