RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is a technology for contactless object identification. An RFID system consists of an RFID tag (transponder) and a reader device. Interaction between the tag and reader occurs via radio communication.
Most RFID systems comprise two components: a microchip containing the ID data and an antenna transmitting the signal to the reader device. RFID tags are commonly classified into active (with their own power source) and passive tags (without an autonomous power supply).
Depending on the transponders and readers used, the system can operate at various ranges:
- short-range identification (reading distance up to 20 cm);
- medium-range (up to 5 meters inclusive);
- long-range identification (reading distance up to 300 meters).
RFID tags also differ by frequency band:
- low frequency – 125 kHz or 134.2 kHz;
- high frequency – 13.56 MHz;
- ultra-high frequency (UHF) – 868–956 MHz;
- microwave frequency – 2.45 GHz.
Advantages of RFID Systems
RFID technology is widely used in retail, warehouses, and many industrial enterprises. This popularity is due to the following advantages:
- ability to rewrite information on the carrier;
- no need for direct line of sight with the tag;
- significant reading distance;
- large memory capacity (compared to barcodes);
- ability to simultaneously read multiple transponders;
- reader operates regardless of tag orientation;
- equipment resilience to harsh industrial conditions.
A key feature of RFID tags is the high level of data security, ensured by a unique identifier assigned during manufacturing. Both encrypted and open data can be stored on the same carrier.