Chapter 3. Research Context and Methodology
3.5.1. Component RFID in IOT Development
Main components
Tags
RFID tags are what stores and transmits the data that needs to be deciphered. The tags can be attached to assets to send data to the antenna. The microchip embedded in the tag is what stores the tag's ID and programmable data related
to the asset. This stored data is then transferred to the reader through antennas.
Antennas
Antennas are necessary elements in an RFID system because they transmit the RFID tag’s data to the reader. Without some type of RFID antenna, whether integrated or standalone, the RFID reader cannot correctly send and receive signals to RFID tags.
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Readers
RFID readers are connected to the antenna and receive data from the RFID tag. The reader is what receives and converts the radio waves into digital data
on a computer database.
There are two types of readers. There are Fixed Readers and Mobile Readers. Fixed readers are typically mounted to walls or other objects and stay in one location to read data stored in a tag. Mobile readers can be installed or carried anywhere it is needed.
Computer Database
The RFID system requires a computer database to process data stored in tags. This software can program tags, manage devices and data, remote monitoring and hardware configuration.
Type of RFID tag
RFID transmits data to a reader through different frequencies of electromagnetic fields.
RFID tags are categorized according to the frequency at which they are designed to operate. There are three major frequency ranges that RFID tags
operate.
e Low-Frequency (LF) Tags
e High-Frequency (HF) Tags
e Ultra-High Frequency (UHF) Tags - passive and active
Low-Frequency Tags (LF)
e The primary frequency range of 125kHz — 134kHz
® Can read a span of a few inches
e Lowest data transfer rate among all the RFID frequencies
e Store a small amount of data
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LF Applications: Animal Tracking, Access Control, Car Key-Fob, Asset Tracking, and Healthcare
High-Frequency Tags (HF) - Most widely used around the world
e The primary frequency range of 13.56MHz
e Read range: 30 cm
e The capability of reading multiple tags simultaneously
e Can store up to 4k of data
e Easily read while attached to objects containing water, tissues, metal,
wood, and liquids.
HF Applications: Library Books, Personal ID Cards, Airline Baggage, and Credit Cards
Ultra-High Frequency Tags (UHF)
There are two types of tags that use different frequencies under UHF RFID.
UHF Passive Tags - use energy from the RFID reader
e The primary frequency range: 860MHz — 960MHz
e Read Range: 25 meters
e High data transmission rate
e Wide variety of tag sizes
UHF Passive Tag Applications: Supply Chain Tracking, Manufacturing, Pharmaceuticals and Electronic Tolling
UHF Active Tags - battery operated
e The primary frequency range: 433MHz
e Read Range: 30 - 100+ meters
e Large memory capacity
e High data transfer rate
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UHF Active Tag Applications: Vehicle Tracking, Auto Manufacturing, and Construction
3.5.2. RFID tag (13.56 MHZ)
A 13.56 MHz RFID tag operates in the high-frequency (HF) range, and it is one of the most common frequencies used for RFID applications. There are some key features and characteristics of RFID tags operating at 13.56 MHz:
Frequency: As mentioned, RFID tags at 13.56 MHz operate in the high- frequency range. This frequency range is globally recognized and unlicensed for use in RFID systems.
Communication Range: HF RFID tags typically have a shorter read range compared to UHF (ultra-high frequency) tags. The read range for 13.56 MHz
HF tags typically ranges from a few centimeters to a few meters, depending
on the specific tag, reader, and environmental conditions.
Data Storage: 13.56 MHz RFID tags can store a range of data, from a simple identifier to more extensive information. They can store a unique serial number or additional data that can be read by an RFID reader.
Passive and Active Tags: 13.56 MHz RFID tags come in both passive and active forms. Passive tags rely on the energy transmitted by the RFID reader
to power themselves and respond with their data. Active tags have their own power source, which allows them to transmit data over longer distances.
Applications: 13.56 MHz RFID tags are commonly used in various applications, such as access control systems, public transportation cards, contactless payment cards, inventory management, asset tracking, and library management systems. They are also popular for near-field communication (NFC) applications, which include mobile payments and data transfer between devices.
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Security: Some 13.56 MHz RFID tags offer enhanced security features,
making them suitable for applications where data protection is critical, such as
contactless payment cards and secure access control systems. Encryption and
authentication protocols are often employed to secure data communication
between the tag and reader.
Standards: The 13.56 MHz HF band follows international standards, such as
ISO 14443 and ISO 15693, which ensure interoperability and compatibility
between different RFID systems and manufacturers.
Form Factors: HF RFID tags come in various form factors, including cards,
labels, wristbands, and embedded solutions. The choice of form factor depends
on the specific application and requirements.
Proximity-Based Identification 13.56 MHz RFID tags are designed for short to medium-range
identification, making them suitable for applications where you need
to identify objects or people in close proximity to the reader.
Global Standard The 13.56 MHz frequency band is recognized and unlicensed
globally, ensuring compatibility and interoperability across different regions.
Data Storage These tags can store various data types, allowing for more than just
simple identification. This makes them versatile for applications where additional information needs to be associated with the tagged item.
Security Some 13.56 MHz RFID tags offer advanced security features,
including encryption and authentication, which are important for applications requiring data protection and secure access control.
Low Power Consumption Passive 13.56 MHz RFID tags have low power requirements, as they
draw power from the RFID reader during communication. This makes them suitable for battery-free and long-lasting applications.
NFC Compatibility 13.56 MHz tags are often used in Near Field Communication (NFC)
applications, such as mobile payments and data transfer between devices, making them a part of everyday technology.
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Limited Read Range The read range for 13.56 MHz RFID tags is relatively short compared
to UHF (ultra-high frequency) tags. This limitation makes them less suitable for applications requiring long-range identification.
Higher Cost 13.56 MHz RFID tags and readers can be more expensive than lower-
frequency options, particularly when considering the security features and capabilities offered
Overall, 13.56 MHz RFID tags are versatile and find widespread use in
applications that require proximity-based identification and data transfer.
Their reliability, security features, and established standards make them a
popular choice in various industries.