Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology
is not a new technology but recent advances in capability, standards and the continual reduction of
the (all important) cost per tag mean that now could be the time to implement RFID technology
into your organisation. If not, then maybe your competitors will !
RFID is currently used in such diverse applications as Asset Tracking, Mail Monitoring, Tollway metering,
Smartcards, Temperature Monitoring, Motion Detection, Retail Stockouts, Article Surveillence,
Document Tracking, Slap-n-Ship labels, Package Sorting, Theft Protection and Pallet Tracking.
Recent advances in passive tag technology will only mean that more applications will become viable
in the not-too-distant future. Choosing the right RFID technology and technology partner
for your application will be vital to your success.
RFID Tags
A large number of vendors supply RFID tags (and readers but more of that later)
ranging from high-value and sophisticated active tags through to the least expensive RF circuit or "squiggle".
Getting the right price/read performance, leveraging multiple tag suppliers with adherence to RFID
standards will put you on the right track.
RFID Readers
RFID Tag readers are available in a wide variety - from fixed point to portable,
from doorways to vehicle-mounted and even handheld units. They are available from a large range of
vendors, some of whom also produce RFID tags.
RFID Consultancy, Education & Independent advice
Keeping up with the latest standards and innovations
in the RFID marketplace is a difficult exercise - so you might need some
independent advice about the RFID playing field and how it can benefit
your organisation or supply chain. Some local and overseas contacts are
listed below who can help you avoid the pitfalls of a poor RFID infrastructure investment.
Standards and Affiliated Bodies for RFID technology
There are several international and local standards
bodies and affiliated organisations which contribute to RFID and it's
associated radio communications, protocols and number identification
schemes that allow RFID to be adopted across the supply chain.
