RFID Technology Basics | Avery Dennison

Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) technology is widely used in industries because it simplifies and automates processes. It uses radio waves to communicate, to identify, and track objects wirelessly, making it a valuable tool for a variety of applications, from supply chain management to access control.

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Although the concept of RFID has existed for decades, it has only recently become more widely adopted due to significant improvements in technology and decreasing costs. This guide provides an overview of RFID technology, including its history, different types, and how it works. We will also explore the various applications of RFID, as well as its advantages and some limitations.

The RFID guide is designed for anyone who wants to learn about RFID, whether you are an IT professional, a business owner, or just someone interested in the technology. It provides a comprehensive overview of this exciting technology and its potential to transform various industries.

Let's dive in!

Since now we know what the technology is, let’s briefly go through some historical background. RFID technology has been around since the dawn of the 20th century, when some brilliant minds first started playing around with radio waves to identify and track objects. However, it wasn't until the s that RFID technology began to take shape in its modern form.

In , the first patent for an RFID system was granted to Mario W. Cardullo. The patent described a system for automatically identifying and tracking articles using radio waves, which marked the beginning of the modern era of RFID.

The 80s and 90s were all about RFID evolution, with the development of various types of RFID systems, including passive and active RFID. During this time, RFID was mainly used in military and industrial applications, such as supply chain management and inventory tracking.

Then came the s, and RFID technology became more widely available and affordable, leading to its increased adoption in various industries, including retail, healthcare, and transportation. The technology continued to grow, and thanks to advancements in it, RFID readers, antennas, and tags became even more advanced.

And now, here we are in the present day, with RFID technology continuing to evolve and expand, with the development of new applications and innovations, such as near-field communication (NFC) and the Internet of Things (IoT). The future of RFID technology looks bright, with many experts predicting that it will play an even greater role in our lives in the years to come.

As mentioned earlier in the guide, an RFID tag is a part of RFID technology, which is used to track and identify objects wirelessly, and there are two main types of RFID tags: passive and active. Each type has its own unique advantages, and the choice between them will depend on the specific needs of the application.

Passive RFID tags: These tags do not have an internal power source and rely on the energy from the RFID reader to power the tag and transmit data. Passive RFID tags are the most widely used type of RFID tag and are typically less expensive than active RFID tags. They are commonly used in applications such as retail inventory management, asset tracking, and access control. Passive sensors are also used in embedded solutions where the tag offers an unique ID for the product over its lifetime.

Active RFID tags: These tags have an internal power source, typically a battery, that allows them to transmit data over longer distances. Active RFID tags are often used in applications such as supply chain management and asset tracking, where long-range identification is required. They are generally more expensive than passive RFID tags.

In addition to the two main types of RFID tags, there are also several subtypes, including semi-passive RFID tags and battery-assisted passive (BAP) RFID tags. These combine the features of passive and active RFID tags. Each type of RFID tag has its own unique set of features and benefits, making it important to choose the right type of tag for a specific application.

So far we mentioned RFID technology, RFID tag and there is also an RFID system. Let’s clarify the terms to avoid confusion.

RFID technology is the wireless technology used to identify and track objects using radio waves. An RFID tag is a part of RFID technology. It is a small device that contains a microchip and an antenna, which work together to transmit and receive data wirelessly using radio waves.

An RFID system, on the other hand, includes not only the RFID tags, but also the RFID readers, the host system, and other components that work together to identify, track, and manage objects. An RFID system is the complete solution that uses the RFID technology to solve specific business problems or address application requirements.

So, to summarize, an RFID tag is an important part of an RFID system. It’s used to identify and track objects and solve business problems or address applications needs. An RFID system typically consists of the following main components: the reader, the antenna, the tag, and the host system. Each component plays a critical role in the overall operation of the system.
 

Reader: The reader is the heart of the RFID system. It is responsible for transmitting the radio frequency energy to activate the tag and for receiving and decoding the data transmitted by the tag. The reader typically consists of a radio frequency (RF) module, a microprocessor, and an interface for connecting to the host system.

Antenna: The antenna is responsible for transmitting the radio frequency energy from the reader to the tag and for receiving the data transmitted by the tag. The antenna can be designed in various shapes and sizes to suit different applications, and it can be integrated into the reader or attached as a separate component. 

