Radio Frequency IDentification
Radio frequency identification (RFID) first appeared in tracking and access applications during the 1980s. These wireless AIDC (automatic identification and data collection) systems allow for non-contact reading and are effective in manufacturing and other hostile environments where bar code labels could not survive. RFID has established itself in a wide range of markets including livestock identification and automated vehicle identification (AVI) systems because of its ability to track moving objects.
Key Attributes and Limitations
- Growth area of automatic identification and data capture
- New generation, lower cost transponders offering multi-read capabilities
- Read/write electronic storage technology
- Wide range of products satisfying a range of data storage and data transfer needs
- Low to reasonably high (64Kbits) data storage capability
- Wide range of data transfer rates, depending on device and carrier frequency used. In general, the higher the carrier frequency the higher the data transfer rates achievable
- Close proximity (inductive systems) to tens of meters (radiating systems), without the need for line-of-sight interrogation, depending upon type of transponders and interrogation hardware
- Robust constructions available, allowing use in reasonably harsh conditions.