RFID
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is a technology that uses radio waves to transfer data between an RFID tag and a reader, allowing for automated tracking and identification of items without requiring line-of-sight scanning.
RFID systems consist of three main components: an RFID tag, an RFID reader, and an antenna. At a high level, the process works as follows:
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RFID Tag: An RFID tag contains an embedded microchip and an antenna. The microchip stores data (such as a unique identification number), and the antenna transmits this data when activated by a reader.
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RFID Reader: The RFID reader emits a radio frequency signal through its antenna. When an RFID tag comes into the range of the reader's signal, the tag's antenna picks up the radio waves, powers the embedded microchip, and transmits the stored data back to the reader.
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Communication and Data Processing: The reader captures the data from the tag and processes it. This data is often sent to a backend system, where it can be used for tracking, logging, or other operations.
The entire process is quick and can be done over a distance, allowing for fast and efficient identification of items in various environments, from warehouses to retail stores.
RFID operates at different frequencies, which affect its range, speed, and ability to pass through materials:
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Low-Frequency (LF) (125-134 kHz): Offers a short read range (typically inches to a foot) and can penetrate materials like liquids and metals more effectively, but it transmits data slowly. Examples include pet microchips and keycard fobs.
Low-Frequency RFID keyfob
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High-Frequency (HF) (13.56 MHz): This frequency offers a slightly longer range (up to 3 feet) and faster data transfer than LF. Examples include contactless payment cards and Near Field Communication (NFC) scanning.
High-Frequency RFID NFC chip read
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Ultra-High-Frequency (UHF) (860-960 MHz): UHF RFID is the standard used in most industrial and inventory applications, including Metrc. UHF tags offer a long read range (up to 20-30 feet in optimal conditions), making them suitable for scanning large quantities of items at once. UHF tags are highly susceptible to interference from metal, liquids, and other environmental factors, which can cause read failures and reduce accuracy.
Scanning a UHF RFID tag requires a high-power scanner. These scanners can be very expensive, often costing thousands of dollars.
Ultra-High Frequency RFID chips
RFID scanners, also known as RFID readers, are crucial components of an RFID system. They are responsible for communicating with RFID tags and collecting the data stored on them. There are several types of RFID scanners, each suited for different use cases and environments:
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Handheld RFID Scanners: These scanners are portable and are typically used in warehouses, retail stores, and other locations where mobility is important. They can scan tags at different frequencies, depending on the type of tag being used.
Handheld RFID Scanner
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Fixed RFID Readers: Fixed readers are installed in a specific location, such as entry points in warehouses or production lines. They provide continuous scanning of tags that pass through their read range, making them ideal for automated tracking.
Fixed RFID Reader
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Integrated RFID Readers: These readers combine the reader and antenna in a single device, making them easy to install and use in various environments. They are commonly used in applications where space is limited or where a compact solution is needed.
RFID scanners can be equipped with different types of antennas to suit the specific needs of the environment they are used in. The choice of scanner and antenna depends on factors such as the type of RFID tags being used, the required read range, and the physical environment.
Read about how RFID works in Metrc