What Are RFID Tags and How Are They Used?
RFID tags are a type of tracking system that uses radio frequency to search, identify, track, and communicate with items and people. Essentially, RFID tags are smart labels that can store a range of information from serial numbers, to a short description, and even pages of data. Some RFID tags include cryptographic security features for a high level of verification and authentication. RFID tags are usually identified by their radio frequencies: low frequency (LF), high frequency (HF), and ultra-high frequency (UHF).
- LF systems have a range between 30 and 300 KHz and a read range up to 10 cm. These systems are more frequently used in applications like access control and livestock monitoring.
- HF systems have a range between 3 and 30 MHz and a read range from 10 cm to 1 m (3 ft). These systems are commonly used for electronic tickets, payments, or user experience applications.
- UHF systems have a range between 300 MHz and 3 GHz and a read range up to 12 m (39 ft). These are the systems most commonly used in retail inventory tracking, parking garages, door access, and asset management.
Passive vs. Active RFID Tags
There are two types of RFID tags — passive and active. Passive RFID tags are the most common; they do not require a direct line of sight to a reader but do have a much shorter read range, and are smaller in size and lightweight. Passive RFID tags are ideal for:- Supply chain and inventory management
- Asset and personnel tracking
- Logistics
- Industrial and manufacturing
- Brand protection and anti-counterfeiting
- Real-time location systems (RTLS) using 3D orientation insensitive design
- Gate and perimeter access control
- Pharmaceutical and healthcare
- Entertainment and travel
- Apparel and retail
