RFID Tags and Labels
Radio Frequency Identification uses three primary tag types:
- Passive RFID Tags: Rely heavily on the magnetic field of radio waves to generate current which can be received by their antenna. This is the most common tag type.
- Active RFID Tags: Uses a battery to energize RFID Chip.
- Semi-Active RFID Tags: Similar to active tags, but the battery is used to run the microchip's circuitry but not to communicate with the reader. Some semi-active tags sleep until they are woken up by a signal from the reader, thereby conserving battery life.
RFID Label Classes
Class 0 (Symbol):- Read Only Capability
- Tags Factory Programmed
- Supports EPC Global Standard
- Write Once Read Many (WORM)
- Supports EPC Global Standard
- Full Read/Write Capability
- Supports EPC Global Standard
Inlay antenna design substantially affects performance of a RFID tag, including the read range, write distance, read speed, and tag orientation. Inlay antenna design can address many of these issues. Design of reader antenna should coordinate with design of inlay antenna to optimize performance. Metal either disrupts or enhances the RFID tag signal, depending on where the metal is in relation to the tag and the reader. Liquid absorbs RF Energy, and is an impediment to signal strength. Beware of tagging a liquid or operating in a damp environment.
RFID labels and tags are very specific to the purpose for which they will be used and can be specific to the printer as well. Because of the multitude of options this creates, we highly encourage everyone that is either interested in starting the RFID label printing process or even those that are just looking for replacement media stock to call and confirm their requirements prior to purchasing labels or tags. If you have questions about which label/tag is correct for your needs, please call 1.800.648.4452 or email sales@systemid.com and "Just Ask Us!"
