RFID stands for radio frequency identification. It is an automatic identification technology whereby digital data encoded in an RFID tag or “smart label” is captured by a reader using radio waves. Put simply, RFID is similar to bar code technology but uses radio waves to capture data from tags, rather than optically scanning the bar codes on a label. RFID does not require the tag or label to be seen to read its stored data—that's one of the key characteristics of an RFID system.
RFID (radio frequency identification) is a technology similar in theory to barcode identification. With RFID, the electromagnetic or electrostatic coupling in the RF portion of the electromagnetic spectrum is used to transmit signals. An RFID system consists of an antenna and a transceiver, which read the radio frequency and transfer the information to a processing device, and a transponder, or tag, which is an integrated circuit containing the RF circuitry and information to be transmitted. RFID systems can be used just about anywhere, from clothing tags to missiles to pet tags to food -- anywhere that a unique identification system is needed. The tag can carry information as simple as a pet owners name and address or the cleaning instruction on a sweater to as complex as instructions on how to assemble a car. Some auto manufacturers use RFID systems to move cars through an assembly line. At each successive stage of production, the RFID tag tells the computers what the next step of automated assembly is. One of the key differences between RFID and bar code technology is RFID eliminates the need for line-of-sight reading that bar coding depends on. Also, RFID scanning can be done at greater distances than bar code scanning. High frequency RFID systems (850 MHz to 950 MHz and 2.4
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is a location determination technology that has been receiving a lot of commercial attention in recent times, especially in the areas of asset tracking and supply chain management. The functionality and benefits offered by the RFID systems match the needs and areas of improvement for libraries. RFID technology can help streamline major library processes such as stocktaking and book searches. Already approximately 8 per cent of libraries worldwide are using RFID, and it will be incorporated into many items libraries purchase in the future. The development and evaluation of the Library Application has demonstrated that RFID can be successfully integrated into library systems. RFID systems can be integrated into existing library systems to improve the efficiency of the main processes carried out in any library and increase the quality of services provided. The ability of RFID to uniquely identify every item is very suitable for libraries (Curran, 2007). Cox (1998) describe that the most inspiring ideal of librarianship, embodied in the public library service is of free access to information for all. On the face of it security is part of the more niggardly side of library work, conjuring up images of closed access shelves and books on chains. In practice of course making sure one user does not steal or damage books is essential to guarantee access to the next user. Balancing the two needs for security and open access is a key part of the function of the librarian.
Byfield (1996) Examines the increasing use of radio frequency identification (RFID) owing to the falling prices of transponders and other equipment. Briefly describes the current situation of the RFID industry and outlines some of its applications. Concludes by asking where the industry is heading and predicting a bright future
The basic advantages of an RFID application in a library are as follows:
1. It makes the documents transaction process faster and self driven
2.For patrons using self-charging, there is a marked improvement because they do not have to carefully place materials within a designated template and they can charge several items at the same time
3. The use of an RFID system provides better security and theft protection using EAS (Electronic Article Surveillance) capabilities at the gate.
4. The readers are highly reliable. Several vendors of RFID library systems claim an almost 100 percent detection rate using RFID tags.
6. It keeps track of movement of documents from one room to other.
7. Another application of RFID technology is automated materials handling.
8. RFID tags last longer than barcodes because nothing comes into contact with them.
9. It reduces manpower dependency and increase swiftness, accuracy and efficiency in library document transaction and services.
10. Less repetitive work for library professional and increase in interaction with the patrons.
RFID vs. Barcodes
Feature RFID Tags Barcodes
Read more than one item at a time Yes No
Read while item is moving Yes No
Programmable Yes No
Line of site read not required Yes No
Lifetime guarantee (100,000 reads) Yes No
Able to resist water damage Yes No
Built-in security Yes No
Inventory tool without handling items Yes No
Able to locate specific items on shelves Yes No
Use with borrower self checks units Yes No
Use with automatic returns units Yes No
Use with automated sorting and handling systems Yes No
Five Reasons for a Library to Invest in RFID Technology:
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology is an investment for libraries. To decide if the rewards justify making this investment, library management must look at the benefits, the near-term costs, and the arguments for waiting or using another technology.
In recent years, many large and small library systems have installed RFID systems. Usually, they identify four reasons for making what can be a significant investment:
1.Customer satisfaction
2.Staff productivity and satisfaction
3.Staff health
4. Fiscal responsibility
5.Save the time of user
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