Tag: The tag is the component that is attached to the item being tracked. It contains a microchip and an antenna (a tag also has an antenna, don’t mix it up with the reader’s antenna), and it is responsible for storing and transmitting the data associated with the item. The tag can be passive, relying on the energy transmitted from the reader to activate and transmit its data, or it can be active, with its own power source.

Host system: The host system refers to the software and hardware infrastructure that manages and controls the RFID system. It typically consists of a computer, server or cloud-based platform that runs software, which communicates with RFID readers and collects data from RFID tags.

Overall, the components of an RFID system work together to allow for the identification and tracking of objects wirelessly, making it a valuable tool for a variety of applications.
 

In the previous chapters we have found out a lot about technology, tags, applications and benefits of using RFID. Now the time comes to learn how RFID works. When an RFID reader is activated, it transmits a radio frequency signal to the antenna, which then broadcasts the signal to the surrounding area. If an RFID tag is within range of the reader, the radio frequency energy from the reader's signal is absorbed by the tag's antenna, which powers up the microchip on the tag. The microchip then uses this energy to transmit the data stored on the tag back to the reader. Each tag responds with a unique number.

The data transmission from the tag to the reader is a one-way communication. The reader receives the data from the tag and decodes it, typically using a microprocessor. The data from the tag is then processed and sent to the host system, which can be a computer, a mobile device, or another type of system.

As already mentioned, there are two main types of RFID tags: passive and active. The passive tag does not have its own power source, and it relies on the energy transmitted from the reader to activate and transmit its data. The active tag has its own power source, typically a battery, and it can transmit data continuously, even when it is not in close proximity to the reader.

The exchange of data between the reader and the tag is a fast and efficient process that can occur in a matter of milliseconds. This makes RFID an ideal technology for applications that require quick and accurate identification and tracking of objects, such as supply chain management, inventory tracking, and asset management.
 

When working with RFID, it is common to come across the terms "RFID inlay" and "RFID tag" which are often used interchangeably, but in reality, refer to two distinct components of an RFID system. 

An RFID inlay is the basic building block of an RFID tag. It consists of an antenna, a microchip, (which are the key components that allow the tag to transmit and receive data) and a substrate which is a thin layer that holds the antenna and chip together. The RFID inlay is typically manufactured and sold as a separate component that can be integrated into a variety of tags, such as a paper label, plastic card, hang tags and fabric labels.

An RFID tag is a complete product that is ready to use. An RFID tag consists of an RFID inlay, and a face. A face is a thin layer of clear or white plastic, or paper that covers the inlay. Additionally there can be an encasement, which is a covering that completely encloses the chip, antenna, and substrate that can be made of paper, plastic, PET, or similar materials. The RFID tag is typically the end product that is used in RFID applications, such as inventory management or asset tracking and is often delivered with a suitable adhesive.

In short, an RFID inlay is the core component of an RFID tag, while an RFID tag is a complete RFID product that is ready to use.
 

An RFID tag typically consists of the following parts:

Layer 1 - Adhesive: Adhesive secures the tag's connection to an item in an application, and different use cases create specific requirements for the adhesive. Label converters specialize in finding a suitable adhesive for each use case.

Layer 2 - Substrate: The substrate is a thin layer that holds the antenna and chip together.

Layer 3 - Antenna: The antenna is the component that allows the inlay to transmit and receive data. The antenna is usually made of conductive material, such as copper or aluminum, and is designed to be resonant at a specific frequency.

Layer 4 - Microchip: The microchip, also known as the integrated circuit (IC), is the component that stores data and performs the processing necessary to transmit and receive data. The microchip is typically mounted on the antenna and is connected to it through conductive traces.

Layer 5 - Face laminate: The face laminate, usually made of paper or white synthetic film, provides printability, protection against moisture, dust, and UV, as well as stiffness to the RFID tag. 

Layer 6 - Encapsulation: The encapsulation is a covering that is used to prevent the inlay from being damaged by moisture, dust, and other environmental factors. Encapsulation materials include materials such as epoxy or other resins, and are typically applied to the inlay after the substrate and the antenna have been attached.
 

There are different forms of RFID inlays and tags.

Dry inlay: A dry inlay is an RFID inlay that does not have a backing material or adhesive applied to it. This type of inlay is often used in applications where the inlay needs to be integrated into a product, such as a pallet or a box.

Wet inlay: A wet inlay is an RFID inlay that has a backing material and adhesive applied to it. The backing material and adhesive provide protection and adhesion to the inlay. This type of inlay is often used in applications where the inlay needs to be attached to a surface.

