Radio Frequency Identification Basics

RFID is an emerging technology tool for automatic data collection. Let System ID, a leader in RFID consulting and implementation services, provide you with some basic information about this technology.

RFID compliments barcode technology, it does not replace barcodes. Also, RFID is not a new technology, it was developed during WWII as an IFF (Identify Friend or Foe) tool for aircraft.

RFID has several components:

• RFID Tag. There are 3 primary components to a RFID tag:
  • The RFID chip for storing data.
  • The antenna to transmit data.
  • The label to attach the tag to an object.
• RFID Reader. Activates/deactivates the antenna and controls the read/write process
• Local Software and Infrastructure. This is where the tag data is first processed. Often, RFID middleware is used at this location.
• Enterprise Integration. This is where the tag data is ultimately stored and possible further processing.

There are 4 Primary RFID Frequencies:

Low Frequency (LF)............. High Frequency (HF)............ Ultra High Frequency (UHF)... Microwave.........................

135 KHz 13.56 MHz 862-928 MHz 2.4 GHz

The most commonly used Frequency in RFID is UHF, at about 900MHz. Different countries are allotted use of specific bands of the UHF range:

USA....... Europe... Asia.......

915MHz 866MHz 950 to 956MHz

Most RFID requirements are defined as either a Compliance Labeling Solution or as a "Closed Loop" System.

Compliance Labeling applies to operations that are mandated to apply RFID enabled labels or tags for use by an outside party, but are not intended for internal use. System ID offers a choice of solutions to help customers resolve this specific requirement. Learn more about Compliance Labeling.

"Closed Loop" RFID systems are those in which the customer intends to use RFID technology for their internal operations. Learn more about Closed Loop RFID solutions.