Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)


Radio Frequency ID (RFID) is a means of identifying and tracking objects using specially encoded tags.

  • When an RFID reader scans a tag, the tag responds with the information programmed into it
  • a tag can be either:
    • an unpowered, passive device that only responds when scanned at close range (up to about 25 m)
      • can be embedded in stickers and labels to track parcels and equipment
    • or a powered, active device with a range of 100 m
  •  also used to implement some types of access badge to operate electronic locks