The truth about RFID

Passive, active and semi-active tags

How do they work?

RFID system architecture

How do you put it together?

ISO & EPC Global

What? A standard already?

Debunking 10 myths on RFID

Now you tell me!

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RFID or Radio Frequency IDentification

Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID) is a method of storing and remotely retrieving data using devices called RFID tags or transponders. An RFID tag is a small object that can be attached to or incorporated into a product, animal or person. RFID tags contain antennas to enable them to receive and respond to radio frequency queries from an RFID transceiver. Passive tags require no internal power source, whereas active tags require a power source.

Click on "play" to view a short video documentary on RFID technology.

The advantages of RFID over barcode

No line of sight required, the tag has to be "in the field" of the reader and can be covered
Multiple simultaneous readings
Non-static data, you can modify the data stored inside the tag as the product evolves
Precision of the identification, the tag identifier is so huge you can trace individual items instead of batches of products
Additional information, most tags have an additional memory to store extra data
Non-static data, you can modify the data stored inside the tag as the product evolves
Security, the information stored inside the tag can be secured and the data transfer between tag and reader crypted.

« RFID applied to Logistics » Extract from the results of tests carried out in the RFID Laboratory of EPCglobal France in 2006.

The RFID Laboratory of EPCglobal France was created at the end of 2004 following the request of a member company at GS1 France. This member company had expressed the need to have concrete elements at its disposal in order to assess the technical potential of RFID.

A preliminary series of tests was carried out in 2005, and a second campaign was launched during the first quarter of 2006. This second batch of tests gave the opportunity of studying, in depth, the potential uses of RFID in the Supply Chain. RFIDEA was selected by GS1 to be its partner to proceed with this evaluation. By travelling to the daily logistic operation sites, the laboratory was able to come face to face with the operational constraints. In this instance, the following groups were able to assess the development of the technology available in respect of their individual needs and organisations: Benedicta, Colruyt, FM Logistic, Johnson, Lafarge Plâtres, L'Oréal, Nornert Dantressangles, Renault, Sanofi-Aventis and Total.

Click here to download an extract of the report from the tests carried out in the framework of this mission. To receive the complete document you can place an order directly through GS1 France ( www.gs1france.org ) or fill in the order form that can be found in the extract of the report.

By reading the detailed report you will discover the importance of the recent technological breakthroughs, and the objective data will allow you to appreciate the potential of the EPC Gen2 technology at its best.

The truth about RFID

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RFID or Radio Frequency IDentification