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RFID Guide for beginners


Welcome to the RFID guide for beginners. If you want to learn the basics of RFID you have come to the right place. Sometimes the concept of RFID can be confusing because of its technical terms and complex systems. In this guide, we will break down the basics of RFID technology and provide you with the knowledge you need to get started with using RFID.

 

Table of content

Introduction
What is RFID technology
History of RFID
Main benefits of RFID
Key markets and application areas
Passive vs active RFID tags
Components of an RFID system
How RFID works
Different RFID product types
Passive RFID: Comparison by frequency band
What is the difference between NFC and RFID?
What is the difference between an RFID inlay and an RFID tag?
How an RFID tag is constructed
Different delivery formats of RFID inlays and tags
How to select the right RFID inlay & tag?
RFID vs Barcode
RFID and sustainability
RFID standards
RFID and IoT solutions
 





Introduction

Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) technology is widely used in industries because it simplifies and automates processes. It uses radio waves to communicate, to identify, and track objects wirelessly, making it a valuable tool for a variety of applications, from supply chain management to access control.

Although the concept of RFID has existed for decades, it has only recently become more widely adopted due to significant improvements in technology and decreasing costs. This guide provides an overview of RFID technology, including its history, different types, and how it works. We will also explore the various applications of RFID, as well as its advantages and some limitations.

The RFID guide is designed for anyone who wants to learn about RFID, whether you are an IT professional, a business owner, or just someone interested in the technology. It provides a comprehensive overview of this exciting technology and its potential to transform various industries.

Let's dive in!





What is RFID technology

Before we start delving into more details, it is important to understand what RFID technology is. It is a wireless technology that uses radio waves to identify and track objects by placing an RFID tag or transponder on them. The tag contains a microchip and an antenna that transmits a unique identifier to a reader device when prompted by the reader's radio signal. This technology allows for non-contact, non-line-of-sight identification and tracking of items, which is beneficial for many businesses, including those involved in supply chain management, retail, logistics, and asset management. Combining RFID with IoT solutions allows for gathering and analyzing massive amounts of information to optimize and improve business processes and decision-making.
 





History of RFID

Since now we know what the technology is, let’s briefly go through some historical background. RFID technology has been around since the dawn of the 20th century, when some brilliant minds first started playing around with radio waves to identify and track objects. However, it wasn't until the 1970s that RFID technology began to take shape in its modern form.

In 1973, the first patent for an RFID system was granted to Mario W. Cardullo. The patent described a system for automatically identifying and tracking articles using radio waves, which marked the beginning of the modern era of RFID.

The 80s and 90s were all about RFID evolution, with the development of various types of RFID systems, including passive and active RFID. During this time, RFID was mainly used in military and industrial applications, such as supply chain management and inventory tracking.

Then came the 2000s, and RFID technology became more widely available and affordable, leading to its increased adoption in various industries, including retail, healthcare, and transportation. The technology continued to grow, and thanks to advancements in it, RFID readers, antennas, and tags became even more advanced.

And now, here we are in the present day, with RFID technology continuing to evolve and expand, with the development of new applications and innovations, such as near-field communication (NFC) and the Internet of Things (IoT). The future of RFID technology looks bright, with many experts predicting that it will play an even greater role in our lives in the years to come.





Main benefits of RFID

Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) technology has revolutionized the way organizations manage and track their goods and assets, bringing numerous benefits to the table. RFID technology offers a lot of advantages, including:

  • Improved efficiency: RFID technology enables fast and efficient data exchange between an RFID reader and an RFID tag, which can result in improved efficiency and accuracy in various applications, such as inventory management, supply chain management, and asset tracking.

  • Increased visibility: RFID technology provides real-time data and increased visibility into the movement of goods and assets, enabling organizations to make more informed decisions and respond quickly to changes in demand or other conditions.

  • Reduced costs: By automating processes and reducing manual labor, RFID technology can help organizations to reduce costs and improve their bottom line. For example, RFID can help reduce inventory shrinkage and improve asset utilization, both of which can lead to significant cost savings.

