What is RFID
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is a wireless communication technology that uses electromagnetic or electrostatic coupling within the radio frequency range of the electromagnetic spectrum to uniquely identify objects, animals, or people.
How it works
An RFID system consists of three main components: a scanning antenna, a transceiver, and a transponder. When the scanning antenna and transceiver are combined, they form an RFID reader, also known as an interrogator. There are two types of RFID readers: fixed readers and mobile readers. The RFID reader is a network-connected device, which can either be portable or permanently installed. It transmits radio waves that activate the RFID tag. Once activated, the tag sends a signal back to the antenna, which is then converted into data.
The transponder is located within the RFID tag itself. The read range of RFID tags depends on several factors, including the type of tag, the type of reader, the RFID frequency, and any interference from the environment or other RFID devices. Tags with stronger power sources typically have a longer read range.
Types of RFID
RFID systems are often categorized based on their operating frequency bands, which refer to the size of the radio waves used for communication between system components. RFID systems worldwide operate across low frequency (LF), high frequency (HF), and ultra-high frequency (UHF) bands. Each frequency band affects the behavior of radio waves differently, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
| Frequency | Transmission Range | Use Case | |
| Low Frequency (LF) | 30 KHz to 500 KHz, with 125 KHz being the typical frequency | few inches up to six feet | access control and livestock tracking |
| High Frequency | 3 MHz and 30 MHz, with 13.56 MHz being the typical frequency | few inches to several feet | ticketing, payments, and data transfer applications, Near Field Communication (NFC), MIFARE technology, FeliCa technology |
| Ultra-High Frequency | 300 MHz to 960 MHz, with the typical frequency being 433 MHz | longer read range, typically over 25 feet | retail inventory management, pharmaceutical anti-counterfeiting, and wireless device configuration |
Passive Vs Active
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) systems come in three main types: Passive RFID, Active RFID, and Battery-Assisted Passive (BAP) RFID. Passive RFID tags rely on energy from the reader to transmit data and are cost-effective, but have a limited range of about 3-10 meters. Active RFID tags have an internal battery that powers their communication system, allowing for longer ranges (up to 100 meters or more), but they are more expensive. Battery-Assisted Passive (BAP) RFID tags combine elements of both, using a small battery to enhance performance and extend range while still relying primarily on the reader’s energy, offering a middle ground in terms of cost and range between passive and active RFID.
| Active RFID | Battery Assisted Passive (BAP) | Passive RFID | |
| Tag Power source | Internal to tag | Tag uses internal power source to power on, and energy transferred from the reader via RF backscatter | Energy transfer from the reader via RF |
| Tag Battery | Yes | Yes | No |
| Availability of tag power | Continuous | Only within field of reader | Only within the field of reader |
| Required signal strength from read to tag | Very Low | Moderate (does not need power tag but must power backscatter) | Very high (must power the tag) |
| Available signal strength from tag to read | High | Moderate | Very low |
| Communication range | Long Range (100m or more) | Moderate range up to 100m | Short range (up to 10m)
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| Sensor capability | Ability to continuously monitor and record senor input | Ability to read and transfer sensor values only when tag receives RF signal from reader | Ability to continuously monitor and record sensor input |
Limitations
If an RFID system operates at a lower frequency, it has a slower data read rate, but increased capabilities for reading near or on metal or liquid surfaces. If a system operates at a higher frequency, it generally has faster data transfer rates and longer read ranges, but more sensitivity to radio wave interference caused by liquids and metals in the environment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, AIDC technologies, such as RFID, biometrics, and OCR, are crucial for improving data collection, efficiency, and decision-making across industries. Despite challenges like security concerns and occasional system issues, AIDC’s impact on optimizing operations is undeniable. As it continues to integrate with AI and IoT, adopting AIDC is essential for businesses aiming to stay competitive in the digital age.
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