Automatic identification technology

This chapter explains some basics of identification and some common methods already integrated into the industry for automatic identification. After a fundamental description of coding, a very brief explanation of barcode systems is presented. Radio Frequency Identification as the focus of this chapter is described afterwards. The basic structure of this technology and its working principle is explained. Different components of RFID systems are described in more detail. Furthermore, RFID technologies are classified based on the transponder type and frequency range. Fields of application of RFID systems are reviewed. Then, a simple guideline for the selection of a proper RFID system is mentioned. In the last part of this chapter, some challenges that RFID system designers are facing such as the use of on-metal and chipless tags are reviewed. Finally, some aspects which are currently on the edge of technology and therefore the focus of much research, are discussed.