What is Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Technology

The RFID system comprises an antenna, transceiver, that marks the radio frequency and transmits the data to a processing device, and a tag or transponder, which is an integrated circuit comprising the RF circuitry and data to be transmitted. In RFID, the signals are transmitted by the electromagnetic or electrostatic coupling in the radio frequency section of the electromagnetic spectrum. The RFID technology works in a similar pattern, as the bar code identification. One of the fundamental difference between them is that RFID eradicates the necessity for line-of-sight reading that the bar coding depends on. Along with this, RFID scanning can be performed at longer distances than the bar code scanning. The RFID systems have frequencies ranging from 850 MHz to 950 MHz and 2.4 GHz to 2.5 GHz which offer a transmitting range of more than 90 feet. It is also referred to as 'dedicated short range communication' (DSRC). There are mainly two types of RFID tags: active and passive RFID tags. The active tag contains a battery and transfers signals autonomously, whereas, a passive tag contains no battery and requires an external source to evoke signal transmission.

RFID Race Timing

The RFID technology has been used for timing races since 2004. It records the start and end timings for individuals in a race, especially in a marathon, where it is difficult to record the stopwatch timings for every entrant. The participants have to wear a chest number holding passive tags that are read by antennae placed alongside the track. Ultra high frequency (UHF) tags are used, which give correct readings with specially designed antennae. This method has been adapted by many recruitment agencies like the Indian Railway Recruitment Cells, the police and the power sector, where the candidates have to clear a PET (Physical Endurance Test) in their qualifying procedure.

RFID and Asset Management

RFID along with moblie computing and web technologies, give an efficient way for companies or organizations to handle and record their assets along with their current status. Mobile computers, with integrated RFID readers, provide a complete set of tools that eliminate the paperwork, give a confirmed proof of identification and attendance. Web based applications allow the manufacturers and contractors to access or update asset data, inspection history and transfer documentation online. Errors are rare as this approach eliminates the need of manual data entry.

RFID Logistics and Transportation

The RFID technology plays a key role in the field of logistics and transportation, like Shipping & Freight and Distribution Centers, Yard Management, etc. Due to its business value and efficiency, the transportation companies are implementing RFID technology. For example, the North American railroad industry has implemented RFID in its automatic equipment identification system. In this system, the locomotives and rolling stocks are fitted with two passive RFID tags that identifies the car number, type of equipment, equipment owner, number of axles, etc. Aerospace applications have also incorporated RFID technology by tagging the baggage with RFID tags, which are read by the airport's baggage handling system. This helps improve the efficiency and reduces the possibility of misplaced items.

These were just a few of the many applications of radio frequency identification technology. These systems can be used anywhere from clothing tags to missiles to pet tags to food, that require a unique identification system.