Development and trend analysis of UHF RFID systems
With the widespread adoption of RFID technology across various industries, the requirements for electronic tags and readers have become increasingly refined. These systems can generally be categorized into two types based on their reading and writing distances: short-range and long-range automatic identification systems.
Short-range RFID systems operate at frequencies up to several tens of centimeters, typically 13.56 MHz or lower, and are well-established after years of development. In this system, users hold either the tag (card) or the reader, bringing them close together for interaction. Common applications include China's second-generation smart ID cards, IC cards for public transportation, and access control systems in offices.
Long-range RFID systems, on the other hand, can read and write tags from a few meters to over ten meters away. This is essential for applications involving moving objects like vehicles, baggage on conveyor belts, or workpieces on assembly lines, where stopping the object would reduce efficiency or even be impractical. Long-range RFID plays a crucial role in logistics, production automation, supply chain management, and traffic control. The trend toward using long-range RFID products is now unstoppable.
These systems operate in three main frequency bands: UHF (840–960 MHz), 2.45 GHz, and 5.8 GHz. Initially, tags were powered by batteries, which led to high costs, maintenance challenges, and limited lifespans. However, advancements in semiconductor technology in the late 1990s enabled the development of passive tags that could be powered by the reader’s electromagnetic waves. While 2.45 GHz tags have a shorter range, UHF tags can reach over 10 meters and are now the mainstream for long-range passive systems. Despite the complexity, the cost of these tags remains significantly higher than standard passive tags, with active 5.8 GHz systems still used in toll systems in China, Europe, and Japan.
The UHF RFID system is now experiencing rapid growth. It offers multiple tag reading, strong penetration, multiple read/write capabilities, and large memory capacity. Passive UHF tags are low-cost, compact, reliable, and durable, making them ideal for high-speed environments and harsh outdoor conditions. Due to global efforts by organizations like the US Department of Defense and major companies, along with the establishment of international standards and falling tag prices, the application of UHF RFID has expanded beyond vehicle-related uses into sectors such as logistics, e-commerce, traffic management, e-government, and military operations.
Driven by economic growth and the need for improved efficiency, China launched a national RFID policy in 2006, guiding the industry's development. Over the past decade, the RFID industry has matured, with companies like Shenzhen Yuanwanggu Technology and Sichuan Xinyuan Modern developing key systems for railway and customs management. By 2001, many systems transitioned from active to passive UHF tags, marking a shift in the market.
In 2001, Shenzhen Renyi Investment developed a reader/writer compliant with ISO/IEC 18000-6B, successfully applied in customs projects. Companies like Nanjing Sanbao Ruifu and Shenzhen Xianshi later entered the market, producing independent UHF systems and exporting them globally. Despite progress, the industry still faces challenges, with less than 10% of companies focusing on core R&D, highlighting the need for stronger domestic innovation.
To address this, China's Ministry of Science and Technology included RFID in the 863 Program, aiming to develop an independent innovation system, public services, and standardization. As the industry grows, several trends are emerging:
First, ISO/IEC 18000-6C may become the de facto standard for UHF RFID due to its wide use in logistics and supply chains. Second, the demand for diverse tags is increasing, with applications ranging from high-value items to disposable labels and industrial tags. Third, long-range readers are becoming more integrated and modular, reducing costs and improving flexibility.
Fourth, UHF RFID is expanding beyond car-related applications into broader sectors like logistics, healthcare, and security, driven by lower tag costs. Finally, mobile UHF systems, including handheld and forklift readers, are gaining traction, requiring robust antennas, efficient power management, and reliable data communication under dynamic conditions.
As the technology evolves, the focus will remain on improving performance, reducing costs, and meeting the growing demands of a connected world.
Jiangsu Bailite Transmission Technology Co., Ltd , https://www.zsindustrialbelt.com