Radio-frequency identification (RFID) is a technology that uses smart labels or RFID tags that have digital information encoded on them. Then, an RFID reader will pick up this information through radio waves and store it in a computer database.
RFID Advantages :
Its unique combination of features enables RFID devices to electronically identify objects with ease. RFID is superior to barcodes in that it does not require a direct line of sight between the tag and reader, allowing it to operate effectively in a wide variety of environmental conditions. The main RFID characteristics include:
Unique ID
This technology makes it easy to accurately identify a wide range of things, like retail goods, construction tools, and warehouse batches. It uses a mix of automation and artificial intelligence to automatically find and update data records based on things like location, date, time, and temperature.
Without direct contact
RFID devices can read and write data without direct contact. The RFID tag does not need to be in direct view of the RFID reader. This communication technology uses radio waves, as its name suggests. You only need to ensure that the tags fall within the range of the reader.
Automatic Recognition
RFID tags with specific information are put on the things, and the IDs are sent to the readers to be stored. Usually, the reader has to be in a certain place and within the tags’ range for the tags’ IDs to be automatically read. Readers can also be incorporated into mobile devices and tablets. This enables the tags to be easily scanned whenever they come in close proximity to such devices.
Access to multiple RF tags at once
It is possible for an RFID system to access information stored in multiple RF Tags simultaneously if it is equipped with the appropriate function that allows it to read the information in multiple tags simultaneously and they are within the transmission area.
Can Detect Hidden Objects
Since this system can simultaneously read multiple tags, it can also detect “hidden” objects. For example, if multiple items are placed in a rack or are moving on conveyor belts, the tags are visible if they are positioned correctly and within the transmission range. The readability of the tag depends on where the reader is placed, the proximity of the reader to the tag, the type of tag, the surface material, and the surrounding environment.
Tags that are durable and weatherproof
RFID tags, unlike barcodes, are made to be tough and durable, so they can be used in many different situations. It should be noted that there is a vast variety of tags designed to meet specific requirements, such as underwater use or hazardous/contaminated environments.
Absence of battery power
Notably, passive RFID tags are the most prevalent and do not require batteries. Instead, they are typically activated by the reader’s power source. This increases the versatility of the tags, as they can be made in miniature sizes and embedded in small objects. Also, passive tags have a long shelf life because they can last for years in harsh environments.
Dependable and Adaptable Systems
RFIDs are adaptable and dependable systems that link items with pertinent data. As a result, such a system fosters dependability and the proper configuration of objects. RFIDs enable reduced-load decentralized information systems. Consequently, systems can be quickly and easily implemented. In addition, plans that are adaptable can be altered if necessary.
Effective Communication
RFIDs are developed using innovative, cutting-edge technologies and incorporated with specialized protocols to enable radio frequency transmission. When transmitting data, 16 bits of cyclic redundancy check (CRC) are included. In addition, this system has a burst error ratio of 0.009 percent, resulting in a high rate of information transfer reliability.
How does RFID function?
The operation of an RFID system is dependent on its primary components, which include:
RFID Tags
They are responsible for data storage and transmission. RFID tags containing decipherable information are attached to objects. Tags contain embedded microchips that store both programmable data and tag identification. These stored data are typically transmitted to the reader via antennas.
RFID Antennas
RFID antennas communicate information from RFID tags to RFID readers. RFID systems may utilize standalone or integrated antennas for the reader to correctly receive and transmit signals.
RFID Readers
They are referred to as the “Brains” of RFID systems. Readers are essential to the proper operation of RFID systems because they convert received radio waves into digital data stored in a computer database. RFID readers are equipped with antennas to receive data from RFID tags. Since they receive and transmit radio waves that facilitate communication, they are also known as interrogators.
Computer Database
Data stored in tags are stored in computer databases for easy retrieval. Notably, such systems are capable of configuring hardware components, managing data and devices, programming tags, and even facilitating remote monitoring.
Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) technology is utilized by RFIDs. AIDC is designed to identify specific objects automatically and then collect pertinent data about them. In addition, RFID facilitates direct data storage in computer databases with minimal to no human intervention. Radio waves facilitate all of the aforementioned processes.
Using its primary components, the RFID tag with an integrated circuit stores the required information. It may be paired with a data-transmission antenna. This data must be transmitted to the reader/interrogator, which transforms the radio waves received into meaningful data. This procedure illustrates how data moves from tags to the host computer’s database, where it can be analyzed in the future.
RFID Implementations
RFID technology is applicable to many industries because it is already used in everyday life, despite the fact that most people are unaware of its existence. Its principal uses include:
Medical sector
RFID is applicable in the healthcare industry in a number of ways. For instance, the use of RFID-enabled wristbands that can be used to retrieve patients’ information and medical history can increase patient safety. In addition, RFID sensors can improve the monitoring and tracking of particular medical procedures, thereby improving inventory control.
Aviation and Supply Chain
These are some of the most prevalent industries that employ RFID systems extensively. Airframers who utilize RFID technology typically monitor the majority of aircraft parts, for instance. Furthermore, these methods are ideal for improving the manufacturing supply chain process.
RFID enables the tracking of aerospace and defense equipment and eliminates the need for manual check-in and check-out. With automated tracking systems, it is simple to identify shipments in the supply chain, which is essential for reducing reliance on manual labor.
Internet-Based Technologies for Things (IoT)
The Internet of Things is essential for manufacturing companies to maximize their productivity. When it comes to the life cycle of a product, RFID systems can be useful for facilitating data organization, analysis, and documentation. Moreover, RFID readers are ideal for real-time identification, monitoring, and tracking of data in manufacturing industries.
