RFID

Allow data transfer without a direct line of sight

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is the generic name for a type of auto-identification technology that uses radio waves to identify unique items. Typical RFID systems consist of two major components: the reader and the tag.

The reader, which is also known as the interrogator, may be either a fixed or mobile reader or indeed, in many applications, can be a combination of both. Its role is to read and write information from/to the tag through radio waves via the reader’s antennas.

The tag, or transponder, is made up of a microchip that stores the information, an antenna and a carrier on which the chip and antenna are mounted. RFID tags come in many different forms and sizes and can be either active or passive.

RFID technology is used in many applications ranging from security and access control through to transportation and logistics. Essentially, RFID can be used in any application where there is a need to collect multiple pieces of data on items for tracking and counting purposes and where other auto-ID technologies, such as barcodes, etc. are not suitable.