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What is RFID?

January 2018

WHAT PURPOSE DOES IT SERVE?

The RFID device serves the same purpose as a bar code or a magnetic strip on the back of a credit card or ATM card; it provides a unique identifier for that object. And, just as a bar code or magnetic strip must be scanned to get the information, the RFID device must be scanned to retrieve the identifying information.

WHAT CAN RFID BE USED FOR?

RFID tags come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes; they may be encased in a variety of materials including:

Animal tracking tags (often the size of a grain of rice).
Tags can be screw-shaped to identify trees or wooden items.
Credit-card shaped for use in access applications.
The anti-theft hard plastic tags attached to merchandise in stores are also RFID tags.
Heavy-duty transponders are used to track shipping containers, heavy machinery, and trucks.

ADVANTAGES OF RFID VERSUS BARCODES

RFID tags and barcodes both carry information. However, there are important differences between these two technologies:

RFID BARCODES
  • Indirect reading available – Reader can information without direct line of sight.
  • Line of sight Reading- Reader must “see” bar- code.
  • Faster Tag reading is available up to 40 tags per second (depending on the application).
  • Slower reading capabilities than RFID- about 1/2 second per barcode.
  • Less Wear and Tear means longer lifespan. Read/write capabilities- the RFID reader can communicate with the tag, and alter as much of the information as the tag design will allow.
  • Line of sight requirements ensures that a barcode is visible and subjected to more wear and tear. Read only capabilities.

Cards Plus has a large range of RFID cards and solutions to provide your company with the best product and service. If you need more information, please give us a call or pop into our offices.