Other RFID-related aspects of the Internet of Things include enhancing data interoperability by ensuring that appropriately tagged assets can easily share data. This is essential for making crucial decisions.
Government Collections
The majority of government libraries use magnetic strips and barcodes to track assets. In general, these institutions utilize RFID technology to read barcodes and efficiently track multiple items at once. As a result, queues are shorter in these libraries because individuals can self-check.
RFID systems are commonly employed to time races and marathons. When race participants with RFID tags cross timing locations, such as the start and finish lines, the tags are typically activated prior to the reader transmitting the information contained in the tag IDs to the race timing software.
Toll Road Charges
E-Z pass is one of the RFID-based highway toll payment systems found in Eastern states. It is designed to electronically collect toll payments from passing vehicles. The amount is deducted automatically from the commuter’s pre-paid card when the vehicle enters an E-Z lane. This reduces highway congestion by eliminating the need for vehicles to stop at toll booths.
Information on Passports Countries such as the United States, Spain, Japan, and Norway embed RFID chips into passports to store customized information about the holder. In addition, the tag information in passports can be used to track the number of foreigners entering and exiting the country.
Door Locks
RFID cards are utilized by hotels to manage customer information. Note that these cards are frequently employed to activate lights and lock doors. This technology is also essential for letting hotel management know when guests have entered their rooms.
RFID tags can be used by industries and organizations that employ a variety of tools to track and manage these resources. RFID technology simplifies asset management by keeping track of both stored and in-use equipment. In addition, this technology’s suitability for use in management allows organizations to determine if they have enough equipment.
RFID Tags
They contain the pertinent data intended for transmission for storage or analysis. RFID tags are typically classified based on the frequency at which they are designed to operate. There are three primary tag categories:
I. Low-Frequency Identifiers (LF)
The primary frequency range is between 125 and 134 kHz. Due to its low frequency, LF can only read from a few inches away and has the slowest data transfer rate of the three RFID frequencies. LF additionally stores typically small amounts of data.
Healthcare, asset tracking, access control, and key fob are applications.
II. Frequency-Based Tags (HF)
HF has a primary range of approximately 13,56 MHz and a read range of 10 centimeters to 1 meter. This is the most widely used frequency range worldwide. It is larger than LF for data storage and can store up to 4k of information. HF can also simultaneously read multiple tags attached to various object types, such as wood, water, and metal.
Utilizations: credit cards, airline baggage, and identification cards.
III. Tags with Ultra-High Frequency (UHF)
There are two types of UHF tags: active and passive.
• UHF Active tags are powered by batteries and have substantial memory capacities. These active tags’ primary frequency range is 433 MHz. It has a read range of 30M to 100M+, as well as a high data transfer rate. Construction and auto manufacturing are among its applications.
• UHF Passive tags: typically rely on the energy generated by RFID readers. With a primary frequency range between 860 and 960 MHz, passive tags are available in a variety of sizes. These tags also feature high data transmission rates and a 25-meter read range. Typically, they are utilized in electronic rolling, production, and supply chain tracking.
RFID Readers
There are two kinds of RFID equipment.
including both stationary and mobile readers. Mobile RFID readers are mostly handheld devices that support reading flexibility since they can be moved from place to place. Such readers are crucial for fostering adaptability.
There are two primary types of mobile RFID readers: mobile computing devices found in computers and Sleds that utilize auxiliary connections to smart devices or Bluetooth.
Readers that are fixed and powered to remain stationary. It primarily resides in the corners of buildings, allowing for the continuous collection of vast amounts of accurate data. They are the true workhorses of this industry because they thrive in a variety of environments and work nonstop.
Typically, fixed RFID readers are designed with external antennas to which 1-8 additional antennas can be easily connected. In addition, certain of these readers can connect up to 32 antennas using multiplexers. However, the number of antennas attached to a reader is determined by the required coverage area. One antenna would suffice for applications involving small areas.
One of the simplest ways to identify readers is by their mobility, which is why we have both fixed and mobile readers. However, RFID readers can also be classified based on features, power options, antenna ports, connectivity, and processing abilities, among others.
• Powered by USB, POE, and a power adapter
• Antenna ports: There are no external or 1, 2, 4, 8, or 16 ports.
• Connectivity options include USB, Wi-Fi, aux port, and Bluetooth.
• Capabilities for processing: onboard processing capabilities or none.
• Available utilities: cellular capabilities, USB, HDMI, GPS, and camera.
RFID System
It is a wirelessly communicating ID system. RFID system enables data transfer between data carriers, i.e., RF Tags that are typically attached to objects or carried by individuals, and antennas. Such a system is used to improve the management of consolidated information and objects.
RFID Systems typically vary based on the type and complexity of the device. However, there are at least four essential elements that every system must possess, and they are as follows:
• Antennas
• Readers
• Computer databases
• Tags
RFID tags may be read by handheld RFID readers in simple RFID systems. It also incorporates an antenna. Nonetheless, complex systems contain numerous RFID tags, cables, and antennas. In addition, they include GIPO boxes, multi-port readers, and functionality devices that improve usability, as well as a software configuration.
Conclusion
RFID technology is indispensable in the majority of industries. It provides an efficient method for implementing a dependable identification system in environments both simple and complex. This wireless technology is still restricted because it has proven to be superior to barcode scanners. RFID wireless technology does not require direct line-of-sight for the reader to detect signals. Based on the frequency, this technology can also cover larger areas, store more data, and simultaneously read RFID tags. All of these characteristics are essential for enhancing efficiency and dependability in various industries.