Tag: A tag can be a label/sticker or a hangtag. Label / sticker is a type of RFID inlay that is pre-encased in a paper or white plastic face that provides a printable surface for adding additional information, such as barcodes or product information.

The differences between dry, wet, and tags are mainly how they are intended to be used. Dry inlays are designed for integration into products, wet inlays are for adhesion to surfaces, and tags serve both adhesion and printing of information purposes.
 

Choosing the appropriate RFID inlay and tag for your requirements can be a difficult task. Our product finder can be a useful starting point and our sales and customer team will be pleased to offer their assistance. In general, the target application and use case ultimately determine the RFID inlay and tag requirements, therefore when selecting the right RFID inlay or tag it is important to consider the following questions:

Q1: What is the product made of? (e.g. glass, plastic, metal)

Q2: Where will the tag be placed? (e.g. on the syringe, flagged, on the cap)

Q3: Will the product go through any process? (e.g. Sterilization, extreme temperatures)

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Q4: How will the RFID inlay be read? (e.g. handheld or fixed reader) 

It's important to keep in mind that there are other factors that can influence the selection process as well, including:

Frequency: Determine the frequency band that is most suitable for your application. The most common frequency bands are low frequency (LF), high frequency (HF), and ultra-high frequency (UHF).

Operating environment: Consider the operating environment in which the RFID tag will be used, including temperature, humidity, and exposure to physical and chemical elements. This will help you determine the type of tag and inlay that will be able to withstand the conditions.

Tag form factor: Determine the form factor of the tag that is best suited for your application. The form factor can include various shapes and sizes, including round, square, and rectangular. In general, a larger inlay means a larger antenna and better RF performance.

Read range: Consider the read range required for your application. Read range refers to the distance at which an RFID reader can successfully read the information from a tag.

Data storage capacity: Consider the amount of data you need to store on the tag. The data storage capacity of an RFID tag can vary depending on the tag type and inlay.

Cost: Determine your budget for the RFID tags and inlays, taking into account the cost per tag and the volume of tags you need.

Security: Consider the security requirements for your application, such as the need for encryption or password protection for the data stored on the tag.

The integrated circuit (IC) of an RFID tag can have a significant impact on the selection of the RFID tag. The IC is the "brain" of the tag and is responsible for storing and processing data, as well as controlling the communication between the tag and the reader.

The IC can influence the selection in several ways:

Memory capacity: The IC determines the amount of memory available for storing data on the tag. If you need to store a large amount of data, you'll need to choose a tag with a larger IC memory capacity.

Read range: The IC can impact the read range of the tag, as different ICs can support different read ranges. If you need to read the tag from a greater distance, you'll need to choose an IC that supports a larger read range.

Operating frequency: Different ICs are designed to operate at different frequencies, so it's important to choose an IC that is compatible with the frequency band used by your RFID reader.

Security: Some ICs include security features, such as encryption, to protect the data stored on the tag. If security is a concern for your application, you'll need to choose an IC that includes these security features.

Cost: The IC can also impact the cost of the tag, as more advanced ICs with larger memory capacities, longer read ranges, and greater security features will be more expensive.

By carefully considering the IC, you can ensure that the tag or inlay you choose will provide the right level of memory capacity, read range, operating frequency, security, and cost for your application.
 

In recent years, there has been an increased focus on sustainability and the impact that technology and products have on the environment. RFID technology is no exception, and it has been evaluated for its potential to contribute to a more sustainable future. This section will explore the role of RFID in sustainability, including its impact on materials, manufacturing processes, and end-of-life product recyclability.

Materials: One of the key areas where RFID technology can contribute to sustainability is in the sourcing and use of materials. By increasing the use of certified materials and recycled content, and replacing less sustainable materials such as PET, the carbon footprint of RFID products can be reduced. Additionally, the use of RFID technology can improve supply chain management and visibility, reducing waste and improving efficiency.

Manufacturing: RFID technology can also be beneficial in terms of manufacturing processes. By implementing the best available processes and managing supply chains, the carbon footprint of RFID products can be reduced and the overall sustainability of the manufacturing process can be improved.

End of life: When it comes to end-of-life product recyclability, RFID technology can have a positive impact. It can provide visibility into the recycling chain, allowing for better management of end-of-life products and reducing waste. Also the recyclability of RFID tags and inlays is an important consideration, and it varies by market segment.

