Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is one of the most transformative technologies of our time, one that many of us are only marginally aware of. With surprisingly few components and a relatively simple interactive system, RFID technology has been able to improve many industries through a variety of applications for private enterprise, government and even personal uses. Despite some controversies regarding its expanded usage and privacy issues, RFID technology has become an integral part of our modern industrial infrastructure.
Function
RFID systems are composed of only three basic components; the antenna (or reader), the radio frequency (RF) tags (transponder) and the software or computer used to receive or display the data. The first component, the antenna, can be stationary or portable, depending on the application. The antenna emits a signal that activates the RF tag when it comes into proximity. The RF tag then transmits its stored data or writes new data onto its data chip. The data transmission is automatically monitored and managed by application-specific software or manually managed through an interactive computer terminal.
Industrial Uses
Since the scale of an RFID system can be measured in microns, there are very few limits to the types of applications where this technology can be used. As consumers, most of us are familiar with retail sensor tags found fastened to clothing, or stuck to the price label of a book. These security tags are RFID transponders. In the same way these tags track an item in the store to prevent loss, Wal-Mart uses RFID tags in almost every facet of their distribution chain to manage inventory production, just-in-time distribution, pricing and sales management.
Governmental Uses
The United States has made use of RFID in the general distribution of supplies and material both domestically and in the field. Most significant has been its use in the tracking of high asset material and goods moving into active combat theaters between 2002 and 2009. Recently, a number of RFID applications proposed by the government have come under some debate. These proposed applications include the embedding of RFID chips in U.S.-issued passports, drivers' licenses, state and federal ID cards and even in paper currency. These measures would help track and control illegal activity, but the trend has also sparked some concerns regarding right to privacy and civil liberties.
Personal Uses
Many new personal applications for RFID are being developed and debated. Public and private libraries are replacing bar code systems with RFID systems. This will allow the check-in/check-out process to be fully automated and a patron's entire library history to be stored on their library card. New personal products containing RFID chips allow parents to track lost children using a portable locator device. Some private hospitals are experimenting with RFID badges that can be programmed with a patients' medical data, including full chart information, the professionals administering care, patient history and complete biometric profile, including sensitive fingerprint and eye-matching data.
Considerations
Just as with any new technology, there are many applications that need to be carefully considered before implementation. The same technology that, if properly used, could allow local police to read vehicle driving activity from an RFID tag on a motorists' license plate could allow an industrious identity thief to glean critical information from an RF chip embedded in a driver's license or social security card.
Tags: could allow, RFID chips, RFID systems, RFID technology, with RFID
