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Radio-frequency identification (RFID) is an automatic identification method,
relying on storing and retrieving data from remote areas using devices called
RFID tags or transponders.
The technology requires some extent of cooperation of an RFID reader and an RFID
tag.
An RFID tag is an object that can be applied to or incorporated into a product,
animal, or person for the purpose of identification and tracking using radio
waves.
Some tags can be read from several meters away and beyond the line of sight of
the reader.
A basic RFID system consists of three components
- An antenna or coil
- A transceiver (with decoder)
- A transponder (RF tag)
An RFID tag is comprised of a microchip to collect information and an antenna
that transmits this data wireless to a reader.
At its most basic, the chip will contain a serialized identifier, or license
plate number, that uniquely identifies that item.
Typically, processed data would be used to provide revised scheduling and
arrival time information to the general public, via variable information signs.
Transponder systems are also used with Selective Vehicle Detection (SVD) systems
which are designed to allow priority at traffic signals or cordon points for
public transport or emergency service vehicles.
Typical Applications for RFID
- Automatic Vehicle identification
- Inventory Management
- Work-in-Process
- Container or Yard Management
- Parking Management
Advantages
- RFID tags can be read through materials without line of sight.
- RFID tags can be read automatically when a tagged product comes past or
near a reader.
Disadvantages
- Reader collision occurs when the signals from two or more readers overlap.
- The tag is unable to respond to simultaneous queries.
- Tag collision occurs when many tags are present in a small are
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