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RFID uses wireless technology operating with the 50 KHz to 2.5 Ghz frequency range. RFID does not require line-of-sight to operate for communications between a tagged object (which could be almost anything including a car, merchandise, package, etc.) and a reader (an electronic device used to capture the RFID signal).

Data encoded on the RFID tag can contain a variety of information about the object including item description through the use of an electronic product code (EPC). The EPC is an electronic representation of a product, which can include information about the product, manufacturer, and uniquely identify the product.

Comparison of RFID and Other Product Identification Technologies

Universal Product Codes (UPC) and bar coding is a popular technology used in identifying a product in super marts and retail stores. Bar code systems use a reader and code labels that are printed on the object. Information in transferred via optical signals with bar codes, hence, line-of-sight is a necessity. Standard bar codes only contain information about the manufacturer or originator of an item and basic information about the object itself.

Compared to Bar Codes, RFID is a improved technology which provides the above benefits as well as does away with bar codes shortfalls.

Firstly, RFID is not line-of-sight technology; hence, there is no need to swap each individual item with the reader. Multiple items (in tunes of 100s) can be swapped with reader, hence, achieving speed and efficiency. RFID brings in new applications like package management, which were not possible using optical systems.

Secondly, the greater information can be stored via EPC number in RFID tags. The information can uniquely identify a object globally, and hence, tracking a given product, a container, or a truck is possible now.

Thirdly, radio waves used by RFID systems can penetrate non-metallic materials, allowing the RFID tag to be embedded or encased within an item or object. In contrast, the bar code must be physically exposed to the surface of the object, and in the case of bar code labels, can fall off the object.

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* Contributed by: -
Narendar Lokwani,
Alumni of IIM Bangalore,
Currently working as Business Development Manager at Aztecsoft, Bangalore.