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: