What is a RFID Antenna?
A RFID antenna (Radio Frequency Identification Antenna) is a core component of radio frequency identification (RFID) systems. It is responsible for transmitting radio frequency signals between readers and electronic tags, serving as a "wireless bridge" for contactless data interaction. Its performance directly affects the identification distance, speed, and stability of RFID systems.
Core Function: Transmitting and Receiving Signals
When an RFID reader is operating, the antenna emits radio frequency energy generated by the reader in the form of electromagnetic waves, activating nearby electronic tags;
After being activated, the tag feeds back stored information (such as item ID, parameter data) to the reader antenna via its built-in micro-antenna in the form of radio frequency signals, completing data reading;
Antennas in some active tags (with built-in power supplies) can also actively transmit signals, enabling longer-distance communication.
Main Types: Classified by Frequency Band and Structure
By operating frequency band:
Low Frequency (LF, 125-134kHz) and High Frequency (HF, 13.56MHz) antennas: Small in size, with short identification distance (usually <1 meter), suitable for short-range identification (e.g., access cards, book tags);
Ultra-High Frequency (UHF, 860-960MHz) and microwave (2.45GHz) antennas: Long identification distance (up to 10+ meters) and fast reading speed, suitable for batch identification (e.g., logistics pallets, warehouse management).
By structural form:
Built-in type: Integrated into readers or tags (e.g., mobile phone NFC antennas);
External type: Independent flat-panel or rod antennas, which can be adjusted via brackets to enhance signal coverage.
Application Scenarios: Ubiquitous Contactless Identification
Logistics and supply chain: UHF antennas quickly identify tag information on entire boxes of goods, enabling automated warehouse inventory;
Retail and anti-counterfeiting: HF antennas are used in electronic tags for clothing hangtags and cosmetic packaging, supporting self-checkout and authenticity verification;
Transportation and access control: LF antennas are embedded in access control systems or ETC devices, enabling rapid identification and release of vehicles and personnel;
Industrial manufacturing: Special RFID antennas resistant to metal interference are used to track the flow of metal components on production lines.
Compared with traditional communication antennas, RFID antennas focus more on signal focusing and anti-interference capabilities in short distances. Special designs (such as anti-magnetic stickers) are required in some scenarios (e.g., metal environments) to avoid signal attenuation, ensuring the accuracy of data interaction.
Read recommendations: