RFID is short for radio frequency identification, an advanced technology that uses radio waves to identify and communicate data. RFID is gaining increasing significance in various industries as an alternative to the barcode. Especially in logistics, production and retailing, RFID facilitates the automation of processes and the movement of goods, thereby increasing productivity and security by substantial measure.

How does RFID technology work?

An RFID system consists of a transponder and a reader. The reader has an aerial that creates a short-range electromagnetic field. When an RFID label enters this field, the aerial coil inside the label generates an induction current, which powers up the RFID chip and prompts it to report its presence to the aerial. In doing so, it checks whether the reader has the right to access the coded information it stores. If it does, the chip then calls up the required information from its memory and transmits it to the reader in encoded form. All libraries use the same 13.56 MHz frequency to transmit data.

The key elements are the special software that the reader uses to control this process, and an interface configured to meet each customer's specific needs, allowing the system to communicate with the library software already in place.

Key benefits

• Unlike optical barcode scanning, RFID does not require direct line-of-sight contact with the item.
• A single system used to both identify and secure the library media increases the level of operational stability and reduces the workload.
• Several items can be identified at the same time.
• The RFID chip is rewritable and can store actual information as opposed to just the status of an item.
• The system guarantees data protection.