What is an RFID Reader?
A RFID Reader is a wireless transponder that can communicate with tags. It obtains a wireless signal reflected by the tag, and then sends it to a module for demodulation processing.
Using information stored in RF tags helps realize productivity improvement, quality improvements and traceability. It can also reduce system development costs and systems downtime due to errors.
Detection
You can see RFID tags everywhere – attached to container freight, in those funny-looking white labels in your newly purchased books and embedded in passports, among others. The technology is used where information needs to be scanned quickly and at a distance, and where it is important that the data retrieved does not suffer from electromagnetic interference (EMI) with other electronic devices such as medical equipment or scanners.
RFID systems consist of two components – the tag and the reader. The tag contains a microchip with a unique ID that is read by the reader to retrieve information. The reader emits a radio signal to power the antenna and transmit the signal to any RFID tags in its vicinity. The tag’s antenna is conductive, and when the RFID reader emits an electromagnetic wave to RFID Reader the tag, it induces electricity in the tag’s microchip. The microchip is then able to communicate with the reader by transmitting its own data signal via a radio frequency (RF) wave.
The range of the reader’s RF waves is determined by the transmitted power of its interrogator, and a number of factors like the directional antenna, cable loss, and interference can impact this read distance. The reader’s RF signal also can be blocked by metal or other objects.
Recognition
The RFID tag is like a microchip with a unique identification that contains information. When a tag comes within range of an RFID reader, electromagnetic waves are transmitted from the antenna to the microchip and activate it. The microchip then begins to broadcast data, and the RFID reader interprets this data into information.
RFID tags are either passive, meaning they don’t have an internal power source, or active. Passive tags harness energy from the RF signal transmitted by the reader, using an integrated capacitor to power the circuit. Active tags have a backup battery and have the ability to send their own RF signal.
COTS readers have a feature known as frequency hopping, which is the process of alternating between frequencies in their bandwidths to mitigate co-channel interference. The frequency hopping is what causes the discontinuity in phase values that you see on the screen.
The RFID reader can read a label up to several meters away, without contact or direct line of sight. This allows the reader to track inventory items as they move quickly through a warehouse, cutting down on labor-intensive manual processes and increasing productivity and efficiency. It also eliminates costly mistakes such as stockouts, with specific alerts configured for each client to prevent them. It can also function despite dust or dirt, and is capable of operating in environments with high temperatures.
Identification
The RFID reader transmits a radio frequency that identifies compatible tags. When a compatible tag enters the reader’s detection range, the RFID chip in the tag emits a return signal with information encoded on it. This information can include the managing organization, asset description, and serial number. It can also be a unique 96-bit electronic product code (EPC). The RFID reader then relays this information to the system user, database, or server.
Passive RFID tags get their power from electromagnetic energy radiated by the reader’s interrogating radio waves. The electromagnetic field induces a current in the RFID tag’s antenna and powers its IC. It then broadcasts its own unique ID and other data to the RFID reader. Active tags are self-powered with a battery and can be read at greater distances, often hundreds of meters.
The readability of a RFID reader depends on several factors, such as its transmitted power, the efficiency of its antenna, and the distance between the RFID reader desfire ev1 and the antenna. The transmitted power is capped by country regulations. Some readers are also subject to interference from other devices and environmental conditions. Physicians should be aware of the use of RFID and ask patients if they have had problems with medical devices that might be related to exposure to electromagnetic fields. If any incidents occur, physicians should report them to MedWatch, the FDA’s voluntary adverse event reporting program.
Traceability
Traceability is a crucial function that gives businesses visibility into their supply chain. It’s essential for managing product movement and identifying bottlenecks. This allows a company to take corrective action before they become costly problems.
By automating data collection, RFID systems can save time and improve accuracy. This can result in reduced labor costs and increased productivity, especially in assembly and manufacturing processes. It can also help to decrease the number of mistakes and reduce inventory carrying costs.
An RFID reader is a network-connected device that uses radio waves to read RFID tags. It can be either fixed or mobile. It consists of a scanning antenna and a transceiver. The former creates a tight interrogation zone, while the latter is handheld or mounted on carts or vehicles.
Passive RFID tags use an integrated capacitor to power themselves and transmit data when coupled with an RFID reader. These tags do not have their own power source and must be powered by the energy from the RFID reader’s interrogating radio waves. They can also be augmented with a battery, which increases their range and power to transmit data over hundreds of meters.
For example, an RFID system can track the movement of a production mold through a factory and locate it in real time. This can help to avoid a delay in production or finding a lost piece of equipment. It can also be used to monitor the performance of a machine or tool.
