Embedded RFID tags are a type of tag designed and developped to be embedd in an object and not simply affixed to the surface of it.
They are available in multiple frequencies (LF, HF, UHF) and form factors.
What types of embedded RFID tags there are?
- On Metal Tags: specialized for embedding into metal. Tags embedded in metal cannot be completely covered by metal or they will not work. They are commonly used to track computers and IT assets, machinery components and other metal items;
- Non On Metal Tags: dedicated for embedding into plastic, glass, wood and other non metal items;
- Laundry Tags: their thin and malleable material makes them ideal for incorporation into fabrics;
- Dry Inlays Tags: They are inlays that are attached, without adhesive, to the substrate backing material commonly called the web. Dry Inlays chips can be embedded into paper, badges, cards.
What are the 3 main benefits of using embeddable RFID tags?
Embedding passive RFID tags into an asset ensures greater protection, functionality and durability of it. In particular:
- Enhance protection: the tag is incorporated into the the asset, so it’s really difficult remove it or counterfeit it. It is impossible to destroy the tag without destroying some parts of the device. This makes Embedded RFID a solid anti-theft measure;
- Enhance functionality: if affixing a tag on the surface of an asset would interfere with the use or functionality of that, embedding the tag is most likely the best option. For example, most hand tools, regardless of the industry they are used in, will need to be used frequently and an RFID tag mounted on the surface would compromise the usage.
- Enhance durability: embedded tags are protected from impacts, chemicals, abrasion and other hazards of the environment where the item they are embedded in is used. They are not covered by dirt. They don’t fall because of the adhesive is old and fragile. They will last for the whole life of the device. In addition, since they are passive devices, embedded RFID tags require zero maintenance.
How to embed RFID tags?
When drilling to make the RFID tag reside, it is important to make the hole as deep as the height of the tag. The RFID tag must always be mounted exposing the top face. This one must be at the same level as the surface of the asset. If the RFID tag is below the surface of the asset, the reading range of the tag may be affected due to the increase in multipath effects.
RFID tags should be covered by the asset’s material on all sides except the top face. So to optimize their performance it is necessary do not cover them too much or too little during the placement.
What is the reading range of these kind of tags?
The reading range depends on the type of reader and tag used. Specifically, the size of the tag (especially its antenna) is the factor that affects the most. Where the tag will be embedded plays a significant role in determining the right tag for your application. All embeddable tags specify what material they should be mounted on, whether that is metal or non-metal. If the tag specifies that it should be embedded in a metal object and is not, the read range will be greatly reduced, nonexistent. This is because metal reflects the signal emitted by the reader which in turn interferes with the communication between the tag and the reader, significantly degrading performance. On Metal Tags are designed to compensate for the effects of metal.
To read embeddable RFID tags especially embedded on metal, RFID readers with optimized antennas have been developed. To know more click here.
When is it recommended to use embeddable RFID tags?
Embedded RFID tags are ideal for identifying and tracking small objects, where the lack of surfaces does not allow the placement of the tag with the attachment method. Importantly, is that the choice of embedded tags must not compromise or damage the use and functionality of the item.
Make test!!!
Such as all RFID projects, a pilot test, in a small scale, must be performed before implementing the solution within a department or the entire organization. Subsequently, once the feedbacks has been verified, it is possible to expand the project on a large scale, obtaining the benefits that the adoption of RFID technology entails.
If you would like to know more about RFID and RFID readers visit our website https://www.tertiumtechnology.com/en/