  • Improved security: RFID technology can be used to enhance security by controlling access to secure areas and facilities and by helping to prevent theft and shrinkage.

  • Improved consumer engagement: RFID technology can also be applied to create an engaging shopping experience for consumers by providing personalized recommendations, real-time product information, and location-based marketing.

RFID technology offers a range of benefits that make it a popular choice for a variety of industries. It provides a seamless bridge between the physical and digital world through the use of a unique code, or digital twin. With automated and fast non-line-of-sight reading, RFID allows for efficient tracking and tracing without the need to open boxes. Additionally, its advanced security features ensure that data is protected through coding and passwords. RFID also engages customers and enhances sustainability by improving supply chain efficiency and waste management. Its compliance capabilities provide a unique identity to tags, while the aesthetics of the technology keep tags hidden from consumers. Finally, RFID's recycling process stores all data, adding to its environmental benefits.
 





Key markets and application areas

Now let’s explore some of the key markets and application areas where RFID is making a difference. Due to its ability to provide quick and accurate identification and tracking objects, RFID technology has found widespread use in various industries. Some of the most common applications of RFID technology include:
 

Supply chain management
In supply chain management RFID technology can significantly improve the visibility and efficiency of the supply chain by placing RFID tags on containers, pallets, and other types of packaging, allowing companies to track the movement of goods as they move through the supply chain.

Asset tracking
RFID technology is also used for asset tracking to monitor the location and status of assets, such as equipment, vehicles, and tools. This can help organizations to improve their asset utilization, reduce downtime, and increase efficiency.

Inventory management
RFID is widely used in inventory management to prevent over-stocking or under-stocking of a product or component. Since RFID tags can be attached to products, it enables companies to accurately track inventory levels and to quickly respond to changes in demand. Additionally, RFID allows quality control, particularly for stock items with a limited shelf life.

Healthcare 
In the healthcare industry RFID technology improves patient safety, reduces medication errors, and streamlines the delivery of care. RFID tags can be attached to medical equipment, allowing for quick and accurate tracking, and RFID-enabled wristbands can be used to identify patients and track their movement through the healthcare facility.

Access control 
With the use of RFID technology, it is possible to control access to secure areas and facilities. By attaching RFID tags to employee badges, gaining access to restricted areas takes place by simply waving their badge near an RFID reader.

Retail
In retail RFID technology has brought significant improvements to inventory management. It reduces theft and shrinkage, and enhances the shopping experience for customers. By attaching RFID tags to individual items, retailers can efficiently track inventory levels and quickly respond to changes in demand.

Logistics:
RFID is widely applied to optimize logistics processes in a supply chain – tracking goods from one distribution center to another, for inventory accuracy, and for tagging down to the item-level. With the ability to obtain real-time data, logistics companies can quickly respond to changes in demand and provide better customer service, ultimately leading to a more competitive advantage in the market.

Manufacturing
In the manufacturing industry, RFID technology has become an indispensable tool for optimizing production processes, inventory tracking, and equipment monitoring. RFID tags can be attached to components and products to track their movement through the production process, reducing the risk of errors and improving efficiency and overall performance.

Automotive
RFID technology has found numerous applications in the automotive industry including parts tracking, traceability in process automation, especially in production of the vehicle itself, customer safety, authenticating products, brand protection and in manufacturing for improving labor and operational efficiency. In addition, RFID can aid in detecting any leaks in vehicles, thereby enhancing safety and quality. 

Product authentication 
NFC (Near Field Communication) enables the storage of unique and secure information on an NFC tag, which can be attached to a product or its packaging. This information can be retrieved by a smartphone or other NFC-enabled device, providing a way to verify the authenticity of the product. By scanning the NFC tag on a product with their smartphone, customers can access information about the product's origin, manufacturing date, and batch number, which helps them to confirm its genuineness and avoid counterfeit products.

