Regardless of other emerging technologies, RFID still owns an apex in many industries. RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification. As the name implies, these systems use radio waves to transmit and receive information.
The technology is common in the form of RFID tags, and a specific device called an RFID card reader writer accesses the information stored on the tag. Below is a quick view of RFID card readers and their information processing mechanism.
What are RFID Tags?
The RFID technology uses RFID tags. These tags have information encoded on a tiny circuit, which an RFID reader reads. A machine imprints the RFID tags onto objects and makes them RFID compatible. It is important to note that RFID cards are not the only solution. You can tag anything with an RFID tag. Be it a bottle or cattle.
RFID System Mechanism
An RFID reader doesn’t work independently. It works in an RFID system. Hence you must know about the deployed components. There are three components in all RFID systems: the scanner, a transceiver, and a transponder. The scanner also called the RFID reader sends electromagnetic rays to activate the RFID tag present on the card. The tag, after activation, sends a response wave to the reader’s antenna. This wave contains the necessary information that the reader projects onto the screen.
Not all RFID tags require an external activation. Naturally, not all readers have the capacity to transmit an activation signal. But they only read the activated information. Although the RFID technology is comparable to the barcode technology, they require a power source to function. Depending upon their activation methods, RFID tags fall into two categories.
The Active RFID Tags
As the name implies, the active tags have their power source. Mostly, it’s a small battery.
The Passive RFID Tags
In contrast, the passive RFID cards activate when the reading antenna sends an electromagnetic wave.
RFID Reader and Importance of its Compatibility
The RFID readers are the crucial components in an RFID system. Commonly, they come in fixed installation or handheld. An RFID reader connects with your computer system and displays the information on the screen. But is it all about the tag and not the reader?
On the contrary, it is equally important. When choosing an RFID reader, it is essential to note that the reader has a compatible frequency range with the tags. Otherwise, it will result in false information.
Although the RFID technology doesn’t require a line of sight for functioning; but, the operating distance plays an important role. Short-range readers cause more hassle than comfort. Moreover, the reader should have versatile compatibility to connect with different workstations and allow accessible configurations.
The RFID tags incorporate protocols to store different kinds of information. For instance, if you plan to buy an RFID reader for reading financial transactions, you’ll need an ISO14443A, B, and ISO15693 compatible reader. One such FCC-certified gadget with a frequency range of 13.56 MHz and an operating distance of 50 to 100 mm is present on Lintechtt. It is not only easy to use but also offers compatibility with ISO smart cards.
Conclusion
RFID technology dates back to the 1940s. However, its convenience still earns it an excellent reputation in various industries where unique identification is at play. RFID tags and readers combine to make an RFID system. Both the devices collaborate to track and identify information effectively.
RFID tags store different frequencies and ultimately require a custom reader. For instance, a low-frequency reader cannot access the data stored in a powerful RFID tag. A good RFID reader offers an extended operating distance and versatile connectivity.
