Simply put, RFID systems are a subset of automatic identification or auto ID technologies that use radio waves to help machines identify people, animals or objects (General RFID, 2002-2007). RFID systems consist of a tag or transponder made up by a microchip and an antenna; a reader; and a host computer (Group 5's website, 2007; Unit 5 Part 4, 2007).
The system works as follows. First, the reader, comprised of an antenna and a transceiver with a decoder, sends out an electromagnetic signal that activates the tag placed on the object. Then, the tag emits a signal back with identification information to the reader. Subsequently, the reader converts the radio waves into digital data transmitted to the computer or management system for processing (General RFID, 2002-2007; Group 5's website, 2007; Unit 5 Part 4, 2007).
In order for RFID tags and readers to communicate, they must be on the same frequency. Three of the most common types of RFID systems include low (around 125 KHz), high (13.56 MHz), and ultra-high or UHF (860-960 MHz) frequencies (General RFID, 2002-2007). And each frequency has its own read range - 1.5ft, 3ft, and 9ft, respectively (Group 5's website, 2007). Consequently, low-frequency tags are ideal for scanning fruits, while high-frequency tags work best on metal objects and goods with high water content (General RFID, 2002-2007). With a better read range and faster data processing, UHF systems are great for pallet tracking (General RFID, 2002-2007; Group 5's website, 2007).
To learn more about RFID systems, check out these YouTube videos (in addition to the references at the end of the blog):
How RFID is used in a library
RFID technology has come a long way since its application for the identification of friend or foe (IFF) aircraft during World War II (Group 5's website, 2007; Unit 5 Part 4). Today, RFID systems have a wide range of applications including the tracking of cows and pets and the triggering of equipment down oil wells, for example (General RFID, 2002-2007). They are most often used for payment systems, access control, and asset tracking (General RFID, 2002-2007). Additionally, thousands of companies are beginning to use RFID tags to keep track of goods on the supply chain (General RFID, 2002-2007).
Some organizations, such as libraries, are beginning to use RFID technology. Although not all libraries can afford RFID systems, a few libraries are using RFID tags instead of bar codes on library materials because (Unit 5 Part 4, 2007)
- They don't have to be on the outside of the book. Radio waves penetrate most library materials with ease.
- Orientation is not important to an RFID reader; scan the books at any angle as fast as you can pass them under the scanner (or a "gun" style scanner over the book).
- Multiple tags can be read simultaneously. Checking out 25 books? No problem, scan them all at once.
- The tag can double as a security device. No more "tattle tape".
- There are even vendors now who produce RFID "smart shelves," library shelving that knows the books that should be on it. Annual inventory is as simple as asking each shelf to transmit a "missing" report to the main server. With this setup, libraries can finally get an accurate handle on the elusive "internal use" circulation statistic--the shelf will keep track of every time someone removes a book, even if they put it back in the same place. No more shelf reading either, the system can alert you if the books are out of LC or Dewey order.
RFID Journal provides access to several articles about RFID technology in libraries, which can be retrieved here.
Social impact of the technology
A major controversy surrounding RFID in libraries is the issue of privacy. Some are skeptical of its implementation because they are afraid that private patron information could be attained from RFID tags since they can be read at a distance (Group 5's website, 2007; Unit 5 Part 4, 2007). Although this is a potential threat, many consider that it is not greater than that already posed by using optical bar codes (Courtney, 2005; Group 5's website, 2007; Unit 5 Part 4, 2007). Nevertheless, there will be patrons who feel very strongly that this technology is a serious threat to their privacy. Consequently, they may choose to use the library but not checkout any materials or they may decide to stop visiting their local library altogether and seek information elsewhere, on the Internet, for instance.
In addition to altering information seeking behavior and the way patrons access information, RFID technology in libraries can result in disintermediation or "doing away with the middleman" (Unit 5 Part 4, 2007), which has its advantages and disadvantages. Undoubtedly, RFID technology helps processes like circulation, inventory, and security of library materials run more efficiently. Although this would also mean that less people would be needed to carry out these responsibilities. Moreover, patrons become self-sufficient as they are able to checkout and checkin their own materials. It has been contended that some patrons visit the library not just to checkout materials but also to socialize (Unit 5 Part 4, 2007 [Self-checkout technology website]). Therefore, the self-checkout facilitated by RFID would negatively affect their experience. There is no question that before investing in RFID systems, libraries must weigh all the costs and benefits.
References
Courtney, N. (Ed.). (2005). Technology for the rest of us. Westport: Libraries Unlimited.
General RFID information. (2002-2007). Retrieved June 22, 2007, from http://rfidjournal.com/faq/16
Group 5's website. (2007). RFID Systems. Retrieved from
Unit 5 Part 4. (2007). Class lecture.