Food
In the food industry, RFID technology is utilized to ensure food safety, track products from their origin to supermarkets, meet legislative demands and needs, and manage waste. It can also be used to monitor the temperature in a cold chain supply, ensuring that products remain fresh and safe for consumption.

Other industries
Besides the mentioned examples, RFID technology has also found its applications in libraries, transportation, animal identification, sports, and events. With the constant evolution of the technology, it's highly probable that new industries and applications will emerge, presenting organizations with new opportunities to enhance their operations and gain a competitive edge.





Passive vs active RFID tags

As mentioned earlier in the guide, an RFID tag is a part of RFID technology, which is used to track and identify objects wirelessly, and there are two main types of RFID tags: passive and active. Each type has its own unique advantages, and the choice between them will depend on the specific needs of the application.

Passive RFID tags: These tags do not have an internal power source and rely on the energy from the RFID reader to power the tag and transmit data. Passive RFID tags are the most widely used type of RFID tag and are typically less expensive than active RFID tags. They are commonly used in applications such as retail inventory management, asset tracking, and access control. Passive sensors are also used in embedded solutions where the tag offers an unique ID for the product over its lifetime.

Active RFID tags: These tags have an internal power source, typically a battery, that allows them to transmit data over longer distances. Active RFID tags are often used in applications such as supply chain management and asset tracking, where long-range identification is required. They are generally more expensive than passive RFID tags.

In addition to the two main types of RFID tags, there are also several subtypes, including semi-passive RFID tags and battery-assisted passive (BAP) RFID tags. These combine the features of passive and active RFID tags. Each type of RFID tag has its own unique set of features and benefits, making it important to choose the right type of tag for a specific application.

             Passive     Active  
  Battery     No   Yes
  Reading range    Up to 20m     Up to 100m  
  Memory,
  functions  		   Memory limited to RFID chip  
  Reader logs reads		   May have larger memory  
  May self log data to memory  
  Cost   Low   High

The choice between passive and active RFID tags will depend on the specific needs of the application. Passive RFID may be a better choice for applications that require low cost, small size and long lifetime, while active RFID may be a better choice for applications that require long range and continuous data transmission. Since most of the tags in the market are passive, this guide focuses on passive RFID.
 





Components of an RFID system

So far we mentioned RFID technology, RFID tag and there is also an RFID system. Let’s clarify the terms to avoid confusion.

RFID technology is the wireless technology used to identify and track objects using radio waves. An RFID tag is a part of RFID technology. It is a small device that contains a microchip and an antenna, which work together to transmit and receive data wirelessly using radio waves.

An RFID system, on the other hand, includes not only the RFID tags, but also the RFID readers, the host system, and other components that work together to identify, track, and manage objects. An RFID system is the complete solution that uses the RFID technology to solve specific business problems or address application requirements.

So, to summarize, an RFID tag is an important part of an RFID system. It’s used to identify and track objects and solve business problems or address applications needs. An RFID system typically consists of the following main components: the reader, the antenna, the tag, and the host system. Each component plays a critical role in the overall operation of the system.
 

Pic. 1  RFID system


Reader: The reader is the heart of the RFID system. It is responsible for transmitting the radio frequency energy to activate the tag and for receiving and decoding the data transmitted by the tag. The reader typically consists of a radio frequency (RF) module, a microprocessor, and an interface for connecting to the host system.

Antenna: The antenna is responsible for transmitting the radio frequency energy from the reader to the tag and for receiving the data transmitted by the tag. The antenna can be designed in various shapes and sizes to suit different applications, and it can be integrated into the reader or attached as a separate component. 

Tag: The tag is the component that is attached to the item being tracked. It contains a microchip and an antenna (a tag also has an antenna, don’t mix it up with the reader’s antenna), and it is responsible for storing and transmitting the data associated with the item. The tag can be passive, relying on the energy transmitted from the reader to activate and transmit its data, or it can be active, with its own power source.

Host system: The host system refers to the software and hardware infrastructure that manages and controls the RFID system. It typically consists of a computer, server or cloud-based platform that runs software, which communicates with RFID readers and collects data from RFID tags.

