EPC data manager

An RFID print system (200) includes an RFID printer and reader, a host computer (102) that transmits a data stream containing instructions or commands to the RFID printer for encoding an RFID tag, and a data manager (202) that receives EPC data or other data from the encoded tag. The data manager transmits the data to the host computer (102), which can then compare what was encoded to what was intended to be encoded. The host computer (102) can then transmit signals to other devices in the system for appropriate action, such as when the encoded tag is defective.