Radio frequency identification (RFID) is a wireless technology in which a reader uses radio-frequency signals to communicate with a tag and obtain the identifying information, or other data, stored on it. NIST describes it as automatic identification and data capture using electric or magnetic fields at radio frequencies. GS1, the standards body behind many barcode and tag systems, describes tags attached to objects that return digital data, usually a unique identifier, to a nearby reader.
What RFID stands for and what it does
RFID means radio-frequency identification. It uses radio-frequency electromagnetic fields or waves to identify and track tags attached to objects, animals or cards. Unlike a traditional barcode, the tag does not have to be visually scanned. It only has to be within range of a reader’s radio signal, which is why the technology suits inventory, access cards and automated payment.
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How an RFID system works
A basic system has two parts: a tag and a reader. In many deployments the reader also passes its data to a database or back-end application.
- The reader emits radio waves. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, on its page “Radio Frequency Identification (RFID),” puts it this way: “The reader is a device that has one or more antennas that emit radio waves and receive signals back from the RFID tag.”
- The tag responds. The reader stimulates, or interrogates, the tag, and the tag sends back its stored data. That can be a serial number or additional data.
- The data goes to software. The reader, which may be handheld or fixed in place, passes what it collects to an application or database that acts on it.
Passive vs. active tags
| Feature | Passive tag | Active tag |
|---|---|---|
| Power source | Draws power from the reader’s signal; no battery | Has its own battery |
Power source alone does not fix a universal reading distance or level of performance. Range and reliability also depend on frequency, antenna design, the surrounding environment and the application.
#1 Best Overall
- RFID Reader Scanner read both 125KHz/13.56Mhz 1326 family ISO Prox whole family cards & EM ID EM4100 cards together, MF S50 S70 bank card and other 14443A protocol labels that support ISO14443-A/B protocol, ID card and other 14443B protocol labelsHID USB device no driver request.
- 125KHz/13.56Mhz Dual-frequency RFID reader supports EM4100 ID cards and also 1326 1346 1386 ISO Prox card, H10301 H10304 format etc.
- RFID Reader with 40 output formats for EM4100 ID card UID, max. 40 bits card number in 10H or 13 digital decimal format, configurable with config card by user.
- Proximity card reader sends 125KHz/13.56Mhz Dual-frequency proximity card 1326 family card number in 40 type formats or in raw wiegand bit data format, from 24 bit to 80 bits data, easy for understanding 1326 family card type.
- USB Inteface,Card reader only, Open the software or document that needs to be read,simulate keyboard input, works in Linux Andriod Windows Mac IOS.
Where RFID is used
- Identification and tracking of items
- Asset management
- Access control
- Automated payment
- Healthcare applications
NIST stresses that RFID systems are customized to business processes, so the exact configuration depends on the use case.
Limits worth knowing
- Systems are not interchangeable. RFID systems use different frequencies and designs. Do not assume every tag works with every reader, reads at the same distance, or uses the same frequency. A tag and reader must be matched in frequency and air-interface.
- Security and privacy are design concerns. NIST notes that risks and the controls needed vary from system to system. What data a tag holds, and who can read it, should be decided for each deployment.
- Healthcare settings add a safety question. The FDA identifies possible interference with pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillators and other electronic medical devices as something to consider. For practical decisions, consult the FDA’s current guidance and a clinician.
The NIST security bulletin was published on May 17, 2007 and updated on February 19, 2017, and the U.S. Government Accountability Office report on RFID is also older. They are good for the core concepts but not for current product specifications or adoption figures.
Rank #2
- New Metal Case RFID Reader Durable, Beautiful and More Accurate Reading.Note: 1. Not compatible with Mac, need to use with USB converter. 2. Windows system if you can not use, you need to install a patch in Windows: VCRedist 2008 SP1 (x64). 3. H10301, 8310 card does not support reading, setup tools, please go to the last link to download, thanks!