Overall, the components of an RFID system work together to allow for the identification and tracking of objects wirelessly, making it a valuable tool for a variety of applications.
 





How RFID works

In the previous chapters we have found out a lot about technology, tags, applications and benefits of using RFID. Now the time comes to learn how RFID works. When an RFID reader is activated, it transmits a radio frequency signal to the antenna, which then broadcasts the signal to the surrounding area. If an RFID tag is within range of the reader, the radio frequency energy from the reader's signal is absorbed by the tag's antenna, which powers up the microchip on the tag. The microchip then uses this energy to transmit the data stored on the tag back to the reader. Each tag responds with a unique number.

The data transmission from the tag to the reader is a one-way communication. The reader receives the data from the tag and decodes it, typically using a microprocessor. The data from the tag is then processed and sent to the host system, which can be a computer, a mobile device, or another type of system.

As already mentioned, there are two main types of RFID tags: passive and active. The passive tag does not have its own power source, and it relies on the energy transmitted from the reader to activate and transmit its data. The active tag has its own power source, typically a battery, and it can transmit data continuously, even when it is not in close proximity to the reader.

The exchange of data between the reader and the tag is a fast and efficient process that can occur in a matter of milliseconds. This makes RFID an ideal technology for applications that require quick and accurate identification and tracking of objects, such as supply chain management, inventory tracking, and asset management.
 





Different RFID products types

In the RFID industry, we find different products for different applications. In the most common selection of products, we have:
 

Inlays and tags

Designed for operation in the UHF, HF and NFC frequency bands, and are commonly found in a wide range of industries, providing identification and tracking capabilities.

Hard tags

Designed to meet specific requirements and compliant to LF, HF and UHF frequency standards. The key features include resistance to dust, chemicals and mechanical stress, as well as protection against temporary immersion in water. Selected hard tags can also offer on-metal capabilities, high-temperature resistance or sensing capabilities for moisture or temperature.

Dual frequency tags

These tags operate in two different frequency bands, providing the ability to switch between the two bands, depending on the reader technology available. This makes them highly flexible, providing the benefits of both LF and HF, or HF and UHF technologies.

Sensor tags

These tags have integrated sensors, allowing them to detect and record specific environmental conditions, such as temperature, humidity, light, or motion. They provide the ability to monitor and control these conditions, in real-time, for enhanced safety and security, increased efficiency and improved sustainability.

In the RFID industry, we find different products for different applications. In the most common selection of products, we have:
 





Passive RFID: Comparison by frequency band

Pic. 2  Electromagnetic spectrum


Passive RFID tags are an important component of RFID technology, as mentioned earlier. These tags operate at different frequencies, and are classified into three main types based on the frequency.

Low-Frequency (LF) RFID tags: These tags operate at a frequency of 125-134 kHz and have a relatively short read range of 10 cm. LF RFID tags are commonly used in applications such as animal identification and access control.

High-Frequency (HF) / NFC Near Field Communication tags: These tags operate at a frequency of 13.56 MHz and have a read range of up to several feet. HF RFID tags are commonly used in applications such as retail inventory management and asset tracking.

Ultra-High-Frequency (UHF) RFID tags: These tags operate at a frequency of 868-915 MHz and have a read range of up to 20 meters. UHF RFID tags are commonly used in applications such as supply chain management and asset tracking, where longer read ranges are required.
 

Pic. 3  Comparison by frequency band


Each frequency has its own unique set of advantages and limitations, making it important to choose the right frequency for a specific application. For example, LF and HF RFID tags have enhanced capabilities for reading near or on metal or liquid surfaces, but a slower data read rate. They have a shorter read range, making them well-suited for applications where the tag does not need to be read from a distance. UHF RFID tags, on the other hand, have a longer read range and are better suited for applications where the tag needs to be read from a distance, but they are more sensitive to radio wave interference caused by liquids and metals in the environment. Typically they are less expensive than HF and LF tags. Understanding the different advantages and limitations of frequencies can help in selecting the appropriate tag for a specific application or business need.
 





