Radio frequency identification or RFID techniques use electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track tags attached to objects. However, there are not only labels, but there are endless applications that we will see later. An RFID system consists of a small radio transponder, a radio receiver, and a transmitter. When triggered by an electromagnetic interrogation pulse from a nearby RFID reader device, the tag transmits digital data, usually an identification inventory number, back to the reader. This number can be used to track inventory assets.
Passive tags are powered by the interrogation radio waves of the RFID reader. Active tags are battery powered and therefore can be read at a greater range from the RFID reader, up to hundreds of meters.
Unlike a barcode, the tag does not need to be within the reader's line of sight, so it can be embedded in the tracked object. RFID is an automatic identification and data capture (AIDC) method.
RFID tags are used in many industries. For example, an RFID tag attached to a car during production can be used to track its progress through the assembly line, RFID-tagged pharmaceuticals can be traced through warehouses, and the implantation of RFID microchips in livestock and pets allows positive identification of animals. They are used to prevent theft in shops and / or speed up collection at checkout lines.
However, they not only exist in label format, but are also used to positively identify pets and livestock. In credit card or keychain format that is more comfortable for us to carry, we use them to facilitate access control to means of transport, gyms or work centers, among others. To enable the on / off of security systems, etc. Today its use is so widespread that all of us usually carry several with us in our wallet.
