RFID Technology & its Applications

RFID stands for ‘Radio-frequency identification’ where digital data is encoded in RFID tags or smart labels which is captured by a reader. It is similar to barcoding where data from a tag is captured by a device. RFID belongs to a group of technology which includes automatic identification and data capture. Such technology automatically identifies objects, collects data related to them and enters it directly in the computer with little or no human intervention.

Components of RFID system

It consists of three components – an RFID tag or label, a reader and an antenna. The tag contains a circuit and an antenna to transmit data to the reader. The reader in turn converts the waves which have been transmitted to a usable form of data. The information is then transferred to a host computer system, where data can be stored and analyzed.

Applications of RFID technology

1. Logistics and supply chain – With the visibility provided by RFID in the supply chain, It can help increase efficiency, reduce errors and improve on quality.

2. Inventory tracking – Tracking items through the supply chain to the point of scale can be done in a matter of minutes with the help of a RFID reader.

3. Tracking attendees – Managing a conference, with an RFID based solution will help eliminate the need for long registration lines.

4. RFID based access – In certain areas an increased level of security is required. RFID control tags can restrict access to only those people which have been pre-approved.

5. Real time location system – With this system, you can track the real time location of employees and assets. It helps gauge the effectiveness of a floor based plan as well as track the location of resources.