Data Capture Systems are tools that are able to automatically collect data from, and identify, objects. They then take the captured data and store it on your computer or network with no human interaction needed. These systems, also called Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC), use a variety of technologies including OCR (Optical Character Recognition), RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), voice recognition, magnetic stripes, and more. The uses of such a system are varied. For example, a simple swipe of a barcode could give complete inventory information and even allow for more of the product to be ordered if needed. Smartcards distributed to employees can keep track of hours worked and increase security by acting as keys to get into the building and to access restricted areas.

AIDC can gather data from sounds, images, text and videos. The data is then converted into a digital file which can be easily stored and retrieved. The data can be used for a variety of reasons from identity verification to providing authorization to enter secure areas and systems. How the data is captured depends on the application. There are a variety of ways, some more effective than others, depending on how the captured data will be used. Some common methods include bar codes, smart cards, facial and iris recognition, and RFID tags.

AIDC is becoming increasingly popular in biometric security systems. These systems can be found in everything from high tech laboratories that conduct classified research to laptops. They use facial images, fingerprints, voice recordings, or iris prints to identify visitors. That data is converted into digital form and compared to a database of information. They provide an unparalleled level of security.

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) has been around since the 1980’s. It collects and analyzes data by way of small electronic chips or tags inserted into devices and even animals. Since it is able to track moving objects, RFID is behind the microchip technology that is used to help bring lost pets home and track livestock. It’s also useful as a security feature for valuables such as laptops. If it senses movement that isn’t authorized it can send an alert signal to a predefined recipient or trigger an alarm to sound. RFID is also ideal for warehouses and other tough environments where printed barcode labels could easily become damaged and, as a result, unreadable.

Optical Character Recognition technology can collect and analyze information from paper documents. This is how most document scanners do what they do. Some variations of the technology include business card recognition, handwriting recognition, and marks recognition. Handwriting recognition has been around for awhile but has never been known for its accuracy. The user must wait while the program eventually learns to recognize their writing. Voice recognition software has similar drawbacks-you have to teach the program as you go along. Due to the natural variations in pronunciation, dialect, and slang, it can be a time consuming process, but once the program learns it can be very valuable.

Author Bio: Inception Tech offers document management software solutions, document scanners, and more. Stop by their online store at http://www.inceptiontech.com/ today.

Category: Computers and Technology
Keywords: data, management, rfid