Radio Frequency Data Communication (RFDC) provides real-time, two-way communication between AIDC devices and a host computer without hard-wiring. Typically, RFDC is used to provide a link between the host and a hand-held or lift truck-mounted terminal. A growing use of RFDC is to link portable and mobile equipment to the host through "wireless modems." RFDC is used within a facility and should not be confused with cellular communications, although new RFDC systems are being developed that will allow remote as well as local wireless communication.

RFDC, now called Wireless LANs (WLANs) are used when you are here and the data is there - and you need it in real time and you can't hard-wire the connection. RFDC is being used to speed data acquisition in:

*Receiving
*Pick / Putaway
*Inventory
*Reduced inventories
*Shipping (shipment verification)
*Sales area management
*Portable Point-of-Sale
*Quality control

RFDC Advantages

*Real-time, device-to-host communications
*Interaction with host programs from mobile locations
*Flexibility in network design
*A wide range of input options
*Narrow band and spread spectrum options