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Features and Benefits
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology is revolutionizing asset tracking systems. RFID tags, a compact combination of a chip and an antenna, use radio wave technology to wirelessly transmit and store data to RFID readers within proximity. This enables seamless tracking and identification without the need for a direct line of sight or physical contact.
RFID tags are available in two types—passive and active. Passive tags draw power from RFID readers for cost-effective solutions, while active tags are equipped with their own battery and offer extended range and real-time tracking. For added versatility, they come in a variety of forms, including durable hard tags for rugged environments and flexible labels for lightweight or space-constrained applications.
RFID solutions from Molex support a wide range of use cases, such as inventory management, supply chain optimization, equipment monitoring and access control, ensuring accuracy, scalability and real-time data insights. Advanced features like temperature sensing, tamper detection or long-range capabilities deliver operational efficiency and reliability to several industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, automotive, logistics and retail.
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Applications by Industry
Rental unit tracking devices
Vehicle tracking equipment
Commercial & Industrial Vehicles
Rental unit tracking devices
Vehicle tracking equipment
Asset and inventory tracking systems
Logistics equipment
Real-time location (RTL) systems
Inventory control equipment
Medical devices
Medication notification systems
This is not a definitive list of applications for this product. It represents some of the more common uses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an active RFID tag?
An active RFID tag has an onboard power source (usually a battery) and an active transmitter.
What is a passive RFID tag?
Passive RFID tags are typically made up of two parts: an integrated circuit and an antenna. There are no additional moving parts or batteries.
What are low-frequency (LF) RFID tags?
LF RFID tags have a frequency of 30 to 300kHz, enabling them to read data within a few centimeters/inches of transmission.
What are high-frequency (HF) RFID tags?
HF RFID tags have a frequency of 3 to 30 MHz, with a primary frequency range of ~13.5 MHz that is used for RFID applications.
What are near-field communication (NFC) tags?
NFC tags are essentially a subset of HF RFID tags. An NFC tag is a passive device that functions without a power supply of its own and is dependent on an active device for operations. It can act as a reader as well as a tag.
What are ultra-high-frequency (UHF) tags?
UHF RFID tags have a frequency ranging from 300 MHz up to a maximum of 3 GHz. However, most UHF RFID systems operate between the 860 and 960 MHz bands. This is a result of the communication protocol standards put in place by GS1 as well as frequency regulatory standards set by individual countries/regions.