RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is a complex technology used chiefly for specialist
applications in the logistics, supply chain, security and traceability.
It is a system that uses radio waves to identify objects and transmit the identification
wirelessly to users. They are in the form of small electronic devices with a minute RFID
chip, radio transmitters / receiver, an antenna and tags & labels. RFID devices provide a
unique identification of objects and must be scanned by a 'reader' to retrieve the
information identifying the particular object, usually a serial number. The chip on an RFID
device is capable of carrying up to 2,000 bytes of data. In addition, because the technology
is difficult to counterfeit, RFID provides a high level of security.
RFID is a versatile technology and can be used in a wide range of applications, wherever
there is a need to automatically identify items. Examples of application areas where RFID is
already widely used include:
Today more and more industries are looking at Radio Frequency Identification technology as
an alternative identification system for challenging complex environments. Leading software
companies have joined in the research efforts in RFID technology and in the development of
unique RFID solutions that have enhanced usability and powerful identification
features.
Leading technology companies and software vendors have developed and deployed cutting edge
RFID solutions that are being used across many verticals where identification of inventory,
raw material, finished products etc. is critical to the success of operations.
Some innovative RFID solutions are:
The potential of RFID implementation in business, government and military is enormous and is
already visible.
Some of the more significant benefits of RFID implementation are: