In today’s fast-paced industrial world, being able to accurately track assets, people or equipment can make all the difference. This is where a real time locating system (RTLS) proves its value. RTLS technologies help businesses boost efficiency, reduce delays, and improve visibility across their operations.
There are three main technologies behind most real time locating systems: Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Ultra-Wideband (UWB), and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID). Each has unique features and is better suited to different types of environments and use cases.
In this article, we’ll explore how each technology works, what their strengths and weaknesses are, and how to choose the right one for your specific needs.
Understanding RTLS Technologies
What is RTLS?
A real time locating system (RTLS) is used to determine the location of assets or people in real time within a defined space. It works by using tags or sensors to send signals, which are then processed by software to display the location data.
RTLS is widely used in manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and retail. From finding tools in a factory to tracking stock in a warehouse, these systems play a key role in streamlining operations and saving time.
Overview of BLE, UWB, and RFID
Each of the three main RTLS technologies brings different benefits:
- BLE provides low-energy, affordable tracking that works well with smartphones and existing devices.
- UWB offers extremely high accuracy and speed.
- RFID is cost-effective and excellent for managing inventory.
Deep Dive into Each Technology
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)
How it Works
BLE uses short-range Bluetooth signals to determine location. Accuracy depends on the setup—ranging from 2–3 metres with RSSI signal-based trilateration to as fine as 20 centimetres using Angle-of-Arrival (AoA).
Advantages
- Very low energy use; batteries can last for years.
- Several ways to implement, including RSSI trilateration, reverse BLE, AoA, and BLE with LoRaWAN.
- Easy to integrate with smartphones and other Bluetooth-enabled devices.
Limitations
- Signal accuracy can be affected by walls or machinery.
- Complex environments may reduce performance.
Ideal Use Cases
- Indoor navigation in offices and retail stores.
- Asset tracking in hospitals or clinics.
- Proximity marketing and customer engagement.
Ultra-Wideband (UWB)
How it Works
UWB uses short radio pulses across a wide frequency range and calculates position using Time Difference of Arrival (TDoA), offering high-precision location data.
Advantages
- Very high accuracy—up to 10 cm.
- Strong performance in busy or metallic environments.
- Fast, real-time updates with low latency.
Limitations
- Higher setup and equipment costs.
- Shorter battery life than BLE.
Ideal Use Cases
- Industrial automation and robotics.
- Tracking medical equipment.
- Secure access control.
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
How it Works
RFID uses electromagnetic signals to detect and track tags attached to items. There are passive tags, which are powered by the reader’s signal, and active tags, which have their own battery.
Advantages
- Passive tags are very affordable.
- Ideal for inventory and supply chain management.
- No need for line-of-sight between reader and tag.
Limitations
- Not ideal for high-accuracy or real-time tracking.
- Shorter range than BLE and UWB in passive mode.
Ideal Use Cases
- Warehouse inventory control.
- Retail stock management.
- Logistics and supply tracking.
Comparative Analysis
| Criteria | BLE | UWB | RFID |
| Accuracy | 2–3 metres (20 cm with AoA) | Up to 10 cm | Low (passive), moderate (active) |
| Cost | Moderate | High | Low (passive), variable (active) |
| Battery Life | Several years | Days to weeks | Passive: no battery; Active: varies |
| Range | Up to 100 metres | Up to 200 metres | Passive: ~10m; Active: up to 100m |
| Scalability | Highly scalable | Scalable with effort | Very scalable for large inventories |
| Integration | Easy with Bluetooth devices | Requires specific setup | Simple for stock tracking |
Decision-Making Guide
When choosing a real time locating system, it’s important to assess your specific needs:
- Accuracy Requirements: Do you need centimetre-level precision or just an approximate zone?
- Budget Constraints: RFID and BLE are more cost-effective, while UWB is ideal for high-performance tracking.
- Infrastructure: Consider whether your existing setup supports the new technology.
- Environment: Are there obstacles like walls or metal surfaces that could interfere with signals?
- Scalability: Can the system grow with your business as operations expand?
Partnering with Qonda Systems for Your RTLS Needs
At Qonda Systems, we specialise in helping businesses choose and implement the right real time locating system for their operations. Whether your goal is to improve visibility, speed up processes, or reduce losses, our expertise in BLE, UWB, and RFID technologies allows us to deliver solutions that are both effective and scalable.
We work closely with our clients to understand their challenges and tailor systems that match their environment, budget, and long-term goals. Our RTLS platforms are designed for easy integration, whether you’re managing a single site or a global network.
Let us help you unlock the full potential of your operations with a smart, future-ready RTLS solution. Contact us today to explore how we can support your journey.