A method for testing a wireless tag by a testing unit. The method comprises: transmitting, by a first antenna, a prescribed pattern that is recognizable by a tag to put the tag into a testing mode; transmitting a trigger signal to a tag from a second antenna, the trigger signal being adapted to cause a tag to at least respond with a prescribed signal when the tag is good; waiting up to a prescribed amount of time after transmission of the trigger signal for a response to the trigger signal from a tag that is within range of the second antenna; when a valid response is received from the tag within the prescribed amount of time, designating the tag as having passed the test; and when a valid response is not received from the tag within the prescribed amount of time, designating the tag as having failed the test.