Technology that is useful for identifying an object using electromagnetic waves is usually known as Radio Frequency Identification (RFID).
One example of RFID technology is used in e-toll cards. Just by holding the e-toll card close to the payment machine provided, the toll gate can be opened using this technology.
Apart from e-toll cards, this technology is also used for an identification card (ID card) system to enter/use a facility.
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In general, you probably already know the use of RFID technology in everyday life. But what exactly is RFID technology? What is the history of RFID, how does it work, and regulations in Indonesia?
In this article, we will inform you about the meaning of RFID, its history, how it works, and its regulations in Indonesia.
Table of Contents
What is RFID?
RFID is a wireless technology device that can identify certain targets or objects, and read and enter data via radio signals.
RFID devices consist of two parts to work, namely RFID reader and RFID tags. RFID tags contain a chip that can store unique information.
- RFID Tags: A tag is a device attached to an object that the Reader device will identify. Tags are divided into two types: passive devices (without batteries) and active devices (using batteries).
- RFID Reader: Reader is a tool used to scan codes on Tag devices. Similar to Tag devices, there are two types of Reader devices, namely passive and active Readers.
The difference is that passive Reader devices only receive radio signals from active Tag devices (which are battery-operated and have a range of up to 600 meters. This allows RFID applications to have asset protection and monitoring systems.
Meanwhile, on an active Reader device, the reader system only transmits an interrogator signal to the Tag device and receives an authentication reply from the device. This interrogator signal also induces the Tag device and ultimately becomes a signal that becomes the power source for the passive Tag device.
History of RFID
RFID technology was first discovered by a creator from the Soviet Union, Léon Theremin, in 1946.
At that time, Theremin created a spy tool known as The Thing, this tool could eavesdrop on sounds around him using electronic waves.
In the 1970s, RFID tags were used to monitor railroad cars. Today, RFID tags are used by many organizations such as the NHS and large retail chains around the world to track assets, manage stock, or control quality processes.
This device created by Léon Theremin was later noted as the forerunner to the formation of modern RFID. However, modern RFID itself was only created and patented in 1973 in the name of Mario Cardullo.
The success of this technology led to further advances in RFID, including the development of passive RFID in the 1960s and the introduction of active RFID in the 1970s.
Today, this technology is widely used in various applications, such as inventory tracking, asset management, and access control.
How RFID Works
An RFID device can work if there are two components, namely an RFID tag and a scanner. First, tags need to be embedded in the objects to be identified or read.
In the tag, there is a chip that can accommodate information along with an antenna to transmit the information via radio waves to the RFID scanner.
The way the RFID device works is that first, the scanner will send an electromagnetic signal to the RFID tag.
This signal can activate the chip on the tag. Once the RFID tag chip is active, the tag will send the unique stored information to the scanner so that it can read or change the information in the tag.
Second, the RFID scanner that has received information from the tag will send it to the system used, such as WMS.
This system functions as a processing and storage center for all information received from RFID tags, for example, recording or updating stock data in WMS.
This identification process can be carried out remotely depending on the signal quality from the RFID scanner and also the type of tag used.
RFID Regulations in Indonesia
In the context of using RFID in Indonesia, every tool or device that has an RFID feature must meet the RFID testing standards set by the Ministry of Communication and Information through the Directorate General of Digital Infrastructure (DJID).
Provisions regarding RFID testing standards are regulated in Ministerial Decree (KEPMEN) Number 260 of 2024 of the Ministry of Communication and Digital (KOMDIGI).
By the Ministerial Decree Number 260 of 2024, RFID devices are required to go through a certification and testing process to ensure they are safe, do not interfere with other frequencies, and meet applicable quality standards.
This process includes technical and safety tests to ensure the device can operate safely without causing interference to the surrounding frequency spectrum.
With this certification, users can feel calm about using an RFID device whose quality and security are guaranteed.
For manufacturers or importers of RFID devices, obtaining certification from DJID is a mandatory step before the device can be officially marketed in Indonesia.
To simplify the certification process, producers can utilize DJID certification services as a reliable solution.
Complying with these regulations not only supports legal compliance but also encourages safer and wider use of RFID technology in Indonesia.
