Author: Support

The Advantages of Bluetooth Over RFID

Bluetooth and RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) are both wireless communication technologies that are used for a variety of applications, including asset tracking, data transfer, and access control. While both technologies have their own advantages and disadvantages, some of the main advantages of Bluetooth over RFID include:

  1. Range: One of the main advantages of Bluetooth over RFID is that it has a longer range. Bluetooth devices can typically communicate with each other over distances of up to 30 meters (100 feet), while RFID tags have a much shorter range of only a few centimeters. This means that Bluetooth can be used for applications where a longer range is required, such as tracking the location of assets in a warehouse or building.
  2. Data transfer: Another advantage of Bluetooth over RFID is that it can be used for bi-directional data transfer, allowing devices to both send and receive data. In contrast, RFID tags are typically only capable of transmitting a limited amount of data, such as an identification number or other simple information. This makes Bluetooth a better option for applications that require more complex data transfer, such as IoT sensing, transferring files or images between devices.
  3. Immediacy and reliability: RFID usually requires manual swiping while Bluetooth is continuously providing updated location. Not having to rely on manual swipes makes Bluetooth more immediate and reliable.
  4. Security: Bluetooth also offers better security compared to RFID. Bluetooth devices use a pairing process to establish a secure connection before exchanging data, while RFID tags do not have this capability. This makes Bluetooth a more secure option for applications that require sensitive data to be transferred, such as financial transactions or access control.

Overall, while both Bluetooth and RFID have their own advantages and disadvantages, Bluetooth offers a longer range, better data transfer capabilities, more immediacy and reliability and improved security compared to RFID. This makes it a better choice for applications that require these features.

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Minew B7 In Stock

We now supply the Minew B7 wearable wristband beacon.

B7

This waterproof (IP67) beacon offers the usual iBeacon and Eddystone advertising as well as acceleration sensing. This can be via x y z in the advertising or for motion triggered broadcast. This beacon is also one of the few that also has an NFC chip for additional RFiD-based sensing. The button can be used for on/off as well as button triggered broadcasting in situations such as lone working or SOS.

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Introduction to Bluetooth AoA

Bluetooth AoA (Angle of Arrival) positioning is a technique that uses Bluetooth signals to determine the location of a device. AoA positioning works by measuring the angle at which a Bluetooth signal arrives at multiple receivers, and then using this information to calculate the location of the device that is transmitting the signal.

AoA can be particularly useful in indoor environments, where other positioning technologies may not work well.

Some of the advantages of using Bluetooth AoA positioning include:

  • Improved accuracy: By using multiple receivers to measure the angle of arrival of Bluetooth signals, AoA positioning can provide more accurate location estimates compared to other techniques.
  • Low cost: Bluetooth AoA positioning can be implemented using relatively low-cost hardware, making it an affordable option for many applications.
  • Easy to deploy: AoA positioning systems can be easily deployed in a variety of settings, especially indoor environments where other positioning technologies may not work well.

Overall, Bluetooth AoA positioning is a useful technique for determining the location of a device using Bluetooth signals. It can provide more accurate location estimates compared to other techniques and can be implemented at low cost and deployed easily in a variety of settings.

View Minew AoA Kit

Read About PrecisionRTLS

Advantages of Real Time Location Systems (RTLS)

RTLS systems are used to track the location of objects or people, tagged with Bluetooth beacons, in real time. Some of the advantages of using a RTLS include:

  1. Improved efficiency: RTLS systems allow organisations to track the location of assets or personnel in real time, which can help improve the efficiency of operations. For example, a RTLS system can be used to track the location of equipment in a warehouse, allowing workers to quickly locate and retrieve items when needed.

  2. Enhanced safety: RTLS systems can also be used to improve safety in a variety of settings. For example, a RTLS system could be used to track the location of workers in a construction site, allowing supervisors to quickly respond to any safety incidents.

  3. Increased visibility: RTLS systems provide organisations with real-time visibility into the location of assets or personnel, which can help with decision making and resource allocation. For example, a RTLS system can be used to track the location of vehicles on a site, allowing managers to optimise routes and reduce fuel consumption.

  4. Improved asset utilisation: RTLS systems can help organisations to better utilise their assets, by providing real-time information about their location and availability. For example, a RTLS system could be used to track the location of equipment in a hospital, allowing better matching of demand with supply.

Overall, the main advantage of using a RTLS system is that it provides organisations with real-time information about the location of assets or personnel, which can help them to improve efficiency, enhance safety, and better utilise their resources.

Read about BeaconRTLS

New MBM03 Road Stud Beacon

We have the Minew MBM03 road stud beacon in stock.


The road stud is waterproof to IP68 and shock proof to IK10. It has a very large battery for a long battery life of up to 10 years depending on settings. While it is suitable for vehicle parking, checking in, positioning and tracking it’s also suitable for non-vehicle use where a rugged beacon with a large battery is required.

Minew have a promotional video highlighting the salient features:


While a lorry can roll over the stud, for the longest life it’s recommended the stud not be subjected to continual or repeated pressure.


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New KKM Waterproof Beacons in Stock

We have four new KKM waterproof Bluetooth beacons in stock.

K8
K3
K5

The K8 is different in that it has tags for screw fixing. It also has an on/off button at the side that can also be used for triggering.

The K3 is one of our most waterproof beacons with an IP68 rating. The silicon case allows pressing of an internal button that can be used for button triggered broadcast.

The K5 has a hidden on/off button inside the case and is waterproof to IP67.

The K3 and K8 and K5 also have an accelerometer that can be used for advertising x, y z or to set up motion triggered broadcast.

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FSC-BP108 Wearable Beacon Updated

The FSC-BP108 has been updated so that the battery is now replaceable.


Previously, the waterproofing was such that the beacon had to be ultrasonically sealed. A clever new twisting design allows the battery to be replaced while remaining waterproof.

Most coin cell beacons use either a CR2032 or CR2477 battery. CR2477 tend to be too large for keyfob beacons while CR2032 only last of the order of a year, depending on settings. This beacon uses an intermediate size battery, the CR3032 that more than doubles the battery life of CR2032 while keeping the size small and weight low. This beacon also uses the newer Dialog DA14531 that offers a battery life up to 6 years, depending on settings. 

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