by What is RFID?
Radio frequency identification (RFID) refers to small electronic devices that consist of a small chip attached to an antenna. The chip stores a unique numerical code that can be read by an RFID reader from a distance without making any physical contact or direct line-of-sight. RFID tags use electromagnetic fields to automatically identify objects.
How RFID Works
RFID works through radio waves that are used to transfer data between a reader and tag. An RFID system consists of an antenna, transceiver, and transponder (tag). The antenna enables the reader to transmit radio waves and receive signals back from the tag within its electromagnetic field. The tag receives radio energy from the reader through its antenna and then responds by sending back its unique code. This facilitates tracking and identification.
Types of RFID Tags
There are three main types of RFID tags based on their power source and read range:
– Passive tags: These have no internal power source and rely on radio energy transmitted from the reader’s interrogation signal for functioning. They have a read range from a few centimeters to several meters. They are the cheapest to produce.
– Active tags: They have their own internal battery which increases their read range from several meters up to 100 meters or more and memory capacity. They are also able to store more data. However, they are larger and more expensive than passive tags.
– Semi-passive tags: As the name suggests, they are a hybrid of passive and active tags. They rely on an internal battery only for the circuitry of the tag but use energy from the reader for communication. This provides a longer read range than passive tags.
Applications of RFID
RFID has many applications in supply chain management, healthcare, retail, transportation and more due to its ability to quickly track items automatically without direct line-of-sight. Here are some common uses of RFID:
Supply Chain Management
RFID tags are used to track goods at various points in the supply chain – from factories, warehouses, trucks and stores. They are attached to pallets, cases or individual items which enables monitoring of inventory levels in real-time and automated check-in/check-outs. This reduces manual errors and speeds up processes.
Access Control and Security
Active RFID tags are used in access cards for buildings or vehicles. Contactless smart cards are widely used for payments on public transport and automated toll collection on roads and bridges. RFID-embedded passports and identification cards are also becoming common.
Asset Tracking
Hospital and laundry equipment, tools and machinery can have active tags attached to enable tracking within large facilities. Lost or misplaced items can quickly be located. Many libraries use RFID tags to check books in/out and prevent theft.
Transportation
Toll collection systems on roads and public transportation increasingly rely on RFID for automated fare collection. Baggage handling at airports uses RFID to route luggage to the correct destination. Governments are introducing electronic vehicle registration and identification systems using RFID.
Upcoming Applications
Continued miniaturization and cost reduction is expanding the potential applications of RFID in new areas. Some emerging applications are:
– Contactless payments: Credit and debit cards are switching to RFID-enabled contactless payment mechanisms for speed and convenience at retail points-of-sale.
– Itemization: Individual clothing, shoes and accessories may soon have smart labels with unique RFID tags allowing garment-level tracking and automated checkouts.
– Connected health: RFID-enabled medication bottles, pill boxes, and implants can facilitate automated monitoring of treatment adherence and detection of counterfeit drugs.
– Smart cities: Infrastructure like street lights, trash cans and parking meters are being fitted with low-cost sensors and active RFID tags to enable efficient remote monitoring and management.
Privacy and Security Concerns
Though RFID brings many benefits, privacy advocates warn that the proliferation of tagged items could potentially enable covert and surreptitious tracking of individuals’ purchases and locations. Unauthorized scanning of tags in public places may reveal sensitive personal information. However, researchers continue working on encryption and secure authentication methods to address these risks. Overall, RFID promises to connect physical objects to digital systems, transforming how we live, work and interact with technology.
Ravina Pandya, Content Writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. With an MBA in E-commerce, she has an expertise in SEO-optimized content that resonates with industry professionals.
