September 21, 2005
The physics in RFID deployments
The presence of liquids, metals, refraction, etc are some of the issues that hamper smooth RFID deployment. These obstacles can be tided over by understanding the physics involved in RFID deployments. Data is transferred through a wireless network, from the tags to the readers. The readers and tags are actually high powered and low powered radio transmitters, respectively. The following factors affect the deployment of an RFID system.
•The quality of air affects RFID transmission; radio signals, electromagnetic waves, and other factors that constitute noise affect the movement of data to the target destination. A Full Faraday Cycle Analysis, which is carried out over a period of 24-48 hours is carried out to identify the cause of interference. The spectrum analysis thus done will reveal the frequencies that are most likely to obstruct RFID data flow and also the chances of interference between and other wireless devices.
•A PLC analysis of the locations where the readers are to be deployed gives the details of the manner in which RF waves undergo degradation; this information helps in setting the deployment variables correctly, for example the number and orientation of the antennas.
•The materials on which the tags are placed can affect the transmission and reception performance of the tags. The tag signature distortion and backscatter can be measured across a frequency range. The distortions can also be caused by liquids that absorb UHF waves and metals that reflect waves. A frequency response characterization (FRC) can help in finding out the best place to place the tag on the material.
•Specifications for the equipment used, configuration of the readers including the interrogation rates constitute the topological specification for RFID deployment and also affect interoperability.
Thus, by understanding the physics behind RFID applications, it is possible to achieve an optimal balance of frequencies, locations, and specific product types suited for an environment.
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