User manual

107
RFID ADDENDUM - REV F
Introduction to RFID (Radio Frequency Identification)
RFID tags consist of an integrated circuit (IC) attached to an antenna—typically printed or etched conductors on
a thin plastic sheet. Data is stored on the IC and transmitted through the antenna. RFID tags are either passive
(no battery) or active (self-powered by a battery). Data transmission speed and range depend on the frequency
used, antenna size, power output, and interference. Tags can be read-only, read-write, or a combination, in
which some data (such as a serial number) is permanently stored, while other memory is left available for later
encoding during usage. Information is sent to and read from RFID tags over RF signals. In passive systems,
which are the most common, an RFID reader transmits an energy field that ‘wakes up’ the tag and provides
power to the chip, enabling it to transmit or store data. Encryption algorithms that ensure security and integrity of
the data passing between the tag and reader may protect transmissions.
Applications
RFID provides a quick, flexible, and reliable electronic means to detect, identify, track, and hence manage a
variety of items. The technology is well-suited for many operations in all types of industries. Because RFID
technology uses radio waves, smart tickets can be read through dirt, paint, and many non-metallic objects. RFID
smart tickets feature anti-collision technology, which lets you scan and identify several objects simultaneously,
such as totes of supplies. Applications include ticketing (sports, concerts, ski lifts, etc), warehouse/logistics,
airline baggage tracking, returnable plastic containers/pallets, library book/video check-out, sensitive document
tracking, supply chain management, anti-counterfeiting, and pharmaceuticals.
Smart tickets (RFID Tags)
Smart tickets refer to thermal tickets with embedded ultra-thin RFID tags. Smart tickets are called ‘smart’
because of the flexible capabilities provided by the RFID tag embedded in the ticket. The tag, in most cases,
can be programmed and/or updated in the field, so the same ticket can be reused to serve multiple needs and
applications. Hence, the ticket is no longer effectively static as is a bar code ticket, but rather is dynamic in its
capability when equipped with RFID.
Passive smart ticket RFID systems overcome the limitations of many existing bar code based automatic data
capture systems in that they:
• Provide error-free, wireless data transmission that is battery-free and maintenance-free;
• Do not require line-of-site scanners for operation;
• Allow stored data to be altered during sorting or to capture workflow process information; and
• Work effectively even in harsh environments with excessive dirt, dust, moisture, and temperature extremes.
Warning: Static electricity can damage smart tickets. Be sure to ground yourself properly before handling the
ticket stock.
Printing and Encoding Smart Tickets
Boca’s Smart ticket (RFID) printers enable users to create smart tickets on demand and encode them with
variable information. The printers use ticket stock that incorporates blank RFID integrated circuits sandwiched
between the face stock and the adhesive layer. Thus, the ICs may be invisible to the human eye. Smart ticket
printers function as traditional printers when creating bar codes, graphics, and human-readable text. However,
they also have an RFID encoder embedded inside the printer. Before the ticket is printed, the RFID data is
encoded on the tag. Following encoding, the ticket is then fed forward for printing. An error message prints
over the ticket if the tag does not read or its data does not verify, voiding the ticket for use. A NAK will be sent
back to the Host indicating an error encoding the ticket. The reason for the error can be requested with a
special status command (see the RFSN0 command in the programming section). The printer will not
automatically reprint the ticket. The Host must resend the data in order to reprint the ticket. Therefore, it is
recommended that there is bi-directional communication between the Host and Printer. We do not recommend
a unidirectional parallel interface on an RFID printer.