RFID stands for radio frequency identification. This contactless technology requires no line of sight and can work in harsh environments.
It has typically a unique code that cannot be copied and has read and write functionality to update information. It represents a robust technology that does not require mechanical components.
Typical applications for RFID are car immobilisers, process automation, distribution and logistics control, vehicle access, payment systems, vehicle and container identification, toll collection, product authentication, document tracking, ticketing, supply chain management and special applications.
RFID technology can vary in the supply system, operating frequency and distance but basically consists of two components: a transponder (fixed to object to be identified) and a reader (or interrogator base station).
EBV Elektronik, a leading specialist in semiconductor distribution, can supply a substantial range of RFID ICs from important suppliers including NXP, STMicroelectronics, Texas Instruments and Atmel.
NXP
NXP (formerly Philips Semiconductors) offers chip solutions for all high volume tag and label applications in selected market segments and a complete portfolio for all relevant frequency bands:
* 125 kHz: Hitag 1, Hitag 2, Hitag S.
* 13,56 MHz: I CODE 1 family, I CODE SLI family, I CODE EPC, MIFARE.
* UHF 860-930 MHz, 2,45 GHz UCODE.
NXP (www.nxp.com/markets/identification) provides standard packaging form factors for all frequency ranges and reader chip solutions for all frequencies for a complete tag and label portfolio.
Texas Instruments
Texas Instruments (TI) offers the industry's broadest range of ISO/IEC 15693 and ISO/ IEC 18000-3 standard chips, inlays and transponders. The TI RFID line gives customers multiple memory, data protection and form factor options to fit their applications. Now offered with either 256-bit or 2048-bit memory, the expanded Tag-it HF-I line is a platform that gives system integrators and application providers the flexibility to build broad data protection and privacy functionality options into their RFID solutions.
TI (www.ti.com/rfid) offers the only chip-to-inlay integrated manufacturing process for ISO/IEC 15693 transponders where each individual inlay is laser-tuned for optimal performance. TI also offers a multiprotocol transceiver IC (RI-R6C-001A) that complies with the most important RFID protocols.
STMicroelectronics
STMicroelectronics, a leading supplier of RFID chips, is committed to a high-volume/lowcost market. ST's approach consists of offering low-cost standard-compliant memories and complete solutions through a wide partnership network. The company makes a strong case for adopting worldwide RFID standards such as ISO 14443 type B, ISO 15693, ISO 18000 and EPCglobal.
ST (www.st.com/stonline/products/families/memories/rfid/rfid.htm) offers a wide range of RFID tags and contactless memory products including a contactless chip reader. A full portfolio of contactless memory products is provided to match different target applications.
Atmel
Atmel is a key player for low frequency based 125 kHz RFID ICs for access control systems. The portfolio also includes ICs addressing the HF segment at 13,56 MHz and the UHF band at 865 to 960 MHz. Atmel, a member of EPCglobal, offers a complete line of contactless RFID products (ICs, micromodules and complete transponders). Adding an external antenna is all that is needed for a complete RFID tag. Atmel (www.atmel.com/products/RFID) also offers reader chips for a complete RFID system.
| Tel: | +27 11 236 1900 |
| Email: | saro.murabito@ebv.com |
| www: | www.ebv.com |
| Articles: | More information and articles about EBV Electrolink |
© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved
printer friendly version