Radio Frequency Identification (RFID): Definitions
(some of the of terms used in RFID technology)
ONS is similar to the Domain Name Service, which points computers to sites on the internet.
An RFID tag that can be written to once and read many times (see WORM).
With UHF systems, readers can be either circular-polarized or linear-polarized. When using a linear polarized antenna, the tag reader and antenna reader must be in alignment in order to achieve the longest reading distance.
If that tag antenna is aligned vertically and the reader is sending out signals horizontally, only a small portion of the energy emitted by the reader will will hit the tag antenna.
When radio waves from the reader reach the chip’s antenna, the energy is converted by the antenna into electricity that can power up the microchip in the tag.
The tag is able to send back information stored on the chip. Today, simple passive tags cost from U.S. 20 cents to several dollars, depending on the amount of memory on the tag and other features.
It typically derives its power from the carrier signal radiated from the scanner or reader. This type of tag is used in all library RFID systems.
Low-frequency systems have better penetration than UHF systems.
This takes place when a reader reports the presence of a tag that doesn't exist.
PML is based on the widely accepted eXtensible Markup Language used to share data over the internet in a format all computers can use.
The idea is to create a computer language that companies can use to describe products so that computer can search for, say, all "softdrinks" in inventory.
The PML files and servers will be maintained by the manufacturer of the item. The name PML server has been replaced by EPC Information Service.
The higher the power output, the longer the read range, but most governments regulate power levels to avoid interference with other devices.
This is sometimes called "commissioning a tag".
Typically, a reader communicates with a tag, that holds digital information in a microchip; however, there are chipless forms of RFID tags that use material to reflect back a portion of the radio waves beamed at them.
The tags have storage capacity for at least an identification number.
When used in the context of theft detection systems, it refers to a system that uses tags that can only be turned on and off.
