Radio Frequency Identification, or RFID, has become an industry essential, especially in organizations and businesses that need an effective and efficient way to manage and track their inventories. One component of an RFID system is the RFID Active tag. But what exactly is an RFID Active tag? In this article, we will explore this important element of an RFID system.
What is an RFID Active tag?
Tags, readers, and antennae are components of a radio frequency identification (RFID) system. RFID tags hold information, like a unique ID or product details. When a reader sends out radio waves, the tag picks up the signal and returns its stored data to the reader.
An RFID system uses two types of tags: passive and active. Passive tags rely on a reader’s signal for power. Meanwhile, active tags have their own power source and transmit data over longer distances and at higher data rates.
What are the key features of an RFID Active tag?
RFID active tags have key features that make them beneficial for specific applications. Some of these features are the following:
- Self-powered. As mentioned, RFID active tags have their own power source, which allows them to operate independently. This eliminates the need for a separate power source to function, making them ideal for remote and challenging environments.
- Longer read range. RFID active tags can transmit data over longer distances. They are capable of long-range exchanges, typically up to several hundred meters. This makes them suitable for utilization in large workspaces, warehouses, and other expansive settings for more efficient data transmission.
- Higher data transfer rate. RFID active tags can transmit data at higher speeds, allowing more detailed information to be captured and transmitted. This is particularly useful for applications that require real-time tracking and monitoring.
- Real-time tracking. Because they have their own power supply, RFID active tags can continuously send location data. This allows businesses to track and monitor their assets’ movement in real-time, optimizing inventory management and supply chain operations.
What are the applications of RFID Active tag?
Their key features make RFID active tags a staple in some industries. Here are some of the most common uses of RFID active tags.
1. Asset tracking
- Healthcare. Many healthcare institutions use RFID active tags to track medical equipment to prevent loss, theft, and unauthorized use.
- IT Asset Management. Businesses and companies leverage RFID active tags to track and monitor the location and status of their IT assets, which is beneficial for protecting sensitive company data and preventing revenue loss due to device loss.
- Tools and equipment management. Construction companies and manufacturing facilities often use RFID active tags on tools and equipment to improve inventory accuracy and reduce downtime.
2. Supply chain management
- Inventory control. Some facilities use RFID active tags to track inventory levels in real-time to optimize stock management.
- Shipment tracking. Many industries utilize RFID active tags to track and monitor the movement of shipments from their point of origin to their final destination.
- Quality control. RFID active tags are also used to track products through manufacturing and production lines to identify potential quality issues.
- Logistics and transportation
- Fleet management. Companies that run businesses like vehicle rentals use RFID active tags to track their owned vehicles and drivers.
- Container tracking. Shipping containers can also be monitored by utilizing RFID active tags to enforce security and efficiency.
- Railcar tracking. Railroad companies and intermodal transportation providers leverage RFID active tags to track the location and status of railcars to optimize transportation operations.
3. Security and access control
- Buildings. Some facilities implement strict access controls by using RFID active tags to control access to specific buildings or areas within buildings, preventing unauthorized entry to those who are not allowed within the premises.
- Vehicles. There are buildings that use RFID active tags to control access in parking garages, secure facilities, and restricted areas.
- Perimeter security. Some establishments enforce monitoring in perimeter fences and gates to detect unauthorized access.
4. Animal tracking
- Livestock management. This pertains to tracking livestock’s location and health status, ensuring timely interventions for health issues, optimizing feeding schedules, and enhancing overall herd management.
- Wildlife tracking. Monitoring the movement and behavior of wildlife species using RFID active tags can help organizations maintain the welfare of some animals, especially those considered endangered.
- Pet tracking. Pet tracking involves using RFID active tags to monitor pets’ locations. This helps owners quickly locate lost or stolen pets, enhancing pet safety.
What are the disadvantages of RFID Active tags?
While RFID active tags have many benefits, they also have notable drawbacks. Here are some of their disadvantages.
- Higher costs. There’s a reason that big companies and enterprises are the only ones who can implement the use of advanced RFID active tags. This is due to the cost of the whole system. Active tags are generally more expensive than passive tags due to the additional cost of the battery and more complex circuitry.
- Limited battery life. The battery powering the active tag has a finite lifespan, necessitating periodic replacement or recharging. This can increase maintenance costs and disrupt operations.
- Larger size and weight. RFID active tags are typically larger and heavier due to the inclusion of batteries. This can interfere with operations, especially when your tools aren’t portable enough. This also limits their suitability for certain applications, especially where size and weight are critical factors.
- Interference. RFID active tags may potentially interfere with other wireless devices due to the strong radio signals they emit. This can happen in environments with high levels of radio frequency activity, making communication less efficient.
- Security risks. While active tags offer enhanced security features, they can also be vulnerable to hacking and data breaches if not properly secured.
Conclusion
Radio Frequency Identification active tags are an essential RFID data transmission system component. Their distinct features, especially being self-powered, enable industries to monitor assets continuously, improve operational efficiency, and facilitate real-time data collection across various environments. However, just like any other technology, RFID active tags have some drawbacks, too. But when well-suited to the industry, though, they can deliver valuable benefits that outweigh these drawbacks, offering reliable, long-range tracking and data collection that significantly enhance productivity.
