Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Definition
Radio Frequency Identification, or RFID, is a technology that utilizes electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track tags that are attached to objects. The tags contain electronically stored information. Both passive and active RFID tags exist. While passive tags rely on radio frequency signals from a reader to function, active tags have their own power source.
RFID Key Points
- RFID uses electromagnetic fields for tracking and identification purposes.
- RFID tags are used to store electronic information about an item.
- There are two types of RFID tags, active and passive, with the latter relying on a reader’s signals to operate.
- Active RFID tags have their own power source, and can send signals independently.
What is RFID?
RFID is a type of technology that leverages electromagnetic fields to pinpoint the location of and track objects that have tags attached. These tags, whether active or passive, hold digitally encoded information related to the specific item. This data can be anything from the type of object to specific details about it.
Why is RFID important?
RFID is significant due to its wide-ranging use in countless sectors. This includes arenas such as supply chain management, retail, healthcare, and much more. It offers the ability to track and trace materials, products, or assets accurately and efficiently, saving time and resources in comparison to manual tracking methods.
When is RFID used?
RFID technology can be used anytime there is a need to track and trace items or people. This could be in a manufacturing setup where each item in the production line is tagged, or in a hospital setting where patient wristbands are equipped with RFID tags for easy and accurate patient identification.
Who uses RFID?
From retail companies and industrial manufacturers to libraries, hospitals, and educational institutions, RFID’s versatile nature makes it useful in many different industries and settings. It is used anywhere tracking, tracing and real-time location of objects or people is necessary.
How does RFID work?
RFID system functions in two parts: the reader and the tag. The reader emits a radio signal that is received by the tag. This tag, in turn, transmits the stored digital information back to the reader, via radio frequency waves, thereby identifying and tracking the tagged object. If it’s a passive tag, it uses the reader’s signal to power itself up and send data back, while active tags come with a built-in power source to do so independently.
