Specifications

Abstract
This project designs and implements an electronic system for automatically
logging the movements of penguins on Robben Island using RFID and GSM
technologies. The design is systematic, from ground-level upwards.
We discuss the shortfalls of an existing system which is in place on the
island for this purpose and propose possible solutions. The selected modular
solution features an uplink device with a generic interface for logging data
from multiple connected peripherals, and two interconnected RFID readers.
A low-cost prototype system is constructed and its performance is evaluated
for installation on the island as a replacement for the existing system.
We conclude that RFID is a technology offering many benefits, but careful
system implementation is necessary if the full benefit of the technology is to
be extracted. Recommendations are made as to how the replacement system
may be further improved by using additional antennas or a different RFID
interface.