RFID tags, which is a small, film-like labels embedded in silicon chips. All sizes stock items like merchandizes, boxes and pallets can be attached with RFID tags. These tags can be traced easily throughout the wireless network in the supply chain network. All the distribution centers and retail stores over the globe can be regarded as check-point for tracing the products and send back the data to the central database.
Each tag ID is unique, so that the Logistics Company can track each item in different location more easily, and also can improve the security and the shipment punctuality of the supply chain system.
The three major types of RFID tags are:
Active RFID tags, which contains a battery and can transmit signals autonomously.
Passive RFID tags, which doesn't contain battery and requires external source to process signal transmission. The passive tag can be generated by using Label Printer
Battery assisted passive (BAP) RFID tags, which requires an external source to start up but contains higher forward link capability that provides greater reading range.
The followings list the major difference between Active RFID and Passive RFID tags
| Active RFID tags | Passive RFID tags | |
|---|---|---|
| Battery | Up to 5 years | No battery |
| Frequency | 2.4GHz | UHF (Ultra High Frequency) |
| Range | Up to 30 meters | 1 - 5 meters |
| Memory | Rewriteable | Rewriteable |
| Cost Comparison | ||
| Installation | High | Low |
| Equipment | High | Low |
| Tags | Low | High |
| Maintenance | Low | High |
| Visibility | High | Low |