Networked RFID

RFID technology has been available for decades, but it is only recently that its application has become a core topic for computing. This book introduces the technologies and techniques of large-scale RFID-enabled mobile computing systems, set in the context of specific case studies.

The book begins with a quick introduction to RFID basics and then discusses the various elements of the topic, using applications such as e-passports, ticketing and supply-chain management throughout. The text explores RFID technology fundamentals, including operating principles, core system components and performance trade-offs involved in the selection of specific RFID platforms. The emphasis is on a practical approach, developing an arsenal of techniques and designs that can be mixed and matched to fit the needs of new systems and applications.

Features

• Offers a practical approach, with specific RFID applications providing context for discussion

• Highlights the basics of RFID, including wireless energy transfer and communication by reflection.

• Presents the main ingredients for building complete network RFID systems

• Discusses the different types of readers and tags in detail – making particular reference to common technologies used in real systems

• Explores how the different identifier systems encode unique serial codes for tagged entities, and how codes are assigned to particular organizations

• Describes the structure and functionality of modern RFID systems and middleware

• Considers different types of network services required for RFID support

• Debates the hot topics of privacy and security

• Looks at the future of RFID technology

• Allows readers to experiment via a supplementary website with operational instances of RFID network services: http://www.roussos.eu/rfid

Written for IT professionals as well as students, this comprehensive and reader-friendly text discusses the current state-of-the-art in RFID platforms and architecture. It will be invaluable for anyone experienced in software development and involved with RFID technology, and will facilitate informed decision-making.