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RFID stands for Radio-Frequency Identification. While the technology was first developed in the 1940s, it wasn’t until the 1990s that RFID saw widespread use in real-world applications. RFID was too expensive to implement on a broad scale initially, but falling costs of the necessary components have made it practical for use in a variety of applications. Certain standards of operation have come into global use for these applications.
Background
RFID is used to identify people or objects. A microchip stores a serial number in a tag that identifies the object it is attached to. This tag, also known as a transponder, includes an antenna that allows the tag to transmit the serial number data to a reader when requested. The reader, called an interrogator, receives the information. RFID can be used to track inventory or even the location of the tagged object.
Frequencies
RFID uses various standard frequencies to transmit information. The most common frequencies used worldwide for RFID transponders include 125KHz, 13.56MHz, 860-890MHz, and 2.45GHz, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. 125KHz is best for low-power applications where the transponder’s signal must pass through nonmetallic substances. Its range, though, is short, typically under a foot. 13.56MHz has better range -- about three feet -- and is best used on metal objects. The 860-890MHz band offers better range and the capability to transmit more information; however, these transponders require more power and are less likely to pass through objects. 2.45GHz offers the best range, but requires the most power to operate.
Active vs. Passive
RFID transponders are either “active” or “passive.” Active RFID transponders have the greatest range due to the fact that they are continuously powered by a battery. Since these devices continuously transmit information they are used in situations where real-time tracking is necessary. Batteries do fail over time, though; RFID chip manufacturer InLogic says the average life is between three and eight years. Passive RFID transponders operate differently in that the power they need to operate is gained from the radio waves sent by the interrogator, and only activate when the interrogator is close by. This arrangement allows the tag to last far longer and the cost of each transponder to be far less than ones using active RFID.
Reader Talks First vs. Tag Talks First
RFID components talk to each other using one of two methods. In the Reader Talks First (RTF) setup, the reader itself (interrogator) initiates the connection. While the transponder tag may be powered, it will neither activate nor send data until the reader requests it to do so. In a Tag Talks First (TTF) setup, the tag continuously broadcasts the information it contains. Active transponders are used in this setup, and receivers in the area will pick up any RFID information on the tags within its range.
Background
RFID is used to identify people or objects. A microchip stores a serial number in a tag that identifies the object it is attached to. This tag, also known as a transponder, includes an antenna that allows the tag to transmit the serial number data to a reader when requested. The reader, called an interrogator, receives the information. RFID can be used to track inventory or even the location of the tagged object.
Frequencies
RFID uses various standard frequencies to transmit information. The most common frequencies used worldwide for RFID transponders include 125KHz, 13.56MHz, 860-890MHz, and 2.45GHz, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. 125KHz is best for low-power applications where the transponder’s signal must pass through nonmetallic substances. Its range, though, is short, typically under a foot. 13.56MHz has better range -- about three feet -- and is best used on metal objects. The 860-890MHz band offers better range and the capability to transmit more information; however, these transponders require more power and are less likely to pass through objects. 2.45GHz offers the best range, but requires the most power to operate.
Active vs. Passive
RFID transponders are either “active” or “passive.” Active RFID transponders have the greatest range due to the fact that they are continuously powered by a battery. Since these devices continuously transmit information they are used in situations where real-time tracking is necessary. Batteries do fail over time, though; RFID chip manufacturer InLogic says the average life is between three and eight years. Passive RFID transponders operate differently in that the power they need to operate is gained from the radio waves sent by the interrogator, and only activate when the interrogator is close by. This arrangement allows the tag to last far longer and the cost of each transponder to be far less than ones using active RFID.
Reader Talks First vs. Tag Talks First
RFID components talk to each other using one of two methods. In the Reader Talks First (RTF) setup, the reader itself (interrogator) initiates the connection. While the transponder tag may be powered, it will neither activate nor send data until the reader requests it to do so. In a Tag Talks First (TTF) setup, the tag continuously broadcasts the information it contains. Active transponders are used in this setup, and receivers in the area will pick up any RFID information on the tags within its range.
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