What is an RFID tag and how does it function?

RFID tags are essentially labels into which a silicon chip and radio antenna (transponder) have been incorporated. Product-related data stored within the chips can be read automatically without the need for line-of-sight operation and often without the need for human involvement. The technology has many advantages over the standard barcode; for example, not only is product type identified but also specific cartons, batches and items can be recorded. The data is retrieved from the tags by fixed electronic 'readers' or by hand-held units.

Wilmington Media produces a magazine for the RFID industry, RFID Solutions.