RF Transmitters/Receivers Key Terms

Make sense of terms related to RF transmitters and receivers

By M. Worcester

RF stands for radio frequency and is a standard way of transmitting information wirelessly. Newer technology uses radio frequency identification (RFID) to label, track and identify many items in a supply chain.

RFID systems use tags and readers to send data back and forth, giving a computer information with which to track inventory. Tags can be as simple as a chip that contains information. Some more complicated tags may allow you to update information and change it as the tags pass through the various parts of a supply chain.

Radio frequency identification (RFID)

RFID is any number of systems that transmit and receive information wirelessly between a reader and tags. Many RFID systems involve small tags that you can affix to items for tracking and identification purposes.
Try: At AIM Global, you can read an explanation of RFID and watch a short video explaining it.

Tags or transponders

RFID tags, also called transponders, are small devices with a simple antenna and the ability to store data. An RFID reader can read the transmitted data. Passive tags are less expensive and have a short distance range, while active tags have their own power source and can transmit over a wider range.
Try: DataSplice offers a description of RFID tags and information for how they work.

RFID reader or transceiver

An RFID reader, also called a transceiver, actually transmits and receives information. The reader sends signals to the tags, which then send back data to the reader.
Try: To check out a brief definition of an RFID reader, visit MoreRFID.com, a division of KST International.

Antenna

An antenna helps make the radio frequency signal travel far enough for the system to read it. Tags have small antennas built in, so they can receive and send data. Readers often have a larger antenna built in, as well.
Try: ZIH offers a definition of antenna as it applies to RFID technology.

Addressability

Addressability means the reader can write or change data in the tags, or transponders. This type is more expensive but has more features that are useful for many applications.
Try: To read the definition of addressability, along with an extensive glossary of RFID terms, go to RFID Journal.

VHF, UHF

Very high frequency (VHF) and ultra high frequency (UHF) are two types of frequencies used to transmit signals. Higher frequency has longer range than lower frequency.
Try: Check out SPI for an explanation of VHF and UHF.