What is the difference between NFC and RFID?

NFC (Near Field Communication) and RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) are two wireless communication technologies that operate in the radio frequency spectrum. Basically, NFC is a specialized subset within the family of RFID technology using a specific set of short-range communication protocols. It operates on a base frequency of 13.56 MHz with a typical range of 2cm. NFC and UHF RFID share some similarities, such as the ability to wirelessly transmit data between devices, however there are also several key differences between NFC and UHF RFID. They differ in their range, frequency, applications, and compatibility (see table below).

 

    NFC                   UHF RFID               
Frequency range 13.56 MHz 856 MHz to 960 MHz
General read range < 10 cm  Up to 20 meters
Typical use cases Product authentication, Brand protection, Consumer engagement, Mobile payments Asset tracking through the supply chain, Real-time inventory management, Loss prevention
Reader Smartphone Handheld reader, Fixed infrastructure reader
Number of tags scanned at a time One Multiple
Cost of tags Medium to low Low





What is the difference between an RFID inlay and an RFID tag?

When working with RFID, it is common to come across the terms "RFID inlay" and "RFID tag" which are often used interchangeably, but in reality, refer to two distinct components of an RFID system. 

An RFID inlay is the basic building block of an RFID tag. It consists of an antenna, a microchip, (which are the key components that allow the tag to transmit and receive data) and a substrate which is a thin layer that holds the antenna and chip together. The RFID inlay is typically manufactured and sold as a separate component that can be integrated into a variety of tags, such as a paper label, plastic card, hang tags and fabric labels.

An RFID tag is a complete product that is ready to use. An RFID tag consists of an RFID inlay, and a face. A face is a thin layer of clear or white plastic, or paper that covers the inlay. Additionally there can be an encasement, which is a covering that completely encloses the chip, antenna, and substrate that can be made of paper, plastic, PET, or similar materials. The RFID tag is typically the end product that is used in RFID applications, such as inventory management or asset tracking and is often delivered with a suitable adhesive.

In short, an RFID inlay is the core component of an RFID tag, while an RFID tag is a complete RFID product that is ready to use.
 





How an RFID tag is constructed


An RFID tag typically consists of the following parts:

Layer 1 - Adhesive: Adhesive secures the tag's connection to an item in an application, and different use cases create specific requirements for the adhesive. Label converters specialize in finding a suitable adhesive for each use case.

Layer 2 - Substrate: The substrate is a thin layer that holds the antenna and chip together.

Layer 3 - Antenna: The antenna is the component that allows the inlay to transmit and receive data. The antenna is usually made of conductive material, such as copper or aluminum, and is designed to be resonant at a specific frequency.

Layer 4 - Microchip: The microchip, also known as the integrated circuit (IC), is the component that stores data and performs the processing necessary to transmit and receive data. The microchip is typically mounted on the antenna and is connected to it through conductive traces.

Layer 5 - Face laminate: The face laminate, usually made of paper or white synthetic film, provides printability, protection against moisture, dust, and UV, as well as stiffness to the RFID tag. 

Layer 6 - Encapsulation: The encapsulation is a covering that is used to prevent the inlay from being damaged by moisture, dust, and other environmental factors. Encapsulation materials include materials such as epoxy or other resins, and are typically applied to the inlay after the substrate and the antenna have been attached.
 



Pic. 4  How an RFID tag is constructed

 



Different delivery formats of RFID inlays and tags

There are different forms of RFID inlays and tags.

Dry inlay: A dry inlay is an RFID inlay that does not have a backing material or adhesive applied to it. This type of inlay is often used in applications where the inlay needs to be integrated into a product, such as a pallet or a box.

Wet inlay: A wet inlay is an RFID inlay that has a backing material and adhesive applied to it. The backing material and adhesive provide protection and adhesion to the inlay. This type of inlay is often used in applications where the inlay needs to be attached to a surface.

