Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is an automatic identification method that uses radar and broadcast radio technologies.
RFID has three components:
- Mini-radio station, called an RFID reader, that receives and processes information;
- Mini-broadcast station, called an RFID tag, which sends information; and,
- Mini-broadcast tower, called an antenna.
There are two types of RFID tags:
- Passive tags require no internal power source, they are typically very small and low-cost, and have a shorter read range.
- Active tags have their own internal power source and are used in environments that need longer and more reliable read ranges.
RFID Readers are integrated devices with an internal power supply, radio transceiver, radio antenna, and some level of network integration. Readers are used to locate, identify and track tags. With the information collected from the tags, the readers can write new/updated information to databases or network devices.
RFID readers have changed significantly in terms of the functionality they can perform, while at the same time becoming dramatically smaller. SkyeTek RFID readers are designed to be embedded into manufacturers' product lines: OEM RFID reader modules
To learn more about how RFID core technology interfaces with networks and systems to form a cohesive business solution, visit the RFID Ecosystem.