When an RFID reader comes within the range of an RFID tag, it emits an electromagnetic field. If the tag is passive, this field energizes the tag's antenna, which in turn powers the microchip. The microchip then modulates the incoming electromagnetic field and sends back a response signal containing the stored data. In the case of active tags, the tag uses its own power source to transmit a signal to the reader at regular intervals or when triggered. The reader receives the signal, decodes the data, and can then send this information to a computer system for further processing.​
RFID Tags in Retail and Shopping​
Inventory Management for Retailers​
In the retail industry, RFID tags have become a game - changer in inventory management. Retailers can attach RFID tags to each item in their inventory. With the help of RFID readers installed throughout the store, they can quickly and accurately count the stock levels of all items. This eliminates the need for manual inventory checks, which are time - consuming and prone to errors. Retailers can also track the movement of items within the store, from the receiving area to the sales floor. This allows them to optimize store layout, ensure that popular items are always in stock, and reduce the incidence of out - of - stock situations.​
Self - Checkout Systems​
RFID - enabled self - checkout systems are becoming increasingly common in supermarkets and other retail stores. Instead of scanning each item one by one using a barcode scanner, customers can simply place their shopping basket on an RFID - equipped checkout station. The station reads all the RFID tags on the items in the basket simultaneously, calculates the total price, and processes the payment. This significantly speeds up the checkout process, reduces queues, and provides a more convenient shopping experience for customers. It also reduces the need for store staff to operate checkout counters, allowing them to focus on other customer service tasks.
RFID Tags in Healthcare​
Patient Identification and Tracking​
In healthcare facilities, accurate patient identification is crucial. RFID tags can be used to create unique patient identification bracelets. These bracelets contain the patient's medical history, identification number, and other relevant information. When a patient is admitted to the hospital, the RFID tag is scanned, and the patient's information is immediately available to the healthcare staff. This reduces the risk of misidentification, which can lead to serious medical errors. RFID tags can also be used to track the movement of patients within the hospital. For example, in a large hospital, it can be difficult to locate a patient quickly. With RFID technology, nurses and doctors can use handheld RFID readers to find the patient's location in real - time, improving the efficiency of patient care.​
Medication Management​
RFID tags can play a significant role in medication management. Each medication can be tagged with an RFID tag that contains information such as the drug name, dosage, expiration date, and storage requirements. Pharmacists can use RFID readers to quickly and accurately dispense medications, reducing the risk of dispensing errors. In addition, healthcare providers can use RFID technology to ensure that patients are taking their medications as prescribed. For example, a smart pillbox equipped with an RFID reader can detect when a patient takes a medication and send a reminder to the patient's mobile device if they miss a dose. This helps improve patient compliance and ultimately leads to better health outcomes.
The widespread use of RFID tags in the IoT has had a profound impact on both society and the economy. On a social level, it has made our lives more convenient and efficient. We can now access our homes more easily, manage our daily tasks with greater ease, and receive personalized services in various aspects of our lives. In the economy, RFID - enabled IoT applications have increased productivity in industries such as retail, healthcare, and manufacturing. Retailers can reduce inventory costs and improve customer service, while healthcare providers can enhance patient care and reduce medical errors. This, in turn, leads to economic growth and the creation of new job opportunities in areas such as IoT development, system integration, and data analytics.