E-tickets for concerts, seminars, sports, and other events have become mainstream. Since everybody uses smartphones nowadays, it makes sense for event organizers to issue QR code-based tickets to users. Similarly, RFID technology-based ID cards are also quite popular at such events. RFID is an effective technology that works on radio frequency signals and doesn’t require a clear line of sight scanning of RFID tags or cards. RFID cards are smart cards that can be encoded with unique IDs which helps with tracking staff at events carrying RFID ID cards.
RFID handheld scanners offer dual services, capable of scanning QR Code-based e-tickets and RFID ID cards of staff. Thus, RFID and QR Code technologies are crucial in mobile ticketing and access control, streamlining ticketing, and staff tracking at events.
Let’s examine in detail how RFID handheld scanners successfully transform event management with mobile ticketing and RFID access control solutions.
QR Code Mobile Ticketing at Events
QR Code Mobile Ticketing involves the use of Quick Response (QR) codes to facilitate ticket purchases and entry at events. Attendees receive tickets in the form of QR codes, which can be stored on their smartphones. Apart from QR Code tickets, RFID ticketing is also used at events which allows event organizers to track attendees in real-time. These tickets are physical tickets that are given to users on the spot or sent via mail.
RFID Access Control at Events
RFID Access Control utilizes Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to manage access to events. RFID wristbands or cards are issued to attendees, which can be scanned at entry points and throughout the event. Apart from tracking attendees, RFID ID cards are used to identify and track staff deployed to manage large-scale events. RFID technology offers real-time tracking of staff with the help of RFID fixed and handhelds deployed at various locations at the premises and improves emergency response and safety of individuals at the events.
Which RFID Handhelds to Choose for Mobile Ticketing and Access Control at Events?
Well, there are several RFID handheld devices and mobile computers to choose from when it comes to e-ticketing and access control management at events. RFID handheld devices by Zebra Technologies top the list with their high performance, rugged design, and industry best read rates.
These handheld mobile computers are equipped with camera and barcode scan engines which enable 1D/2D barcode scanning as well.
Let’s see some of these RFID handheld devices in detail:
1.TC5X Series Mobile Computers by Zebra (TC52, TC53, TC57, TC58, etc.)
2. Zebra MC3300xR (standard range) and MC3390xR (long range) RFID Mobile Computers
3. Zebra RFD40 SLED Reader
4. C72 RFID Handheld Reader by Chainway
1.Zebra TC5X Series Mobile Computers (TC52, TC53, TC57x, TC58, etc.)
The Zebra TC5X Series mobile computers are designed to provide the ultimate in rugged design, performance, productivity, and ease of use. Some key technical features of this series include:
The TC5X Series is designed to withstand concrete drops, tumbles, and exposure to water and dust, meeting IP65/IP68 standards. These devices are powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 octa-core processor and offer 4GB of RAM and 32GB of storage, providing ample performance for demanding enterprise applications. Equipped with 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, and NFC, the TC5x series mobile computers offer reliable wireless connectivity as well. Mobile computer models, like the TC52, TC53, TC53e-RFID, TC57, TC57x, and TC58, feature integrated UHF RFID capabilities for advanced inventory management. These devices include features like programmable buttons, a large 5-inch touchscreen display, and Android 11 with support for Zebra's Mobility DNA tools to enhance worker productivity.
2. Zebra MC3300xR and MC3390xR RFID Mobile Computers
The Zebra MC3300xR and MC3390xR are RFID-enabled mobile computers designed for inventory management and asset-tracking applications. The MC3390xR offers a longer RFID read range compared to the MC3300xR. These mobile computer devices are built to withstand drops on concrete, tumbles, and exposure to water and dust with IP64 rating. The MC3300xR and MC3390xR are powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 octa-core processor and offer 4GB of RAM and 32GB of storage. For network connectivity, the MC3330xR and MC3390xR are equipped with 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, and NFC. The MC3300xR and MC3390xR run Android 11 and include features like programmable buttons, a 4-inch touchscreen display, and support for Zebra's Mobility DNA tools as well.
