Radio Frequency Identification

(R-F-I-D)

A form of identification that does not require line-of-sight (unlike infrared or portable data terminals). There are usually three components:

• antennae (coils),
• reader transceiver with decoder,
• and transponder (tag).

In operation, the reader sends out a signal which activates the tag and allows data to come into or leave the transponder's memory. When a tag is within range this signal from the receiver is sensed and information from the transponder is sent to the receiver. In reverse, the transponder can also accept information. The tags can be quite small and can be powered from the radio-frequency energy of the reader. Some common RFID systems might include a gas station "Speedpass" that you wave in front of the pump or smart labels embedded into book spines at your local library. Obviously, both security and privacy are considerations with RFID. As with most developing "standards" there are several implementations of RFID; none compatible with any other.

More Information

• AIM RFID Home Page (much info here)
• Texas Instruments RFID Home