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Passive RFID Tags
Passive RFID tags have two main parts: an antenna, which sends and receives radio signals, and an integrated circuit (IC) or RFID chip, which stores the tag’s unique ID and other data. These tags attach to items for tracking using an RFID reader and antenna system.
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When an RFID reader emits radio waves, passive RFID tags (which don’t have their own battery) absorb energy from the signal. This energy powers the tag’s chip, which then sends back a response containing its stored information.
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An RFID chip organizes its data into four memory banks:
EPC (Electronic Product Code): Programmable, used for unique identifiers.
TID (Tag Identifier): Permanent, contains the tag’s unique ID.
User: Programmable, can store additional item-specific details.
Reserved: Used for special functions like locking or memory expansion.
RFID tags come in different shapes, sizes, and materials, each designed for specific environments and surfaces. Choosing the right tag for the application is key to ensuring accurate tracking.
RFID Tag Components
Every RFID tag has 3 main components​​​
RFID Chip - The RFID chip, also known as an integrated circuit (IC), is the "brain" of the RFID tag. It's a small electronic circuit that data storage, processing and logic, and communication protocols.
RFID Antenna - The antenna in an RFID tag serves as the crucial interface between the RFID chip and the external world of radio waves.
RFID Substrate - An RFID substrate serves as the base material onto which the components of an RFID tag are mounted or embedded. Think of it as the foundation of the tag.
RFID Tags or Labels?
The terms "RFID tag" and "RFID label" are often used interchangeably, however, there's a subtle distinction that often comes down to form factor and how they are applied.
RFID Tags
An RFID tag typically is packaged with a protective encasement around the various RFID components. RFID Tags come in many different forms:
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Metal Mount RFID Tags - These tags are specifically designed to be attached to or embedded in metallic surfaces. Standard RFID tags often have their performance severely degraded or become unreadable when placed on metal due to signal reflection and absorption. Metal mount tags incorporate shielding materials and antenna designs that counteract these effects, allowing for reliable reading.
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Ceramic RFID Tags - Encased in durable ceramic housings, these tags offer excellent resistance to harsh environments, including high temperatures, chemicals, and physical abrasion. The ceramic material also provides good electrical insulation and can be designed to optimize RF performance in certain applications.
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Hard Plastic RFID Tags - Encased in rigid plastic housings, these tags offer durability and protection against physical impact, moisture, and some chemicals. They come in various shapes and sizes and can be attached using screws, zip ties, or adhesives.
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Epoxy RFID Tags - The RFID chip and antenna are embedded in a rugged epoxy resin. This provides protection against moisture, dust, and physical stress. They can come in various shapes and thicknesses.
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Misc RFID Tags - Many other formats of RFID Tags can be found such as wristband, ear tags, bolt tags, as well as coin style RFID Tags.
RFID Labels
Example of Variety of RFID Tags
An RFID label is a specific type of RFID tag that has the form factor of a traditional adhesive label or sticker. RFID Labels are typically flexible and are usually adaptable to pairing with an RFID printer. RFID labels tend to be less expensive than RFID tags.
Print custom information on
RFID labels
Tag Selection is Critical
RFID tags can be found in a wide variety of sizes and constructs. From paper labels to ceramic tags, every type of tag has its own advantages and disadvantages.
The Tag Selection Process
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How much room do I have on my asset?
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What kind of material will I be applying the tag to?
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Do I need metal mount RFID tags?
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Do we need human readable on our tags?
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What kind of range do we need for our tags?
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Do our tags need to be able to survive extreme conditions such as high heat or solvents?
Picking the right tag is critical. That is why it is important to consult with experts who can help you with the tag selection process. Choosing the wrong RFID tag can break your project.
Passive RFID Tag Sample Packs Are Available
Many customers have a variety of different items that need to be RFID tagged. Testing with a variety of tag shapes, sizes, and types can help you complete your list of all of the tags that you will need for your project. Rocket RFID offers a wide variety of RFID Tag Sample Packs at some of the lowest prices around.