Measuring carbon footprint: RFID and IoT solutions can measure the carbon footprint of a product by tracking and collecting data throughout its entire lifecycle. This includes data on the sourcing of materials, energy consumption during the manufacturing process, transportation of goods, and end-of-life disposal. By gathering this information, it is possible to calculate the carbon footprint of the product and identify areas for improvement.
 

What about to add UHF RFID support? Sure, it requires additional hardware, but has a lot of pentesting potential =)

P.S.: Not sure, that I choose proper category…

As I know, UHF readers have a huge antennas, that a lot bigger then flipper itself. If you mean only implement a UHF tag functionality, can you please tell where such tags is used? I only see this type of tags in warehouses and cargo marking.

It’s doable. There are reader/writers & dev kits that are small in size for B / C ISO. There isn’t really a lot of security research going into UHF so it could be a great addition for future projects and testing even though there isn’t a lot of demand for it now.

I had one reader-writter for UHF tags 8xx-900xx MHz, its not big, like a normal mifare usb reader. Those tags sometis has strong encryption, and IDK if there a clear way to bypass it. Also there is active systems, where battery and separate mcu used in pair with UHF tag. Systems like these used on toll roads. Active protocols more coplicate. But i guess simple passive UHF could be implemented in flipper zero. +1

I’m poking around trying to see if I can get this to work for my garage.

Unfortunately the card might some how be a protected one (which shocked me for my building).

Best I can tell inside the card is one of these or some variant:

I also did a random frequency analyzer while I was driving through the garage and it was BLASTING 914.999. I’m pretty sure most of the size of the antenna in the garage is just for power and large coverage.

Upside is I have 2 flippers so I can record the raw data from the antenna and then play it back myself repeatedly. It’s not something obnoxious like the 21kHz my VW fob uses to activate the LF coil lol. That one is easier to just do at the car. But it’s also encoded so I got more research to do lol. It’s really more actual pentesting with that one.

The most annoying thing for my garage UHF RFID is the card even has the sticker with the 3 digit “SC” and 5 digit “ID” so even if it has a unique ID in the card, I can work out most of the hex values that are predictable so I can hopefully reverse whatever I need to so I can have both garage fob and elevator/door fob stored.

Will be super useful since my building is access controlled and won’t let us get more than 1 fob, so I gotta let people in every time. Now they can get to my door at least (the garage is open more than it’s closed so tailgating is easy lol).

I really need to make myself setup a build environment for the source soon too. Wanna figure out how to make use of the wifi module better.

Maybe I can also some fun ways to interface with my red Komodo too. I have a few pigtails of its speshul connector lol.

Either way, I plan to at least make the basic effort needed to see what flipper can and can’t do with uhf rfid.

I have an RFID tag on my car from Mister Car Wash that seems to be 900MHz-range. It would be neat to poke at that and potentially read and clone it. Emulation is definitely not feasible (unless you were to hold the flipper up to the reader, which sort of defeats the purpose of UHF RFID) but reading and writing tags should be feasible I’d imagine.

Does anyone know if there is any updates /progress on this? I assume the hardware allows to do it (since it falls in the subghz range) , we just need the software to make this work?

Bumping this old thread. UHF technology has become explosive in my city where human beings are becoming less and less utilized and machines are being installed. Typically the application we are seeing this is in rented parking spaces both in garage and open lots that are non-staffed. In fact, a lot of kiosks and other people in the key making business that I know personally are trying to figure out how they can piggyback off the UHF tags for individuals seeking to make a copy of their garage tag or rented parking space tag provided they have a lease. There is no such device available that currently can clone a UHF tag that I am aware of, but the Flipper is the one device that makes me stop to think. Are there any current R&D going on in this sector of flippers potential?

Greetings. I am in Turkey and wanted to report a use cafe of this. The company Moonwell produces Moontags which read

RFID MOONTAGS
Araç Geçiş Sistemleri

On the back seem to be UHF RFID. These are pretty popular in Turkey. The sticker on the car looks exactly like this one,

The corresponding antenna seems very likely to be this,

This antenna has a 3-5 m working distance. This is a very working class apartment complex. My assumption is that these are far more popular in Turkey then we’re giving them credit for.

Hello everyone, me and one of my friend was able to get UHF Compatibility working using the YRM100 module. the app for the flipper is still in development.

I didn’t even know you could buy a writable tid tag. I’m going to look into that. however, im slowly adding more features to the flipper app. in my opinion i can probably add most of the main functionality from the sdk.

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