What is RFID?
§RFID = Radio Frequency Identifications.
§An ADC (Automated Data Collection) technology that:–uses radio-frequency waves to transfer data between a reader and a movable item to identify, categorize, track..–Is fast and does not require physical sight or contact between reader/scanner and the tagged item.–Performs the operation using low cost components.–Attempts to provide unique identification and backed integration that allows for wide range of applications.§Other ADC technologies: Bar codes, OCR.
RFID system components
RFID systems: logical view
RFID tags.
§Tags can be attached to almost anything:
–Items, cases or pallets of products, high value goods
–vehicles, assets, livestock or personnel
§Passive Tags
–Do not require power – Draws from Interrogator Field
–Lower storage capacities (few bits to 1 KB)
–Shorter read ranges (4 inches to 15 feet)
–Usually Write-Once-Read-Many/Read-Only tags
–Cost around 25 cents to few dollars
§Active Tags
–Battery powered
–Higher storage capacities (512 KB)
–Longer read range (300 feet)
–Typically can be re-written by RF Interrogators
–Cost around 50 to 250 dollars
RFID readers
§Reader functions:
–Remotely power tags
–Establish a bidirectional data link
–Inventory tags, filter results
–Communicate with networked server(s)
–Can read 100-300 tags per second
§Readers (interrogators) can be at a fixed point such as
–Entrance/exit
–Point of sale
§Readers can also be mobile/hand-held
Some RFID readers
RFID applications
§Manufacturing and Processing
–Inventory and production process monitoring
–Warehouse order fulfillment
§Supply Chain Management
–Inventory tracking systems
–Logistics management
§Retail
–Inventory control and customer insight
–Auto checkout with reverse logistics
§Security
–Access control
–Counterfeiting and Theft control/prevention
§Location Tracking
–Traffic movement control and parking management
–Wildlife/Livestock monitoring and tracking
Uses in the Medical Field
Improvements from 11.8% to 100% in correct patient identification
¢Specimen collection/tracking
¢Surgical site safety
¢Patient charging
