RFID Barcodes and Labels             

Radio frequency identification (RFID) first appeared in tracking and access applications during the 1980s. These wireless AIDC systems allow for non-contact reading and are effective in manufacturing and other hostile environments where bar code labels could not survive. RFID has established itself in a wide range of markets including livestock identification and automated vehicle identification (AVI) systems because of its ability to track moving objects. 

Key Attributes and Limitations:

Growth area of automatic identification and data capture

New generation, lower cost transponders offering multi-read capabilities

Read/write electronic storage technology

Wide range of products satisfying a range of data storage and data transfer needs

Low to reasonably high (64Kbits) data storage capability

Wide range of data transfer rates, depending on device and carrier frequency used.  Generally speaking, the higher the carrier frequency the higher the data transfer rates achievable

Close proximity (inductive systems) to tens of meters (radiating systems), without the need for line-of-sight interrogation, depending upon type of transponders and interrogation hardware

Robust constructions available, allowing use in reasonably harsh conditions.