Nowadays, RFID solutions have been increasingly used in logistics, healthcare, retail, automation and other fields. Since there are thousands of RFID tag configurations, choosing the right RFID tag is a very important but challenging problem. The primary consideration for choosing the right RFID tag

1. Tag frequency

Each RFID system operates in one of the three frequency bands of the electromagnetic spectrum: low frequency (LF), high frequency (HF) or ultra high frequency (UHF). Generally, as the operating frequency increases, the data processing speed will also increase, and the reading range will also increase, that is, the distance between the active reader and the passive tag it reads will also increase. However, increasing the frequency tends to reduce the ability of radio wavelengths to penetrate certain materials.

Low frequency

From 30 kHz to 300 kHz. Low frequency tags usually operate at 125 kHz or 134 kHz. The main disadvantage of low-frequency tags is that they must be read from within three feet and the data transmission speed is very slow. But they are more immune to interference than UHF tags.

High frequency HF

It is generally considered that this is from 3 MHz to 30 MHz. HF RFID tags usually operate at 13.56 MHz. They can be read from a distance of less than 3 feet and can transmit data faster than low-frequency tags. But they consume more power than low-frequency tags.

UHF, UHF

Countries choose different frequency bands, usually ETSI 865.6-867.6MHz and FCC 928-928MHz these two standards. If the reader transmits on the 902-928 MHz frequency band and tries to read a tag tuned to the 865-868 MHz frequency band, the tag can also recognize hundreds of UHF tags simultaneously.

2. Mounting surface

Each RFID tag is designed to be applied to a specific material or subset of materials. RFID tags usually work well on materials such as plastic, wood or cardboard, but only certain tags can work well on more complex materials such as metal or glass. Tags that can be mounted on metal or glass are usually more expensive than typical RFID tags or inlays

3. Environmental conditions

The environmental conditions that the label may encounter during its life cycle are the main considerations for label selection. The main items are temperature, water, pressure, chemicals, steam, etc.

4. Storage capacity

It all depends on the use of RFID. Sometimes, it is only necessary to identify the product by a unique identification number that will be recognized by the database. But sometimes the memory of the chip must be larger and contain other information. For example, this is necessary for isolated areas, operators who cannot access the database, tags with large storage capacity will be able to make more detailed records.

5. Reading distance

The required reading distance will determine the frequency selection, LF, HF and UHF. If the reading distance is short (cm or inches), all three types are fine; if the average distance (up to 50 cm / 20 inches), HF or UHF can be used. But for longer distances (up to 10 meters / 394 inches), UHF is required.

After determining the frequency, please pay attention to whether a longer reading distance is required, the antenna in the tag must be larger, and the power of the RFID reader will also affect the reading distance.

The read range of RFID tags is a key component of almost all RFID systems. However, there are many factors that affect the reading range-such as antenna gain, reader transmit power and tag orientation-and each should be considered when determining the best range for your application

6. Installation method

The best installation method will depend on the combination of where the label is fixed, the environmental conditions the label is placed on, and the surface on which the label is placed. Options include: adhesives, rivets, screws, cable ties, embedding, welding, etc.

7, physical size

RFID tags are manufactured in different sizes and shapes to better suit unique applications. Depending on the specific application and the amount of space on the object to be marked, size can play a key role in determining the ideal marking. Certain applications are hindered by the lack of available space on objects, such as labeling medical and surgical instruments. It is important to check the available surface area when selecting RFID tags.