Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology has revolutionised how businesses identify, track, and safeguard assets. The system consists of hardware and software, but centres around RFID tags—small devices that record and transmit data. While the market offers various types of RFID tags, passive and active RFID tags are the two most common options. The choice between them depends on an organisation’s operational needs, environment, and budget considerations.
What are Passive RFID Tags?
Passive RFID tags do not contain a power source. They derive the energy necessary to operate from the RFID reader, which emits a radio signal to power up the tag and communicate data back. Passive RFID tags are small, lightweight, and extremely cost-effective—perfect for large-scale deployments.
Passive RFID tags generally provide reading distances from a few centimetres up to about 10 meters, depending on the reader and environment. They are ideal for settings such as shopping malls, warehouses, and libraries where short-range tracking and high volume are key. Passive RFID tags offer the lowest cost and longest lifecycle, as they do not require batteries. This makes them economically suitable for tracking large quantities of commonly handled items like books, clothing, or inventory stock.
Understanding Active RFID Tags
Active RFID tags use an internal battery to power both the chip and transmitter. This allows them to actively send signals when needed, with a significant read range—sometimes up to 100 meters or more—and faster transmission speeds.
Due to their enhanced functionality and battery power, active tags are common in complex applications such as tracking vehicles, monitoring valuable equipment, or real-time location systems (RTLS) in industrial or healthcare environments. Active tags tend to be larger and more expensive than passive tags, and their lifespan is limited by battery life, typically lasting months to several years.
Choosing Between Passive and Active RFID Tags
The primary trade-off between these two tag types is range versus cost. Passive tags excel in short-range, high-volume tracking where minimising expense and size is important. Active tags are better suited for long-range tracking and data-intensive applications needing real-time updates. For example, passive RFID tags work well in retail inventory tracking, while active RFID tags are ideal for monitoring delivery trucks or heavy machinery on large sites.
Why Poxo?
Poxo assists organisations in selecting the right RFID solution, whether passive or active, to fit their needs. Whether counting books in a digital library, tracking tools in a warehouse, or monitoring equipment on the move, Poxo offers customised RFID systems that enhance efficiency, security, and automation. With deep expertise and full support, Poxo ensures your RFID investment delivers results from day one.