One of the most important technological advances that manufacturers, warehouses, and distribution centers have benefited from in recent years is automation identification and data capture, best known as AIDC. When implemented strategically, AIDC solves a multitude of problems from identity verification to tracking, and beyond.
AIDC is a process that is used to both identify and collect data. Once the collection is complete, the data is automatically stored in a computer system, where it is then categorized and, depending on the software, is aggregated. The process of AIDC is performed without the use of a keyboard and is generally integrated in order to track items, inventory, tools, assets, and even workers.
AIDC refers to a relatively broad spectrum of specific technologies that employ it as an attribute. The list includes:
All of these technologies use AIDC in unique ways but are synthesized differently depending on the ins-and-outs of the processes.
Typically, though, the device takes images, sounds, or videos of the target and captures the data with the help of a transducer. Transducers differ depending on the application of the technology, whether it be a bar code, smart card, RFID, or something else, but the main objective is the same – to convert the sound, image, or video into a digital file.
From there, the captured data is then held in a database or automatically transferred to a cloud-based system. It is then that the data can be analyzed and/or categorized; this step is something that is determined by the software and how it works to integrate with the capturing device, whatever it may be.
Although AIDC covers a wide scope, the technology is mostly used for one of three things: 1) identification and validation, 2) asset tracking, and 3) interfaces to other systems.
When considering the benefits of employing AIDC, one must first take a closer look at the technologies that are enhanced by it. 
Because many of the aforementioned technologies involve the assessment and storage of information – some of it being sensitive information – there is always a concern of theft, fraud, and/or a displacement of data.
Let’s take a look at the use of AIDC in regards to RFID, in particular. RFID tags are able to hold an impressive amount of information, but that doesn’t mean that the data is always secure. Because RFID work on radio waves, they can be hacked into, making this sensitive information available to anyone who might have the ability to chase after the valuable data.
Additionally, AIDC is getting more and more advanced, like all technologies these days, but there is still not a seamless system, which means that it doesn’t always work as it should. Luckily, there is a large range of products that employ AIDC technologies.
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