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Friday, June 26, 2009

What is Radio-Frequency Identification?



Radio-frequency identification (RFID) is a technology with a similar premise to bar codes. This system transmits information via radio waves. While this technology maybe new to some, it is used all around us. RFID is used for countless things including; placing a chip in your pet as an ID tag, using FasTrak for toll booths, cleaning instructions on clothing tags or instructions in an assembly line to construct a car. While bar codes must be in close proximity to their scanner, RFID can decode things at much greater distances. High frequency RFID can offer transmission ranges more than 90 feet. RFID is made up of three components; an antenna or coil, the programmed RF tag, and a receiver. The way this system works is that its antenna emits a radio signal to activate the tag and to program information on it. Then every time the RFID tag passes through an electromagnetic zone, it detects the reader’s activation signal. The reader than decodes the data on the tag and passes it on to the receiver, a host computer, for processing.

Due to the fact that RFID can penetrate through the human body and non-metallic materials, the advancements of RFID in the medical field are of great interest today. One of the major concerns with this technology is the lack of privacy it could possibly bring to individuals. Many believe that an increase of security is needed and regulations must be made in order to protect individuals.

Below is a link to a video that goes on to explain further what RFID is and how it works.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yNPDgudPmXE

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