RFID, which stands for Radio Frequency Identification, is a wireless technology that uses radio waves to identify and track objects. Its advanced capabilities make it a versatile tracking tool, with various components and types that can be tailored to specific needs. In this article, we will delve deeper into the components of RFID and the types of RFID.
Want to know more about the definition of RFID? Visit RFID: The Future of Identification and Tracking.
RFID Components
The main RFID components include tags, readers, and software.
Tags
Tags consist of an integrated circuit, antenna, and substrate. The part of the tag that contains unique information for identification is called the RFID inlay. Tags can be attached to products, packages, shipping units, returnable assets, and more. There are two main types of tags:
- Active Tags: Have their own power source, often a battery.
- Passive Tags: Receive power from the reader’s antenna. Electromagnetic waves from the reader’s antenna induce current in the tag’s antenna.
Active tags have a longer read range than passive tags due to their stronger power source.
Reader
An RFID reader is a device equipped with an antenna to emit radio waves and receive signals from tags. It functions like a barcode reader but does not require direct contact to read information.
Types of RFID Readers:
- Fixed Reader: Installed in a specific location and used to track the movement of goods or people passing through the area.
- Mobile Reader: Can be carried anywhere and used to read tags manually.
Each tag within the reader’s read range is automatically activated and transmited information, such as a serial number, to the device.
Software and Dashboard
All data will be collected by RFID software. This software plays a crucial role in consolidating data from multiple readers, cleaning and formatting the data, and forwarding it to other systems such as ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning).
In addition, data can also be displayed on an RFID dashboard as a user interface to visualize data and monitor system operations in real-time. This allows you to gain insights into asset movement, operational activities, and potential inefficiencies.
RFID Frequency Types
Frequency is a measure of the wavelength used for communication between components in an RFID system. RFID systems currently operating on three frequency ranges: low, high, and ultra-high. Each frequency has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of bandwidth and capabilities.
RFID Frequency Types can be classified into three:
Low Frequency (LF) RFID
- Operates in the range of 30KHz to 300Khz. Most commonly used in the 125 KHz or 134 Khz frequency.
- Short read range, around 10 cm. Ideal for applications requiring close-range identification.
- Slow read speed. Suitable for situations that do not require fast reading.
- High resistance to external interference. Ideal for environments with high electromagnetic wave traffic.
- Has a smaller data transmission capacity but can function well in the presence of metal or liquids.
- LF applications can be found in access control and animal tracking.
High Frequency (HF) RFID
- Operates in the range of 3 to 30 MHz. Commonly operates at 13.56 MHz.
- Read range is between 10cm and 1m.
- More susceptible to interference from liquids and metals in the environment.
- HF applications can be found in ticketing, payment, and data transfer.
Ultra High Frequency (UHF) RFID
- Operates in the 300MHz to 3GHz frequency range. Most commonly used in the 860 to 960 MHz frequency.
- Long range, more than 12 meters.
- High reading speed. Its data transmission process is very fast, enabling the reading of large numbers of tags in a short time.
- Sensitivity to electromagnetic interference is very high, potentially obstruct tag reading.
- UHF applications range from store inventory to drug identification for protection.
RFID Frequency Commonly Used Today
The higher the RFID frequency, the faster and farther the data transmission range. However, the radio waves emitted are more susceptible to interference from liquids and metals in the surrounding environment.
Nevertheless, technological innovation in recent years has produced tag, antenna, and reader designs that can deliver high performance in complex environments.
UHF tags are currently easier and cheaper to manufacture compared to LF and HF tags. Therefore, the majority of RFID projects now adopt UHF technology, making it a rapidly growing market segment and easily adaptable to various sectors.
It is important to consider factors such as RFID frequency, read range, and tag durability when making your decision. By understanding the components of RFID and the different types of RFID, you can choose the right solution for your needs.
Curious about RFID applications in Industry? Check out Developments & Benefits of RFID and BARCODE for Industry.
Contact ACS Group
ACS Group (PT Autojaya Idetech and PT Solusi Periferal), established in 1992, is a trusted professional company that has provided tailored solutions to thousands of enterprises across Indonesia.
We offer a comprehensive suite of cutting-edge solutions, encompassing AIDC, IT Infrastructure, Enterprise Security Systems, and Enterprise Business Solutions. With four strategically located branches in Cikarang, Semarang, Surabaya, and Denpasar, we are committed to delivering close and personalized service to our valued customers.
Contact us today via our Official WhatsApp +62 811-1944-534, Email sales.admin@acsgroup.co.id or, visit our website www.acsgroup.co.id to explore how ACS Group can help you enhance your business efficiency and productivity with RFID implementation.