- RFID Reader Scanner read both 125KHz/13.56Mhz 1326 family ISO Prox whole family cards & EM ID EM4100 cards together, MF S50 S70 bank card and other 14443A protocol labels that support ISO14443-A/B protocol, ID card and other 14443B protocol labelsHID USB device no driver request.
- RFID Reader with 40 output formats for EM4100 ID card UID, max. 40 bits card number in 10H or 13 digital decimal format, configurable with config card by user.
- Proximity card reader sends 125KHz/13.56Mhz Dual-frequency proximity card 1326 family card number in 40 type formats or in raw wiegand bit data format, from 24 bit to 80 bits data, easy for understanding 1326 family card type.
- USB Inteface,Card reader only, Open the software or document that needs to be read,simulate keyboard input, works in Linux Andriod Windows Mac IOS.
Comparing two RFID setups
- Passive or active tag power
- Frequency and air-interface compatibility
- Reader form (handheld or fixed) and placement
- Read environment and application
- Data, security and privacy controls required
These are decision axes rather than a ranking; no type is best for every job.
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A practical note on buying tags
If you are looking at passive RFID tags or RFID label tags, which are the physical pieces attached to items, first confirm the tag type and frequency match the reader or system you will use.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- . IC card USB reader, Send data to cursor location, HID USB no driver is requested
- . usb reader supports iso14443A protocol cards
- .Support 4 byte UID and 7 byte UID 13.56M card
- .Emualte USB keyboard output, so easy interfaced into RFID system without changing the original software or program, selectable 28 formats are suitable for most common system
- .Default setting is 8H 10D format, Send card data in 10 digital datas to focused window as an external input device
Rank #4
- 【Instant Plug & Play Setup】: No external power supply or battery needed. Simply connect the contactless card reader to your computer’s USB port, and it’s ready to use instantly—no complicated setup, and no additional software or drivers required, saving your time on installation.
- 【Lightning-Fast Performance】：Boost your efficiency with a high-speed response time of less than 0.2s. This 125kHz reader offers a stable reading distance of up to 8cm (depending on the tag type used), ensuring quick and reliable data capture without the frustration of repeated swipes.
- 【Universal OS Compatibility】：Designed for seamless integration across all your devices. This contactless reader fully supports Windows, Mac OS, Linux, Chrome OS, and Android 7.0+. Whether you're using a PC, laptop, or tablet, it provides consistent performance across multiple platforms.
- 【Standardized Data Output】：Specifically engineered for EM4100, EM4200, and TK4100 cards/tags. It automatically outputs the first 10 digits in a standardized format, making it perfect for office attendance, library management, and inventory tracking without manual entry errors.
- 【Standardized & Customizable Output】：Specifically engineered for EM4100, EM4200, and TK4100 cards/tags. By default, it automatically outputs the first 10 digits, making it perfect for office attendance and inventory tracking. Need a different format? Use our exclusive configuration tool to customize data output (such as 8-digit HEX, reversed formats, or adding a suffix like "Enter"), Setting tool is compatible with Windows system Only.
Rank #3
- RFID Reader read both 125KHz 1326 family ISO Prox whole family cards & ID 4100 RF/64 RF/32 cards together, USB device no driver request.
- 125KHz RFID reader supports 4100 ID cards and also 1326 1346 1386 ISO Prox card, 10301 10304 format etc.
- RFID Reader with 40 output formats for ID card UID, max. 40 bits card number in 10H or 13 digital decimal format, configurable with config card by user.
- Proximity card reader sends 125KHz proximity card 1326 family card number in 40 type formats or in raw wiegand bit data format, from 24 bit to 80 bits data, easy for understanding 1326 family card type
- Advanced config process allow user to choice 20 clients format output and set prefix/suffix, ingore leading zero. This is read only. If you want to write card with ID/FC number, you may go ASIN：B0BCYRSLSF
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