RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is a relatively new technology. It is used mainly for automated data collection, similar to barcodes. RFID is easily integrated with Barcode technologies to optimize data capture and exchange. Benefits include reduced/eliminated human error, reduced/eliminated labor costs, increased accuracy and visibility at the ITEM level, and opportunities to simplify existing procedures. RFID uses radio frequency waves to transfer data between a reader and a tag. As the tag enters the RF field, the RF signal powers the tag or turns it on. The tag then transmits the ID and data that has been programmed to the reader. RFID readers (Interrogators) translate the radio frequency information into digital information that can be read by software on the host computer. The computer determines the required actions and instructs the reader, which in turn transmits data back to the tag.

RFID interrogators are available in many sizes and shapes including portable units. All interrogators have the same basic architecture: antenna, decoder, data converter, computer interface, and a power supply.

The tag, which varies in size and appearance, is composed of:

• a chip which houses the "intelligence"
• an inlay which is the antenna
• a unique identifier number (similar to a license plate) to enable item level visibility and tracking, also referred to as a SID
• read/write data blocks
• optional label which is the visual packaging of these components

The tag may be attached to the units at origin. As the units pass interrogators installed in appropriate locations within the supply chain, RFID technology, when fully developed, can provide SKU level visibility to inventory as it moves through every process. Moreover, RFID offers read/write capability so users can add data to the tags as they pass by an interrogator; enabling functions like time stamping.

RFID does not depend on orientation or line-of-sight and may be read through cartons. In addition, RFID can identify multiple articles simultaneously.
The RFID tag may be read-only or read/write. Read-only tags are historically less expensive than read/write tags. The RFID tag read/write distances vary depending on tag and antenna size, design and operating frequency. Depending on the tag construction, an RFID system can operate in harsh industrial or commercial environments with operating temperatures in the range of –25C to +85 C.

DataBrokers, Inc. will work with any RFID format. Our experience is that most opportunities may be addressed using 13.56MHz, 915MHz, and the 2.45GHz. The following table illustrates some of the tradeoffs.

As shown above, currently both the 13.56MHz and the 2.45GHz have relatively weak read/write ranges. The 915MHz frequency has a more attractive range but is limited in its international acceptance: U.S.A. and Canada only.

Some of the major vendors are developing RFID solutions that will include EAS capability.

RFID technology is evolving rapidly. Major players in the RFID market such as TagSys, Texas Instruments, Phillips, and Intermec are investing in R&D and pilots in specific industries in anticipation of a surge in demand when the larger markets begin to accept the technology. RFID requires additional expertise for implementation; there are currently very few integrators.

RFID is moving toward standardization with 13.56 MHz the leading option. The goal from an industry development perspective would be to create generic tags and interrogators that could be purchased from several vendors, thereby driving down costs.