What is RFID? Basic Terms and FAQ

If you’re considering RFID labels for your manufacturing process, understanding the basics of RFID technology is an important first step. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about RFID tags, inlays, tracking, and labeling solutions.

Related: What Is The Difference Between RFID, NFC and BLE Technologies?

Related: What You Need to Know to Create the Best RFID Label Solution

What Is RFID?

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is an automatic identification method that stores and remotely retrieves data using an RFID tag or transponder.

What Is a UPC?

UPC (Universal Product Code) is a machine-readable barcode used for automatically identifying products.

What Is an EPC?

EPC (Electronic Product Code) is the next generation of automatic product identification. EPCglobal describes an EPC as a simple, compact “license plate” that uniquely identifies objects such as items, cases, pallets, and locations throughout the supply chain.

What Is the Difference Between UPC and EPC?

A UPC identifies a general product category—for example, a pack of Wrigley’s Spearmint gum.

An EPC uses a unique serial number to identify each individual product, making it possible to automatically track products from the manufacturer to the store shelf.

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How Does RFID Work?

An RFID programmer encodes information onto a tiny microchip inside an RFID tag. The tag can look similar to a standard pressure-sensitive carton label and is attached to a product or carton as it enters the supply chain.

RFID readers placed at key points activate the tag, causing it to transmit high-frequency radio waves. The reader captures the tag’s identifier and sends the information to a host computer.

The computer then processes the information, making it possible to know where a product is as it moves through the supply chain, including through RFID portals and along conveyors.

Related: RFID Inlay and Tags: Questions and Answers

What Is the Difference Between HF and UHF RFID?

The first difference is the operating frequency. HF (High Frequency) works at 13.56 MHz and UHF (Ultra High Frequency) is at 860 – 960 MHz depending on the country of use. Generally, the operating range for HF is less than 12″ while UHF can operate at significantly longer distances. There are also differences in performance related to the types of products the inlays or labels are attached to and the operating environment. For this reason, it is always important to consult with a qualified RFID supplier to review your products and requirements and, if warranted, perform a site survey

What Is the Difference Between an RFID Inlay and a Label?

An RFID inlay is the functional part of an RFID label. It consists of an antenna and a microchip.

A dry inlay is supplied without adhesive, while a wet inlay includes adhesive. The inlay is supplied to a converter, where it is incorporated into a label, tag, or other construction designed for the application.

What Benefits Does RFID Have Over Barcodes?

One major advantage of RFID is that the tag does not have to be visible to be read.

Barcodes generally need to be visible and properly positioned for a scanner. RFID can identify multiple products inside a sealed carton, for example.

RFID is also a read/write technology, meaning information can be programmed or updated after the tag has been attached to a product. This provides greater flexibility for tracking and updating product data throughout the supply chain and into the end-use application.

What Is the RFID Value Chain?

Avery Dennison works with leading silicon designers and fabricators to match product designs with the chips that drive them. They design, assemble, and test RFID inlays and deliver them to the end-user market through a qualified network of converting and integrated partners that provide complete RFID solutions.

How Do I Get Started With RFID?

Start by clearly defining the problem you’re trying to solve. Consider:

• What problem are you trying to solve?
• How will you measure success?
• What is the solution worth to your application?
• Will it provide an attractive ROI?

If this is your first RFID application, bringing in an experienced Systems Integrator can help establish the project framework and determine what type of RFID solution should be considered.

Need RFID Labels?

Whether you’re looking for RFID labels, RFID tags, or custom RFID solutions, PaladinID can help you determine what you need to “Make Your Mark!”

Call (888) 972-5234 or email [email protected] to discuss your RFID requirements.