Tag: A tag can be a label/sticker or a hangtag. Label / sticker is a type of RFID inlay that is pre-encased in a paper or white plastic face that provides a printable surface for adding additional information, such as barcodes or product information.

The differences between dry, wet, and tags are mainly how they are intended to be used. Dry inlays are designed for integration into products, wet inlays are for adhesion to surfaces, and tags serve both adhesion and printing of information purposes.
 





How to select the right RFID inlay & tag?

Choosing the appropriate RFID inlay and tag for your requirements can be a difficult task. Our product finder can be a useful starting point and our sales and customer team will be pleased to offer their assistance. In general, the target application and use case ultimately determine the RFID inlay and tag requirements, therefore when selecting the right RFID inlay or tag it is important to consider the following questions:

Q1: What is the product made of? (e.g. glass, plastic, metal)

Q2: Where will the tag be placed? (e.g. on the syringe, flagged, on the cap)

Q3: Will the product go through any process? (e.g. Sterilization, extreme temperatures)

Q4: How will the RFID inlay be read? (e.g. handheld or fixed reader) 


It's important to keep in mind that there are other factors that can influence the selection process as well, including:

Frequency: Determine the frequency band that is most suitable for your application. The most common frequency bands are low frequency (LF), high frequency (HF), and ultra-high frequency (UHF).

Operating environment: Consider the operating environment in which the RFID tag will be used, including temperature, humidity, and exposure to physical and chemical elements. This will help you determine the type of tag and inlay that will be able to withstand the conditions.

Tag form factor: Determine the form factor of the tag that is best suited for your application. The form factor can include various shapes and sizes, including round, square, and rectangular. In general, a larger inlay means a larger antenna and better RF performance.

Read range: Consider the read range required for your application. Read range refers to the distance at which an RFID reader can successfully read the information from a tag.

Data storage capacity: Consider the amount of data you need to store on the tag. The data storage capacity of an RFID tag can vary depending on the tag type and inlay.

Cost: Determine your budget for the RFID tags and inlays, taking into account the cost per tag and the volume of tags you need.

Security: Consider the security requirements for your application, such as the need for encryption or password protection for the data stored on the tag.

The integrated circuit (IC) of an RFID tag can have a significant impact on the selection of the RFID tag. The IC is the "brain" of the tag and is responsible for storing and processing data, as well as controlling the communication between the tag and the reader.

The IC can influence the selection in several ways:

Memory capacity: The IC determines the amount of memory available for storing data on the tag. If you need to store a large amount of data, you'll need to choose a tag with a larger IC memory capacity.

Read range: The IC can impact the read range of the tag, as different ICs can support different read ranges. If you need to read the tag from a greater distance, you'll need to choose an IC that supports a larger read range.

Operating frequency: Different ICs are designed to operate at different frequencies, so it's important to choose an IC that is compatible with the frequency band used by your RFID reader.

Security: Some ICs include security features, such as encryption, to protect the data stored on the tag. If security is a concern for your application, you'll need to choose an IC that includes these security features.

Cost: The IC can also impact the cost of the tag, as more advanced ICs with larger memory capacities, longer read ranges, and greater security features will be more expensive.

By carefully considering the IC, you can ensure that the tag or inlay you choose will provide the right level of memory capacity, read range, operating frequency, security, and cost for your application.
 





RFID vs Barcode

             Barcode     RFID 
  Data storage     limited amount of data   higher scope of data and more
  detailed  
  Reading technology        requires a scanner close to
  the barcode  		   can be read from a distance         
  Line of sight    requires a direct line of sight   doesn't require a line of sight  
  Accuracy   lower level of accuracy   higher level of accuracy 
  Security   can be easily copied   more secure and difficult to duplicate

When it comes to discussing RFID technology, it's inevitable that the term "barcode" will come up. While both RFID and barcodes are used for identification and data storage, there are several key differences between the two:

