Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
Radio frequency technology with data storage options
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is a radio-based system which localizes and detects objects/animals on a non-contact basis using electromagnetic radio waves and can automatically store information and data as required. This new technology is increasingly supplanting the barcode, which remains in widespread usage to this day.
A small transmitter known as a transponder is applied to the object/animal for RFID. RFID transponders are very small, cheap and can be read out or written to via radio wave.
The reader incorporates a micro-program, which controls the actual reading process and provides interfaces to other IT programs. It also supplies the transponder with power.
Stack of containers at port
Just like the barcode, RFID technology is designed to identify goods quickly and easily. It is no longer necessary to enter item numbers, quantities or other identifying characteristics, which saves time and money, as well as allowing staff to maintain an overview of the situation in large warehouses.
In the case of barcodes, the reader has to scan the "passive" barcode. The distance between the reader and barcode depends on the system but normally varies between 30 cm and 2 meters.
In the case of RFID technology, the transponders react to a radio signal and only then do they transmit their data to the respective reader. The transponder chip is not read out directly and instead transmits its information upon request. There are active and passive transponders, whereby the distance between the transponder and reader varies between 10 cm and several hundred meters depending on whether the transponder has an active or passive design and on the ambient conditions.
An important advantage of RFID compared to the barcode is that the information on the chips cannot only be read out - additional information can also be written to the chip at any time.
In contrast to barcodes, transponders do not have to be applied to any particular position on an item, they do not malfunction if they are dirty and they can still operate even if they are slightly damaged.
The Chambers of Commerce and Industry have already established networks for this new technology e.g. The RFID Network of the Stuttgart Region, which has been founded by the Chambers of Commerce and Industry of the region together with the Institute of Mechanical Handling and Logistics of the University of Stuttgart. An important goal of the RFID Network is to promote the importance of RFID to the Stuttgart region as a high-tech location.
The RFID Network is a neutral forum for dialog and provides regional knowledge-based companies and politicians with the opportunity to exchange views and ideas on the technology.
There are also opportunities to find out about how other countries use this technology within the framework of international alliances based around an EU project (RFID Regions). Fifty companies and institutions have already joined as partners of the network.