FAQ03636 of RFID Systems FAQ

RFID system is a non-contact ID system which can read and write data on a tag via radio waves or electromagnetic waves. It consists of a tag (data carrier, ID card) which stores data, an antenna which communicates with the tag, a controller which controls the antenna, and higher-level equipment (system) which controls the controller.

Communication methods between the tag and the antenna include a microwave type using radio waves, and an electromagnetic inductive coupling type applying the electromagnetic principle (transformer principle).

Features of RFID are:

(1) Non-contact data communication is possible.

(2) Reading and writing of data is possible.

(3) Having a capacity enough to record more information than identification codes

(4) Small enough to carry around or to use by attaching on an object

RFID stands for Radio Frequency Indication System, and is commonly called Wireless ID System, Wireless IC Tag, FA-ID and Auto-ID.

As can be expected from its common names, the RFID system has two origins: one is consumer/social system developed from the IC card, and the other is industrial ID system as typified by the barcode system, and then both origins have been joined together, making the RFID one of the most highlighted new technologies.