  • Data storage: Barcodes store a limited amount of data, typically a unique identifier, while RFID tags can store much more data, including product information, manufacturing details, and even tracking information.
  • Reading technology: Barcodes require a scanner to be physically brought close to the barcode in order to read the data, while RFID tags can be read from a distance, making it faster and more convenient to process large quantities of data.
  • Line of sight: Barcode scanning requires a direct line of sight between the scanner and the barcode, while RFID tags do not require a line of sight, making it possible to read tags that are hidden, damaged, or obscured.
  • Accuracy: RFID systems generally offer higher accuracy than barcode systems, as they can read multiple tags at once and can capture more detailed information.
  • Security: Barcodes can be easily copied or counterfeited, while RFID tags are generally more secure and difficult to duplicate, making them a good choice for applications where security is a concern.





RFID and sustainability

In recent years, there has been an increased focus on sustainability and the impact that technology and products have on the environment. RFID technology is no exception, and it has been evaluated for its potential to contribute to a more sustainable future. This section will explore the role of RFID in sustainability, including its impact on materials, manufacturing processes, and end-of-life product recyclability.

Materials: One of the key areas where RFID technology can contribute to sustainability is in the sourcing and use of materials. By increasing the use of certified materials and recycled content, and replacing less sustainable materials such as PET, the carbon footprint of RFID products can be reduced. Additionally, the use of RFID technology can improve supply chain management and visibility, reducing waste and improving efficiency.

Manufacturing: RFID technology can also be beneficial in terms of manufacturing processes. By implementing the best available processes and managing supply chains, the carbon footprint of RFID products can be reduced and the overall sustainability of the manufacturing process can be improved.

End of life: When it comes to end-of-life product recyclability, RFID technology can have a positive impact. It can provide visibility into the recycling chain, allowing for better management of end-of-life products and reducing waste. Also the recyclability of RFID tags and inlays is an important consideration, and it varies by market segment.

Measuring carbon footprint: RFID and IoT solutions can measure the carbon footprint of a product by tracking and collecting data throughout its entire lifecycle. This includes data on the sourcing of materials, energy consumption during the manufacturing process, transportation of goods, and end-of-life disposal. By gathering this information, it is possible to calculate the carbon footprint of the product and identify areas for improvement.
 





RFID standards

The RFID standards are developed by industry specific organizations on the national, regional, and global level. There are several RFID standards that exist to ensure compatibility and interoperability among different RFID systems. Some of the most common standards include:
 

ISO/IEC 18000

This is a family of international standards for RFID in item management, which includes specifications for passive UHF RFID air interface protocols.

EPCglobal 

This is a global organization dedicated to the development of RFID standards for supply chain management and item-level identification.

GS1

This is a global organization that manages the use of barcodes and RFID technology for product identification, tracking, and supply chain management.

RAIN RFID

This is a global organization that promotes the use of UHF RFID technology for item-level identification and tracking.

NFC Forum

This is a non-profit industry association that promotes the use of Near Field Communication (NFC) technology. The NFC Forum has developed a variety of specifications and guidelines for the use of NFC technology. These specifications ensure that NFC devices and applications are interoperable, secure, and reliable.

These standards help ensure that RFID systems and tags from different manufacturers can work together seamlessly and can be used for a variety of applications, from supply chain management and inventory control to access control and consumer engagement.

Due to the standards it is easier for organizations to adopt and implement RFID technology.
 





RFID and IoT solutions

RFID and IoT (Internet of Things) complement each other in a seamless manner. RFID technology provides the means to uniquely identify objects and track their movements across critical steps in their lifecycle, while IoT solutions provide a way to connect these objects, thereby enabling data transmission and exchange between the objects and other devices. The combination allows for the creation of smart, connected systems that can collect, store, analyze and act upon data in real-time.

For example, RFID tags can be placed on products and assets to track their movements, and the data from these tags can be combined with additional sensor data for real-time monitoring and analysis. This gives rise to a multitude of opportunities to optimize supply chain management, track inventory levels, monitor the condition of equipment and assets, and more.

 
Last update: Mar 31, 2023