Chapter 1 Getting Started; Introduction; Rfid Technology Overview - Motorola MC3090Z User Manual

Chapter 1 Getting Started

Introduction

This chapter provides an overview of RFID technology and components, and describes the MC3090Z RFID mobile
computer and its features.

RFID Technology Overview

RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is an advanced automatic identification (Auto ID) technology that uses radio
frequency signals to identify tagged items. An RFID tag contains a circuit that can store data. This data may be
pre-encoded or can be encoded in the field. The tags come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
To read a tag the mobile computer sends out radio frequency waves using its integrated antenna. This RF field
powers and charges the tags, which are tuned to receive radio waves. The tags use this power to modulate the
carrier signal. The reader interprets the modulated signal and converts the data to a format for computer storage.
The computer application translates the data into an understandable format.
Tags
RF Wave and
Response
RFID System Elements
Figure 1-1
Wireless LAN/
BT/ActiveSync
Mobile Computer
Host Computer