Research Assistant

This paper provides a simple understanding of RFID (Radio Frequency Identification). It is written to complement the informal conversation that currently exists about this new technology. The paper is structured in a logical fashion. It begins with a conversation about the RFID system that breaks the system down into its three main components. The three main components are the tag, the reader and the host computer. The paper then moves to a discussion that compares and contrasts RFID with its competitor technology, the barcode. The paper then touches upon the topic of RFID standardization, and the current efforts of EPCGlobal to establish a world-wide platform for tag reading. Finally, the paper ends with visitation to interesting RFID applications that are taking place around the world, and a timeline that highlights major moments in the progression of RFID technology