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3. Zebra RFD40 SLED Reader
The Zebra RFD40 SLED Reader is a handheld UHF RFID reader designed for inventory management and asset-tracking applications. The RFD40 RFID Handheld Reader features a high-performance UHF RFID reader/writer with a read range of up to 26 feet and 1300+ tags per second read rate. It is built to withstand drops, tumbles, and exposure to water and dust with IP65 sealing. The RFD40 SLED Reader supports Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi-Fi 6 for wireless connectivity. It can be paired with a compatible mobile computer or tablet. The RFD40 premium reader also comes with NFC and 1D/2D barcode scanning capabilities as well which allows for quick scanning of QR codes and NFC tags, quite a useful feature for events. The RFD40 SLED Reader is designed for one-handed operation and includes features like programmable buttons and a trigger for efficient RFID data capture.
4. Chainway C72 RFID Handheld Reader
The C72 RFID Handheld Reader by Chainway is a compact and rugged RFID reader designed for retail, POS, inventory management, and asset tracking applications.
The C72 features a high-performance UHF RFID reader/writer with an Impinj E710 chip, offering a read range of up to 30 meters.
C72 RFID Handheld Reader supports Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, and Wi-Fi 6 for wireless connectivity. The device also features a 5.2’’ full HD display with gorilla glass protection and 8000 mAh battery capacity. For scanning QR Codes and barcodes at events, the devices come equipped with a Zebra SE4710 scan engine for 1D and 2D barcode scanning.
Benefits of QR Code Mobile Ticketing at Events and use of RFID handhelds
Mobile ticketing at events offers several benefits in terms of convenience and quicker entry at event venues. The use of RFID handhelds also offers fast scanning of QR Code e-tickets and facilitates a smooth event conclusion.
1. Convenience to event attendees
Event Attendees can purchase and store tickets on their mobile devices, eliminating the need for physical tickets. It further reduces the risk of loss or theft and enhances the overall convenience of the ticketing process.
2. Faster Entry at gates
QR codes can be scanned quickly at entry points, significantly reducing wait times. Many RFID handheld scanners and mobile computers are equipped with faster scan engines which makes QR Code scanning a breeze for staff managing the events. It leads to a smoother and more efficient check-in process, enhancing the overall experience for attendees as well.
3. Cost-Effectiveness in Ticketing
Digital tickets reduce the need for printing physical tickets, which can lower operational costs for event organizers. Additionally, QR code systems can be easily integrated into existing platforms, minimizing setup expenses.
4. Real-Time Data Collection with e-tickets
QR code ticketing allows event organizers to collect valuable data on attendee behaviors and preferences. Such information can be analyzed to improve future events and tailor marketing strategies.
5. Environmental Impact
By minimizing the use of paper tickets, QR code systems contribute to a more sustainable approach to event management, aligning with the growing demand for environmentally friendly practices.
Benefits of RFID Access Control using RFID Handhelds
RFID handheld readers and mobile computers streamline access control at events apart from improving the ticketing process. Let’s see some of these benefits in detail:
1. Enhanced Security at Events with RFID Access Control
RFID technology provides a more secure method of access control. Unlike traditional tickets and RFID wristbands, RFID cards cannot be easily duplicated or forged as for each individual, a unique RFID card with a unique ID is created, reducing the risk of unauthorized entry.
2. Streamlined Operations with RFID
RFID systems facilitate faster entry and exit from events. The ability to scan wristbands without direct line-of-sight improves efficiency and minimizes congestion at entry points. Dual Frequency HF + NFC cards are also used, allowing the staff to read RFID passes with their NFC-enabled smartphone as well.
3. Cashless Transactions
Many RFID systems allow for cashless payment options within the event. Attendees can link their RFID wristbands to payment accounts, enabling seamless transactions for food, merchandise, and other purchases at concerts and sports events. It improves the fan experience and also boosts revenue for the organizers. Many sports events like FIFA and the NBA go for such solutions.
4. Real-Time Tracking
RFID technology enables event organizers to monitor attendee movement and behavior in real time. The real-time data can be used to optimize logistics, enhance security, and improve the overall experience. Real-time tracking of staff carrying RFID cards also improves the overall management of the event where adequate staff can be assigned to crowded zones and entry points, leading to better fan experience.
5. Post-Event Analysis
The data collected through RFID systems can provide insights into attendee engagement, popular areas within the venue, and peak times for entry and exit. The information is invaluable for planning future events.
To conclude, both QR Code Mobile Ticketing and RFID Access Control offer significant benefits for event management, enhancing convenience, security, and operational efficiency. The use of mobile computers and handheld RFID readers such as TC26 mobile computer by Zebra, Zebra RFD40 handheld scanner, MC3330xR handheld mobile computer, etc. facilitates efficient event management and ensures safe access control and security.
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