RFID

What is RFID?

RFID or radio frequency identification is a system that transmits identity in the form of a unique serial number of a product wirelessly. RFID, a type of Auto-ID technology is used to reduce time and labor and improve real time data accuracy. Most commonly, an RFID tag consists of a microchip attached to a radio antenna mounted on a substrate. This technology connects products to the Internet for tracking purposes so that information can be shared with businesses across the supply chain.

There are two types of RFID systems-active and passive. Passive RFID tags do not have transmitters and simply reflect back radio waves that originate at the reader antenna. Active system RFID transponders (a microchip with an antenna) are placed on products then information is accessed using a reader to pass the information to a computer. Active RFID tags are typically used for large assets including cargo containers, rail cars and containers that are transported over long distances. Passive RFID tags lack power sources and transmitter, require no maintenance and are less expensive than active RFID tags.

In tracking products throughout the supply chain, often active and passive RFID systems are combined to provide gain visibility where products are in real time. Used with GPS technology, goods can now be tracked while in transit. This can be especially useful in helping to reduce theft as products travel across the supply chain.