With RFID technology becoming more affordable by the day, many business owners are considering RFID tags and readers as a way to reduce the time and cost of tracking assets. But how much do these systems really cost? And is RFID technology the right choice for your business? In this article, we'll explore the different types of RFID systems and how much you can expect to pay for them.

Types of RFID Systems

There are two main types of RFID systems: active and passive. RFID systems are also categorized by the radio frequency in which they operate: low frequency (LH), high frequency (HF), and ultra-high frequency (UHF).

Active and Passive RFID Systems

Active RFID systems

Active RFID systems are typically used for large applications, such as railway cars, reusable containers, and other objects that need to be monitored over long distances. In most cases, an active RFID system will operate on the ultra-high frequency (UHF) band, which offers a range of up to 100 meters. Active RFID tags fall into two categories: transponders and beacons.

Passive RFID systems

Passive RFID systems can be used in LF, HF, and UHF radio bands. Passive RFID tags tend to be smaller and less expensive than active tags, as they do not require a power source or transmitter. Instead, passive systems use a tag chip and antenna to transmit a radio signal to the RFID system. The passive RFID tag powers on when a radio signal is received, and reflects the signal back to the reader.

Passive RFID systems are commonly used to track inventory assets in retail applications, to monitor goods in a supply chain, to identify products such as pharmaceuticals, and to add RFID capability to a wide range of devices. Passive RFID tags can also be set up to monitor asset movement in distribution centers and warehouses.

RFID Systems: How Much Do They Cost?

So, which type of RFID system is the most cost effective? The answer, of course, is: it depends. In order to perform a true cost-benefit analysis of the different systems, you'll need to take into account your labor costs and real-time data needs. Generally speaking, the more expensive an RFID system, the more automation you'll get. If real-time data isn't important to you, and your labor costs are low, passive RFID tags and readers are the most economical solution. If your labor costs are high and real-time data is needed, you'll want to invest in an active RFID system. Below is a breakdown of the costs for the different RFID tags and readers.

Tags

The passive RFID tag price range from $0.10 for basic passive RFID tags to $20 USD for Active RFID tags.

. Basic passive RFID tags - Basic passive rfid tags price cost $0.10 USD each, and can be used for paper, non-metal, and liquid materials.

. Metal passive RFID tags - These tags are larger than basic passive RFID tags and can be used on metal assets. Metal passive tags cost $1 USD each.

. Active RFID tags - Active RFID tags require no human intervention -- they are completely automated. These tags are also the most expensive at $15 to $20 apiece.

Readers

手持RFID阅读器可以成本1美元之间,250 to $20,000 each, depending on the level of automation offered. Active RFID readers are the least expensive option at 1,250 to $1,500 each. Passive and handheld RFID readers are more expensive, with costs ranging from $3,000 to $20,000 each.

The Bottom Line

Each RFID system has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on your asset tracking and management needs. Using the above information to perform your own analysis will help you decide which RFID system is likely to provide the best return on your investment.