Do you have a credit or debit card in your wallet? Then you’re using RFID technology.

RFID technology is a popular way of transmitting messages through technology, but what exactly is it and how does it work?

Although RFID technology has been in use since World War II, the demand for RFID equipment is increasing rapidly thanks to the booming technological age we live in.

Radio-Frequency Identification, otherwise known as RFID, is the use of radio waves to read, capture, and interact with information stored on a tag.

Using an antenna, an RFID reader transmits a radio signal, to which the tag responds by sending back the information stored in the microchip. It does so proactively or passively, depending upon the configuration and location.

Active RFID continuously pushes data to an active RFID reader using tags with batteries in them. Passive RFID does not need a power source to send and receive signals. Instead, the tags must receive the radio signal from the passive reader before they will respond.

Tags are usually attached to objects and can be read from several feet away. Additionally, the tag doesn’t always have to be in the direct line-of-sight to initiate interaction.

Common RFID uses include goods and management tracking, contactless payments, travel documents, barcodes and security tags, healthcare data management and timing to name a few.

RFID is also making waves in the growing smart homes market, with household objects taking advantage of the burgeoning technology to collect and share information like never before.

The technology offers many advantages over the barcode, particularly the fact that an RFID tag can hold much more data about an item than a barcode can. In addition, RFID tags are not susceptible to the damages that may be incurred by barcode labels, like ripping and smearing.

RFID technology is an easy way to assign a unique identity to an object. They do not need an internal power source, while a tag can be as small as a grain of black pepper. They can be embedded almost anywhere and perform an array of tasks – from signing into an event to purchasing.

It allows you to capture data without human interaction, perfect for large events and conferences where you may not have a chance to speak to everyone, or attendees may not have time to manually fit out a lengthy paper form.

This data can allow you to find out more about your target audience and improve upon your events in the future without having to physically examine paper handouts. RFID can also be used to transfer data such as event tickets and conference information that risks being lost in a physical form.

When it comes to inventory and supply chain management, RFID can be used to quickly scan and distribute containers in warehouses or manufacturing plants before distribution, and also notify you when assets are running low so you can accurately replenish stock.

From the humble credit card through to cutting-edge event technology – RFID is changing the way we interact with each other on a day to day basis.

To learn more about RFID technology and how you can use it at your next event, contact ITR today.