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RFID
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Radio frequency identification (RFID) is a technology that uses radio waves send by a so called reader at a certain frequency that can be received by a so called transponder (or tag). The transponder consists of an antenna that is adjusted to a certain frequency, and a transponder chip that holds certain data. If the transponder enters the field of the reader, it can take enough energy out of the field to be able to work. In doing so it gives the memorized information back to the reader by using its antenna, and the reader becomes the receiver of the data. Consequently, RFID technology enables the transmittance of data from a transponder to a reader without the need for line of sight.
Advantages of a RFID tag:
- Contactless through radio waves of a certain frequency
- No line of sight needed because of the use of radio waves
- Close-up range which, depending on the applications, ranges from some centimetres to some meters.
The RFID technique has been known for several years. However, public interest into the topic has recently risen enormously because of its deployment in the supply chain of consumer goods. This deployment is being pushed by EPCglobal. Nevertheless, also other applications as in the area of automation, brand protection and identification can be optimized through the application of RFID technology. In daily life people often use RFID already, e.g. in contactless skiing tickets, employee badges or in time measurement during large sport events.
With printed electronics the areas for the application of RFID will be broadened to price-sensitive mass markets such as the packages of consumer goods, electronic brand protection, simple identification, electronic tickets and many more. PolyIC targets the Electronic Product Code (EPCTM) that will replace the barcode on goods in supermarkets. The vision of RFID on yoghurt containers can therefore become reality with printed electronics. | | |
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