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Check unknown and invalid tags
Understand observation totals, look up an individual identifier and see why unresolved observations prevent a count from closing.
During an RFID count, the reader reads tags within range, including tags Beam does not know. These observations stay visible until someone reviews them.
Open observations
In the count, open Check observations (Unknown and invalid tags). Observation totals shows how many tags were unique, repeated, unknown or invalid.
For unknown and invalid tags, Beam reports totals only. The app explains: The platform only reports totals for unknown and invalid — individual identifiers cannot be retrieved as a list. To find out what happened to one particular tag, use the lookup.
Look up an identifier
- Choose Look up identifier.
- Scan the tag or type the identifier (Scan or type an identifier…).
- The result shows Counted or Not counted, with an outcome:
| Outcome | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Expected | The unit belongs in this count and was seen. |
| Known, not expected here | Beam knows the unit, but at another location or outside this count’s scope. |
| Unknown | Beam does not know the identifier. |
| Invalid | The identifier does not match the expected format. |
| Not recognised | The input could not be read as an identifier. |
Why the count will not close
While unknown or invalid observations remain unresolved, the app refuses to close the count: Observations need review. 3 unknown and 1 invalid identifiers must be resolved before this count can close. The Check now button opens this screen.
Handle an unknown tag
- If the tag belongs to a product, link it on the scan page with Link all EPCs to this item.
- If the tag belongs to another company or to packaging, leave it outside the count. It will not be added to your stock.
- If a unit from another location is here, move it through EPC details.
Next: close the count.