Once a tag chip is designed, how can I test its operation?
—Name withheld
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There are two essential elements to passive RFID transponders: the chip and the antenna. The chip is tested in the same way that all microchips are tested—there is special hardware that confirms whether gates and other components are operational. Typically, when an antenna is attached, a reader attempts to communicate with the tag. Sometimes, it writes a serial number to that tag, assuming the tags are preprogrammed. If the tag can successfully communicate with it, then it is properly functioning.
However, I suspect that you may be referring not to testing whether the tag operates, but rather how well it performs. Typically, companies design a new tag antenna and then place the tag within an anechoic chamber, which is intended to block out electromagnetic energy from exterior sources and absorb energy within the chamber, in order to prevent reflected energy from reaching the tag. A reader antenna or antenna is placed within the chamber to measure the strength of the signal from the tag; a stronger signal correlates to longer read distance and better performance. The tag is usually rotated in 5-degree increments, enabling testers to ascertain the tag's performance in various orientations to the reader antenna.
By comparing the results of these measurements within the anechoic chamber, you can determine a new tag design's expected performance. Some tags, of course, are built to work on objects containing water, or on a specific material, such as glass. Obviously, in such a case, you would need to test the tag design on a piece of glass to determine its performance characteristics.
Voyantic offers a product called Tagformance, which helps companies assess new tag designs (see Voyantic Helps Companies Put RFID Tags to the Test).
—Mark Roberti, Founder and Editor, RFID Journal
FAQs
Typically, when an antenna is attached, a reader attempts to communicate with the tag. Sometimes, it writes a serial number to that tag, assuming the tags are preprogrammed. If the tag can successfully communicate with it, then it is properly functioning.
How to test an RFID? ›
Place your RFID-enabled card inside the wallet and bring it close to your phone's NFC reader, usually located at the back of the phone. Check For A Signal: Try to scan the card through the wallet. If your phone fails to read the card, it indicates that the wallet's RFID-blocking technology is effective.
Is there an RFID reader? ›
There are two types of RFID readers -- fixed readers and mobile readers. The RFID reader is a network-connected device that can be portable or permanently attached.
Can my phone detect RFID tags? ›
Can a phone read an RFID? Certainly, some phones can read RFID tags, while others cannot. RFID use radio waves to communicate with devices like phones. There are different types of RFID technology, including NFC (Near Field Communication) and UHF (Ultra-High Frequency).
Where can I check my RFID? ›
You can track the status of the order in the RFID section of Touch 'n Go eWallet app by following the below steps: Step 1 : Click on the 'Toll' icon from the home screen of Touch 'n Go eWallet app. Step 2 : Click on the 'RFID' icon.
Is there an app to detect RFID? ›
Download Smart NFC tools - RFID scanner today for a great experience. Make your work with NFC tags easier. And if you find our app good, rate us 5 stars and share it with your friends.
Does mobile have RFID reader? ›
No, your phone won't be able to read anything other than NFC and a select few HF RFID tags. Also, RFID tags with a range of 100 meters are most likely active tags, which means the tags have their own power source and will beacon information. You typically need a proprietary reader system to read these tags.
What is the difference between RFID reader and RFID tag? ›
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) refers to a wireless system comprised of two components: tags and readers. The reader is a device that has one or more antennas that emit radio waves and receive signals back from the RFID tag.
Can I read RFID with iPhone? ›
Can the iPhone read RFID cards? Yes, iPhones have NFC (Near Field Communication) capabilities, allowing them to read NFC tags. However, not all RFID frequencies are compatible with iPhones.
Do RFID tags wear out? ›
With typical wear and tear, a regular passive tag can last up to 20 years. It depends on what the tag is encased in and the environment. Because of the battery, active RFID tags typically only last three to five years.
There are two primary categories of Mobile RFID readers – readers with an onboard computer, called Mobile Computing Devices, and readers that use a Bluetooth or Auxiliary connection to a smart device or tablet, called Sleds.
Do RFID tags stop working? ›
If a tag has been applied properly and read successfully, there is very little that would cause it to stop working. There are a few issues that companies have run into, however. One thing that could damage a tag is high heat, which can melt the solder connecting the antenna to the chip.
How long do active RFID tags last? ›
Active: Active RFID tags usually last between three to five years, depending on the battery. Some tags may allow for battery replacement, while other tags may not. These tags also last much longer than other RTLS technologies such as ultra wide-band tags and WiFi tags).
