Telling the difference between passive and active RFID tags
Everything you need to know about RFID tags
RFID tags are small, electronic devices that are used to store and transmit information. They can be attached to objects or embedded into them, allowing for identification and tracking of the object. RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification and is a form of technology that uses radio waves to communicate between two points in order to identify and track items.
RFID tags contain a radio frequency transponder with an antenna, along with some type of chip that stores data and processes it. The tag emits a signal that is picked up by a reader, which in turn will transmit the information stored on the chip to another source. This could be another RFID tag or a computer system connected to a network.
RFID tags vs barcodes
RFID tags have certain advantages over traditional barcode tags. For example, radio waves can penetrate through materials, whereas barcodes require direct contact with a scanner in order to be read. RFID tags also store more information and can enable real-time tracking of items, which is impossible with barcodes. Furthermore, RFID tags are much more durable and can last for years, whereas barcodes tend to degrade over time.
Furthermore, there are many different types of RFID tags available, in contrast to barcodes which all follow one standard format. The most practical tag will be chosen as part of an overall RFID technology implementation strategy that takes into account the various scenarios and applications where tracking will be necessary.
Choosing an RFID tag that is fit for purpose
When choosing an RFID tag, it is important to consider various factors such as the type of environment it will be used in. For example, tags placed outdoors need to be weather and water resistant, while tags used indoors require a different set of specifications. The range of the RFID reader should also be taken into account — if the reader is too far away, it will not be able to read the RFID tag. Additionally, the cost of tags and readers should also be considered as part of the overall budget for a successful RFID implementation project.
Finally, and very importantly, is whether RFID tags in a particular application need to be active or passive.
Active or passive
RFID tags — what’s the difference?
Active RFID tags have a built-in power source, usually in the form of a battery. This allows them to send out their own signal and be read from further away than passive tags. Active tags are often more expensive but are useful for applications that require tracking items over large distances.
Passive RFID tags have no internal power source and need an external signal, usually from a reader, to activate them. Although passive tags are cheaper and more popular than active tags, their range is not as great.
How to choose the right tag for an RFID solution
The cost and the application of the tag will determine what kind of tag you use. You also have to consider what exactly needs to be tagged and how objects are read.
Cost: Active tags are more advanced because they can store data and send a signal, requiring an internal power source. This makes them relatively pricey compared to passive tags.
Size: The size of a passive tag is much smaller than an active tag, which contains a battery and, thus, appears bulkier.
Disposability: While tags connected to static assets, like cars, can stay on for years, those attached to quickly-moving consumer goods cannot be reused once the product has been sold.
Read range: Active tags have a much longer read range (say 50m to 300m) than passive tags (50cm to 15m).
Signal: Passive tags only transmit when triggered by the proximity of an RFID reader, whereas active tags are always on.
Life span: Depending on the treatment they are exposed to, passive tags have an infinite life span, generally at least 10+ years. On the other hand, due to battery life, active tags have a life span of around three to five years.
Embedded: Though passive tags can be placed inside objects, their size often makes this difficult for active tags.
In short, passive tags are often used on smaller items because of the reasons stated earlier. A great example would be inventory moving along a retailer’s supply chain quickly and in large quantities; these items are highly buy-and-forgettable (clothing, etc.), which makes passive tags ideal due to their size.
Passive RFID tags can also be used for smaller classes of assets such as computers, tablets and mobile phones.
On the contrary, more costly and larger active RFID tags are appropriate for bigger assets such as trucks, cars, and other machinery that moves across broader regions like construction sites, ports, warehouses, and vehicle dealerships.
Before you choose an RFID tag, choose Australia’s leading RFID specialists
Conclusion
RFID tags can be passive or active. Passive tags don’t have their own power supply, they rely on the reader to provide power. Active tags have a battery and broadcast their signal so that they can be read from further away. There are pros and cons to both types of tag, but which is right for you? At Rfid Solutions Australia, we offer a variety of RFID tag products and services, including TrackSeal — an active RFID tag that is perfect for long-term asset tracking and management. If you need help choosing the right RFID solution for your needs, contact us today — we would love to hear from you!
